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US Senate Staffer Terminated After Explicit Video Surfaces in Capitol Hearing Room Scandal

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US Senate Staffer Terminated After Explicit Video Surfaces in Capitol Hearing Room Scandal

A Senate staffer has lost their job following the circulation of an explicit video purportedly showing two men engaging in sexual activity within a Senate hearing room. The controversial video, initially shared in a private group chat for gay men in politics, was later leaked and published by the Daily Caller, leading to the termination of the staffer’s employment.

The individual in question, who reportedly worked for Democratic Senator Ben Cardin’s office, was not immediately identified by the Daily Caller, which broke the story on Friday night. However, the staffer was later identified through photos shared on X (formerly Twitter).

The explicit video allegedly depicts the Senate staffer involved in intimate activities in Room 216 of the Hart Senate Office Building. The room holds historical significance as the backdrop for various pivotal events, including Supreme Court nominations, the 9/11 Commission hearings, and former FBI Director James Comey’s testimony against then-President Donald Trump in 2017.

Senator Ben Cardin expressed his disappointment and anger over the incident, describing it as a “breach of trust.” Cardin confirmed that the implicated staff member, Aidan Maese-Czeropski, was “no longer employed by the U.S. Senate.” In a statement posted on LinkedIn, Maese-Czeropski acknowledged the difficulties he faced, emphasizing that he had been attacked for his personal life to serve a political agenda.

“This has been a difficult time for me, as I have been attacked for who I love to pursue a political agenda. While some of my actions in the past have shown poor judgement, I love my job and would never disrespect my workplace. I will be exploring what legal options are available to me in these matters,” Maese-Czeropski wrote.

The video’s circulation prompted a police investigation, with authorities “looking into” the matter. No charges have been filed thus far. The US Capitol Police are actively involved in examining the incident that unfolded in the Senate hearing room.

Senator Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, confirmed that the implicated aide had been terminated. Senator Cardin, expressing his anger and disappointment, emphasized that appropriate steps were taken upon learning about the incident over the weekend. The scandal has sparked discussions about security protocols within Senate facilities, with questions arising about how an aide gained access to a Senate hearing room for such activities.

Zambian Sensation Rachel Kundananji Makes History as First African to Clinch GOAL50 Women’s Footballer of the Year Award

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Zambian Sensation Rachel Kundananji Makes History as First African to Clinch GOAL50 Women’s Footballer of the Year Award

In a groundbreaking achievement for African football, Rachel Kundananji, the dynamic forward for the Zambia women’s team, has been crowned the winner of this year’s prestigious GOAL50 award in the women’s category. Kundananji’s outstanding performance outshone formidable contenders including Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala, Colombia’s Linda Caicedo, Malawi’s Tabitha Chawinga, and England’s Lauren James.

The GOAL50 award, an annual accolade presented by GOAL, recognizes the 50 best footballers globally based on their exceptional performances over the preceding 12 months. Kundananji’s historic win marks a momentous occasion as the first-ever African to receive this esteemed recognition.

The Zambian forward exhibited an extraordinary 2022-2023 season, where she made a significant impact with Madrid CF, netting an impressive 25 goals in 29 appearances. Her prolific goal-scoring prowess played a pivotal role in Madrid CF’s success during the season.

Adding to her stellar achievements, Kundananji contributed to Zambia’s national team, affectionately known as the Shipolopolos, securing qualification for the Women’s World Cup for the first time in history. Her remarkable journey culminated with her scoring the team’s inaugural goal in the prestigious tournament.

The GOAL50 award reflects not only Kundananji’s individual brilliance but also her instrumental role in elevating the status of African women’s football on the global stage. As the first African to clinch this honor, Kundananji’s triumph is a source of inspiration for aspiring female footballers across the continent.

GOAL, the renowned football platform, praised Kundananji’s exceptional achievements on its website, highlighting her exceptional contributions to both club and country during the award period.

