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Government Recruits 7,221 Teachers in 2023 Exercise, Responding to Overwhelming Demand

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Government Recruits 7,221 Teachers in 2023 Exercise, Responding to Overwhelming Demand

In a significant development for the Zambian education sector, Education Minister Hon. Douglas Syakalima announced the successful completion of the 2023 teacher recruitment exercise. During a press briefing at his office on Thursday, January 25, 2024, Minister Syakalima revealed that the names of the successful applicants, totaling 7,221 teachers, would be published on Friday, January 26, 2024, in both print newspapers and electronic media platforms.

The Minister disclosed that, contrary to the initially budgeted 4,500 teachers for 2023, the government had decided to increase the number by an additional 2,721. This decision was made to address the overwhelming response from 69,311 applicants in 2023.

Highlighting the rationale behind the additional recruitment, Minister Syakalima stated that the Ministry strategically replaced positions by mapping out retirees, resignations, secondments, and individuals on unpaid leave or dismissed from service. This meticulous approach aimed to ensure that the 2023 teacher recruitment would cater to the growing demand for quality education.

During the briefing, Minister Syakalima emphasized the critical role this announcement played in addressing the high teacher-pupil ratio, which stands at an average of 1:58 for primary and 1:38 for secondary schools. This ratio falls short of the acceptable standards of 1:45 and 1:35 for primary and secondary schools, respectively.

The recruitment process, overseen by the Teaching Service Commission, adhered to a stringent and transparent methodology. District commissioners played an oversight role, and security wings, including the office of the president – special division, drug enforcement commission, and anti-corruption commission, monitored the entire process. The Ministry prioritized the recruitment of secondary school teachers specializing in mathematics, sciences, business studies, ICT, and Zambian languages.

Minister Syakalima expressed gratitude to President Hakainde Hichilema for his commitment to ensuring every Zambian child receives quality education. The Teaching Service Commission Chairperson, Daphne Nawa-Chimuka, echoed the sentiments, stating that the Commission is pleased to have successfully concluded the 2023 Teacher Recruitment exercise, emphasizing its transparent and meticulous execution across all 116 districts.

The newly recruited teachers are expected to collect their appointment letters from the District Education Boards Secretary’s (DEBS) offices, where they were selected. This significant effort aims to strengthen the education sector and contribute to the government’s goal of achieving inclusive and equitable quality education for all.

Black Mamba Kills Gule wa mkulu dancer

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Black Mamba Kills Gule wa mkulu dancer

A 22-year-old man who is also a member of the Gule wa mkulu traditional dance group, has died after being bitten by a black mamba.

The group was attempting to tame the snake at their secret place called Dambwe in Chipangali District.

Joseph Lungu, 22, of Pemba village in Chief Chikuwe’s area, died around 06:00 hours on Wednesday when the Gule wa mkulu members were preparing to perform.

The father of the deceased, Thomson Lungu, said he was informed about the incident around 10 hours when his son had already died.

Mr. Lungu said his son was pronounced dead upon arrival at Mzeyi Health Centre.

He expressed sadness, noting that other members of the Gulewamkulu decided to treat his son at their shrine without informing his family members and delayed taking him to the hospital.

The incident has occurred barely four weeks after another dancer died while performing on Christmas Day when he inserted his head into a loop of a mosquito net that was tied to a pole.
[ZNBC]

Police Launch Manhunt for Juvenile Suspect in Connection with George Compound Murder

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Police Launch Manhunt for Juvenile Suspect in Connection with George Compound Murder

Authorities are actively searching for a juvenile, identified only as Fred, aged between 15 and 18, in connection with the murder of 17-year-old Kings Sikonde in George compound, Lusaka. The tragic incident occurred on January 18, 2024, around 16:30 hours.

Kings Sikonde sustained a fatal chest wound, allegedly inflicted by Fred using a knife. Despite being rushed to the University Teaching Hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Police investigations have revealed that the altercation leading to the murder transpired when the deceased approached Fred, demanding repayment of a K10 debt. Fred, feigning cooperation, later emerged with two other juveniles, engaging Kings in conversation. It was during this exchange that Fred allegedly stabbed Kings in the chest before fleeing the scene.

