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Nitrogen Chemicals to build US$ 6 million blended fertilizer plant

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Nitrogen Chemicals of Zambia (NCZ) will next year embark on the construction of a fertiliser blending plant at an estimated cost of US$6 million.

 Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Kafue district, NCZ Technical Manager, Simon Mwape said the project is expected to start in the first quarter of 2024.

 Mr Mwape said the plant is expected to produce about 400 metric tons of blended fertiliser per day.

“The proposed project will be developed on approximately 0.5 hectares of land. It is expected to have a production capacity of 400 metric tons of blended fertilizer per day,” said Mr. Mwape

Mr. Mwape said the construction of the plant has been necessitated by the high demand for blended fertiliser in the country following an increase in the population and agricultural activities.

“The increase in population and farming activities in Zambia has led to a high demand for fertilizer hence we need to increase production and meet the demand for the current market,” said Mr. Mwape.

He added that the project seeks to alleviate the existing fertiliser shortages in Zambia and to create a new local blended fertiliser capable of meeting the market demands.

Mr. Mwape said that the blended fertiliser will be tailor-made to meet the needs of individual customers.

“The blended fertiliser will be tailor-made, and soil assessment will be done to determine the exact fertilizer needed for the customer,” said Mr. Mwape.

 Mr. Mwape stated that the project will also create employment opportunities for local people and respond to the Government’s call for investment which will complement the commercial growth currently taking place in the agriculture sector and the district.

He added that the company will not neglect the old fertiliser production plant but an investment of K4 million will be made to boost its production level from 35 metric tonnes to 65 metric tons of ordinary fertilizer.

Meanwhile, Kafue District Commissioner Maurice Hikapulwe is happy with the fertiliser-blending plant venture.

 He said the project will create employment opportunities for the local people and enhance the economy of the district.

Mr. Hikapulwe said the fertiliser blending plant will produce tailor-made fertilizer according to the needs of individual customers.

“We are happy with the project because clients will be able to get the right fertilizer for their crops,” said Mr. Hikapulwe.

Nkana FC Executive Committee Dissolved

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Mopani Copper Mines has dissolved the Nkana Football Club Executive Committee which was led by Chikusi Banda.

Mopani has appointed an interim executive committee to be led by Joseph Silwamba, the immediate past Nkana President.

Other members of the interim executive committee include Joseph Khunga, David Phiri, Mulenga Chisunka, Lillian Musenge and Prince Sinkala.

“Mopani Copper Mines PLC has announced the dissolution of the current Nkana Executive Committee headed by Mopani Tax Manager Chikusi Banda with immediate effect,” the statement from Nkana read.

Struggling Nkana are currently second from the bottom of the FAZ Super Division table with 13 points in 16 matches and have lost nine games.

Zambias Access to Information Bill: Navigating the Path to Transparency Amidst Potential Challenges

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Zambia’s recent passage of the Access to Information (ATI) bill stands as a significant leap towards fostering transparency and accountability within governance. Yet, beneath this positive stride, critical concerns emerge that warrant immediate attention. Foremost among these is the assignment of oversight to the Human Rights Commission (HRC) for the ATIs execution. However, the HRC faces inherent challenges,notably resource constraints, which could impede its effective enforcement of this pivotal role.

Insufficient funding and staffing shortages might compromise the commission's capacity to robustly implement the ATI,posing a concern for its efficacy.

The language within Section 23(2)(a) of the bill, specifically addressing third-party consent, raises alarm about inadvertent consent instances, where individuals might unknowingly grant consent, such as when signing contracts without a comprehensive understanding of implications. To fortify this, a rephrasing emphasizing informed consent becomes imperative to ensure individuals fully comprehend the consequences of their actions.
Crucially, harmonizing the ATI bill with the Data Protection Act assumes paramount significance. This synchronization acts as a shield against potential misuse of personal information obtained through the ATI process. Ensuring coherence between these laws is essential to avoid contradictions and safeguard citizens privacy rights effectively. Granting prosecutorial powers to the HRC emerges as an indispensable step for the ATIs effective enforcement. Presently lacking these powers, empowering the HRC to prosecute would significantly enhance its ability to ensure compliance and address violations, thereby strengthening the bills implementation.

I hold a view that as compared to using the same model with south Africa, we would have given the oversight institution role to parliament and allow parliament to be an oversight institution for the implementation of the Act, this is through an assigned parliamentary officer.

