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President Hichilema Calls for National Unity and Hard Work in New Year Message

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President Hichilema Calls for National Unity and Hard Work in New Year Message

In his New Year address, President Hakainde Hichilema rallied Zambians to join hands in ushering in a year of hard work, economic revival, and national progress. The President, alongside fellow citizens, celebrated the advent of 2024 in rural Masuku of Choma.

During the celebration, President Hichilema emphasized the importance of individual effort in stabilizing the nation’s economy. He called on every Zambian to actively engage in agricultural activities, highlighting the significance of hard work in achieving national food security.

“There is no other way. No magic, no luck to stabilizing our individual homes and the nation without fronting hard work and production,” remarked President Hichilema, stressing the necessity for citizens to contribute to the country’s economic turnaround.

The President encouraged Zambians to produce what they can with their hands, citing examples like maize meal, while advocating for self-sufficiency in essentials like salt.

In his address, President Hichilema also lauded the success of various developmental programs, including the enhanced Constituency Development Fund (CDF), now standing at 30.6 Kwacha. He urged eligible citizens to register as voters in the ongoing continuous voter registration process in preparation for the 2026 General Elections.

Information Minister Cornelius Mweetwa, who is also the Choma Central Member of Parliament, commended President Hichilema for his commitment to steering development in the country. He expressed optimism about Zambia’s path to prosperity under the credible leadership of President Hichilema.

Chief Macha of Choma echoed sentiments of peace and unity, commending President Hichilema for eliminating cadresim and urging Zambians to unite under the motto “One Zambia, One Nation.”

President Hichilema warned livestock thieves of severe consequences once apprehended and urged citizens to take advantage of the favorable business and political environment in the country.

President Hichilema Congratulates President Félix Tshisekedi on Re-election in DRC

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President Hichilema Congratulates President Félix Tshisekedi on Re-election in DRC

In a diplomatic gesture, President Hakainde Hichilema has conveyed his sincere congratulations to President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo on his resounding re-election as the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

President Hichilema, recognizing the longstanding and amicable bilateral relations between Zambia and the DRC since their respective independence, expressed his warm wishes for the continued strengthening of ties. These relations, he noted, are deeply rooted in the shared cultures and values of the people of both nations.

In his congratulatory message, President Hichilema emphasized the importance of fostering cooperation and collaboration between Zambia and the DRC. He extended his heartfelt wishes for the people of the DRC as they embark on a new phase of sustained development and prosperity under President Tshisekedi’s leadership.

Vice President Nalumango gifts New Year babies, raises concern over increased cholera cases

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Vice President Nalumango gifts New Year babies, raises concern over increased cholera cases

Vice President Mutale Nalumango has gifted 14 New Year babies at Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital and Chipata First Level Hospital with baby hampers.

The Vice President commended health workers for ensuring healthy and successful deliveries and advised the mothers to look after their babies well as they are a gift from God.

And Mrs Nalumango also noted with concern, the increasing cholera cases in the country.

She said the government will put up 58 water tanks in Kanyama Township, which is one of the hot spots in Lusaka and other identified areas, to improve access to clean water.

The Vice President appealed to members of the public to visit nearby health facilities in good time, should they suspect any symptoms in order to contain the disease.

“Patients who go to the hospital on time recover quickly, while most of those who delay are brought in dead, which is unfortunate because cholera deaths are avoidable,” she said.

Meanwhile, Minister of Health, Sylvia Masebo assured that cholera drugs are readily available at cholera treatment centers, stating that patients have high chances to recover when they visit the health facilities on time.

Ms Masebo also commended the government for their efforts in improving water supply and sanitation in hotspot areas.

She emphasised the need for residents to work with government to ensure that garbage is collected and disposed of at designated areas in order to avoid water contamination.

Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital Medical Superintendent, Charles Mutemba said the hospital has 80 cholera patients currently on admission, of which 8 are pregnant women and 15 are children.

Kitwe records one suspected cholera case

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Kitwe records one suspected cholera case

Kitwe District on the Copperbelt Province has recorded a suspected Cholera case.

The 20 year old male victim is reported to have travelled from Lusaka.

Kitwe Teaching Hospital Senior Medical Superintendent, Seke Kazuma, disclosed the development in Kitwe today and indicated that the patient is currently receiving treatment at the hospital.

Dr Kazuma, however stated that tests are being conducted to establish if it is a positive cholera case.

“Yes we have received a suspected cholera case. The victim travelled from Lusaka, we are currently treating the victim under isolation and once we confirm that it’s a positive cholera case, we will transfer him to the cholera treatment centre,” he said.