Upon receiving alerts, police officers visited the location where Kings was discovered unconscious in a pool of blood. A subsequent postmortem was conducted, and Kings Sikonde was laid to rest on Monday, January 22, 2024.

Further investigations disclosed that Kings was suspected to be a member of a group called ‘the Bloodies,’ while Fred is believed to be associated with another group called ‘Never Broke Again.’ On the same day as the murder, between 18:00 and 22:00 hours, ‘the Bloodies’ reportedly engaged in destructive activities, damaging properties and assaulting suspected members of a rival gang, ‘Never Broke Again.’

As a result, three juveniles affiliated with ‘the Bloodies’ have been arrested and are currently detained, facing charges including malicious damage to property and assault. A manhunt has been launched for additional suspects, including Fred.

To restore order and enhance public safety, police have intensified patrols in George, Zingalume, and surrounding compounds. Deputy Police Public Relations Officer Danny Mwale has urged the community to cooperate with authorities and provide any relevant information that may aid in apprehending the remaining suspects.

The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement seeks to bring justice to the victim’s family and the community affected by these tragic events.

Tensions Erupt in Lusaka’s Chainda as Residents Clash with Police over Suspected Kidnapping

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Tensions Erupt in Lusaka’s Chainda as Residents Clash with Police over Suspected Kidnapping

In a dramatic turn of events, residents of Chainda in Lusaka engaged in intense clashes with the police last evening following protests over the handling of a suspected kidnapping case in their community. The aggrieved residents accused the officers of being slow and unconcerned in their response to the reported incident.

The situation escalated when a ZNBC newscrew arrived at the scene, witnessing dozens of residents hurling stones at a team of police officers. In response, the law enforcement officers retaliated with tear gas, resulting in a chaotic and volatile atmosphere.

Deputy Public Relations Officer for the Police, Danny Mwale, confirmed the unfolding events, stating that preliminary investigations have ruled out any kidnapping in the case. According to Mwale, the individual who had alerted the public about his own kidnapping is reportedly mentally challenged.

Mwale expressed regret over the incident, noting that the riotous crowd had taken matters into their own hands by raiding the home of the family accused of kidnapping. Disturbingly, the crowd resorted to stealing household furniture in the process.

Preserving Zambia’s Unity “Let the Sleeping Dogs Lie”

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Preserving Zambia’s Unity “Let the Sleeping Dogs Lie”

By Misheck Kakonde

In the intricate narrative of Zambia’s history, the architects of its foundation, led by figures like Kenneth Kaunda, Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula, Mainza Chona, Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe, and other eminent freedom fighters, purposefully crafted a vision of a united nation. “Let the Sleeping Dogs Lie” serves as a poignant cautionary note, urging us to approach matters of potential division with utmost care, particularly in a nation anchored on the principles of unity.

There is only one Zambia; we acknowledge that Zambia has various ethnic groups that live together peacefully. The concept of Zambia as a unitary state did not emerge from naivety or ignorance; rather, it was a thoughtful choice by leaders who recognized the vital role of national unity in fostering stability, progress, and a shared national identity. The struggles faced during Zambia’s formative years were not mere trials; they were battles fought to establish a cohesive nation. Therefore, a socialist demagogue should not hold the whole state at ransom for their selfish motives.

As we navigate the ever-evolving political landscape, it becomes imperative to reflect on the wisdom of the past. Attempts to reopen discussions on dividing the state and the deployment of divisive language carry inherent risks. The metaphorical “sleeping dogs” symbolize dormant issues that, if awakened, might unleash unforeseen consequences, jeopardizing the very essence of national unity.

It is essential to acknowledge that the idea of a unitary Zambia goes beyond political rhetoric; it is a celebration of the diverse tapestry within its borders. The notion of carving out a separate entity, such as “Barotseland,” challenges the bedrock upon which Zambia was built. It not only threatens to erode painstakingly established unity but also risks fostering discord and a sense of disintegration.

