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Govt. Prioritises Construction of Sesheke Road

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Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Charles Milupi says government is working desperately to ensure that the Sesheke Road in Southern Province is constructed.

He says the livingstone sesheke road was key economic road that government was committed to working on for easy transportation of goods to bordering countries.

Mr Milupi was speaking to journalists during a press briefing in Livingstone before touring the two bridges of Libuyu Maramba and Ngwenya that were damaged due to heavy rains.

The Minister highlighted that it was government policy that no community was cut off from road connection.

“When that happens, it becomes an emergency, this is why we are visiting the sites for the two bridges to see what quick, on the spot decisions we can make to ensure that communities are reconnected back to neighbouring communities.” Mr Milupi said.

Mr Milupi added that Central government was also working on diverting heavy vehicles away from the Livingstone town centre.

He said that the government through partnerships with Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) council will divert the heavy vehicles.

And Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba said government was set to implement a 100 Million United States Dollars World Bank funded Green Resillient Transformational Tourism Project (GREAT TDP) aimed at upgrading tourism Infrastructure in Livingstone.

Mr Sikumba highlighted that under the project, Livingstone will benefit eight million US dollars , including the installation of 1,000 streetlight poles to enhance safety and improve the city’s appeal.

“1000 streetlight poles will be put up in the city of Livingstone, we are planning for Zambia, the City of Livingstone and future generations,” Mr Sikumba said.

Meanwhile Livingstone District Commissioner Eunice Nawa disclosed that the two washed away brigdes of Libuyu Maramba and Ngwenya will be repaired at a total cost of not less than eight hundred thousand kwacha.

Ms Nawa said that the works will be conducted using the disaster component of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

“The total cost of repairing the 2 bridges will be K893,000 and the disaster component of CDF will be used,” said Ms Nawa.

CEEC Invests K16 Million Mpongwe Projects

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 The Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) is set to invest over K16 million kwacha in high value addition projects in Mpongwe District in Copperbelt Province.

Mpongwe District Commissioner Mwambashi Mwitwa disclosed that construction projects for value addition will commence in February 2026 once land allocation formalities were concluded.

In a statement made available to the media, Mr. Mwitwa said a high-level team from the citizen’s economic empowerment commission (CEEC) Headquarters had visited the farming community in Mpongwe to sensitize them on the forthcoming projects.

Mr. Mwitwa added that the projects will add value to local farmers’ produce such as maize, wheat, ground nuts, soya beans and sunflower.

He noted that the projects are expected to create sustainable local employment opportunities and increase profitability at household level.

Mr. Mwitwa commended President Hakainde Hichilema for his commitment to enhancing value addition to local produce, maximizing profitability and creating sustainable jobs to improve Zambia’s economy.

18 Kabwe Cattle Herders Face Court Over Fence Damage

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Eighteen cattle herders from Chibombo District in Central Province are before the courts for allegedly maliciously damaging farm wire fences valued at K486,720 after claiming the fences blocked access to their grazing areas.

Emmanuel Chenda and 17 others are charged with three counts each of malicious damage to property contrary to Section 335(1) of the Penal Code Chapter 87 as read with the Act. No.17 of 2007 of the Laws of Zambia.

Particulars of the offence are that the 18 accused persons on the 7th December, 2024 in Chibombo District, jointly and whilst acting together did unlawfully damage a farm wire fence valued at K196, 720.00 a property of Mr Kang’ombe.

In the second count, it is alleged that on the same dates, the 18 accused persons, jointly and whilst acting together damaged a farm wire fence and concrete poles of Farm Number146377, in Chibombo District all valued at K250, 000.00, a property of DONSTAR Agriculture and Biology Company Limited.

In Count three, defendants on 7th December 2024, jointly and whilst acting together, are alleged to have unlawfully damaged a farm wire fence poles all valued at K40, 000 a property of Gift Msoni.

When the matter came up for the continuation of trial before Principal Resident Magistrate Mubita Kalaluka in the Kabwe Magistrate, the state prosecution called in two witnesses.

The first witness was Primal Malata, 42, of Lubinga Village of Liteta Chiefdom in Chibombo District, who is also Village Headman Lubinga, told the court that he received a report of a damaged farm fence in Chisowa area at a farm belonging to a Mr Kang’ombe.