Rachel Kundananji’s historic win is a testament to the growing prominence of African women in football, breaking barriers and setting new standards on the international stage. The football community eagerly anticipates witnessing Kundananji’s continued success and the positive impact her groundbreaking achievement will have on the future of women’s football in Africa.

Zambian Tycoon Dr. Rajan Mahtani Claims Honest Intentions in Lawsuit Against Bob Diamond’s Atlas Mara

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Zambian Tycoon Dr. Rajan Mahtani Claims Honest Intentions in Lawsuit Against Bob Diamond’s Atlas Mara

Dr. Rajan Mahtani, the Zambian tycoon, and founder of Finance Bank Zambia (FBZ), has been portrayed as an honest individual who acted in good faith at all times during the High Court proceedings against Atlas Mara, a company linked to disgraced banker Bob Diamond.

Dr. Mahtani, 75, initiated legal action against Atlas Mara, alleging breaches of the acquisition agreement that led to the takeover of FBZ. The tycoon, along with co-claimants including former business partner Joan Craven, seeks up to $100 million (£80m) in damages.

George Spalton, KC, representing Dr. Mahtani, delivered the closing speech, emphasizing his client’s integrity. The court heard that Dr. Mahtani agreed to the acquisition by Atlas Mara to secure the future of FBZ, as his daughters showed no interest in running the bank, which had become one of Zambia’s most successful over three decades.

The crux of the legal dispute revolves around Atlas Mara’s alleged breach of the acquisition agreement. Mr. Spalton argued that Atlas Mara harbored ill-will towards Dr. Mahtani from the beginning, influencing their approach to negotiations and subsequent attempts by Dr. Mahtani to repurchase FBZ.

Referring to internal emails presented in court, Mr. Spalton claimed that Atlas Mara displayed a disregard for Dr. Mahtani’s ability to raise funds, impacting their treatment of the contractual obligations. He argued that Atlas Mara did not take Dr. Mahtani seriously, leading to a flawed approach to the sale.

The defense questioned Dr. Mahtani’s credibility, citing events during the sale process, including an alleged ‘ambush’ of an Atlas Mara executive with a Bank of Zambia report on FBZ’s financial health. Mr. Spalton countered, stating that Dr. Mahtani’s actions were transparent and reflective of his honesty.

Regarding a sale and purchase agreement (SPA) sent to Atlas Mara for the repurchase of FBZ, the defense questioned its receipt and timing. Mr. Spalton argued that Dr. Mahtani’s proactive disclosure of the SPA demonstrated his commitment to clarity, refuting claims of dishonesty.

In response to the defense’s suggestion that Atlas Mara would forego a potential $55 million profit to oust Dr. Mahtani, Mr. Spalton contended that Atlas Mara doubted Dr. Mahtani’s ability to raise funds and sought his removal from the business.

The proceedings concluded with Mr. Spalton asserting that ample evidence existed to support Atlas Mara’s desire to remove Dr. Mahtani, and their skepticism about his fundraising capabilities.

Justice Butcher questioned the motivation behind Atlas Mara’s alleged aversion to Dr. Mahtani, considering the substantial profit they stood to gain if the earn-out target was met. Mr. Spalton argued that Atlas Mara’s doubt in Dr. Mahtani’s fundraising ability and their desire to eliminate him from the business drove their actions.

Source: Nick Forbes,
Central News, Press Room, Central Criminal Court, LONDON

What is the Root cause of illicit behaviour among adolecents

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What is the Root cause of illicit behaviour among adolecents

Teddy Mofia, the Acting Kafue District Health Director, has underscored the imperative need to identify the root cause of illicit behaviors among adolescents in the district. Speaking at the opening of the Fourth Quarter Adolescent Technical Working Group Committee meeting in Kafue, Mofia emphasized that understanding the underlying causes is essential to crafting effective interventions.

“Before we come up with solutions for the challenges that the adolescents are facing, it is important we establish the root cause,” stated Mr. Mofia. He highlighted that this understanding would pave the way for targeted strategies aimed at reducing illicit behaviors among the youth in Kafue District.