Dr Kazuma has since urged Kitwe residents to be on high alert and avoid practices that trigger the spread of the disease.

He further urged people to adhere to cholera preventive measures that include drinking boiled or chlorinated water, eating well prepared food and to avoid eating food sold on the street.

And Kitwe District Commissioner, Lawrence Mwanza has assured Kitwe residents that Nkana Water and Sewerage Company will improve water supply in view of the suspected cholera case.

Mr Mwanza also urged members of the public to avoid drinking water from shallow wells and unclean sources.

“I know that water is critical in the prevention of cholera, as such, we will ensure that Nkana Water is on top of things and improve in terms of water supply,” he assured.

Meanwhile, Mr Mwanza has donated Christmas hampers to four New Year babies at Kitwe Teaching Hospital.

The babies are two males and two females.

Mr Mwanza was happy with the cleanliness at the health facility and the self-motivation exhibited by members of staff.

He earlier toured the Luangwa Male ward to console the patients and assured that government will soon work on the road network at the hospital entrance, which is in a bad state.

Happy New Year!

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Happy New Year!

Ministry Of Health Reports 203 New Cholera Cases in Nationwide Update

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Ministry Of Health Reports 203 New Cholera Cases in Nationwide Update

In the past 24 hours, the Ministry of Health has recorded a total of 203 new cholera cases nationwide, along with 11 reported deaths, 86 discharges, and 292 patients currently admitted. The announcement was made by the Minister of Health, Sylvia Masebo, during a media briefing held in Lusaka.

Lusaka Province, in particular, experienced a significant surge in cases, contributing 198 of the newly reported cases. Additionally, the province recorded 76 discharges, leaving 284 patients in admission. Minister Masebo provided a breakdown of the cases within Lusaka Province, specifying that Lusaka District had 188 cases, Luangwa and Chongwe recorded zero cases, while Chilanga reported 10 cases.

The distribution of the 11 recorded deaths in Lusaka Province was outlined by Minister Masebo. Kanyama reported two deaths, including both Brought-In-Dead (BID) cases and facility deaths. Matero accounted for three BID cases, Chipata reported two BID cases, and Levy Mwanawasa Hospital recorded two facility deaths.

Minister Masebo emphasized the importance of seeking timely medical attention for individuals presenting symptoms of cholera to prevent fatalities. Urging the public to visit nearby health facilities promptly, she stressed the significance of early intervention.

Highlighting the efforts made by the Ministry of Health throughout the year, Minister Masebo mentioned interventions aimed at improving the availability and access to quality essential medicines and health facilities. She reported a notable increase in medical supply, rising from 50% in 2022 to 80% in 2023.

Furthermore, Minister Masebo provided information about ongoing infrastructure developments in the healthcare sector. The government has successfully constructed five district hospitals in Luapula, Eastern, and Copperbelt provinces. Mambwe District Hospital in Eastern Province has been completed, with the remaining four hospitals expected to finish construction early next year.

President Hichilema Leads Animal Vaccination at Choma Ranch

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President Hichilema Leads Animal Vaccination at Choma Ranch

President Hakainde Hichilema, known for his commitment to hard work and hands-on leadership, demonstrated his dedication to the agricultural sector by personally overseeing the vaccination of animals at his Choma ranch in Southern Zambia. This act not only reflects the President’s long-standing involvement in farming but also underscores the importance of agricultural practices in the country.

The President, accompanied by his team, took time during the holiday season to engage in the vaccination process, emphasizing the value of hands-on efforts in the agricultural sector. The Choma ranch has been operational for over two decades, and President Hichilema, as a longstanding farmer, continues to promote a culture of hard work and self-reliance among Zambians.

In a statement, President Hichilema acknowledged the diligent work ethic of Zambians, emphasizing the aversion to dependency on free resources. He expressed his commitment to fostering and promoting this hardworking culture during his tenure in public office.

“As we spend our holidays at the farms, let’s keep pushing. Zambians are very hardworking, and we value their detest of free things. This is the culture we intend to promote while in public office,” President Hichilema stated.

The President’s hands-on approach to farming aligns with his vision for a prosperous and self-sufficient Zambia. By actively participating in agricultural activities, he seeks to inspire citizens to take an active role in their respective endeavors.

President Hichilema concluded the statement by extending his blessings to all citizens, wishing them a prosperous 2024 as they diligently pursue their individual aspirations.