Malata testified that upon verifying that the property was damaged, he reported the matter to Chibombo Police Station.

The prosecution also produced a video where Malata identified most of the accused captured by a renowned Television Station during the very act of damaging the fence of the farm.

Asked by the defense counsel, Keith Katazo from Legal Aid Board Zambia if the police had conducted an identification parade where the accused persons could be physically identified, the witness responded in the negative.

However, he agreed that the fencing by Mr Kang’ombe prevented other farmers from accessing drinking water for their cattle.

The last witness to testify in the matter was the arresting officer, Detective Inspector Timothy Shitima, who is also the Officer-In-Charge at Chibombo Police Station.

Mr Shitima told the court that on the material day, he received a report of malicious damage to property from Noah Malamba of Chisowa grazing area, who is also a caretaker at Mr Kang’ombe’s farm.

He narrated how he rushed to the crime scene and confirmed that the property was damaged adding that in the process the police apprehended one person identified as Robby Kaseba to help with investigations.

He further told the court that during his investigations he came across a video produced by a named journalist in which he was able to identify three more suspects, namely Nash Ganizani, Abel Mundusu and Sylvester Mapulanga.

The video that was played in court showed more than fifteen cattle headers complaining that their grazing area was fenced by Mr Kang’ombe while three of the accused were seen uprooting the poles of a wire fence.

Detective Shitima said he made a decision to arrest all the 18 cattle herders and charged them with malicious damage to property contrary to the law.

The court also heard that the cattle grazers had requested from Chief Liteta to allocate Chisowa area as a communal grazing area for the community.

The state has since closed their case prosecution and the defense counsel will tender written submissions by 19th January, 2026 while the court ruling is set for 23rd January, 2026.

The matter is being prosecuted by Joseph Zimba from the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) and the accused are being represented by Keith Katazo from Legal Aid Board Zambia.

North-Western PS Urges Monthly land rates Billing

North-Western Province Permanent Secretary, Colonel Grandson Katambi (Retired) has called on the Ministry of Lands to develop an efficient billing mechanism that will allow ground rates to be issued on a monthly basis.

Colonel Katambi said the current practice of issuing ground rate bills after long periods has made it difficult for citizens to meet their obligations.

He was speaking in Solwezi today when Ministry of Lands Director for Planning and Information William Nyundu paid a courtesy call on him.

“When it comes to ground rates, we as government are partly to blame because the bills are issued after five to six years, which becomes too expensive for an ordinary citizen to pay,” Colonel Katambi said.

The Permanent Secretary was responding to concerns raised by Mr Nyundu who urged citizens to take the payment of ground rates seriously.

While acknowledging the importance of citizens fulfilling their civic duty by paying ground rates, Colonel Katambi emphasised that government must make the process easier and more accessible.

Meanwhile, Mr Nyundu urged citizens to secure their land by acquiring title deeds noting that land titling not only safeguards property ownership but also enables government to raise revenue.

Mr Nyundu further disclosed that the Ministry  was  in the province to sensitise the public on its online services and the importance of land titling.

CCCYD Receives Mobility Devices for Disabilities

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The Charity Centre for Children and Youth Development (CCCYD), a Solwezi based Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) has received assorted mobility devices meant for distribution to persons with disabilities and public hospitals in North-western Province.

CCCYD Executive Director, Alex Bwaluka said the consignment which was a donation from Clutches for Africa, a United States based NGO include 554 walkers, 201 clutches, 198-wheel chairs and other orthopaedic items.

Speaking in an interview with the media in Solwezi, Mr Bwaluka said the items will be distributed to identified public health facilities in the province and persons with disabilities who have mobility challenges.

“This donation has come to assist persons with disabilities and also public hospitals that are in need of these mobility devices and we will be giving them out freely,” Mr Bwaluka said.

He said the organisation will continue working with government in addressing challenges faced by persons with disabilities especially in rural communities.

Mr Bwaluka called on other organisations to come on board and help identify and reach out to persons with disabilities who are in need of mobility devices.

“I want to thank Clutches for Africa for coming through with this donation and also Kansanshi Foundation for assisting us with transporting these items from Lusaka to Solwezi. I wish to call on other organisations to also come on board,” he said.

And Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities, North-western Province Coordinator Osco Moondoma said the assorted mobility devices will go a long way in helping persons with disabilities who have mobility challenges.

Mr Moondoma said the clutches and wheel chairs will help a huge number of persons with disabilities who were  in need of assistive devices for their mobility.

“Having these wheelchairs and clutches will go a long way in helping persons with disabilities who are in need of these assistive devices and we are grateful to CCCYD for facilitating this consignment,” Mr Moondoma said.

He called on other organisations to include disability issues in their programmes adding that persons with disabilities had  a lot of challenges with mobility being one of them.

“When we have many organisations coming to help persons with disabilities, it will make them enjoy their fundamental human rights” he said.

He said ZAPD will ensure that those in critical need of mobility devices benefit from the consignment adding that the office has a number of requests for wheel chairs and clutches across the province.

ALICK BANDA IS DEAD !! – Govt

A Zambian soldier, Sergeant Alick Banda, has died while serving on an international peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic, the Ministry of Defence has confirmed.

In a statement issued on Friday, Defence Minister Ambrose Lufuma said Sergeant Banda died in the line of duty while deployed under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). The Minister described the fallen soldier as disciplined and dedicated, noting that his death occurred during official operations aimed at stabilising conflict-affected areas and protecting civilians.

Mr. Lufuma said Sergeant Banda was part of a Zambian contingent assigned to peacekeeping duties following Zambia’s commitment to international security efforts under the United Nations framework. Zambia has, over the years, contributed troops to various UN missions, particularly across Africa, as part of its defence and foreign policy obligations.

The Minister conveyed condolences to the bereaved family on behalf of the government and the people of Zambia, stating that the country had lost a soldier who served with professionalism and courage. He added that the Zambia Army and the Ministry of Defence would provide the necessary support to the family during the period of mourning.

According to the statement, arrangements are underway to repatriate Sergeant Banda’s remains in line with military procedures and United Nations protocols. Burial details, the Minister said, would be announced after consultations with the family and relevant authorities are concluded.

Sergeant Banda’s death adds to the number of Zambian soldiers who have lost their lives while serving on international peacekeeping assignments. Zambia remains one of the African countries that consistently contribute troops to UN missions in regions affected by armed conflict and political instability.

Mr. Lufuma said the sacrifice made by Sergeant Banda reflects Zambia’s continued commitment to global peace and regional stability, adding that the late soldier’s service would be remembered as part of the country’s long-standing contribution to international peacekeeping.

Source: News Diggers, Friday, January 9, 2026
Section: Local News / Defence
Clarification: This report concerns Zambia Army Sergeant Alick Banda and is unrelated to the separate, ongoing matter involving Archbishop Alick Banda.

Chishimba warns UPND is engineering its own political collapse

Chishimba warns UPND is engineering its own political collapse

United Progressive Party President Saviour Chishimba has warned that the ruling United Party for National Development is hastening its own political downfall through what he described as misplaced priorities, selective application of the law, and the misuse of state investigative institutions.

Speaking this week, Chishimba focused his criticism on the decision by the Drug Enforcement Commission to summon Alick Banda over a motor vehicle allegedly linked to the disposal of assets by the Zambia Revenue Authority. He said the matter, reportedly involving a vehicle estimated at about K50,000, stood in stark contrast to what he described as the government’s failure to confront far larger financial crimes.

Chishimba said it was difficult to justify the mobilisation of anti-money-laundering mechanisms against a sitting Archbishop while cases involving alleged illicit financial flows amounting to billions of dollars have not attracted comparable investigative urgency. He argued that such an approach reflects distorted priorities and damages public confidence in institutions tasked with enforcing the law.

He described the summoning of the Archbishop as legally weak and morally troubling, stating that religious leaders in Zambia routinely receive gifts from congregants, including vehicles, without such acts constituting criminal conduct. According to Chishimba, the Archbishop had no role in the disposal of public assets and therefore could not reasonably be linked to wrongdoing arising from the original sale process.

The UPP leader said the use of the Drug Enforcement Commission in the matter was particularly concerning, given the commission’s mandate to address serious crimes such as narcotics trafficking and major financial offences. He warned that stretching that mandate to cover what he described as a minor and symbolic case risked undermining the credibility of the institution itself.

