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Government pleased with civil service performance in 2023

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Government pleased with civil service performance in 2023

Lusaka Province Permanent Secretary, Robert Kamalata, expressed satisfaction with the performance of the public service in the region throughout the year 2023. Speaking at an end-of-year closure meeting with heads of departments in Chongwe district, Mr. Kamalata highlighted several positive strides made by the public service, including achieving a zero audit query status and securing the second-best position in high levels of integrity.

Mr. Kamalata commended the civil servants for their dedication and emphasized that these achievements should serve as motivation to work even harder in the upcoming year. He also announced that the 2024 budgetary allocation for the province has been fully funded by the government, ensuring adequate resources for future initiatives.

While praising the overall performance, Mr. Kamalata expressed concern about the negative work attitudes of some heads of departments. He noted instances of officers reporting late for work and leaving as early as 15:00 hours, emphasizing the need for a more committed and professional approach to work.

“Some of you have a laissez-faire attitude towards work. You want to come for work and knock off at any time you feel like. Some of you have even given each other days in the week to come for work, which is not good at all,” Mr. Kamalata stated.

He urged heads of departments to take their responsibilities seriously and pledged that unprofessionalism would not be tolerated within the civil service in the province. Mr. Kamalata also cautioned civil servants against using political influence to seek promotions and transfers, describing such actions as acts of indiscipline.

Additionally, the Permanent Secretary emphasized the importance of following the right channels of communication when addressing grievances and encouraged civil servants to take care of themselves during the festive season.

Responding on behalf of the heads of departments in the district, Chongwe District Administrative Officer, Kelvin Ndandanda, thanked Mr. Kamalata for his attention to the achievements and concerns of all departments. Mr. Ndandanda acknowledged that challenges in human resources and transportation persist but expressed confidence in Mr. Kamalata’s commitment to addressing these issues adequately.

“Issues of human resource and transport are very critical in the district, but we trust that you will adequately address them,” said Mr. Ndandanda.

President Hichilema Affirms Zambia’s Resilience and Unity in Christmas Message

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President Hichilema Affirms Zambia’s Resilience and Unity in Christmas Message

In a televised Christmas Eve address, President Hakainde Hichilema assured the nation that Zambia will overcome its current economic challenges and emerge stronger. Acknowledging the difficulties faced by citizens, the President expressed gratitude for their resilience during what he referred to as “these difficult times.”

President Hichilema conveyed a message of hope and reassurance, emphasizing that the government is dedicated to addressing economic concerns through the ongoing debt restructuring program. He affirmed the commitment to securing a more stable economic outlook for future generations, highlighting the importance of sustained efforts in navigating the challenges ahead.

“As a nation, we will emerge stronger and victorious from the current economic challenges. I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the citizens for their unwavering resilience in these difficult times,” President Hichilema stated in his Christmas message broadcasted live on ZNBC TV.

The President took the opportunity to call for unity, reconciliation, and forgiveness among the citizens. He stressed that these values are fundamental to building a cohesive and prosperous nation, especially during challenging times.

During the festive season, President Hichilema urged Zambians to embody the spirit of Christmas by sharing the gift of love. He specifically emphasized the importance of remembering the vulnerable members of society, including the weak, the elderly, and the sick. Encouraging acts of kindness and compassion, he highlighted the power of collective efforts in creating a more inclusive and caring society.

In a somber note, President Hichilema asked the nation to remember and pray for those who lost their lives in the Senseli Mining accident. The tragedy served as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety measures and maintaining stringent regulations in the mining sector.

President Hichilema concluded his Christmas message by extending warm wishes to all Zambians. He wished the nation a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, expressing optimism for a brighter future ahead.

Bakala: How Nkana Beat Zanaco

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Nkana coach Ian Bakala says sticking to the game plan was crucial when his side stunned Zanaco 1-0 away in Lusaka on Saturday.

Royd Katuta scored the first half goal as Nkana picked up their fourth win of the FAZ Super Division season.

The win pushed the Wusakile club one place up to number 16 on 16 points from 17 matches played.

Bakala said his players followed the game plan and showed the desire to win earlier in training

“Today we came for a win despite coming from a loss. I think today the players followed instructions,” he said.

“It all started in training, I think we were heartbroken after losing the last game to Kabwe Warriors at home,” Bakala said.