First Lady Mutinta Hichilema at the Choma ranch
President Hichilema at his Choma ranch
President Hichilema at his Choma ranch

President Hichilema Encourages Love and Unity at Choma SDA Church Fellowship

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President Hichilema Encourages Love and Unity at Choma SDA Church Fellowship

In a Saturday morning fellowship at Choma Central Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church, President Hakainde Hichilema, accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs. Mutinta Hichilema, delivered a message of encouragement to fellow Christians. The President urged congregants to remain steadfast in their Christian faith, serving as beacons of peace and promoters of love at both the family and national levels.

During the service, President Hichilema addressed the concerning trend of insults and disrespect prevalent among many young people on social media. He expressed his sadness over such behavior and called on the Church to play a crucial role in instilling good morals and a sense of hard work in all citizens.

“As Zambians, we depend on the Church to instill good morals and a sense of hard work in all citizens for the betterment of our community,” President Hichilema emphasized during the greeting session.

The President further called on Zambians to love one another and extend help when needed, fostering a sense of unity and compassion in the society. He acknowledged the pivotal role of the Church in promoting love, peace, and unity in the country.

In addition to his message, President Hichilema advised the Church to explore agricultural ventures as a means of raising funds for the completion of the Church, currently under construction. He expressed his hope that the Church would actively contribute to the well-being of the community, both spiritually and economically.

President Hichilema and First Ladt Mutinta Hichilema during the church service in Choma

Message For Today:Don’t Bottle It Up

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Message For Today:Don’t Bottle It Up

Today’s Scripture

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 4:32, NIV

Don’t Bottle It Up

Friend, we’re all aware of the damage that toxic waste sites do to the soil, the water, the air, and the people nearby. Negative emotions are like that. You can’t bury the anger, the hurt, the rejection, or the betrayal inside and think it’s not going to contaminate and poison you. When you bottle up negative emotions, they never die and they always leak out and resurface. At some point that poison will contaminate not just your dreams, your attitude, and your vision, but it will poison your relationship with the people in your life. It will drain out your joy, your peace, your creativity.

The good news is that you can get that toxic waste out of you. Don’t bottle up the bitterness, the guilt, or the resentment. Let it go. You have to forgive and release the person and give what happened to you to God. It wasn’t right what they did, but you’re forgiving so you can be free. You’re letting it go so you can see beauty for the ashes. This is your time to be free.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that I can prevent my life from becoming a toxic waste site of negative emotions. Show me if there is anything that is causing me to be bitter or resentful, and help me to forgive any person who hurt me and to release to You what happened. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Statement by Vernon J.Mwaanga, GOEZ – Freedom Fighter and Senior Citizen

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Statement by Vernon J.Mwaanga, GOEZ – Freedom Fighter and Senior Citizen

A MATURE GOVERNMENT AND MATURE OPPOSITION LEAD TO A MATURE COUNTRY

Zambia turns 60 at its next independence day. In many countries, including Zambia itself, that is the most common retirement age. At this stage of their lives, they have seen and done it all – and are now fully matured from their many life experiences. They are then able to use this life long earned wisdom to guide those who are younger. Indeed this is the stage in life that those who were born in 1964 have reached. If Zambia were a person, this is where it would be – mature, wise, level headed, unifying and stable in its conduct.

HONEST INTROSPECTION

But is this where we are as a nation? We need to seriously reflect on this question – and give ourselves a fair but honest response. Have our politics become more mature, both from the government and opposition side? Do we conduct ourselves and affairs in a manner that can be described as being mature? Have we gained wisdom from our now almost six decades of independence? Does our attitude as politicians exhibit this wisdom that we are expected to have? Do we practice our politics in a manner that can be described as being level headed? Is that how the region and the rest of the world views us? Given that we have had 60 years to go through our phases of tribal, regional and political division and have had an opportunity to learn from them – can we sincerely state that we have reached the level of unity that is expected of us? Can we genuinely claim to have put regionalism, tribalism and confrontation between political parties behind us? Are we stable in our general conduct?

Are our institutions of state genuinely impartial, truly independent and openly professional? Do they follow their respective mandates with absolute fairness in their intentions? We have had experiences and time to learn from past corruption. Have these important lessons assisted us in our fight against corrution? Do we fight corruption holistically or selectively? Do we fully appreciate the fact that public service is not about advancing the interests of self, family and close associates but about truly dedicating ourselves to the broader good of all? This is especially and particularly even more relevant for those who lack any form of access to anyone in any position of authority.