Chishimba further accused the government of using investigative bodies to intimidate critics and institutions that have taken moral positions on national governance. He said the Catholic Church has historically played a significant role in Zambia’s public life, particularly during periods of political tension, and that actions perceived as targeting church leadership could have far-reaching consequences.

In outlining his concerns, Chishimba cited figures he said pointed to extensive illicit financial outflows since 2021. He claimed that between 2021 and 2024, Zambia lost more than US$15.6 billion through illicit channels, including losses of US$9.3 billion in 2021, US$2.8 billion in 2023, and US$3.5 billion in 2024. He also referenced alleged misappropriations amounting to ZMW105 billion in 2022. He questioned why cases of that magnitude had not resulted in visible high-level investigations or prosecutions.

According to Chishimba, the contrast between those figures and the attention devoted to the Archbishop Banda matter feeds perceptions of selective justice. He argued that the law must be applied proportionally and consistently if it is to command respect.

Chishimba rejected assertions that the Archbishop was summoned purely in a personal capacity, stating that such distinctions carry little weight in public perception. He said a Bishop remains a spiritual and moral leader regardless of context, and actions against such figures inevitably resonate beyond the legal details of a case.

He warned that what he described as a “divide and rule” approach would ultimately backfire politically. In his view, the government risks alienating citizens who are already under pressure from high living costs, increased taxation, and economic hardship.

Chishimba said elections are often lost not because of opposition strength, but because governments misread public sentiment and undermine trust through their own actions. He urged the UPND to refocus on addressing major economic crimes and improving living conditions, rather than pursuing cases that, in his words, create division without delivering justice.

Cornelius Mweetwa Labels, Zulu, Mundubile and Mwamba as Ba Chimbwi, Hyenas, unfit to govern

Minister of Information and Media Cornelius Mweetwa has publicly accused former Patriotic Front figures Makebi Zulu, Brian Mundubile, and Emmanuel Mwamba of corruption, declaring that they must never be allowed to govern Zambia again.

Mweetwa made the remarks during a United Party for National Development rally in Choma. Speaking to a large crowd, the minister departed from metaphorical language used earlier in the programme and directly named the individuals he said represented what he described as predatory politics.

“Mr President, Honourable Nyambose, you spoke about ba Chimbwi, hyenas, and you did not give them names,” Mweetwa told the gathering. “I will name them because I know them, and I know who you were referring to. You were talking about Mundubile, you were talking about Makebi Zulu, you were talking about Emmanuel Mwamba.”

He accused the trio of abusing public office during their time in government and of diverting resources intended for development. Mweetwa referred to Constituency Development Fund allocations in Chasefu, contrasting past and present funding levels to underline his point.

“Since Honourable Nyambose was elected, K156 million has been disbursed to Chasefu for people to benefit,” he said, partly in Tonga. “The fund thieves and swine stole.”

His remarks followed earlier comments by Independent Chasefu Member of Parliament Misheck Nyambose, who used an analogy to caution voters against returning former PF leaders to positions of authority. Nyambose compared the situation to a farmer allowing a hyena to guard goats, warning that promises of reform should not erase past conduct.

“The same hyena today comes back and wants work in the goats’ shelter, claiming it is now a vegetarian,” Nyambose said. “Would you accept that?”

Nyambose praised the increase in CDF allocations to Chasefu, noting that funding had risen from K1.6 million under the previous PF administration to K156 million under the current government. He urged voters to support President Hichilema for a second term, portraying him as a leader focused on equitable development rather than political or ethnic division.

“Hakainde Hichilema is a blessing to Zambia,” Nyambose said. “This is a President who does not choose people and does not segregate. Much of the criticism against him comes from jealousy.”

Mweetwa’s intervention marked a clear escalation in campaign rhetoric as Zambia moves closer to the August 13, 2026 general elections. By naming individual opposition figures and linking them directly to alleged misuse of public funds, the ruling party signalled an intention to frame the election around accountability and governance records rather than broad policy themes alone.

The Choma rally, held in the President’s Southern Province political base, combined messages of development delivery with warnings against political regression. Senior government officials and local leaders attended, reflecting the strategic importance of the event within the UPND’s mobilisation efforts.