One of the pressing concerns raised by Mr. Mofia is the high prevalence of HIV and AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) among the youth in the district. He called for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders to address the challenges faced by young people.

Charity Bwalya, the Kafue District Adolescent Coordinator, echoed Mr. Mofia’s sentiments, expressing concern that despite interventions implemented in 2023, issues such as teenage pregnancies, drug and alcohol abuse, and other vices persist among adolescents in the district.

“Despite the many interventions we have implemented together with other stakeholders, we are still recording teenage pregnancies, and drug and alcohol abuse. Where are we going wrong as a committee?” questioned Ms. Bwalya.

Mike Mufungulwa, representing Future Life Now, emphasized the importance of involving young people in the planning stages of interventions. He argued that incorporating their perspectives would enable the development of interventions that align with the needs and preferences of the youth.

Youth representative Mathews Mushiba called attention to the necessity of deliberate programs supporting the boy child, emphasizing that they have been neglected in initiatives aimed at improving their welfare.

Jumo Banda, a Youth Activist, brought attention to the lack of educational infrastructure in rural parts of the Kafue district. He specifically mentioned areas such as Chifwema, Chisakila, and Muchota, where few schools exist, leading to long commutes for young people to access education. This, he argued, has resulted in many dropping out of school and engaging in illicit behaviors.

In light of these concerns, the stakeholders called for a comprehensive approach that includes root cause analysis, active involvement of young people in planning interventions, and targeted programs to support both genders. The urgent need for increased educational infrastructure in rural areas was also highlighted as a crucial step towards curbing illicit behaviors among adolescents in Kafue District.

SPEAK POSITIVE ABOUT CHIPOLOPOLO – KAMANGA

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SPEAK POSITIVE ABOUT CHIPOLOPOLO – KAMANGA

FAZ President Andrew Kamanga is appealing to soccer fans to speak positively about Chipolopolo’s aspirations ahead of next month’s Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

Zambia will camp in Saudi Arabia to prepare for the AFCON where they will face Morocco, DR Congo and Tanzania in the group stage.

Writing in his weekly column, Kamanga said with good preparations Zambia can have a fruitful tournament in West Africa.

“We have every reason to believe that with good preparations we can have a fruitful tournament,” Kamanga wrote.

“We also appeal to the fans to speak positively into the team’s aspirations and urge them to make our nation proud. We have consolidated our engagements with the government over the preparations for the AFCON and hope that all the logistics will be on point,” he stated.

The FAZ Chief confirmed that Zambia will play friendly matches before the Africa Cup.

Zambia is returning to the AFCON for the first time since 2015.

Zambia Rugby Mourns Ex-Player Kangwa

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Zambia Rugby Mourns Ex-Player Kangwa

Zambia Rugby Union (ZRU) President Chileshe Bweupe has paid tribute to former rugby player Chiluba Kangwa who was put to rest at Chingola Central Cemetery on Monday.

Kangwa, 44, died on 15th December 2023 at Nchanga General Hospital after an illness.

Bweupe on Monday morning led scores of mourners in paying their last respect to Kangwa.

He described the late Kangwa as a man who was loved by many for his wonderful talent.

Kangwa played for Diggers and Red Arrows at his peak between 2009 and 2018.

“The time I was the chairperson at Diggers Rugby Club, Chiluba played with the Diggers and that’s the time we won the league and brought pride and joy to Chingola. Thereafter the late went to play at Red Arrows and he came back to Chingola, therefore he will always be remembered for his good talent,” Bweupe told mourners.

Nchanga Board of Trustees Tom Chisheta described the late Chiluba as a humble man who was dedicated to his work.

Chingola Deputy Mayor Richard Kabwe attended the burial.

Chiluba has left behind a wife and two children.