Maintaining Zambia’s unity is collective, and the use of divisive language poses a significant threat to the progress achieved over the years. A provocateur advocating for the division of the state for political gain disregards the interconnectedness nurtured by years of intermarriages and shared experiences.

This Divider-in-Chief, a newspaper capitalist masquerading as a socialist, perhaps motivated by a short-term political agenda of soliciting funds from socialist states, is risking the harmony of a young nation, Zambia. The awareness of his aging status may lead him to believe he has nothing to lose. Politicians should engage in constructive politics.

As Zambia navigates challenges and successes, preserving unity pays homage to past sacrifices. It is a commitment to safeguarding a future where “One Zambia, One Nation” is not merely a slogan but a living reality. Let the sleeping dogs lie, for in their undisturbed rest lies the continued harmony of a united Zambia.

Misheck Kakonde is a legal scholar and comparative politics specialist.

Zambian and Botswanan Presidents Pledge Enhanced Cooperation and Establish Kazungula Bridge Authority

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Zambian and Botswanan Presidents Pledge Enhanced Cooperation and Establish Kazungula Bridge Authority

In a spirit of collaboration and mutual understanding, President Hakainde Hichilema and President Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi met in Kasane for a productive working day. The two leaders engaged in extensive discussions, fostering an agreement on multiple fronts of economic cooperation.

One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the establishment of the Kazungula Bridge Authority (KBA), aimed at ensuring the efficient and responsible management of the vital infrastructure. The Kazungula Bridge plays a crucial role in facilitating the swift movement of citizens and goods between the two neighboring nations.

President Hichilema and President Masisi expressed a shared commitment to strengthening economic ties across various sectors. The leaders identified agriculture, livestock, health, mines, defense and security, tourism, and value chains within these sectors as focal points for deepening collaboration.

President Hakainde Hichilema and President Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, of Botswana

In a bid to translate these aspirations into tangible actions, the presidents tasked their respective ministers and technocrats to develop specific deliverables within the next two months. These proposed initiatives will be subject to signing in Livingstone within the designated timeframe, emphasizing a commitment to prompt implementation.

President Hichilema, in his address, underscored a departure from past practices where agreements were signed but not effectively implemented. He emphasized the need for tangible results that directly address the priorities of the citizens of both nations.

The ministers and technocrats from Zambia and Botswana are expected to work diligently to meet the designated deadlines, reflecting the urgency and importance of delivering on the people’s priorities. The joint effort between the two sister countries signals a new era of cooperation, where collaboration is not only encouraged but is also expected to yield concrete and impactful outcomes.

Cholera Outbreak Raises Concerns about Livelihoods and Substance Abuse Challenges

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Cholera Outbreak Raises Concerns about Livelihoods and Substance Abuse Challenges

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo has expressed deep concern over the ongoing cholera outbreak, emphasizing its potential to adversely impact livelihoods and various sectors of life if not effectively controlled.

Ms. Masebo highlighted that the cholera outbreak has brought to light numerous medical challenges, particularly those linked to substance abuse. Health experts have identified a rising trend among young people engaging in alcohol and drug abuse, leading to increased vulnerability to various medical complications.

In a statement delivered in Lusaka, Ms. Masebo disclosed that, within the last 24 hours, six individuals lost their lives due to cholera, including four adults and two children. Lusaka province, being the most affected, recorded 350 cases in the past 24 hours, although this figure represents a slight decrease compared to the previous two weeks.

Providing an update on the situation, Ms. Masebo informed the public that 460 patients were discharged within the same period, while 803 patients remain under admission.

Recognizing the collaborative efforts needed to combat the outbreak, several entities have stepped forward to offer support. Stanbic Bank made a generous donation of assorted items, including gloves, blankets, diapers, gum boots, and chlorine, with an estimated value of 300 thousand kwacha.

Additionally, 20 mothers from Lusaka West and University Seventh Day Adventist, represented by Doreen Ng’andu, contributed essential items such as food, sanitary towels, baby blankets, and clothes. Radisson Blu Hotel also joined the efforts, donating baby clothes, bed sheets, and mattresses.