Furthermore, an independent officer could be appointed by the legislature or parliament. The role of the officer would be to run an open desk to investigate complaints from individuals, against government agencies or public institutions. They must be empowered with their team to have powers to receive complaints, mediate disputes, ensure compliance with the law, work with the judiciary to facilitate for prosecution and educate the public about their rights regarding access to information. Instituting a comprehensive review and rigorous enforcement strategy for the bill is imperative, drawing from past challenges during political transitions. Addressing ambiguities and potential loopholes becomes a proactive measure to prevent selective enforcement or misuse of the Act.

The officer and the team at parliament must run an open-door policy of involving civil society organizations,legal bodies, and educational institutions, to allow them to amplify the bill's actualization through submissions for improvement. Also, facilitate for easy phone access to the public for submissions on challenges and guidance on the individual rights to information.

The UPND government commitment to enacting the bill into law is commendable. However, it is imperative to engage in deliberations and revisions to address concerns before enactment. This meticulous approach fortifies the laws efficacy, ensuring it actively serves its core purpose of promoting transparency and accountability in Zambias governance landscape.

Misheck Kakonde is a legal scholar and comparative politics specialist (MA). Email: [email protected]

India bans Cough mixture for children under 4 after deaths

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In response to global concerns and reported child deaths linked to Indian-made cough syrups, India’s top drug controller has banned an anti-cold drug combination for use in children below the age of four. The ban follows a spate of child deaths in The Gambia and Uzbekistan, which were associated with Indian-made cough syrups in the previous year.

The banned combination includes – chlorpheniramine maleate and phenylephrin – and was approved in 2015 for use in cough syrups and tablets to treat symptoms of the common cold. At least 12 children in India reportedly died between 2019 and 2020 after consuming a similar medication, leading to increased scrutiny.

Manufacturers of the drugs have denied any wrongdoing, asserting that their products are safe for use. The order, made public on Wednesday, mandates drugmakers selling the combination to label their products with a warning against use in children below the age of four.

Last year, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a global warning about four India-made cough syrups allegedly linked to the deaths of 66 children in The Gambia. Lab analysis confirmed the presence of “unacceptable amounts” of diethylene glycol and another toxic alcohol called ethylene glycol in the samples.

Similar deaths were reported in Uzbekistan, where 18 children died till 2022 allegedly after consuming an Indian-manufactured cough syrup. In India’s Jammu region, at least 12 children between the ages of two months and six years died in 2019 after drinking an allegedly toxic cough syrup.

Indian regulators have maintained that the deaths reported in the country were isolated instances. While they claim that the four cough syrups linked to child deaths in The Gambia complied with specifications when tested at home, the WHO has contested this. The manufacturing license of the firm whose products allegedly led to fatalities in Uzbekistan was canceled.

Zambia Police Reintroduces Security Checkpoints Nationwide

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In response to the escalating challenges posed by criminal activities and to enhance public safety, the Zambia Police Service has announced the reintroduction of security checkpoints at strategic locations across the country. The decision is a proactive measure to address the rising concerns related to criminal incidents and ensure the well-being of citizens.

The security checkpoints will be strategically placed in various provinces, with the primary focus on deterring criminal activities, enhancing community safety, and creating a secure environment for residents and visitors. The Zambia Police Service emphasizes that the checkpoints will be manned by officers from the Criminal Investigations Department and uniformed officers. Additionally, traffic officers will conduct motorized and foot patrols on the roads to enforce compliance among motorists, rather than remaining stationary at the security checkpoints.

Key Objectives of the Security Checkpoints:

Crime Deterrence: The reintroduction of security checkpoints is part of a comprehensive strategy to deter criminal elements from engaging in unlawful activities. Visible law enforcement presence is a powerful tool in discouraging criminal behavior.

Community Safety: The Zambia Police Service is committed to creating a safe and secure environment for all members of the community. The checkpoints will serve as a means to actively engage with the public, gather information, and address any concerns that residents may have.

Emergency Response Enhancement: The strategic placement of checkpoints will facilitate rapid response to emergencies, ensuring that law enforcement can swiftly attend to incidents, minimizing potential harm and damage.

Collaborative Approach: The Zambia Police Service encourages collaboration with the community to foster a sense of shared responsibility in maintaining public safety. By working together, law enforcement and the public can effectively address and prevent criminal activities.

Inspector General of Police, Mr. Graphel Musamba, stated, “The reintroduction of security checkpoints is a proactive measure aimed at addressing the challenges posed by criminal activities in our country. We are committed to working closely with the community to ensure a safer living environment for everyone.”