Former Presidential Aid , Amos Chanda’s case rescheduled

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Former Presidential Aid , Amos Chanda’s case rescheduled

Lusaka Magistrate, Mwandu Sakala has rescheduled date for judgment to February 15,2024 in a matter where former Presidential Aid Amos Chanda is facing three counts of using insulting language and obstruction.

In this case, Mr. Chanda is jointly charged with his wife Mable Chanda and sister-in-law Ruth Nakaundi.

When the matter came up today for judgement, only Mr. Chanda was present while his wife and his sister in-law were absent making the Public prosecutor to suggest that the matter to be mentioned and set judgment to a later date when all the accused persons are present before court.

Details of the matter are that in count one, it is alleged that on October 27, 2021, Mr. Chanda in Lusaka used vulgar language on officers from Anti-Corruption Commission ( ACC) , Friday Tembo, William Chilufya and Christopher Siwakwi in due execution of their duty in order to provoke and cause them to break the peace or commit an offence.

In the second count, it is alleged that Mrs, Chanda and Ms. Nakaundi on the same day, repeatedly used vulgar language on ACC officers namely; Mbonyiwe Ndalameta, Lomtuzi Bili, Neeta Kufekisa, Swithen Lusaka, Christopher Siwakwi, Friday Tembo, William Chilufya and Clement Chanda, in the due execution of their duty.

In Third count, on the same date, the trio allegedly obstructed and delayed ACC Senior investigations officer Friday Tembo and others in lawful exercise of their duty to search house number 67 Elm road of Woodlands Lusaka, in a deception way stating that they keys to the bedrooms were with another person who had travelled out of town when in fact not.

In this case the trio are facing charges which are contrary to Section 179 of Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia and Section 63 clause C of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012.

Zambia Witnesses Surge in Plant Product Exports

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Zambia Witnesses Surge in Plant Product Exports

Zambia has experienced a notable upswing in the export of various plant and plant-based products to key trading partners, including China and the United Kingdom. Dr. Kenneth Msiska, the Director of Plant Quarantine and Phyto-sanitary Services, attributes this growth to the implementation of Enhanced Phyto-sanitary systems in the country.

Dr. Msiska highlighted that the surge in plant product exports, encompassing commodities like soya beans and avocados, can be traced back to the effectiveness of the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) in Zambia. This organization has played a pivotal role in reducing and preventing the introduction of plant pests and diseases, fostering a conducive environment for increased trade in plants and plant-derived products.

In an interview with NAIS, Dr. Msiska emphasized that the NPPO has not only bolstered Zambia’s institutional and operational phyto-sanitary capabilities but has also fortified the regulatory framework for phyto-sanitary measures. This has resulted in an improved standing for Zambia in terms of phyto-sanitary compliance with its trading partners.

Furthermore, Rhoda Mofya, the National Coordinator for Nutrition and Food Security at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), disclosed that FAO, in collaboration with the European Union, has commenced the implementation of the “Strengthening Food Control and Phyto-sanitary Capacities and Governance” program. Dr. Mofya explained that this initiative aims to enhance food safety, plant health, and overall trade facilitation among member states of the African Union.

Highlighting the positive impact of the NPPO implementation, Moffat Zulu, Export Manager at Khal Amaz, revealed that it has effectively addressed challenges previously encountered by exporters. This positive outcome underscores the significance of robust phyto-sanitary systems in promoting trade, ensuring product quality, and safeguarding against potential threats to plant health. As Zambia continues to prioritize and enhance its phyto-sanitary measures, the nation is poised to further consolidate its position as a reliable and compliant trading partner in the global market.

Lusaka Province Minister Sheal Mulyata Issues Warning: “It’s Not Business as Usual in 2024”

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Lusaka Province Minister Sheal Mulyata Issues Warning: “It’s Not Business as Usual in 2024”

Lusaka Province Minister Sheal Mulyata has sounded a clarion call to heads of departments and stakeholders, cautioning them that 2024 will not be business as usual and urging them to build on the successes of the preceding year, 2023. In a speech delivered on her behalf by Lusaka Province Permanent Secretary Robert Kamalata during the official opening of the 4th quarter Provincial Development and Coordinating Committee (PDCC) meeting, Ms. Mulyata emphasized the need for alignment between efforts and the citizens’ needs.