Bakala is positive Nkana will catch up in the second half of the season as they push for survival.

FAZ SUPER LEAGUE WEEK 17

Sunday, 24 December 2023

Kansanshi Dynamos 0-0 Forest Rangers

Kabwe Warriors 0-0 FC MUZA

Saturday, 23 December 2023

Green Buffaloes 2-0 Trident

ZANACO 0-1 Nkana

Power Dynamos 1-1 NAPSA Stars

ZESCO United 1-1 Mufulira Wanderers

Green Eagles 0-1 Nkwazi

Konkola Blades 1-1 Prison Leopards

Siavonga residents tipped to avoid cholera in tourist town

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Siavonga residents tipped to avoid cholera in tourist town

Siavonga District Commissioner Geofrey Jakopo has urged residents in the district to prioritise primary health care guideline to prevent any cholera disease outbreak in the District.

Mr. Jakopo says residents need to abide by primary health care guidelines such as keeping their domestic and business surroundings clean other than regular handwashing with soap and water among others.

Mr Jakopo said this when he toured Harbour Market yesterday, to  share knowledge about the cholera outbreak that has broken out in some parts of the country.

He said as Siavonga is a tourist destination that receives a lot of people, tidiness must be a priority in the border town.

” Please I urge you to play your role and ensure that you exercise high level of hygiene by washing hands and keeping your good clean as you sell, Siavonga is a tourist destination so we need to protect the district and together we can prevent this cholera disease, ” he said.

Mr Jakopo added that the onset of rains often brings with it the risk of diarrhoea diseases, making it a must for residents to keep their surroundings clean and hygienic regularly as possible.

Harbour Monday Market chairperson Softy Hangoma has expressed happiness at the gesture the district administration office has embarked on in sensitising the community on the outbreak of the cholera disease.

Mr Hangoma has reiterated commitment to maintain a clean and safe business environment adding that sanitary facilities and proper waste management is among the essential practices marketeers will adhere to.

He said working together with the local authority a healthier and safer environment for everyone in the district will be created calling for the local authority to ensure that sewer leakages within the market area in some points must be attended to.

” we are grateful for this gesture it shows that government cares for its citizens and today
He said the local authority encourages all residents to participate actively in the upkeep of our community by reporting any sanitation issues or areas in need of attention to the local authority, ” he said.

The Siavonga pastors fellowship, Paul Chawinga says the activity undertaken by the district administration is commendable adding that the health of the community is vital.

Reverend Chawinga said Lusaka is a central business and most people flock back and forth adding that Siavonga residents interacts with Lusaka residents, urging for strict alertness from each individual.

60 year old burnt to death in Chongwe

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60 year old burnt to death in Chongwe

A 60 -year- old woman of Chiyalusha village in Nchute Ward of Chongwe District of Lusaka Province,  has been burnt to death after the house she was sleeping in unexpectedly caught fire.

Confirming the incidence in statement, Zambia Police service Spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga today identified the deceased who was burnt beyond recognition as Catherine Shanyinde.

Mr. Hamoonga stated that the incident occurred between 20th December around 22:00 hours and 21st December around 08:00 hours.

He said the inferno  is alleged  to have been caused by a brazier which was found in the bedroom.

Mr. Hamoonga further added that police have since  instituted investigations into the matter and the body of the deceased has been buried.

Government Lifts Ban on Animal Movement in Anthrax-Impacted Regions

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Government Lifts Ban on Animal Movement in Anthrax-Impacted Regions

The government has officially lifted the ban on the movement of live animals, animal products, by-products, and wildlife from districts in Southern and Western Provinces that were previously impacted by the anthrax outbreak. This decision marks a crucial step towards normalizing economic activities in affected regions.

The government has granted permission for the free movement of animals in and out of specific districts, namely Sinazongwe, Mongu, Nalolo, Sesheke, Senanga, and Sioma. This move is expected to bring relief to stakeholders in the beef industry and, in particular, small-scale farmers who bore the brunt of the ban’s economic impact.

Zambeef Products, a prominent player in the Zambian beef industry, has commended the government for its decision to lift the ban. Ezekiel Sekele, the Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Executive at Zambeef, expressed gratitude for the government’s swift action and its positive implications for the local beef sector.

