Saturday, June 28, 2025
Subscribe
Home Blog Page 189

Vernon Mwaanga Urges Zambians to Prioritize National Peace and Dialogue

Chief Editor
-
19
Vernon Mwaanga Urges Zambians to Prioritize National Peace and Dialogue

Renowned veteran politician and former diplomat, Vernon Mwaanga, is urging fellow Zambians to actively contribute towards the promotion of national peace and development. In a recent statement, Dr. Mwaanga emphasized the critical role of peace in Zambia’s pursuit of economic development and called on citizens to work collectively towards this common goal.

Highlighting the importance of peace as a foundation for progress, Dr. Mwaanga stressed that national peace is not just a given but must be actively pursued and maintained by the citizens. He underscored the need for constructive dialogue and lamented the apparent lack of recognition of its value among the new generation of politicians.

“We fought very hard to get rid of colonialism. We worked very hard to ensure that ‘one Zambia, one Nation’ remained our national motto. We have maintained good neighborliness with all the eight countries around us since our independence in October 1964. Our new generation of politicians is failing to understand and recognize the value of dialogue. Our politicians have opted to talk at each other but not to each other,” expressed Dr. Mwaanga.

Drawing from his experiences, Dr. Mwaanga highlighted the significance of dialogue and understanding diverse perspectives. He recalled the establishment of the Center for Inter-Party Dialogue during his generation, emphasizing its role in providing a platform for political parties to freely discuss matters of concern.

“In any free and diverse political environment, the difference of opinion is inevitable. Respect for each other’s opinions is vital. Civil discourse usually leads to finding common ground, which then produces compromises,” Dr. Mwaanga explained.

The veteran politician urged for civility in political discourse, emphasizing the importance of respectful disagreement and the recognition that differing opinions do not necessarily lead to hostility. He emphasized that fostering a peaceful political environment is crucial for economic growth and the well-being of the nation.

As Zambia faces the challenges of rebuilding its economy, Dr. Mwaanga emphasized the necessity of a peaceful political atmosphere. He called on all political parties to commit themselves to non-violence and ensure that this commitment reaches their supporters.

“There is nowhere in this world where there are no disagreements among people. We must also be cognizant of the fact that, in all the older and nascent democracies, people and institutions function within the laws on their statutes. Lawlessness is not synonymous with democracy. We all have a duty to help create an environment where our children and children’s children will live in peace and harmony,” Dr. Mwaanga concluded.

His words serve as a reminder of the responsibility each citizen holds in shaping the nation’s future, underscoring the importance of fostering an environment conducive to dialogue, understanding, and national unity.

President Hichilema to Visit Seseli Mine

Chief Editor
-
23
President Hichilema to Visit Seseli Mine

President Hakainde Hichilema is scheduled to visit Seseli Mine in Chingola on the Copperbelt, where a number of illegal miners find themselves trapped in a flooded open-pit mine. The announcement was made by Copper Minister Elisha Matambo during a press briefing in Chingola, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing the critical situation.

Minister Matambo expressed confidence in the measures and interventions implemented by the government, ensuring that the ongoing rescue mission will reach the trapped miners. The President’s visit underscores the gravity of the situation and the government’s hands-on approach in coordinating the rescue efforts.

Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe provided further assurance, stating that safety precautions are rigorously being followed to maximize the chances of a successful rescue operation. He emphasized that the government has engaged with families affected by the incident, with twenty-seven families having come forward to claim missing relatives.

“So far, the government has met the affected family members, providing support and information on the ongoing rescue efforts,” noted Minister Kabuswe.

To enhance the manpower involved in the rescue operation, the government has enlisted the support of approximately 400 casual workers. Copperbelt Deputy Permanent Secretary Daniel Kamenga confirmed this development during a donation event where the Chinese Community, led by New Future Investment, contributed food supplies to the rescue team.

“Government is doing everything possible to ensure that the rescue operation is concluded as soon as possible,” assured Mr. Kamenga. The additional workforce reflects the collective efforts to intensify the ongoing rescue mission.