By the end of the rally, the tone had been firmly set. The governing party’s message was explicit: the choice facing voters in 2026 will centre on whether Zambia continues on its current path or risks a return to leaders the government accuses of having abused public trust in the past.

Police recover six stolen cars and two light trucks in Chingola

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Police in Chingola have recovered six motor vehicles and two light trucks suspected to have been used in theft-related criminal activities in the district.

Copperbelt Province Police Commanding Officer Mwala Yuyi said four suspects have been apprehended in connection with the crimes, including a suspected buyer of stolen property, as investigations continue.

Mr Yuyi said police also recovered assorted stolen items such as water pumps, television sets, solar panels and various motor vehicle spare parts, which were allegedly being sold through an organised market for stolen goods.

He said police are working to dismantle the market where the stolen items are traded, adding that the command remains committed to ensuring there is no space for criminal activities on the Copperbelt.

Mr Yuyi further stated that suspects currently in custody are expected to assist police in leading to more arrests as operations continue across the district.

Meanwhile, Mulonga Water Supply and Sanitation Company is among the institutions affected by the thefts and has commended the police for recovering some of its stolen water pumps, which had disrupted water supply in Chingola.

The recovered vehicles and other assorted items are currently on display at Chingola Central Police Station. Police have appealed to members of the public who may have lost property to visit the station for identification and possible recovery.

Hichilema apologises to farmers over FRA payment delays

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President Hakainde Hichilema has apologised to farmers for delays in payments for maize delivered to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA), attributing the setback to higher-than-expected purchases and slow digital payment systems.

On Tuesday, Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa assured farmers that FRA payments are expected to be concluded by Saturday, explaining that the delays were caused by challenges with mobile money services and other digital payment platforms.

Addressing a rally in Choma , President Hichilema said the government had initially budgeted to purchase 500,000 tonnes of maize but later increased the volume to about 1.6 million tonnes to protect farmers from exploitation by private buyers.

“Farmers who have not been paid yet, that is a decision I made. We had only budgeted for 500,000 tonnes, but we ended up buying 1.6 million tonnes,” President Hichilema said.

He explained that the decision to exceed the target was meant to ensure farmers had a ready market and were not forced to sell their produce at low prices.

“We did not want you to have no market for your produce, and we did not want people to give you lower prices. Now we have balanced our numbers well and farmers will be paid very soon. Some are already getting paid right now,” he said.

The President apologised for the delays, saying government was working to resolve the matter.

“We are working on this issue and we apologise that you were delayed. If I have done something wrong, I accept and I apologise for that,” he said.

He attributed part of the delay to slow banking and digital payment services, noting that government was taking steps to improve the system going forward.

President Hichilema also said government was exploring export opportunities, including exporting mealie meal to Angola, as part of efforts to stabilise the maize market and support farmers.

He urged farmers and citizens to continue supporting the UPND, describing the 2026 general election as important for sustaining the government’s development agenda.

Catholic landlord sues Jehovah’s Witness tenant over three months’ rent arrears

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The Matero Local Court has heard a case in which a Catholic landlord sued his Jehovah’s Witness tenant for failure to pay rent for three months.

Fredrick Lukwesa, 57, of Lubuto West in Ndola, told the court that his tenant, Samson Kaputo, 50, of Matero East, had failed to pay rent from September 15 to December 15, 2025. Lukwesa said Kaputo repeatedly gave explanations for the non-payment, citing financial difficulties and delays in selling farm produce.

Lukwesa told the court that the house was his only source of income and that the tenant owed K3,000 in rental arrears, with monthly rent set at K1,100. He said the non-payment had affected his ability to provide for his family, especially with schools reopening.

The court also heard that Kaputo had previously gone for nine months without paying rent in 2025, only settling the arrears in August after Lukwesa confiscated his vehicle. Lukwesa said the tenant resumed defaulting a month later, again citing financial challenges.

Lukwesa said he had since served Kaputo with a three-month notice to vacate the premises, issued last month and set to expire in March, after becoming frustrated with repeated promises.