INVITATION TO LEADERS AND CITIZENS

I invite our leaders – both in government and the opposition, all parties and every Zambian citizen for us to seriously and sincerely introspect on each one of these important questions. I have had the privilege of working with many freedom fighters. But my closest contemporaries in the freedom struggle, all of whom are unfortunately late, were Moto Nkama, Rupiah Banda, Jethro Mutti, Ali Simbule and Alexander Chikwanda. When my time comes to join them and many others in the next world, my departure will be a lot more bearable if we can address these issues with continued vigour. We have had 60 years to learn from all of our mistakes. We need to accept that a mature country is attained through a mature government and mature opposition.

As we go into the new year, my humble wish is for all of us to use this period to reflect on our state of affairs in a constructive, sincere and unified manner. We were able to attain our independence because we were united in what we wanted. Let us employ that sense of unity to forge ahead and ensure that peace and prosperity shall be the preserve of all in our beloved mother Zambia. I wish every Zambian a rewarding 2024.

VERNON J. MWAANGA 30 DECEMBER 2023

South Africa Files Case Against Israel, Alleging “Genocidal Acts” in Gaza

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South Africa Files Case Against Israel, Alleging “Genocidal Acts” in Gaza

In a significant development, South Africa has taken the initiative to file a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing the nation of engaging in “genocidal acts” in the Gaza Strip. The UN court has confirmed the application, focusing on alleged violations of Israel’s obligations under the Genocide Convention.

Israel vehemently rejects the allegations, dismissing them as “baseless” and condemning South Africa for spreading a “blood libel.” The ICJ, based in The Hague, Netherlands, serves as the principal judicial organ of the UN, resolving disputes between states and providing advisory opinions on international legal matters.

Following the ICJ application, South Africa’s presidency released a statement expressing the country’s obligation to prevent genocide. The statement highlighted grave concerns about civilian suffering in Gaza due to what it termed the “indiscriminate use of force” and “forcible removal of inhabitants” by Israel.

The 84-page document submitted to the ICJ contends that the “acts and omissions by Israel” are “genocidal in character” with the intention of destroying a substantial part of the Palestinian national, racial, and ethnical group. South Africa seeks a hearing next week and requests “provisional measures,” including the cessation of all Israeli military activities in Gaza.

In response, Israel’s foreign affairs ministry spokesperson, Lior Haiat, denounced South Africa’s claim, labeling it as a “despicable and contemptuous exploitation of the Court.” He accused South Africa of cooperating with a terrorist organization, referring to Hamas, and emphasized Israel’s commitment to international law.

“Israel is committed to international law and acts in accordance with it, and directs its military efforts only against the Hamas terrorist organization and the other terrorist organizations cooperating with Hamas,” Mr Haiat said.

“Israel has made it clear that the residents of the Gaza Strip are not the enemy, and is making every effort to limit harm to the non-involved and to allow humanitarian aid to enter the Gaza Strip.”

Lusaka Province Celebrates Zero Audit Queries and Successful Utilization of Constituency Development Fund

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Lusaka Province Celebrates Zero Audit Queries and Successful Utilization of Constituency Development Fund

Lusaka Province, under the leadership of Minister Sheal Mulyata, has achieved a significant milestone by recording zero audit queries for the year, marking it as one of the notable accomplishments. The announcement was made during the end-of-year thanksgiving event and prayers organized for workers under the Lusaka Provincial Administration.

Mrs. Mulyata expressed pride in the achievement, acknowledging that attaining zero audit queries was a commendable feat for the provincial administration. She highlighted the challenges involved in maintaining such a record but commended the collective efforts that made it possible.

In addition to achieving zero audit queries, Mrs. Mulyata pointed out that the province had effectively utilized the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). She affirmed that all allocated funds were spent for their intended purposes, reflecting responsible financial management.

The announcement was made by Provincial Permanent Secretary Robert Kamalata on behalf of Mrs. Mulyata during the thanksgiving event. In her speech, Mrs. Mulyata urged civil servants in the province to contribute to creating a conducive working environment in their respective offices. She emphasized the importance of enjoying the time spent at work, considering the significant amount of time workers dedicate to their offices.

“We spend most of our time here, and there is no need to harbor bitterness in our offices,” Mrs. Mulyata stated.

Expressing gratitude for the hard work exhibited by the officers throughout the year 2023, Mrs. Mulyata conveyed her optimism for more success stories in the coming year, 2024. She concluded her remarks by urging members of the staff to celebrate the New Year responsibly.