Sandy Shi, Director of New Future Investment, conveyed the concern of the Chinese Community in Chingola, emphasizing their commitment to supporting the government in alleviating the burden posed by the tragic incident. The collaborative efforts between the government and various stakeholders, including the Chinese Community, highlight the unity of purpose in the face of adversity.

Question of Roadblocks; Debunking M’membe’s Mindless Conspiracy Theories!

Chief Editor
-
23
Question of Roadblocks; Debunking M’membe’s Mindless Conspiracy Theories!

As our nation continues grappling with AIDS………yes, you heard me right; Acquired Inadequate Development Syndrome (AIDS), we expected those that have had the privilege of perambulating through the gates of institutions of higher learning to memorise theories and walked away cum laude, to be busy prescribing smart solutions for our endemic malaise!

But what have we witnessed from these armchair critics, instead? Constant bickering and squabbling and spewing out cheap propaganda from desperate individuals eager to hoodwink the public……nay, access the honeycomb so that they can equally have their fair share of the spoils and thrills!

For instance, the Zambia Police under the New Dawn Administration just announced scrapping of all static security checkpoints and roadblocks on all our roads…. Just when we expected the likes of perennial critics such as self imposed leader of the Socialist Party, Fred M’membe to embrace and applaud such a revolutionary feat, he drops a bomb that has left many of us with jaws dropping!

“By removing static security checkpoint and roadblocks on these haulage routes what activities is Mr Hichilema and his government trying to ease? What really is going on here? Can they come clean and tell the nation the logic behind this highly suspicious decision?” wonders M’membe on his Facebook page.

Absolutely hogwash; mindless conspiracy theories!

On several occasions, I have endured the 1,398.2km stretch between Cape Town and Johannesburg by bus in crime prone South Africa; I’ve equally been chauffeur driven on the 147km highway from Friesland to Amsterdam in the Netherlands at the height of terrorist attacks, on both occasions I have never encountered any unnecessary road blocks or police check points. The only time I’ve witnessed road blocks is when there’s been a grisly road carnage or money heist and the terrorist threat has been upgraded to red alert in the two countries, respectively. What I’ve seen instead, are highway patrol vehicles strategically stationed on either side of the road eagerly waiting to give chase to suspicious looking vehicles!

Road blocks and check points have not only been a nuisance for most road users, but actually precious mines where corrupt cops turned up each day to mint gold! Challenge the Anti Corruption Commission to conduct investigations, you’ll be shocked to see assets some of these police officers have accumulated compared to their modest salaries.

If my civic education knowledge serves me right, road blocks and check points were introduced during the colonial era to monitor the movement of freedom fighters or indeed set traps for them! After the liberation struggle, the UNIP government equally adopted the same strategy mainly to detect clandestine activities of insurgents who were active at the time sniffing for opportunities to erase our strategic installations such as bridges, airports and communication facilities etc. to the ground as punishment for sheltering freedom fighters from Southern Africa.

Come on dude; we no longer live in the Dark Ages! There are always advanced techniques available to monitor the movement of our precious minerals or indeed intercept drunks and those those who may have committed heinous crimes in one place or another. What happened to the concept of smart cities anyway?

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Bruce Mwape: We Wont Underrate Angola

sports
-
0

Coach Bruce Mwape has repeated that Zambia won’t underrate Angola in Tuesday evening’s 2024 Women’s Africa Cup qualifier at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

Shepolopolo Zambia have a 6-0 lead from the first leg match of the final qualifying round played in Luanda, Angola last week.

In a pre-match comment, Mwape declared Zambia ready for the match.

“The team is ready for tomorrow’s game against Angola. Although we beat them in Angola it doesn’t mean we are underrating them,” Mwape said.

“There will be nothing like underrating them. I am sure Angola would like to win the second leg but we are ready for the match,” he said.

The match will kick off at 18h00.

Meanwhile, Angola arrived in Ndola on Monday ahead of the qualifying match.

Mwenya Chipepo Reflects on Beating ex-Club Power Dynamos

sports
-
0

New Forest Rangers coach Mwenya Chipepo says he was not emotional when beating his old side Power Dynamos over the weekend.

Chipepo last Saturday engineered Forest’s 1-0 win over Power, a club he ditched in October before joining the Ndola side.