The Zambia Police Service reassures the public that these security measures are implemented with the utmost consideration for human rights and will be conducted professionally and respectfully. Citizens are encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement officers at these security checkpoints and report any suspicious activities promptly. The success of these security measures relies on the collaboration between the police and the community.

Chikotesha is Zambia’s Ref at 2023 AFCON

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Lusaka based FIFA referee Diana Chikotesha has been selected to officiate at next month’s Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire 2023.

The AFCON will kick off on 13 January, 2024.

Accordinh to FAZ Media, Chikotesha is among two female referees that have been named alongside 28 assistant referees for the Africa Cup.

Carine Atezambong of Cameroon is the other female assistant referee.

“The Lusaka-based referee (Chikotesha) has risen through the ranks and recently officiated at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand and the CAF Women’s Champions League in Côte d’Ivoire,” FAZ media wrote.

Meanwhile, Chipolopolo returns to the AFCON for the first time since 2015.

President Hakainde Hichilema Vows to Safeguard National Boundaries Amid Border Concerns

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In response to growing concerns over international boundaries, particularly between Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), President Hakainde Hichilema has pledged to protect the country’s borders. President Hichilema emphasized the importance of revisiting the issue of international boundaries, addressing the specific concerns raised by residents in Luapula Province.

The President expressed his commitment to reviewing the matter after the upcoming General Election in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This assurance came during a meeting with Senior Chief Puta of Chienge district at the Community House in Lusaka.

Senior Chief Puta highlighted the evolving nature of the demarcation between Zambia and the DRC, noting that the beacons marking the boundary have been displaced towards the Zambian side. Concerned about this development, Chief Puta appealed to President Hichilema to engage with his Congolese counterpart to discuss and address the border-related issues post the DRC’s elections.

In acknowledging the concerns brought forth by Chief Puta, President Hichilema reiterated his commitment to safeguarding Zambia’s territorial integrity. He assured the traditional leader and the people of Luapula Province that the matter would be given due attention and addressed through diplomatic channels.

In a separate note, Senior Chief Puta expressed gratitude to President Hichilema for the recent pardon extended to former Finance Minister Katele Kalumba. The Traditional Leader appreciated the President’s decision to grant clemency to Kalumba, demonstrating a spirit of reconciliation and unity.

Angola Announces Withdrawal from OPEC Amid Output Quota Dispute

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Angola has declared its departure from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) following a dispute over output quotas. The decision comes after OPEC and allied nations agreed to further reduce oil production in 2024 to stabilize global prices. Angola, a key oil exporter in sub-Saharan Africa, currently produces approximately 1.1 million barrels per day, contributing to OPEC’s total of 30 million barrels.

The announcement led to a drop in oil prices, with Brent prices falling over $1 to $78.5 a barrel. Angola’s Minister of Mineral Resources and Petroleum, Diamantino Azevedo, stated that the country sees no benefit in remaining in OPEC, emphasizing its commitment to avoiding production cuts and respecting contracts.

Azevedo highlighted that the decision was made in defense of Angola’s interests, as remaining in OPEC would require mandatory production cuts. Both Angola and Nigeria, the largest oil exporters in sub-Saharan Africa, have expressed discontent with production cuts at a time when increasing foreign currency earnings is crucial.

Angola’s departure from OPEC, after 16 years of membership, adds to a list of countries, including Ecuador, Indonesia, and Qatar, that have exited the organization. The move raised concerns about OPEC’s unity and its broader coalition, OPEC+, which includes Russia and other allies.

As OPEC+ implemented new oil-output cuts in January, international oil prices fell by as much as 2.4%. Analysts suggest that Angola’s exit poses questions about the cohesion of OPEC and OPEC+.

Angola’s decision stems from a protest regarding OPEC+’s reduction of its output quota for 2024, leading to delays in the November policy meeting. The departure reduces OPEC’s share of the world oil market, standing at 27 million barrels per day, or 27% of the 102 million bpd global market.

Despite concerns about the impact on OPEC’s unity, analysts believe that other countries may not follow Angola’s path. Nigeria, another African OPEC member, has faced challenges meeting its quota and received a higher OPEC+ target for 2024 at the November meeting.

As Angola leaves OPEC, questions about the organization’s market share and effectiveness in managing global oil prices emerge. The move reflects the challenges faced by oil-producing nations amid evolving geopolitical and economic dynamics.