In his defence, Kaputo told the court that he was surprised by the lawsuit, stating that he had lived in the house since 2003 and had generally been paying rent over the 22 years of his tenancy. He explained that his main source of income was farming and that he was waiting for payment from the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) after selling maize.

Kaputo asked the court for more time to settle the outstanding rent once the FRA payment was made.

In his ruling, Magistrate Lewis Mumba ordered Kaputo to vacate the house and pay the outstanding rental arrears. The magistrate noted that Lukwesa had been considerate in issuing a three-month eviction notice despite the prolonged failure by the tenant to pay rent.

Fallen peacekeeper dies after short illness, Army says

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Grief engulfed Kenneth Kaunda International Airport last night as the family of late Staff Sergeant Alick Banda struggled to come to terms with the loss of their loved one, who died after a short illness while serving on a United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic.

A somber atmosphere prevailed as the remains of the fallen soldier arrived at 21:05 hours, bringing to an end an anxious wait for a family whose son died far from home in the line of duty.

The Zambia Army disclosed that Staff Sergeant Banda died on December 29, 2025, while serving under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). The Army said he fell ill while on duty and later succumbed to the illness.

Zambia Army Commander Lieutenant General Geoffrey Zyeele described the loss as devastating, stating that no commander remains unmoved by the death of a soldier, particularly one who dies in the pursuit of peace.

“No commander remains unmoved by the death of his soldier, especially that he died in pursuit of peace,” Lt Gen Zyeele said.
“On behalf of the Zambia Army, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Staff Sergeant Banda. We share in your grief and stand with you during this difficult time.”

Earlier, Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamaundu said the death was a significant loss not only to the family and the Zambia Army, but also to the nation.

Staff Sergeant Banda joined the Zambia Army on July 1, 2012, and received his initial military training at Lukanga Recruit Training Centre before being posted to the Corps of Armour, where he served with distinction.

His death has triggered widespread mourning within the defence forces and among members of the public as the nation prepares to lay to rest a soldier who served on an international peace mission.

By press time, funeral arrangements had not yet been announced and are expected to be communicated by military authorities in due course.

Grief engulfed Kenneth Kaunda International Airport last night as the family of late Staff Sergeant Alick Banda struggled to come to terms with the loss of their loved one, who died after a short illness while serving on a United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic.

A sombre atmosphere prevailed as the remains of the fallen soldier arrived at 21:05 hours, bringing to an end an anxious wait for a family whose son died far from home in the line of duty.

The Zambia Army disclosed that Staff Sergeant Banda died on December 29, 2025, while serving under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). The Army said he fell ill while on duty and later succumbed to the illness.

Zambia Army Commander Lieutenant General Geoffrey Zyeele described the loss as devastating, stating that no commander remains unmoved by the death of a soldier, particularly one who dies in the pursuit of peace.

“No commander remains unmoved by the death of his soldier, especially that he died in pursuit of peace,” Lt Gen Zyeele said.
“On behalf of the Zambia Army, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Staff Sergeant Banda. We share in your grief and stand with you during this difficult time.”

Earlier, Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamaundu said the death was a significant loss not only to the family and the Zambia Army, but also to the nation.

Staff Sergeant Banda joined the Zambia Army on July 1, 2012, and received his initial military training at Lukanga Recruit Training Centre before being posted to the Corps of Armour, where he served with distinction.

His death has triggered widespread mourning within the defence forces and among members of the public as the nation prepares to lay to rest a soldier who served on an international peace mission.

By press time, funeral arrangements had not yet been announced and are expected to be communicated by military authorities in due course.

Archbishop Alick Banda has desecrated the Catholic Church; he must resign!

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A Lusaka based Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) employee has finally let the cat of the bag! He has vehemently denied ever laying his hands on the controversial ‘ichipaso’ that somehow found itself into the possession of Lusaka Archbishop Alick Banda.

He narrates, in an exclusive interview with a named tabloid, how fraudulent receipts and other documents were generated in his name by his named supervisor, in a deal that was meant to facilitate the illegal disposal of government vehicles from ZRA.

“I don’t know Archbishop Alick Banda, I have never met or talked to him in my life, I’m sure even him doesn’t know me. So how did I gift him a vehicle?” wondered Mulopa Kaunda.