Ms. Mulyata stressed the importance of collaborative efforts at the community level, indicating that her office would closely collaborate with stakeholders to ensure that developmental initiatives are attuned to the requirements of the people. She expressed confidence that all departments within the province would continue making significant strides and implementing programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for the residents.

During the meeting, Ms. Mulyata informed the committee that the strategic plan for Lusaka Province covering the period 2022-2026 had reached an advanced stage. The final report is scheduled for launch in 2024, outlining the province’s roadmap for the coming years.

Key policy issues such as free education, water supply, sanitation, improved healthcare, and social protection will be at the forefront of the province’s developmental agenda, according to Ms. Mulyata. She emphasized that the commitment to implementing these policies and fostering development in the country remains steadfast.

Expressing gratitude to the team for their dedication to the developmental agenda in the province, Ms. Mulyata called on technocrats for their unwavering support in the collective effort to propel the country forward. She underscored the importance of collaboration and urged all stakeholders to join hands in the pursuit of national development.

As Lusaka Province prepares to navigate the challenges and opportunities of 2024, the call from Minister Sheal Mulyata signals a proactive and strategic approach to address the evolving needs of the citizens and foster sustainable development in the region.

Zambia records improved rainfall from 13th December

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Zambia records improved rainfall from 13th December

The Zambia Meteorological Department says most parts of the country recorded normal to below average rainfall in most parts of the country from 1st to 10th December 2023.

In its latest Agro meteorological weather bulletin analysis issued today, the meteorological department has further revealed that the dry spells were induced by El Niño.

“Normal to below average rainfall recorded in most parts of Zambia. Zambia experienced dry spell during the period 1st to 10th December, 2023,” reads part of the Bulletin.It added that the poor rainfall recorded in most parts of the country resulted in insufficient soil moisture.

However the weather bulletin further indicated that the country recorded improved widespread rainfall across the country from the 13th of December 2023.

Meanwhile farmers have been counselled to avoid spraying of chemicals due to heavy rains forecasted. On planting , the department has advised farmers to plant early maturing varieties and drought tolerant crops.

The department has further advised farmers to ensure that they observe correct spacing when planting drought tolerant crops in order to achieve the desired plant population.
“Ensure early maturing varieties and drought tolerant crop varieties are planted at the correct spacing to achieve the correct plant population.

For farmers whose crops have germinated have been counseled to ensure they do the weeding before applying basal fertiliser.

“For areas where planting was done, farmers are advised to ensure weeding the fields before applying basal fertiliser if it was not applied at planting.”
The farmers have been advised to use basal fertiliser at planting to enhance the establishment of the crops.
In a related development, the farming community has been encouraged to adopt conservation farming and crop diversification in the wake of climate change.

“Crop diversification and Conservation farming techniques are encouraged, ” reads the Bulletin.
For flood prone areas they have been advised to prepare good drainage systems and water pathways to prevent crop damage.

Among the crops the farmers have advised to consider planting as part of crop diversification are soya beans , sweet potatoes and cassava respectively.

“Planting of Soya beans, sweet potatoes and cassava is recommended within this period as a form of crop diversification and alternative income.”

On pest infestation and crop diseases, farmers have been urged to report to the nearest Agricultural Office in the affected area.

“Farmers advised to be alert of pest and disease outbreaks and report unusual strange insects or disease on crops to the nearest Agricultural Office in your area.”

Pope Francis Approves Landmark Ruling Allowing Priests to Bless Same-Sex Couples

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Pope Francis Approves Landmark Ruling Allowing Priests to Bless Same-Sex Couples

In a historic shift, Pope Francis has formally granted approval for Roman Catholic priests to administer blessings to same-sex couples, marking a significant departure from the church’s previous stance. The decision, detailed in a Vatican document approved by the Pope, allows blessings under certain conditions, excluding them from regular Church rituals, liturgies, or civil union ceremonies.