Zambia Netball Plots To Join Global Top 10

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Zambia is seeking to be among the best ten nations in world netball.

Zambia is currently ranked 15th in world netball.

Netball Zambia President Martha Sichone said after winning the Africa Cup this month Zambia is expecting to move closer to the top ten of the world netball rankings.

Sichone said Zambia wants to reach great heights in netball just like South Africa, Uganda and Malawi.

She called for support to the game.

“This is the time individuals and companies should come on board to support netball in a big way so that we can go to high levels,” Sichone said.

Don’t Blame Government On Kwacha Fall – Former BOZ Governor Christopher Mvunga

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Christopher Mvunga, the former Governor of the Bank of Zambia (BOZ), has asserted that blaming the government for the depreciation of the Kwacha is unjustified. Mr. Mvunga encourages Zambians to consider the broader global challenges impacting economies rather than isolating the Kwacha’s depreciation.

In an exclusive interview with ZANIS in Lusaka, Mr. Mvunga emphasized the need to contextualize the depreciation of the Kwacha within the framework of various global challenges that have affected economies worldwide, including Zambia.

The former BOZ Governor highlighted that the past two years have posed significant challenges to economies globally, with Zambia being no exception. He specifically pointed to the adverse impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the effects of Climate Change as contributing factors to the economic challenges faced by nations, including Zambia.

Mr. Mvunga urged Zambians to consider the interconnectedness of global events and their cascading effects on economic indicators. The complexities of the international economic landscape, exacerbated by events such as the pandemic and geopolitical tensions, have created an environment in which currencies, including the Kwacha, experience fluctuations.

While acknowledging the concerns surrounding the Kwacha’s performance, Mr. Mvunga stressed the importance of adopting a comprehensive perspective when evaluating economic conditions. He noted that external factors beyond the control of any single government significantly influence currency values and economic stability.

The former BOZ Governor’s comments aim to foster a better understanding of the challenges faced by Zambia and other nations, reinforcing the idea that economic fluctuations are often beyond the direct control of any individual government. As the global economic landscape continues to evolve, Mr. Mvunga encourages a nuanced and informed discussion surrounding economic issues for a more comprehensive understanding of the factors at play.

Police Fight battles with ECL-PF Faction in Mpika

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Police fought running battles with supporters for the Edgar Lungu-led Patriotic Front faction who staged a protest after nominations for a by-election were done.

The situation became tense soon after the Electoral Commission of Zambia ( ECZ ) officials announced that Aaron Kabanda the aspiring candidate sponsored by the Edgar Lungu-led PF was not among the five candidates who had successfully filed their nominations for the Kapamba Ward by-election.

The irate cadres took matters into their own hands and consequently blocked the road with culverts while they stoned vehicles carrying ECZ officials.

However, the situation was contained by alert police officers who firmly responded by firing tear gas to overcome the unruly cadres clad in PF regalia.

Meanwhile, the ECZ received nine nomination papers from eight political parties and one independent candidate ahead of the Kapamba Ward by-elections.

The eight political parties that filed in their nominations included, the United Party for National Development (UPND), Socialist Party (SP), Patriotic Front (PF), Zambia Republican Party (ZRP), Citizens First (CF), National Congress Party (NCP), United Prosperous and Peaceful Zambia (UPPZ) and an Independent candidate.

Later, the Commission rejected nominations for three candidates from PF, CF and ZRP for failing to meet the set requirements for the nominations, the decision that triggered a near-protest among the Edgar Lungu PF camp.

It has also emerged that Miles Sampa-led Patriotic Front camp aspiring candidate Arnold Chibesa failed to file in his nomination because he could not reach the nomination centre following the fiasco at the venue by the other PF camp.

Officially, five political parties will contest Kapamba Ward seat, who are John Chali for ruling UPND, Patrick Sichula for the National Congress Party ( NCP) , Ephraim Mulenga for the Socialist Party ( SP) and Clayton Mulenga for the UPPZ.

Bemba Royal Establishment Disapproves Unlawful Use of Chitimukulu’s Image in Political Messaging

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The Bemba Royal Establishment (BRE) has strongly condemned the unauthorized use of the image of Paramount Chief Chitimukulu in a political message, expressing dismay at what it considers a disrespectful and malicious act.

In response to an article from the Kola Foundation, published online, the BRE expressed its concern over the appropriation of the image of Mwine-lubemba, Chitimukulu Kanyanta-Manga the second, in a political context. The foundation had called for a meeting of all descendants of Kola to discuss strategies for protecting their purportedly threatened existence in Zambia.