You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to establish a crime was committed here…… illegal conversion of state property into private, not even the Church! And by profiting from the same “dirty vehicle,” the Archbishop definitely stands accused of committing a felony as an accomplice.

Now, what does Archbishop Banda have to say about the same? Where does it indeed leave the much respected Catholic Church?

There’s no doubt about it…..Archbishop Banda has wilfully exposed the Catholic Church to unnecessary contempt and ridicule – he has desecrated it! The only wisest and honourable thing now left for him to do is tender in his resignation letter without any further ado to protect the image of the Church.

This is not the first time some of us are having our ears being perforated by disturbing stories about the said man of God. Whispers abound on the streets of Lusaka about how bag loads of cool cash were deposited into his hands for safe keeping, at the Cathedral, after the spectacular general elections that saw his ‘bestie’ meeting his Waterloo!

We even doubt whether the Archbishop still commands respect amongst his peers. During the state funeral for former President Ruphia Banda in 2022 for instance held at the Showgrounds in Lusaka, we happened to bump into a retired Lusaka Archbishop in a liquor store at Northmead. The septuagenarian definitely had no kind words for his successor. He complained of how the Archbishop went behind the backs of his fellow Bishops during a State House visit when PF was still in power to privately meet President Lungu for obvious reasons!

The Bishops couldn’t if course hide their displeasure as they drove back to their base at Kapingila House in Kabulonga in a shuttle bus. Can the Archbishop deny this?

The Catholic Church is bigger than any living being; it has been there for approximately 2,000 years, tracing its roots back to Jesus Christ and the apostles. It’s one of the oldest institutions in the world. It’s definitely going to outlive Archbishop Banda. It’s therefore absolutely preposterous for the name of the Church to be deliberately dragged into the gutter due to someone’s shortcomings.

In the West for instance, including the Vatican city the sit of the Catholic Church, Priests accused of embezzling funds or indeed molesting children aren’t spared. They’re stripped-off of their robes and thrown under the bus!

What’s so special about Archbishop Banda? Setting double standards aren’t we?

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst
Zambezi

Cabinet Ministers….UPND MPs; emulate Levy Ngoma, boots on the ground!

UPND National Youth Chairperson Gilbert Liswaniso has observed and lamented that some cabinet ministers and MPs are not helping execute the ruling party’s campaign in Chawama. He has since warned that MPs and ministers not helping with the campaigns should do an introspection or risk being left out during the adoptions.

What do we make of this?

Bo Liswaniso has hit the bull’s eye! Failing to or neglecting to assist with the campaigns in Chiwama and Kasama or indeed elsewhere where by-elections may be taking place is actually dereliction of duty, let alone lack of commitment to the aspirations and revolutionary cause of UPND!

Do such individuals deserve a sit at the high table be it as Ministers or MPs? Definitely no! We’ve every reason to believe these are the same individuals who’ve actually been failing to deliver or indeed neglecting to visit their constituencies, regularly. Why should they fail to assist the party grow the numbers in Parliament or council chambers when they probably rode on the back of the President or the ruling party to get to their destination? Yes…..some of them have “arrived” and no longer seem to care!

It’s however gratifying Levy Ngoma, the political advisor to the President, has his eyes on the ball…… he’s ever doing politics par excellence!

As opposed to remaining holed up in Lusaka digging in kilos of ‘chisa nyama’ during the festive period for instance, he was ‘pa ground ‘ in Chawama……and he’s now in Kasama where mayoral by-elections are taking place effortlessly hobnobbing with the electorate…..some of them ordinary people in society.

UPND shouldn’t always be expecting the President to be doing all the donkey work like it has been over the years. We expect party members, particularly honourable ministers and MPs to emulate Levy Ngoma by discarding their business suits and putting their boots on the ground in Chawama or Kasama to ensure sweet victory.

Otherwise…… it’s HH Mpaka 2031!

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
National Coordinator
HH Mpaka 2031!

Venezuela crisis to act as Bitcoin price catalyst?

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The crisis in Venezuela is pushing Bitcoin higher and is likely to serve as a broader price catalyst, affirms the CEO of one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory organisations.

The comments from Nigel Green of deVere Group follow Washington’s actions that have sharply intensified political and financial pressure on Caracas, reigniting concerns over sanctions risk, capital controls, and regional and geopolitical instability.