In a post-match comment, Chipepo said he has found a family in Forest.

The coach declared that he is seeking to transform Forest into a stronger side.

“Power Dynamos is my childhood team and I like the team but I have moved to Forest Rangers,” Chipepo said.

“Forest is now my new family. I just want to build this team the way I built Power Dynamos,” he said.

Forest endured a three-match winless run prior to beating Power.

Tenth placed Forest have 18 points while Power are seventh on the table with 21 points after 14 matches played.

Meanwhile, Zesco United have opened a four-point lead at the top of the table following Saturday’s 3-1 win over FC Muza away in Southern Province.

Nkwazi are second on the table followed by Red Arrows and Muza respectively.

FAZ Super Division – Week 14
03.11.2023
Trident 0-0 Konkola Blades
Mutondo Stars 2-0 Kansanshi Dynamos
Red Arrows 1-1 Kabwe Warriors
Zanaco 1-1 Green Eagles
02.11.2023
Mufulira Wanderers 1-1 Nkwazi
Napsa Stars 1-0 Prison Leopards
FC Muza 1-3 Zesco United
Nkana 2-1 Green Buffaloes
Forest Rangers 1-0 Power Dynamos

Cattle movement ban to be lifted soon

Chief Editor
-
8
Cattle movement ban to be lifted soon

Fisheries and livestock minister Makozo Chikote says the livestock movement ban imposed on Anthrax affected districts would be lifted once the disease is under control.

Speaking on separate platforms in Kalomo Mr. Chikote is hopeful that with the general public adhering to the laid down measures to control the disease spread, his ministry would soon consider lifting the ban upon vaccinating all the animals in affected districts.

“We have put a ban on livestock movement so that it does not spread across the country.

“ It is not a punishment as we are aware that this measure has an economic effect on people’s lives but as soon as we finish vaccinating all the animals in affected districts and do a review, I can assure you the ban is going to be lifted within the shortest possible time, what we need is compliance of laid down guidelines,” Mr. Chikote said when he featured on Voice of Kalomo radio.

Earlier, the minister expressed concern over the inhabitable state of accommodation for veterinary extension camps officers rendering his staff to reside in town.

He thereby prodded the ward development committees to assist in the matter through the constituency development fund (CDF).

He said this after a meeting with Kalomo district commissioner, Joshua Sikaduli.

And addressing farmers at Munakanyemba school, Mr. Chikote said no domestic animal would be left out in the vaccination exercise as his ministry is locally sourcing the Anthrax vaccine from the Central Veterinary Research Institute (CVRI) which has a production capacity of about 100,000 to 150,000 per week.

He further urged farmers to cooperate with his officers as the vaccine is for free.

The minister who was accompanied by his ministry senior staff, Southern province veterinary officer, Wilfred Tembo also paid a courtesy call on chief Sipatunyana of Kalomo where he urged traditional leaders to take a lead to enforce Anthrax control measures among their subjects.

Mr. Chikote and his team were in Southern province to appreciate operational challenges of his departments and assess what has been on the ground since the outbreak of Anthrax in the region last October.

Currently, the veterinary department is vaccinating animals against Anthrax in the region to contain the disease.

M’membe, Kambwili; birds of the same feathers!

Chief Editor
-
39
M’membe, Kambwili; birds of the same feathers!

Dr Fred M’membe, leader of the Socialist Party, has shared some words of encouragement and kindness for recently incarcerated Chishimba Kambwili.

Taking to the Facebook page of his Socialist Party, he submitted, “Mwaice wandi Chishimba Kambwili wisakamana. Natwishiba ifilechitika napali ubwafya natupamona.” Loosely translated into English – do not worry my young brother. We know what is happening and we’ve seen where there’s a problem.

For obvious reasons, M’membe deliberately chooses to package his thoughts in Bemba. However, if you bother to comb through the said page, you’ll discover that the once Editor of an influential tabloid usually shares his thoughts in our official language – English. Why the sudden change in the choice of the language to interact with members of the public? What is the thrust of this article? Is he somehow giving tacit approval of Kambwili’s uncouth tribal ranting?