The BRE clarified that neither the author of the article nor the Kola Foundation had the authority to use the image of Mwine-lubemba in their message. The establishment highlighted that the message, issued by Mr. Patrick Bwalya Mukuka, an agent of the Kola Foundation, included a photograph of Mwine-lubemba Chitimukulu Kanyanta-Manga the second, creating a false impression that the Chitimukulu endorsed the message, which was not the case.

In a statement released to ZANIS in Kasama today, Ukusefya Pa Ng’wena Secretary, Richard Mukuka, stated that such actions are not only in bad taste but also a deliberate attack on the nobility and honor of the Bemba Royal Establishment.

The BRE affirmed the constitutional right of the Bemba-speaking people to engage in political activism and identify themselves as Bemba, but strongly emphasized the need to refrain from involving traditional leaders in political calls.

“The constitution of Zambia (see 2016, Part 12, Articles 165–172), which we ourselves have fashioned, does not allow us to recruit our kings and queens in our political activism,” the statement read.

The establishment urged Bemba individuals and all Zambians to exercise prudence, good judgment, and care when exercising their constitutional rights, emphasizing the importance of respecting the cultural and traditional significance of the royal establishment.

As the custodians of Bemba culture and tradition, the BRE emphasized its commitment to upholding the dignity and respect associated with the Bemba monarchy, urging all citizens to contribute to maintaining the cultural integrity of Zambia.

IMF Disburses US$187 Million To Zambia

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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board has completed its second review of Zambia’s Extended Credit Facility (ECF), resulting in the disbursement of approximately US$187 million. This move follows the approval of the first review in July 2023, which allowed for the disbursement of approximately US$188 million. The total disbursements to date now stand at US$561 million, out of the cumulative sum of US$1.3 billion envisaged under the 38-month ECF program with the IMF, approved on August 31, 2022.

The ECF funds come with highly concessional terms, featuring zero percent interest and an extended grace period. The ECF is anchored in the Zambian Government’s homegrown economic reforms designed to restore macroeconomic stability, achieve fiscal and debt sustainability, and foster higher, resilient, and more inclusive growth. The program is set to run until October 2025, with regular six-month performance reviews. The next review is scheduled for April 2025.

Reflecting on this pivotal development, Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane welcomed the decision of the IMF Executive Board, noting the country’s economic resilience amid considerable challenges. He expressed gratitude to all stakeholders involved in ensuring the economic transformation journey remains on course, acknowledging positive growth, strong fiscal performance, and continued engagement with creditors on debt restructuring.

Dr. Musokotwane reiterated the government’s commitment to meeting ECF program objectives, calling on citizens and the international community for continued support. Acknowledging the necessity of stringent reform measures, he emphasized their crucial role in creating jobs, fostering private sector growth, and improving livelihoods across all regions.

The successful IMF Executive Board review holds significant importance for Zambia for several reasons:

Endorsement of Economic Reforms: The government’s commitment to economic transformation reforms receives a strong endorsement.

Investor Confidence: The review enhances and sustains investor confidence, positioning Zambia as a preferred destination for foreign direct investment in key sectors.

Resource Unlocking: The approval unlocks resources from other development partners, including the World Bank, African Development Bank, and various multilateral and bilateral partners.

Debt Restructuring: The review strengthens the path to the debt restructuring exercise, aligning with broader policy goals.

The government’s envisaged policy thrust includes fiscal consolidation, improved public financial management, increased social spending, financial stability preservation, and intensified structural and governance reforms to unlock Zambia’s growth potential.

In a virtual press briefing, IMF Chief for Zambia, Vera Martin Mercedes, commended the Zambian government for sustained policies and commitment to macroeconomic and fiscal stability. She acknowledged the government’s significant efforts to address economic challenges and noted that part of the disbursement would go towards budget support and implementation. The third review is expected around June 2024.

President Hakainde Hichilema Announces Major Shake-Up: Dismissal of Lieutenant General Collin Barry as Zambia Air Force Commander

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In a swift and decisive move, President Hakainde Hichilema has made significant changes at the Zambia Air Force. The President, in accordance with Article 270 of the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia, has terminated the appointment of Lieutenant General Collin Barry as Zambia Air Force Commander.

The President expressed gratitude for Lieutenant General Barry’s service to the Government of the Republic of Zambia and extended best wishes for his future endeavors.