The Chevening Alumni Association Zambia showed solidarity by contributing drinking water, clothes, washing powder, diapers, and hand sanitizers. The combined efforts of these organizations aim to alleviate the challenges posed by the cholera outbreak and provide much-needed support to affected communities.

As the nation grapples with the ongoing health crisis, the collaborative response from both public and private entities shows the importance of unity and collective action in mitigating the impact of the cholera outbreak on Zambian communities.

Morocco Secures Group F Top Spot with 1-0 Win Over Zambia, Sending Ivory Coast to the Last 16

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Morocco Secures Group F Top Spot with 1-0 Win Over Zambia, Sending Ivory Coast to the Last 16

In a closely contested match that saw Morocco triumph over Zambia with a 1-0 scoreline, Group F concluded with Morocco securing the top spot. The victory knocked Zambia out of the African Cup of Nations, paving the way for hosts Ivory Coast to sneak into the last 16.

The match showcased the dominance of the Atlas Lions in the first half, with Sofiane Boufal’s mesmerizing dribbling creating opportunities. The breakthrough came just before halftime as Boufal set up Achraf Hakimi, who delivered a precise cross into the six-yard box. Zambia’s goalkeeper, Lawrence Mulenga, parried the ball into the path of captain Hakim Ziyech, who calmly slotted it home for a 1-0 lead.

Despite an uphill battle for Zambia in the second half, the Chipolopolo boys came out fighting, with attempts from Lameck Banda and Patston Daka. However, they were unable to breach Morocco’s resilient defense. The tournament favorites held firm, securing the win that eliminated Zambia and granted Ivory Coast an unexpected passage into the knockout stages.

Morocco’s win not only solidified their position as group winners but also set the stage for a round of 16 clash against South Africa. Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the group runners-up following a 0-0 draw with Tanzania, will face Egypt in the next round.

Barrick Lumwana Mine Expands Operations in Zambia, Boosting Copper Production and Job Opportunities

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Barrick Lumwana Mine Expands Operations in Zambia, Boosting Copper Production and Job Opportunities

The Lumwana copper mine, situated approximately 100 kilometers west of Solwezi in Zambia’s Copperbelt, is set for a significant expansion, marking a pivotal moment for the region’s copper industry.

Lumwana, a conventional open-pit operation using the truck and shovel method, processes predominantly sulfide ore through a conventional sulfide flotation plant, resulting in the production of copper concentrate.

Barrick Lumwana Mine is embarking on a massive expansion program, announcing plans to construct a new mining pit in the Kamisenga area. The ambitious $2 billion investment aims to elevate copper production from the current 27 metric tonnes to an impressive 50 metric tonnes annually. Herbert Cawood, the General Manager of Barrick Lumwana Mine, highlighted the potential of the expansion to create approximately 1,000 jobs during the construction phase and an additional 600 direct jobs upon project completion.

The Lumwana copper mine’s Super Pit expansion project, disclosed during a meeting between Barrick President and CEO Mark Bristow and Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, is now scheduled to commence production in 2028. This transformative project positions Lumwana as one of the world’s major copper mines, anticipating an annual production of around 240,000 tonnes for over 30 years. The estimated cost of the project is nearly $2 billion, with construction slated to begin later this year.

Since Barrick’s strategic refocus in 2019, Lumwana has undergone restructuring and re-engineering, emerging as a significant contributor to Barrick’s expanding copper portfolio. The mine has injected almost $3 billion into the Zambian economy through royalties, taxes, salaries, and local procurement.

Local procurement has been a cornerstone of Lumwana’s contribution, with over $472 million in 2023, representing more than 81% of the total spend for the mine. Barrick has also initiated a Business Accelerator Program, aiming to enhance the business capacity of Zambian contractors in its supply chain.

Mark Bristow emphasized Barrick’s commitment to community upliftment through the REDD+ initiative, focusing on conserving the natural forest surrounding the mine. Discussions with the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment are underway to facilitate licensing, underscoring Barrick’s dedication to sustainable practices in partnership with local government.

Brebner Changala can’t choose a leader for UPND!