It’s absolutely immoral and unfair to try and apportion Kambwili’s latest predicament to UPND when they were not anywhere near the corridors of power when the case was initiated.

As revealed by Mulenga Thornicroft on her Facebook page, the case which has seen Kambwili jumping on a CDF Landcruiser to begin his long journey to prison was actually reported during the PF regime by three brave women – Laura Miti, Mutibo Harvey and Mulenga herself!

“Anybody who chooses to see this as a ploy by UPND to fix Kambwili is not thinking straight!” maintains Mulenga.

She further insists that Zambia is for all of us and will never allow a few individuals make any Tonga child feel like a second class citizen due to selfish political ambitions.

Considering the gravity of the offence, Kambwili is even lucky he walked away with a lesser sentence.

Anyway, we are not surprised that M’membe has come to the defence of one of his kind. As editor of The Post Newspapers, he used the publication not only to unleash scathing attacks on UPND, but equally mounted a vicious tribal campaign against the party.

In an attempt to hoodwink the right thinking members of the public that UPND did not enjoy the support of the people beyond Southern province, he constantly referred to it as a Bantustan; a deregatory reference to partially self-governing areas set aside during the period of apartheid for particular indigenous African folks.

We are not surprised that M’membe is quick to defend Kambwili and assure him of liberation in the not too distant future…..they are actually birds of the same feathers. They both share a history of stoking tribal sentiments!

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

Atlas Mara, the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Zambia partner to plant 200 fruit trees in Lusaka schools

Chief Editor
-
6
Atlas Mara, the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Zambia partner to plant 200 fruit trees in Lusaka schools

Atlas Mara Bank and the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Zambia will plant around 200 fruit trees seedlings in four schools in Lusaka as part of its “One Tree At A Time” campaign.

Launched on Friday at Kamwala South Secondary School, the campaign which is in collaboration with the IKOE Foundation will see 200 fruit trees seedlings planted in four Lusaka schools.

Atlas Mara Acting Chief Executive Officer Bobbline Cheembela said the campaign exemplifies the bank’s dedication to environmental sustainability.

Mr Chembela said Students participating in the Award program will nurture these trees as part of their community service commitment.

He said the initiative aligns with our CSR strategy, focusing on Education, Health, Entrepreneurship, and the Environment.

“By planting trees, we’re not just fulfilling our environmental commitment but also educating others about the significance of conservation, laying the foundation for a sustainable future, Mr Cheembela said.

“I am deeply honoured to be here today in support of an initiative that symbolizes our
commitment to a sustainable future. Atlas Mara Bank recognizes the crucial role that education plays in uplifting communities in Zambia and we actively seek out initiatives that have a positive and sustainable impact on the educational sector,” he said.

Pupils watch the tree planting at their school by Atlas Mara

“Through our corporate social responsibility programs, particularly our education pillar, we not only provide financial literacy to communities where we operate but also strive to enhance the quality of education and expand access in rural and disadvantaged areas.”

He added, “Since our partnership was established with the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Zambia in 2019, we have impacted the lives of over 500 young individuals in Zambia ranging from ages 14 to 24 at various levels of the Duke of Edinburgh International Award program empowering them to develop essential soft skills necessary for success in any professional environment.”

“In 2022, we invested K687,500 to strengthen our partnership with the Ministry of Education, aiming to empower 1,200 students and 80 educators in 40 government schools across Zambia allowing us to reach a diverse array of students in different institutions. We’ve embraced diversity by partnering with all-boys, all-girls, mixed, and schools catering to differently-abled individuals.”

Mr Cheembela said Atlas Mara is still commitment to instilling environmental
awareness, enhancing the school’s ecological framework, and provide practical learning opportunities for students.

“This initiative aligns with the government’s green initiatives and contributes to the betterment of our environment.”

He added, “looking ahead, our vision encompasses providing holistic educational experiences that empower future leaders. By integrating environmental awareness into education, we aim to nurture well-rounded individuals equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.”

Progress made in retrieving trapped Chingola miners

Chief Editor
-
36
Progress made in retrieving trapped Chingola miners

Government says it has made progress at Seseli dump site where over 30 Miners are trapped though no miner has been retried as at Day 3 of the search operations.