The ruling, an extension of the Pope’s openness declared last October, represents a departure from the 2021 Vatican doctrine office’s stance that explicitly prohibited such blessings, asserting that God “cannot bless sin.” The recent shift is attributed to Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, an ally of Pope Francis, who assumed leadership of the doctrine department in July 2023.

The document specifies that when individuals seek blessings, an exhaustive moral analysis should not be a precondition, emphasizing the grace of God working in the lives of those who humbly acknowledge themselves as sinners. While the new ruling opens “the possibility of blessings for couples in irregular situations and for same-sex couples,” the decision-making process is entrusted to the “prudent and fatherly discernment of ordained ministers.”

Jesuit priest James Martin, a prominent supporter of LGBTQ+ rights within the Catholic Church, hailed the ruling as a “huge step forward.” He noted that the declaration allows non-liturgical blessings for same-sex couples, a practice previously off-limits for clergy.

The Pope’s efforts to alter the church’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues began in 2013 when he stated, “Who am I to judge?” regarding gay clergy. Since then, Pope Francis has advocated for civil recognition of same-sex couples, distinct from marriage, and sought to soften the Vatican’s language concerning LGBTQ+ individuals.

The ruling clarifies that offering blessings to same-sex and unmarried couples does not validate their status or alter the Church’s teachings on marriage. While the Catholic Church maintains that sex should occur only within marriage, the document asserts that the meaning of a blessing extends beyond a narrow viewpoint. It emphasizes that the Pope envisions a Church that does not solely “deny, reject, and exclude” but embraces a broader understanding of blessings.

Despite Pope Francis’ efforts to shift the church’s approach, opposition persists from a vocal minority within the institution. The ruling is expected to face resistance from these quarters. The Vatican’s decision underscores the Pope’s commitment to fostering inclusivity while navigating the complexities of tradition and evolving societal perspectives.

Zambia Receives €23 Million in Direct Budget Support from France, Strengthening Bilateral Ties

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Zambia Receives €23 Million in Direct Budget Support from France, Strengthening Bilateral Ties

In a significant development for Zambia’s economic growth, the Republic of Zambia has received direct budget support worth 23 million Euros from the French government. The financial injection aims to support various sectors of the Zambian economy, highlighting the deepened partnership between the two nations.

The financial support was officially confirmed during a signing ceremony at State House, where the French Minister of State for Development, Francophonie, and International Partnerships, Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, paid a courtesy call on President Hakainde Hichilema.

President Hichilema expressed gratitude for the bilateral and financial support from France, emphasizing its crucial role in Zambia’s economic growth. He underscored that the strengthened partnership is a testament to the confidence France has in Zambia’s new government.

During the ceremony, President Hichilema and the French Secretary of State signed Declarations of Intent in various areas, emphasizing people-to-people relations and cultural ties. The President conveyed his commitment to fostering more investment partnerships with French investors, seeking capital, joint ventures, technology, and value addition to spur economic growth and job creation.

President Hichilema highlighted the importance of the European Union gateway project of the Lobito Corridor, acknowledging its contribution to connectivity given Zambia’s strategic geographical location. He also appealed to France for assistance in resolving Zambia’s debt impasse with official creditors, a crucial step for unlocking economic opportunities.

President Hichilema said Zambia is ready to carry out more investment partnerships with the French investors, he noted, as the country was looking for capital, joint ventures, technology and value addition that would grow the economy and create jobs.

“President Emmanuel Macron and I have agreed to deepen the relationship between our two countries and these joint declarations of intent and the investment partnerships are results of our interactions,” President Hichilema said.

The Head of State further requested France to help Zambia to finalise its debt impasse with the official creditors, noting that it will open doors for economic opportunities.

In June 2023, Zambia reached a deal with its official creditors, including China, to restructure $6.3 billion in debt. However, this deal did not include Zambia’s private bondholders. In October 2023, Zambia reached a deal with its private bondholders to restructure $3 billion in debt.