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Brebner Changala can’t choose a leader for UPND!

We’ve just been alerted to a video clip making rounds on social media whereby one Brebner Changala, a senior citizen who ekes a living churning-out chalks is “hallucinating” that Gary Nkombo, the Minister of Local Government & Rural Development in the current administration would “whitewash President Hichilema” if internal elections were to be held in the ruling party. He claims that his source of information are the “crying members of UPND.”

“I am telling you….. if there will be a genuine convention in the UPND with a secret ballot…..Mr. Hichilema stands, Gary stands….” he blurts as his host eggs him on. “There will be a whitewash! Mr. Hakainde Hichilema will be retired in national interest.”

What sort of nonsense is this? We don’t know whatever the old man may be drinking to easily jump to such outlandish imaginations but he’s definitely not in a privileged position to be privy to internal matters regarding UPND. This is more the reason why we insist the man was either hallucinating or playing cheap politics! Consider the nature of his host……a well known Patriotic Front spin-doctor who is also a presidential aspirant in the former ruling party for that matter! What do you expect from such a person? If at all a few grains of grey matter is all you need to see through the grand scheme of things, then you won’t have challenges to arrive at a firm conclusion that the interview was nothing but a well-scripted choreography to ‘fuel’ confusion in the ruling party or indeed drive a wedge between Hichilema and some of his few trusted lieutenants.

And unfortunately for Gary, he swallowed the bait that a tabloid had set before him and let the world know about his political ambitions. What has been the result? The Local Government & Rural Development Minister has now become the subject of discussion within UPND circles, be it negative or otherwise. We would urge party members not to take Changala’s hallucinations seriously. He doesn’t have any locus standi to decide or even guess who would be next in line to succeed Hichilema when the right time eventually comes. We would like to assure them that Nkombo definitely stands tall and remains unwavering in his support and loyalty for President Hichilema, through and through!

We shall give a practical example. When Hichilema was robbed of victory in the 2016 intense elections, many youths who were obviously craving for the change of government took to social media in droves to suggest that if HH tumbles in the next elections, he should step aside for the Mazabuka Member of Parliament.They were obviously afraid of voicing out such sentiments in public for fear of being abducted and whisked away to Kamugodi by violent PF thugs to be taught a bitter lesson!

When we bumped into Nkombo at a social event and put it to him what the youth were saying on social media, he shared something with us that earned him our utmost admiration and respect.

“Loyalty defines a man,” he said as he pondered, “I can never betray HH no matter what it takes! The man has been of great help to me and my family.”

How many times did the PF or even the MMD try to entice him with lofty positions as senior cabinet minister for him to betray HH? Did he succumb? He remained resolute and firm, of course! Please stop wasting your time; HH and Mazembe are like a simcard na phone, you can’t seperate the two!

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Reopening Of Schools Postponed Further to February 12th

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Reopening Of Schools Postponed Further to February 12th

Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima says the reopening of schools has been further postponed to February 12, 2024.

Mr Syakalima said the school calendar for both private and government and schools and colleges has been adjusted to recover the lost time.

“Schools and colleges will open for term one on Monday 12th February 2024 and will close on Friday 26th April 2024. And then for term two Schools and colleges will open on Monday 6th May 2024 and will close on Friday 9th august 2024,” Mr Syakalima said.

Speaking at a press briefing held in Lusaka , the Minister stated that the decision was arrived at following the advice from the National Disaster Management and Mitigation Council of ministers meeting.

He added that all alternative methods of education provided by the Ministry of Education should be utilized in order to ensure that learners are kept busy.

He called on the community to work with the government in the fight against cholera.
On 4th January 2024, the Minister of Education announced the postponement of the date of reopening of Schools from 8th to 29th January 2024 due to the cholera outbreak in the country.

Zambia Athletics Coach Kalembo Praises Levy Stadium All-Comer Meet

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Zambia Athletics Coach Kalembo Praises Levy Stadium All-Comer Meet

National athletics team coach Douglas Kalembo has hailed the Zambia Athletics (ZA) All-Comers Meet held at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola at the weekend.

