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GPZ President Jackson Silavwe Proposes Economic Revitalization Measures for Zambia

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GPZ President Jackson Silavwe Proposes Economic Revitalization Measures for Zambia

In response to the economic challenges being faced by Zambians, Golden Party of Zambia (GPZ) President Jackson Silavwe has put forth a comprehensive set of short and long-term interventions aimed at revitalizing the local economy and ensuring its benefits reach the citizens.

Mr. Silavwe emphasized that the economic hardships endured by Zambians are exacerbated by a perceived lack of effective intervention measures by the New Dawn administration. To address this, he outlined a series of proposals, categorized into short, medium, and long-term measures.

Short-Term Measures:

  1. Freeze the upward adjustment of the monetary policy rate (MPR) and the statutory reserve ratio (SRR) for three years.
  2. Prompt payment of all local domestic suppliers.
  3. Award large contracts to local Zambian companies.
  4. Increase taxes on the mining sector.
  5. Create incentives for local small and medium businesses.
  6. Facilitate easier financial inflow for foreign investments.
  7. Strengthen the Zambia National Service (ZNS) to contribute significantly (50%)to national maize production and mealie meal consumption.
  8. Provide tax, levies, and statutory incentives to local small and medium businesses.

Medium-Term Measures:

  1. Enhance government revenue generated from the mining sector.
  2. Declare sugilite, gold, and lithium as state assets through an act of parliament.
  3. Deposit sugilite and gold in the Bank of Zambia (BOZ) as part of the strategic national reserves.
  4. Gradually minimize and eliminate tax holidays for foreign companies operating in Zambia.
  5. Cap the externalization of profits by foreign mining companies.
  6. Establish a tax haven within Zambia.

Long-Term Measures:

  1. Directly invest USD $1 billion in 10,000 new high-quality startups.
  2. Boost national production through industrialization and value addition.
  3. Enact laws to prohibit the exportation of unprocessed minerals from mining.
  4. Construct government-owned gold and lithium processing plants.
  5. Heavy investment in technology and creative sectors.
  6. Target a substantial reduction in unemployment, from over 8 million job seekers to 2 million, within 10 to 15 years through private sector development.

    Mr. Silavwe stressed the urgency of these measures, acknowledging the severe impact of the economic downturn on ordinary citizens and businesses. He called on the New Dawn administration to respond proactively on behalf of the Zambian people, providing essential economic relief. The proposed interventions, if implemented, aim to create a more sustainable and inclusive economy, benefitting the broader population.

Extension of closure of schools misplaced-ZANEC

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Extension of closure of schools misplaced-ZANEC

The Zambia National Education Coalition (ZANEC) says it respects government’s decision to extend the closure of schools on account of the increasing number of cases of cholera.

ZANEC Executive Director George Hamusunga said the the decision significantly aligns with the public health recommendations from health experts.

Mr Hamusanga however said postponing the school reopening from January 29th to 12th February, will result in serious learning losses which will undermine the education recovery post COVID 19.

“For this reason, it is important that the Council of Ministers utilizes the evidence from the researches conducted by ZANEC with support from the Ministry of Education and UNICEF during the COVID 19 pandemic from 2020 to 2022 to mitigate the impact of the cholera epidemic on education,” Mr. Hamusunga said.

He said is is important for government to put in place adequate measures in the two weeks that schools will be closed to ensure that schools will have all the necessary requisites that will protect learners from cholera when they reopen.

“It was also not prudent to generalize the closure of schools in all parts of the country, the extended closure of schools should have been only in parts of the country that have cholera for example according to Zambia Cholera Situation Report Sitrep No. 23. Provinces like Muchinga, Western and Luapula have only recorded imported cases. Therefore, the closure should have been in the districts that are epicenters, have active cases or are at high risk.”

He added, “there is need for government through the Ministry of Finance to release adequate cholera epidemic response funding to the Ministry of Education to enable them put measures in schools that will ensure the health and safety of learners.”

Mr. Hamusunga observed that the tendency by government to think that investment in the health sector alone can also address the impact of the cholera epidemic on education is misplaced.

“For us, we attribute the failure to open schools to the lack of political will to support the Ministry of Education with the required resources to make our schools conducive for learning amidst the cholera epidemic.”

Mr. Hamusunga said the Ministry of Education must also be supported to deliver Alternative Modes of Education Provision that can help provide continuity of learning at home for children during the closure of schools.