Copperbelt Province Minister Elisha Matambo said rescue operators at the site have managed to pump out water in a tunnel which was filled up.

Mr Matambo said the Commando Unit has also joined the team to help with rescue operations.

Speaking during a press briefing after visiting the site, the Provincial Minister stated that rescue operators have assured that they are only remaining with about 2.5 meters to reach where the Miners are suspected to be.

He has further thanked the rescue operators for the efforts made in ensuring that the small scale miners are retrieved.

Mr. Matambo says government will work round the clock to search for bodies trapped at the three sites.

He said government is concerned and sympathises with the families whose relatives are missing and added that so far no one has been declared dead because there is no single body that has been retrieved.

“We want to assure the nation that government has mobilized all equipment needed to search for bodies believed to be trapped in the pit. So far Five excavators are on the ground trying to secure the holes were the persons are believed to be, a front loader and enough man power ready secure the holes. So far we have managed to pump out water then take out the mud before the search commences.” said Mr Matambo

He said currently, there is a team from the Provincial Joint Operation Command, PJOC, District Joint operation Command, DJOC, KCM , Mopani, Nchanga mines rescue teams creating a buffer of enough personnel currently camping to monitor the search for the persons trapped in the pit.

Mr. Matambo said he remains optimistic that the team will make breakthroughs atleast by tomorrow on the status of the persons trapped in the pit and added that President Hakainde Hichilema is in constant touch through the Secretariat of Ministers that has been created for the rescue mission.

And Mines and Mineral Development Minister Paul Kabuswe has expressed disappointment at insensitive utterances from made the opposition towards the accident at a time when families missing their relatives.

“An open pit is a very delicate area and as a result precaution needs to be taken to prevent an accident within an accident, we seem to be taking time because we have to be careful and professional as we conduct a search and to protect everyone working in the pit. So far we met 25 families that have reported missing persons. We have 16 persons missing from Chingola, two persons missing from Kitwe, six persons from Luanshya and one from Chililabombwe.” said Mr Kabuswe.

He said government and the rescue team was in constant touch with families and is happy that all systems are at work to secure the missing persons.

President Hichilema Explores Collaborative Opportunities with UNDP and Advocates for Green Industrialization at Africa Event

Chief Editor
-
5
President Hichilema Explores Collaborative Opportunities with UNDP and Advocates for Green Industrialization at Africa Event

In a significant stride towards advancing Zambia’s role in sustainable development and global environmental initiatives, President Hakainde Hichilema engaged in a constructive discussion with the United Nations Development Program’s (UNDP) Assistant Secretary-General and Regional Bureau for Africa Director, Ahunna Eziakonwa.

During the meeting, the President and Ms. Eziakonwa explored potential UNDP support for Zambia in hosting a regional technology hub and implementing a carbon market strategy framework. These endeavors aim to empower Zambia to actively participate in carbon credit markets, contributing to global efforts in climate change mitigation.

“We are optimistic about this outcome,” expressed President Hichilema, underscoring the potential impact of collaboration with UNDP in enhancing Zambia’s capabilities in technology and sustainable environmental practices.

In a separate engagement, President Hichilema joined other African leaders at the Africa Green Industrialization event, convened by President Ruto of Kenya. The forum focused on the importance of leveraging Africa’s wealth of critical minerals for industrial applications and the transformative potential of green energy in shaping the continent’s economic landscape.

President Hichilema emphasized the pivotal role that Africa could play in becoming a global industrial powerhouse by shifting towards value addition through production and manufacturing. He highlighted the significant economic opportunities that such a transformation could unlock, providing quality jobs for African citizens.

“Our continent hosts the critical minerals needed in industrial application. If we pivot towards value addition through production and manufacturing, Africa can be a global Industrial powerhouse, in this billion-dollar green energy revolution, redefining the economic landscape,” stated President Hichilema.

The President expressed anticipation for the various investment pledges made by the private sector to actualize this green industrialization initiative. He emphasized that such commitments would not only drive economic growth but also contribute to the creation of sustainable and quality jobs for the people of Zambia and the broader African continent.