The major highlight at the event saw Commonwealth champion Muzala Samukonga qualify for the delayed African Games to be hosted by Ghana later this year.

Samukonga won with a time of 46.29 seconds, beating the African Games qualifying time of 46.64 seconds.

“This was just his first race and he is just returning from an injury but I am sure the times will keep dropping,” Kalembo said about Samukonga.

“I am surprised that we had as many as five athletes qualifying from just the first race of the year. We have three other events for the athletes to use for others to qualify and they have to keep training,” he said.

Meanwhile, in the women’s 400m race, Green Buffaloes Quincy Malekani was the winner, beating her main rivals Rhoda Njobvu and Niddy Mingilishi.

Malekani timed 52.17 seconds, while Njobvu, in second place, timed 52.88 seconds and Mingilish took third place after timing 54.56 seconds.

100 meters hurdles, long jump and Shot put were some of the track and field events at the competition held on Saturday and Sunday.

50 Year Old Man Drowns In Lusangazi River After Heavy Downpour

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50 Year Old Man Drowns In Lusangazi River After Heavy Downpour

A 50 year old man has drowned in Lusangazi river after a heavy downpour as he was going to chase monkeys in his field in Chief Sinadambwe in Siavonga district.
Sinadambwe ward Councilor who is the uncle to the deceased Ostern Hamunyongwa confirmed the development to ZANIS.

The deceased has been identified as Obbie Chipeka of Hameja village who met his fate around 06:00 yesterday, as he attempted to cross Lusangazi River on his way to the field which was being encroached by monkeys.

Mr. Hamunyongwa has called on Sinadambwe and Siavonga residents to avoid crossing rivers after heavy rains to avoid further loose of life.

The civic leader disclosed that the body of the deceased has not yet been retrieved as a search has been instituted.

” My Nephew met his fate yesterday around 06:00 on his way to the field to chase monkeys after a heavy downpour, unfortunately he drowned as he was crossing Lusangazi river, the body has not yet been found as we still searching,” said Mr Hamunyongwa.

Meanwhile, Sianyoolo Headman Fred Hamoonga in Chief Sinadambwe has described the death of Hameja village headman as a great a loss to the family and the Chiefdom.

Mining Indaba is honoured to announce that President Hakainde Hichilema will deliver a keynote address

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Mining Indaba is honoured to announce that President Hakainde Hichilema will deliver a keynote address

Mining Indaba is honoured to announce that Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema will deliver a keynote address in 2024

During his keynote at Mining Indaba, the President is expected to delve into the future of mining in Zambia, outlining his plans to expand copper production and position the country as a major player in the global mining industry

President Hakainde Hichilema is set to deliver a keynote address at Investing in African Mining Indaba 2024 (https://www.MiningIndaba.com), demonstrating his unwavering dedication to revitalising his country’s mining sector and delivering jobs and economic growth to the people of Zambia.

This will be Hichilema’s second appearance at Mining Indaba as President, having delivered a keynote address in May 2022, shortly after his landslide election victory in 2021.

Since this historic election, President Hichilema has made quick progress towards achieving his objectives, implementing several measures to revitalise the mining sector in Zambia.

Already the seventh largest copper producer in the world, Hichilema has set out to advance Zambia’s ranking with an ambitious goal of expanding copper production from 800,000 tonnes per year currently to around 3 million tonnes of copper by 2030.

Under Hichilema’s leadership, the government of Zambia has reviewed the mining tax framework, ensuring a stable and competitive taxation system while eliminating double taxation. Furthermore, President Hichilema has personally spearheaded efforts to attract investment along the mining value chain, exemplified by the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the Democratic Republic of Congo to build a regional value chain for electric vehicle batteries. These initiatives have already yielded positive results, with major mining groups reinvesting in Zambia and the country’s copper opportunities gaining renewed interest from global players.

During his keynote at Mining Indaba, the President is expected to delve into the future of mining in Zambia, outlining his plans to expand copper production and position the country as a major player in the global mining industry. He will also address efforts for Zambian mining to expand into a wider array of critical minerals including cobalt, nickel and manganese. Furthermore, Hichilema’s speech will explore the potential for collaboration between the government, industry stakeholders, and investors, highlighting the need for partnerships to drive innovation and maximise the sector’s socio-economic benefits.