In the aftermath of the strikes, Bitcoin has risen by around 6%, underlining how quickly geopolitical developments are now being priced into digital markets.

“Events in Venezuela have once again underscored a fundamental truth about today’s markets: political risk is now priced not just in equities and bonds, but in digital assets as well,” says Nigel Green, chief executive of deVere Group.

“When geopolitical tensions increase and questions arise about sanctions, capital controls, or currency stability, investors instinctively seek assets that are portable, liquid, and free of any single government’s control. Bitcoin is increasingly fulfilling that role.”

Bitcoin’s rally has taken the world’s largest cryptocurrency back into the $92,000–$94,000 range, levels last seen in mid-December, as investors reassess global risk exposure.

The move has outpaced many traditional safe-haven assets, highlighting how digital markets are becoming a primary venue for expressing views on geopolitical uncertainty.

“The speed and scale of the reaction in crypto markets — particularly Bitcoin — highlights how this asset class has matured,” he continues.

“Unlike stocks or bonds, which trade only during set hours, Bitcoin’s 24/7 market structure allows investors to respond in real time to geopolitical shocks. This makes Bitcoin not just a speculative instrument, but a dynamic tool in capital allocation when political uncertainty spikes.”

Venezuela remains one of the clearest real-world examples of how political and economic stress drives the adoption of alternative financial infrastructure.

Years of inflation, currency restrictions, and limited access to international banking have pushed millions of Venezuelans toward digital assets for everyday financial use.

Each new phase of political tension reinforces that behavior, not only domestically but across the region, as neighbouring economies monitor the spillover risks.

Recent data show that Venezuela continues to rank among the most crypto-active countries globally on a per-capita basis.

Peer-to-peer crypto volumes and stablecoin usage have surged in recent years as citizens seek alternatives to the bolívar and to restricted access to foreign currency.

Industry estimates suggest that cumulative crypto transaction volumes linked to Venezuela have reached into the tens of billions of dollars over the past few years, reflecting a deep and structural shift in financial behaviour.

“What began in Venezuela as a grassroots response to economic hardship is now being recognised by global investors for the same reasons,” says the deVere CEO.

“Independence from central banks, resistance to censorship, and global liquidity are no longer niche attributes. They’re increasingly viewed as essential features in a world where geopolitical risk is becoming more persistent.”

The Venezuela situation is also resonating with international markets because it highlights how quickly political developments can disrupt traditional financial channels.

The ongoing use of sanctions as a foreign-policy tool, combined with the risk of sudden regulatory or banking restrictions, is reshaping how companies and individuals think about capital mobility.

This is where Bitcoin’s always-open market structure is becoming increasingly relevant. Unlike equities, bonds, or commodities, Bitcoin trades continuously, allowing investors to reposition immediately when major news breaks.

As a result, digital asset markets are increasingly acting as a real-time barometer of geopolitical risk.

“Bitcoin has become one of the first places investors go to express a view on global uncertainty,” notes Nigel Green.

“That was visible again after the latest developments around Venezuela. While traditional markets were still digesting the implications, crypto markets were already repricing risk.”

Beyond the immediate price move, the situation highlights a deeper shift in how portfolios are being constructed. Bitcoin is no longer viewed solely through a speculative lens. Institutional investors, family offices, and wealth managers are increasingly assessing it as a strategic allocation that can perform when confidence in political stability and financial infrastructure weakens.

“Gold has long been the classic hedge against political risk.

“Bitcoin is increasingly being discussed in the same breath, especially by a new generation of investors who are comfortable with digital assets and somewhat more sceptical of centralized systems.”

Looking ahead, deVere expects geopolitical risk to remain a defining feature of markets through the year. With sanctions regimes expanding, trade relationships under strain, and political flashpoints multiplying, demand for assets that operate outside traditional financial structures is unlikely to fade.

“The implications of Venezuela go far beyond one country,” Nigel Green concludes.

“They speak to a world where political risk is becoming more persistent and more unpredictable.

“Bitcoin has already benefited from this shift, as the recent price action shows, and it is likely to remain a key beneficiary as investors continue to rethink how they protect and position their capital.”