Ms. Zacharopoulou reaffirmed France’s dedication to providing strong and sustainable financial support for Zambia’s economic growth. She disclosed a substantial 16 million Euros budget support from 2023 to 2024, with an additional four million Euros allocated to the school feeding program. Other allocations include four million Euros for water and sanitation support and a 1.5 million Euros grant for sustainable forestry management.

Acting Minister of Finance and National Planning Felix Mutati emphasized the significance of the ceremony, marking the entrance of direct budget support from France. He commended President Hichilema’s vision for prudent economic management, transparency, and accountability in public finance.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Stanley Kakubo highlighted that the commitment from France is a result of high-level engagements between the Presidents of Zambia and France. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) encompasses two financial agreements and two joint declarations of intent covering water and sanitation, sustainable environmental management, critical metals and minerals support, and public finance management, respectively. This comprehensive collaboration aims to foster a mutually beneficial and enduring partnership between Zambia and France.

Minister Chikote Expresses Displeasure over Veterinary Officers’ Poor Response to Vaccination in Shang’ombo

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Minister Chikote Expresses Displeasure over Veterinary Officers’ Poor Response to Vaccination in Shang’ombo

The Minister of Fisheries and Livestock, Makoza Chikote, has strongly criticized veterinary officers in Western Province for their inadequate response to vaccination campaigns, particularly in Shang’ombo district.

Expressing his dissatisfaction, Minister Chikote highlighted his concern that, despite the ongoing vaccination campaigns, the veterinary department has not administered any vaccines against Contagious Bovine Pleural Pneumonia (CBPP) to cattle in Shang’ombo district.

The government’s overarching goal is to vaccinate all cattle in Western Province against CBPP, making the lack of progress in Shang’ombo particularly alarming to the Minister. Shang’ombo, being highly dependent on the livestock industry, is a focal point for vaccination efforts.

Minister Chikote has directed the provincial administration to take immediate action to ensure that the veterinary department initiates and accelerates the vaccination process against CBPP in Shang’ombo.

During his visit to Shang’ombo district, Minister Chikote conveyed his concerns while paying a courtesy call on the District Commissioner. The District Commissioner, Mubita Siyamana, echoed the concerns, lamenting the absence of vaccination campaigns in the district.

Siyamana emphasized that, while the veterinary department has been active in collecting blood samples, there has been a notable lack of progress in terms of administering vaccinations against CBPP. The collective call from Minister Chikote and Commissioner Siyamana underscores the urgency of addressing the situation to safeguard the health and well-being of the region’s cattle population.

Bootlicking in Zambian Politics and its impact Governance efficiency and accountability

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Bootlicking in Zambian Politics and its impact Governance efficiency and accountability

By Misheck Kakonde

In the hallowed halls of power in Zambia, where promises during the 2021 general elections
echoed dreams of progress resonate, a government once hailed as the herald of change now
stands tarnished, its ideals obscured by a veil of deceit and manipulation. A regime that once
vowed to work on the economy and champion the voices of the people has turned a deaf ear to
dissent, quelling opposition like a vengeful storm silencing the gentle whispers of truth. Those who dare to speak against the narrative are branded as enemies of progress, their voices muffled by the weight of censorship and fear. In the president’s word “those currently involved in corruption,or misusing limited power you have, you are own your own when you no longer have power”.

With a magicians sleight of hand, this government dances the art of deflection, expertly juggling
blame to shield itself from accountability. Every misstep, every stumble on the path to prosperity,is deftly attributed to the sins of the past, a convenient excuse to cloak their own incompetence in the tattered shroud of history. Meanwhile, as the fingers of accusation point downwards, the corrupt elite bask in impunity, shielded by a web of political connections that render justice a mere illusion. While lower-level officers and artists are paraded as sacrificial lambs in the facade of combating corruption, the true beneficiaries of power revel in opulence, their coffers overflowing while the cronies languish in the shadows of poverty.