Just two years into Hichilema’s presidency, there have already been numerous positive developments in Zambia’s mining industry. Since 2019, Barrick’s Lumwana mine has contributed nearly US$3 billion in taxes, royalties, and local employment. In October 2023, the any made clear its support for the Zambian economy by announcing it will invest almost $2 billion to expand Lumwana and increase its annual production to an estimated 240,000 tonnes of copper. This will elevate a once unprofitable operation into one of the world’s foremost copper production facilities.

Similarly, a $100 million investment by First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has successfully brought the Enterprise Nickel Mine – Africa’s largest nickel producer – online. Meanwhile, FQM’s $1.25 billion expansion to its Kanshansi Copper Mine – announced at the Investing in African Mining Indaba 2022 – is expected to create nearly 2,000 jobs in Zambia.

Hichilema’s visionary and steadfast leadership has also encouraged new players to make their mark in Zambia. California-based Kobold Metals, which is backed by tech titans including Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos, is working to start producing copper and cobalt at its project in Zambia. The company has so far invested $150 million to accelerate its search for high-quality metal deposits located in the famous Copperbelt.

Other newcomers include Abu Dhabi’s International Resources, who in December 2023 announced a $1.1 billion investment in Mopani Copper Mines, funding the mine’s expansion plan and increasing copper production to 200,000 tons in the next three years.

President Hichilema’s leadership has galvanised not just the mining industry but also related industries that provide much needed infrastructure and support to the extractives sector. On 26 October, his government signed a memorandum of understanding with the United States and European Union to develop the Lobito Corridor and build a new Zambia-Lobito rail line. This includes a $250 million investment by the United States and will deliver an enormous boost to intra-regional trade, as well as stimulating growth and job creation within Zambia.

Mining Indaba 2024’s theme is ‘Embracing the power of positive disruption: A bold new future for African Mining’. Zambia’s re-emergence as a top investment destination of choice for mining investors demonstrates that positive disruption can deliver positive results and Mining Indaba is excited to provide opportunities to understand the country’s successes and processes for achieving this.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Investing in African Mining Indaba.

Chadiza Court Withdraws Defilement Case Involving Herbalist

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Chadiza Court Withdraws Defilement Case Involving Herbalist

The Chadiza Magistrate Court has withdrawn a defilement case involving a 23 old herbalist who was alleged to have defiled a 15-year-old girl.

This is in exercise of the criminal and procedures Code Chapter 88 of the laws of Zambia which gives authority to withdraw a case from prosecution.

The withdrawal of the case from prosecution sent the herbalist in a state of disbelief.

This was after the Public Prosecutor Bronson Banda asked the Chadiza Resident Magistrate Fred Musaka to withdraw the case following the last hearing.

On 10th January 2024, the Chadiza Magistrate Court had adjourned the matter to January 23, 2024 for continued trial due to inconsistencies in the evidence adduced by the juvenile victim.

When the matter came up for trial in the Chadiza Subordinate court on January 10, 2024 the juvenile failed to give a proper account of what transpired the day she was purported to have been defiled by the herbalist named Happy Phiri.

The juvenile who is a grade 7 pupil at Chadiza Primary School failed to explain what the herbalist did to her while she slept at his house in the company of a friend.
This was despite the court giving her enough time to give her own side of the story.

Particulars of the offence are that Happy Phiri aged 23 of Chadiza district in Eastern province, had carnal knowledge of the girl who is under the age of 16.

Phiri, of Kamwala compound, also a herbalist, is alleged to have defiled the girl between 1st November and 8th December 2023.

Two witnesses testified including the girl’s mother Agness Banda aged 31 testified in the matter.

The other witness was the section Chairperson named Mabvuto Kaila. Phiri, a Malawian National has since been released from police custody.

Magistrate Musaka has however, mentioned that should the State find more substantive evidence, it will not hesitate to re-arrest the accused.

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