Taking charge immediately is Major General Oscar Nyoni, who has been appointed as the new Zambia Air Force Commander. President Hichilema, exercising the powers vested in him by Section 165 (1) of the Defence Act, Chapter 106 of the Laws of Zambia and Article 91 (1) of the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia, has also promoted Major General Nyoni to the substantive rank of Lieutenant General.

Swearing in of Major General Oscar Nyoni as ZAF Commander

Concurrently, Brigadier General Arthur Kalaluka has been appointed as Zambia Air Force Deputy Commander, with a corresponding promotion to the substantive rank of Major General. These appointments and promotions are in accordance with the provisions of Article 91 (1) and Article 92 (2) (c) of the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia.

President Hichilema, during the swearing-in ceremony at State House, emphasized the importance of teamwork and efficient service delivery within the Zambia Air Force.

Addressing Lieutenant General Nyoni and Major General Kalaluka, President Hichilema stated, “Leadership is a pyramid, management is a pyramid, there should be no confusion at all, what citizens expect is teamwork. But more importantly is service to the people of Zambia, they are our bosses.”

Lt Gen Nyoni is a seasoned pilot on a wide range of transport aircraft including the MA-60, BE1900 D and the Y-12. He has held several appointments in his 35 years of military service, notable ones being Vice Chief of Operations, Air Officer Commanding Air Transport Support Command (ATSC) now Tactical Air Mobility Command (TAMCOM), Chief of Operations, Director International Sports Council and United Nations Liaison (CISIM) and his immediate past appointment Deputy Zambia Air Force Commander and Chief of Air Staff (COAIRS).
He has a Master’s of Science Degree in Defence and Strategic Studies from Madras University of India among other military and academic qualifications.

Major Gen Kalaluka is a seasoned fighter pilot and Qualified Flying Instructor who has held several appointments among them Director Foreign Training, Vice Chief of Training, Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Air Defence Command and Chief of Operations.

Swearing in Ceremony of the new Zambia Air Force Commander, Major General Oscar Nyoni, and the Deputy Air Force Commander, Major General Arthur Kalaluka.

World Bank Injects $3.5 Million to Enhance Blood Safety in Zambia

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In a significant move to fortify blood safety measures in Zambia, the World Bank has allocated $3.5 million to the Zambia National Blood Transfusion Services (ZNBTS). Ackim Fock, the World Bank Country Manager, made the announcement, emphasizing the strategic allocation of funds to support the rehabilitation of provincial blood centers, establishment of blood hubs, and provision of resources for blood mobilization, collection, and distribution.

Speaking on behalf of Dr. Ackim Fock, the Senior Operations Officer, John Makumba, highlighted that the allocated funds will be distributed over the next 18 months to assist ZNBTS in its mission to ensure the safety of the blood supply in Zambia.

The funding will be specifically directed towards the rehabilitation of 10 provincial blood centers, the creation of 20 fully equipped blood hubs with refrigerators, and the provision of vehicles dedicated to mobilizing, collecting, and distributing blood throughout the country.

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo presided over the handover ceremony of six utility motor vehicles, marking a significant step toward advancing the universal health coverage agenda and ensuring timely access to safe blood for all patients in need.

During her address, Minister Masebo outlined key points related to the government’s commitment and objectives. These include the confidence that the vehicles will be utilized as intended, benefiting citizens, particularly children and mothers. Ongoing efforts to refine policies related to blood transfusion, improve infrastructure and equipment, and save more lives were also emphasized.

The minister expressed dedication to implementing policies aimed at enhancing the mobilization, utilization, and accountability of health financial resources. Recognizing the need to invest in critical blood transfusion equipment, safety commodities, consumables, and outreach vehicles, Minister Masebo underscored that blood services should not incur any charges to patients.

The crucial role played by blood donors was acknowledged, and the minister encouraged them to continue sharing positive experiences and promoting a culture of blood donation. Gratitude was expressed for the World Bank’s support under the Zambia COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health Systems Preparedness Project.

The six donated motor vehicles were handed over to the Western, Southern, North Western, Eastern, Central, and Muchinga Provincial Blood Centers. The remaining four provinces are expected to receive four more similar vehicles in the coming months, solidifying the government’s commitment to enhancing blood safety and healthcare infrastructure across Zambia.

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo officiates at the handover ceremony of the 6 utility motor vehicles for the Zambia National Blood Transfusion Services
The 6 utility motor vehicles for the Zambia National Blood Transfusion Services
The 6 utility motor vehicles for the Zambia National Blood Transfusion Services