The stage is set, the actors play their parts with practiced precision. The script of accountability is rewritten daily, a tragicomedy where the true villains remain obscured behind a curtain of political expediency. The citizens, once hopeful and expectant, now watch in dismay as the promises of a better tomorrow crumble like sandcastles against the tide of corruption.
Citizens deserve a government that upholds transparency, accountability, and fairness as its
pillars. A government's duty is not merely to cling to power but to serve the people with integrity,honesty, and a genuine commitment to progress. Any regime that stifles dissent, scapegoats its predecessors, and shields the powerful from justice undermines the very essence of democracy.

True leadership is not found in deflecting blame or silencing opposition; it is found in courageously facing challenges, embracing accountability, and ensuring that the rule of law applies equally to all, regardless of their connections or status. A governments commitment to eradicating corruption cannot be a mere theatrical performance but a genuine, unrelenting pursuit of justice.

Erosion of Democratic Values in Zambian Politics
Many supporters of the current regime in Zambia tend to overlook evident misdeeds, displaying a
lack of critical thinking that fosters complacency, hinders reforms, and encourages deflecting
responsibility due to educational deficiencies and pressing economic concerns, prioritizing survival over informed political decision-making essential for a robust system.

The author Misheck Kakonde is a legal scholar, comparative politics specialist, History and
Cultural Studies, expertise in international relations, negotiation, and protocol (ZIDIS). Author ofthe book “peering into Zambian Cultures, Ceremonies" and contributor in the book “Young
Zambia between poverty and abundant resources”. Email: [email protected]

AGL Ports and Terminals Signs Concession Contract for Multipurpose Terminal and Containers at Port of Lobito

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AGL Ports and Terminals Signs Concession Contract for Multipurpose Terminal and Containers at Port of Lobito

A significant step toward transforming the Port of Lobito into a modern and competitive port platform was achieved on December 12, 2023, as Olivier De Noray, Managing Director of AGL Ports and Terminals, and Celso Rosas, Chairman of Lobito Port, signed the concession contract for the multipurpose terminal, including containers.

This pivotal signing ceremony, witnessed by Joao Fenandes, Chairman of the Commission, Pedro Maza, Legal Manager of the Angolan Ministry of Transport, and Lidia Amaro, Vice Governor of Benguela Province, followed an international call for tenders. AGL Ports and Terminals emerged as the successful bidder, earning the concession rights to manage the Port of Lobito terminals.

In an ambitious partnership, AGL commits to investing nearly €100 million to upgrade the Port of Lobito, enhancing its efficiency and competitiveness. The aim is to meet the expectations of both national and international customers, fostering the growth and diversification of the Angolan economy.

Olivier De Noray expressed confidence in the transformative impact of AGL’s industrial project on the Lobito port platform. “With the support of the world’s leading shipowner, MSC, AGL’s industrial project will improve the connectivity of the Lobito port platform, boost trade in the region, and support industrialization efforts,” he stated.

The Port of Lobito, as the second-largest port in Angola, is strategically positioned to benefit 35 million Angolans and neighboring populations. With a 14-meter deep quay and direct sea access, the port can accommodate large-capacity vessels. AGL will manage the multipurpose terminal, including the container activity, which boasts a 1,200-meter quay, a storage area with a capacity of 12,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), and state-of-the-art handling equipment.

This transformative infrastructure aims to play a crucial role in the global energy transition, serving as the first Atlantic gateway to the Copperbelt region. It will contribute to the transportation of strategic minerals, such as copper and cobalt, to international markets. The Port of Lobito will capitalize on ongoing rail line rehabilitation and construction projects connecting the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Zambia, and Angola.

Upon the commencement of the new concession in the first quarter of 2024, AGL will take over the staff of the Empresa Portuária do Lobito EP port authority. AGL has committed to an extensive plan for skills development among employees and local subcontractors, ensuring that the Port of Lobito aligns with international standards in providing services.

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