“Unfortunately, although we all agree that the Education Broadcasting Services (EBS) is the panacea to our digital learning solutions in Zambia, the institution is poorly funded to the extent that they have not aired a single education programme for a year now. We would like to call upon government, through the Ministry of Finance to quickly fund EBS so that it can resume its work.”

He said, “ Furthermore, EBS must be given an express license to air education programmes countrywide to mitigate the current learning loss. This investment is critical in the long term for continued learning during calamities or natural disasters.”

He added, the Ministry of Education must start preparing for the re-opening of examination classes now so that in the event that the cases of cholera continue increasing for the next two weeks, learners in examination classes can be given the first priority to go back to school. The Ministry can leverage on its past experience in running examination classes amidst COVID 19 to reduce the loss of learning time among our 2024 examination candidates.”

Cholera Outbreak Straining Healthcare System – MEDRAP

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Cholera Outbreak Straining Healthcare System – MEDRAP

An NGO called Medicines Research and Access Platform (MedRap) wants stakeholders to ensure that the cholera outbreak does not hinder the provision of other health services.

MedRap Executive Director Liyoka Liyoka has observed that the cholera outbreak has the potential to negatively impact access to and utilisation of facility delivery, antenatal care, HIV care, cancer screening and treatment in health facilities.

Mr Liyoka said the cholera outbreak is straining the healthcare system and exposing vulnerabilities in sanitation and hygiene infrastructure.

“The Medicines Research and Access Platform (MedRap) has noted with concern that the persistence of the cholera outbreak continues to impact the country, placing additional strain on communities and healthcare facilities. The cholera outbreak has rapidly gained momentum in the country placing an immense strain on the healthcare system and exposing vulnerabilities in sanitation and hygiene infrastructure. We have observed that inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities, and overcrowded living conditions, prevalent in many urban areas, exacerbate the risk of transmission,” he stated.

“The Government through the Ministry of Health and other government and non-government actors have put in place various interventions to respond to the surging cases of Cholera, as this is an emergency. The outbreak has, however, affected the provision of other healthcare services such as sexual reproductive health (SRH).

For instance, the cholera outbreak has resulted in barriers to SRH uptake owing to travel restrictions, and fear of infection among the members of the public. There are also barriers on the supply side such as lack of open facilities, workers, commodities, and services,” Mr. Liyoka added.

He emphasized that the cholera outbreak has the potential to negatively impact access to and utilisation of facility delivery, antenatal care and HIV care.

Maesbo And Nkombo Launch Community Sensitization and Cleanup Campaigns in Cholera Hotspots

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Maesbo And Nkombo Launch Community Sensitization and Cleanup Campaigns in Cholera Hotspots

In a concerted effort to address the escalating Cholera crisis in Lusaka, Health Minister Hon. Sylvia Masebo and Local Government and Rural Development Minister Hon. Garry Nkombo jointly launched community sensitization and cleanup campaigns at Matero Level One Hospital. The ministers led a multi-sectoral team, including the Lusaka City Mayor and Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary, on a cleanup trail through Matero Level One Hospital, Chingwele Primary School, Lilanda Market, and the George compound community.

The decision to focus on these areas stems from the alarming statistic that approximately 90 percent of Cholera deaths recorded so far have originated from hotspot communities in Lusaka. The cleanup initiatives aim to improve sanitation and hygiene in these high-risk zones, ultimately curbing the spread of the waterborne disease.

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo highlighted the urgency of the situation during the daily Cholera update in Lusaka. She confirmed that 16 deaths had been recorded in the last 24 hours alone, underscoring the gravity of the ongoing crisis. Minister Masebo expressed concern over the delay by community members to report Cholera-related symptoms, emphasizing that this delay has contributed to the increased number of deaths.

The cleanup campaigns not only serve as a direct response to the immediate threat of Cholera but also align with broader efforts to enhance community awareness and engagement. By involving key stakeholders and leaders in the cleanup initiatives, the government aims to foster a sense of collective responsibility in the fight against Cholera.

The ministers and their team engaged in hands-on activities, cleaning and sensitizing the identified hotspots. Their presence on the ground emphasizes the government’s commitment to tackling the root causes of the Cholera outbreak and fostering a collaborative approach to public health.

As the cleanup campaigns progress, community members are urged to actively participate, report symptoms promptly, and adopt hygienic practices to break the chain of transmission. The success of these initiatives relies on the active involvement of the community, local authorities, and various sectors working in unison to combat the Cholera crisis in Lusaka.

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.

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