President Hichilema Engages with Global Leaders at COP28, Welcomes Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair at Zambian Pavilion

Chief Editor
-
18
President Hichilema Engages with Global Leaders at COP28, Welcomes Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair at Zambian Pavilion

President Hakainde Hichilema, representing Zambia at the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) in Dubai, took advantage of the international platform to engage with leaders from diverse sectors. Among the distinguished visitors to the Zambian Pavilion was His Excellency Tony Blair, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and founder of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.

During the bilateral discussions at the Zambian Pavilion, President Hichilema and Mr. Blair exchanged views on various matters of global significance. The meeting provided an invaluable opportunity to discuss shared challenges and explore potential collaborative efforts between Zambia and the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.

“We were honored to host His Excellency Tony Blair at our Zambian Pavilion during COP28. The discussions were insightful, touching on important global issues. Engaging with leaders from different sectors, including those from the corporate world, allowed us to exchange ideas and perspectives,” stated President Hichilema.

The presence of the former UK Prime Minister underscored the international recognition of Zambia’s commitment to addressing climate change and fostering sustainable development. The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change has been at the forefront of promoting effective governance, economic development, and tackling global challenges.

Accompanied by the First Lady, President Hichilema has returned home from COP28 in the United Arab Emirates. The delegation’s participation in the conference reflects Zambia’s dedication to contributing meaningfully to global efforts in combating climate change and fostering international cooperation.

As the President and the First Lady return to Zambia, they bring with them the experiences and insights gained from COP28, reinforcing the country’s commitment to environmental sustainability and collaboration on the global stage. The engagements at the conference are expected to have a positive impact on Zambia’s initiatives related to climate action and sustainable development in the coming years.

No bwana Minister; Pay back the money!

Chief Editor
-
33
No bwana Minister; Pay back the money!

Much of last week, I remained holed up in what my Western colleagues would refer to as sticks adding meat to the skeleton of my next project – “One Zambia One Nation; How Hakainde Rejuvenated Our Motto.” When I finally got back to civilization, l found Social media trending with news of compensations by the state; particularly the one involving the Minister of Transport & Logistics Hon. Frank Tayali who has walked away with a whopping K450, 000 for the trauma he allegedly suffered when a gun was pointed at him by an overzealous cop as he escorted opposition party leader then, President Hichilema, to police headquarters for interrogations.

A number of bloggers and personalities of course weighed in and added their voices to the discourse. Of particular interest are the following views:

“I have just made an appointment to meet with my lawyers to sue the state for the 2017 unlawful detention for 7 days and 7 nights. How much should I claim? I would like to donate part of the claim to the youth,” stated UPP leader Saviour Chishimba.

Outspoken UPND Lusaka province party official, Likwanya Matomola, could not be left out at all. “I am sueing the state for torturing me and illegally detaining me 6 times when the police arrested me between 2015 & 2021. Next week on Monday I am taking legal action.”

United Kingdom based UPND member Barbra Chama who is notorious for calling a spade a spade equally shared her thoughts. I will also come and claim compensation for the trauma I suffered due to the insults I faced at the hands of Ichipani thugs…. I want 10 million!”

“Those who suffer harm must be handsomely compensated. And in return, officers who cause the State to compensate victims must be made to personally compensate the State for such conduct,” Green Party leader, Peter Sinkamba, observed.

Topson Kunda, a Central province based UPND official that suffered gushing gunshot wounds prior to the elections maintained that he won’t sue anyone but leave everything to God.

On the hand, others such as the Chilubi MP, Mulenga Fube and his Petauke Central counterpart Emmanuel “Jay Jay” Banda who escaped prison sentence for urinating in the mouth of a journalist and storming a police post to beat up police officers were sarcastic and less civil as expected; describing the move as nothing but looting the treasury!

I won’t waste time discussing the merits or demerits of what others have said, but would rather share my own opinion in truth and honesty.

The decision by Tayali to sue the state for compensation may be legally right, but of course morally wrong. What do we say so?