ZRA and DEC Recover Over K9.4 Million in Taxes from “Gold Gate” Suspect

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ZRA and DEC Recover Over K9.4 Million in Taxes from “Gold Gate” Suspect

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) have successfully recovered over K9.4 million in taxes from AFME Metal Exchange Limited following an extensive investigation into the company’s tax compliance. The recovery is part of a joint effort to address issues related to the gold scam involving one of the co-accused, Shadrick Kasanda, who is a director and shareholder of the company.

According to a joint statement issued by Oliver Nzala, ZRA Corporate Communications Manager, and Mwenge Mulenga, DEC Public Relations Officer, the investigation focused on Mr. Kasanda’s financial activities, revealing significant unexplained sums of money received from overseas sources without proper tax declarations. Additionally, funds were found in his name without corresponding tax declarations or accountability to the Zambia Revenue Authority.

The recovery process, initiated by the joint investigation, resulted in the assessment of over K52.4 million. The DEC blocked the relevant account, and ZRA garnished it to facilitate the payment of the total assessment amounting to K52,449,413.37.

To safeguard tax revenue, a notice under section 23 of the VAT Act (cap 331), section 171a of the Customs and Excise Act (cap 322), and section 84 of the Income Tax Act (cap 323) was issued to forfeit a total of ZMW 9,433,000.00 from AFME Metal Exchange Limited’s bank account. This amount represented the sole available funds in the account at the time of the DEC’s seizure.

Mr. Nzala and Mr. Mulenga warned that entities failing to comply with tax laws would face scrutiny from Law Enforcement Agencies through the Inter-Agency Framework. They urged all taxpayers to adhere to tax laws and fulfill their obligations to avoid legal consequences.

Nchanga local court set ablaze

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Nchanga local court set ablaze
Unknown people have set ablaze Nchanga local Court in Chingola District  destroying everything including Court records.
 Speaking in an interview, Chingola Resident Magistrate Stephen Mabona said he was informed around 04:00hrs that the Court was on fire and when he rushed to the Scene he found that everything had been gutted.
He explained that he informed fire Fighters from Chingola Municipal Council, and later Konkola Copper Mine( KCM) Fire Fighters  rushed to the scene  to put out the fire but everything had already been gutted.
Magistrate Mabona stated that Preliminary investigations by ZESCO indicate that everything was intact and foul play is suspected.
An eye witness Naomi  Phiri disclosed that the Fire started around 03:00hrs.
Ms Phiri  said they could not manage to put out the fire on their own and informed the Local Authority fire department.
“We were trying to call 111 but it was not going through so we just started shouting for help and the neighborhood contacted the higher offices”,  she said.
Meanwhile Copperbelt Province Police Commanding Officer Peacwell Mweemba is yet to issue a statement on the matter.

Former President Lungu Criticizes President Hichilema’s Handling of Corruption Allegations

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Former President Lungu Criticizes President Hichilema’s Handling of Corruption Allegations

Former President, Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, has expressed concern over President Hakainde Hichilema’s approach to corruption allegations, specifically addressing the case of former Foreign Affairs Minister Stanley Kakubo. In a press statement Mr. Lungu questioned the perceived double standards in President Hichilema’s fight against corruption.

Mr. Lungu highlighted serious allegations against Stanley Kakubo and criticized President Hichilema for merely thanking Kakubo for resigning without allowing a thorough investigation. The former President referenced previous instances where President Hichilema publicly declared innocence for his ministers facing corruption accusations.

The statement pointed to last year’s corruption accusations against Kakubo, where Mr. Hichilema, rather than the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), declared him innocent. Mr. Lungu emphasized the need for a fair investigation and a legal process to determine innocence or guilt, expressing concern that President Hichilema’s interventions could compromise the independence of investigative bodies.

Mr. Lungu urged Zambians to question the apparent double standards in President Hichilema’s fight against corruption. He argued that while opposition leaders and former government officials are presumed guilty until proven innocent, ministers and government officials enjoy the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

The former President criticized President Hichilema’s swift defense of his ministers in recent corruption allegations involving the Finance and Housing and Infrastructure portfolios. Mr. Lungu questioned the impact of such interventions on the investigative wings and the courts, emphasizing the importance of impartiality in the fight against corruption.

Mr. Lungu highlighted other corruption allegations within the government, expressing disappointment in President Hichilema’s silence on accusations against ministers in the energy and health sectors. He called for a genuine commitment to combating corruption without bias, urging President Hichilema to use such incidents to admonish ministers against engaging in opaque transactions.

The former President concluded by asserting that the fight against corruption should be impartial, without favoritism based on one’s proximity to power. He condemned what he perceived as a selective approach to the fight against corruption, accusing President Hichilema of using it as a smokescreen to target perceived opponents while shielding allies from accountability.

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