During different episodes of our liberation struggles……from British colonial rule, dark days of one party rule through to the days of MMD and the brutal PF regime, various individuals have suffered tremendous pain and anguish at the hands of the state. Have we seen any of them stepping forward to claim compensation? Is our economy solid enough to even sustain such unplanned expenses?

I’ll share a vivid personal experience. When I wrote an article, “Sata’s Family Forest Explained,” during the PF regime which detailed a clear pattern of tribalism and regionalism in the choice of those appointed to government positions, the authorities were livid! Former president Edgar Lungu was Home Affairs Minister at the time. I had never seen a person so annoyed before on national TV.

“This is treason!” He exclaimed as he banged his clenched fist on his mahogany office desk. “We know this is the work of UPND. I am now directing investigative wings of government to hunt down whoever is behind this article and bring them to book!”

During the wee hours of the following day, I tucked my passport in one of the inner pockets of my coat, secured my wallet and disappeared into the night. During the next couple of hours, I steered away from the main road as much as possible to avoid being detected. I somehow got a bit relieved when I finally got absorbed into the dense ZAFFICO plantation along the Ndol/Kitwe dual carriageway. During the next couple of days to come, I survived on wild fruits, drinking water from the puddles, dodging snakes and being feasted upon by the mosquitoes. One fateful late afternoon though, I came face to face with armed bandits who frisked me and took away my only earthly possessions – sleeping bag, phone and wallet.

After loitering about in the wilderness for the next 3 weeks, I finally found the Mokambo road where I encountered a charcoal burner. I borrowed his mobile phone and called my wife.

“No one has been here,” she assured me. “You can just come back home now.”

It has never crossed my mind that I can actually sue the state for compensation for the anguish and trauma I endured during those days and nights in the wilderness until this time. I am now contemplating finding a good lawyer to pursue this case. But are we doing the nation any good taking this route?

If my memory serves me right, Local Government Minister Hon. Gary Nkombo equally had a gun put to his head by a trigger happy cop at a fuel station in Chilanga in the presence of his dear lovely wife, Katendi. Have we seen him jumping on skates to demand compensation? Of course, not!

What about the Lamba bull, Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo, another poor victim of imprisonment on tramped up charges before the elections; have we seen him laughing all the way to the Bank?

No no no….. Hon. Minister…… surrender that money back to government or better still, donate it to charity otherwise you are setting a very bad precedence. Very soon you’ll see every everyone of us dashing to court for compensation.

Besides, the president has already rewarded you with a lofty position as Minister for your contributions to the struggle which is a lifetime achievement in itself. It may be understandable for someone not serving in government such as Obvious Mwaliteta to sue for compensation, but not a Minister for God’s sake!

by Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst
…

Message For Today: Fully Restored

Chief Editor
-
1
Message For Today: Fully Restored

Today’s Scripture

“The father said, ‘Quick, bring me the best robe, my very own robe, and I will place it on his shoulders. Bring the ring, the seal of sonship, and I will put it on his finger. And bring out the best shoes you can find for my son.’”
Luke 15:22, TPT

Fully Restored

Friend, if you’re familiar with the parable of the prodigal son, you know this young man had wasted all his father’s inheritance on partying and returned home dirty, broken, desperate, and feeling worthless. But when the father, who represents God, saw his son, he ran to him and embraced him. He immediately fully restored his son with the best robe, the family ring, and new shoes. Seeing him, no one would have believed he had made such poor decisions and ended up eating with hogs.

The parable shows that when God restores us, we come out fully restored, full of joy, with gifts coming out, healthy, blessed, and prosperous. Get rid of the lie that says, “You’ll always be at a disadvantage. Look at the mistakes you’ve made.” That’s the enemy trying to keep you feeling condemned and unworthy and from putting on the best robe. Don’t take that bait. Put on the Father’s robe of righteousness and favor. Put on the ring of authority that has your name on it. He’s bringing you into a place of destiny.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that You forgive me, imperfect as I am, and that every mistake I’ve made has already been paid for by Jesus on the cross. Thank You for Your heart of compassion, love, and restoring mercy. I believe that You robe me in Your righteousness and favor. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Raphael Nakachinda charged with careless driving

Chief Editor
-
25
Raphael Nakachinda charged with careless driving

Kafue Police have reported a slight injury road traffic accident that occurred Saturday, December 2, 2023, at approximately 00:25 hours along the Great North Road at Shikoswe railway crossing. The incident involved a collision between a private vehicle and a goods train.

The driver identified as Raphael Mangani Nakachinda, aged 45, residing at house number 1794 in the Inkanga area of Kafue District, was operating an Isuzu vehicle with registration number BAH 8695. Mr. Nakachinda, traveling from North to South, sustained injuries including a bruised left arm, bruised back of the neck, bruised left ear, and a painful left leg. The vehicle incurred significant damage, with a shattered front windscreen, extensively damaged right-side body, rear passenger’s door, and both rear lights.

Also involved in the incident was Mabinda Vincent, aged 45, the driver of a goods train traveling from west to east. Fortunately, the goods train did not sustain any damages during the collision.

The preliminary investigation indicates that the accident occurred when Mr. Raphael Nakachinda, driving the Isuzu vehicle, failed to yield the right of way to the oncoming locomotive. As a result, his vehicle was struck by the goods train, which had the legal right of way at the Shikoswe railway crossing.

In response to the incident, the accused, Mr. Raphael Nakachinda, has been charged with the offense of careless driving. His vehicle has been impounded at the local police station pending further legal proceedings. Mr. Nakachinda is expected to pay an Admission of Guilt fine upon his admission of the offense.

Rae Hamoonga, the Police Public Relations Officer, urged all motorists to exercise caution and adhere to traffic regulations, especially at railway crossings, to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of both drivers and train operators. The Kafue Police Department is committed to maintaining road safety and will continue to enforce traffic laws to prevent incidents of this nature.

Zambia Launches Mini-Grid Initiative in Collaboration with Rockefeller Foundation at COP28

Chief Editor
-
20
Zambia Launches Mini-Grid Initiative in Collaboration with Rockefeller Foundation at COP28

In a groundbreaking move announced on the sidelines of the Conference Of Parties (COP28) in Dubai, President Hakainde Hichilema revealed Zambia’s ambitious initiative to deploy mini-grids across the nation. This landmark program, a collaboration between the Zambian government and prominent partners, namely the Rockefeller Foundation, the Global Energy Alliance For People and Planet, and Sustainable Energy For All, aims to revolutionize the country’s energy landscape.

During the announcement, President Hichilema emphasized the significance of collaborative efforts between local and foreign investors in propelling accelerated development. The mini-grid initiative is set to address energy accessibility challenges and stimulate growth in crucial sectors, including agriculture, energy, and rural development.

“We are pleased to embark on this transformative journey with the Rockefeller Foundation, the Global Energy Alliance, and Sustainable Energy For All. This initiative symbolizes the power of international partnerships to drive positive change at the local level,” stated President Hichilema.

In recognition of the potential hurdles for smaller installations, the Zambian Government has taken proactive measures by passing a statutory instrument to streamline regulatory processes. This move is expected to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and facilitate the swift implementation of the mini-grid project.

Expressing gratitude to the President of the Rockefeller Foundation, Mr. Rajiv J. Shah, President Hichilema acknowledged the Foundation’s pivotal role in this significant endeavor. Mr. Shah, in turn, highlighted the Foundation’s commitment to the project, announcing the commencement with an initial deployment of 1400 mini-grids and outlining a long-term expansion plan.

“The Rockefeller Foundation is proud to partner with Zambia in this initiative. Our goal is to bring sustainable and reliable electricity to communities, unlocking new opportunities for economic development and improved quality of life,” affirmed Mr. Shah.

President Hichilema echoed the sentiment, noting that the mini-grids will not only address energy challenges but also catalyze economic growth in key sectors. Looking ahead, President Hichilema outlined the ambitious trajectory of the project, projecting an expansion to over 5,000 mini-grids within the next five years.

The launch of the mini-grid initiative marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s pursuit of sustainable development and energy accessibility. As the project unfolds, it is expected to contribute not only to energy transformation but also to the overall socio-economic advancement of the nation.

1...188189190...5,641Page 189 of 5,641

Company

Trending

Categories

© Lusaka Times