Sekele highlighted that the lifting of the ban will empower stakeholders in the beef industry, allowing small-scale farmers to resume their business activities. In an interview with ZNBC NEWS, he emphasized that the measures put in place by the government are crucial for ensuring public safety and the well-being of consumers.

“We commend the government for taking steps to address the challenges faced by those in the beef industry. The move will not only revitalize economic activities but also provide much-needed support to small-scale farmers who were adversely affected by the ban,” said Sekele.

He further urged those involved in the meat industry to adhere to regulations and ensure that they possess inspection certificates. Sekele emphasized that only certified meat should be sold to the public, underscoring the importance of maintaining high standards to guarantee the safety of consumers.

As the ban is lifted, stakeholders in the affected regions are optimistic about the positive impact on their livelihoods and the overall recovery of the local beef industry.

Message For Today: Not by Your Strength

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Message For Today: Not by Your Strength

Today’s Scripture

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.”
Luke 1:38, NIV

Not by Your Strength

Friend, it would have been so easy for Mary to doubt the angel’s promise that she would give birth to Jesus without a man being involved. But consider Mary’s response: “I am the Lord’s child. I will accept whatever He wants. May everything you said come true.” Instead of focusing on how this was possible, she switched over to who she was. “I know who I am. I am the Lord’s child. I am favored. I am blessed. I am anointed.”

Why don’t you do as Mary did and leave the how up to God and just stay focused on who you are. “Lord, thank You that You’re my Father and You’re taking me where I can’t go on my own.” The dreams in your heart may seem impossible, but the how is not up to you. The power of the Most High is going to work it out. Take the pressure off yourself. Quit living worried and frustrated. It’s not going to be by your strength, but by the Spirit of the living God.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that Mary could believe Your promise because she knew she was Your servant and child. Thank You that no word from You has ever failed. I believe that I am Your child and servant as well, and Your words to me will be fulfilled. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Decision Pending on Sugilite Mining in Muombe Mine, Chembe District

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Decision Pending on Sugilite Mining in Muombe Mine, Chembe District

The government is on the verge of making a crucial decision regarding the potential mining of Sugilite at the Muombe mine in Chembe District, located in the Luapula Province. Luapula Province Minister Njavwa Simutowe revealed that the decision awaits the completion of final testing at the mine to determine the quantity of Sugilite available before mining activities can commence.

Speaking during an inspection visit with the Provincial Joint Operations Committee to oversee activities at the mine, Minister Simutowe provided insight into the current status of the testing process. He clarified that two separate tests have already been conducted, with a third and final examination underway. The government will base its decision on the findings of this comprehensive analysis.

“The government can only make a decision once a final report indicating the quantity of the mineral at Muombe is out,” Minister Simutowe emphasized.

Luapula Province Permanent Secretary Mighty Mumba echoed the sentiments of Minister Simutowe, urging residents to remain patient as the government awaits the conclusive report on the mine. Mr. Mumba assured the public that no illegal mining activities are taking place at Muombe. He highlighted that the testing is being conducted by geologists from the Ministry of Mines and Bayern, emphasizing the government’s commitment to a thorough and legal evaluation process.

“The government is committed to ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to determine the potential of the Muombe mine. We appreciate the cooperation of Chief Kalasa Lukangaba throughout this testing process,” Permanent Secretary Mumba stated.

ZNBTS Urges Collaboration to Dispel Myths and Promote Blood Donation

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ZNBTS Urges Collaboration to Dispel Myths and Promote Blood Donation

The Zambia National Blood Transfusion Services (ZNBTS) has called for increased collaboration with stakeholders and the government to dispel myths surrounding blood donation. Dia Kumwenda, the Donor Manager of ZNBTS, emphasized the crucial need for ongoing sensitization campaigns and education to address misconceptions that may discourage potential blood donors.

Ms. Kumwenda highlighted the significance of blood donation in saving lives, particularly in critical situations such as surgeries and chronic illnesses. During a courtesy call by a delegation from the Presidential Delivery Unit (PDU) on health in Solwezi, she stressed the importance of fostering a better understanding of the blood donation process among the public.

She urged the general public to recognize that blood donation is a voluntary act and emphasized that the blood bank relies entirely on individuals willing to contribute. “As a blood service, we remain committed to ensuring the public understands why blood donation is crucial. We call upon the media to assist us in dispelling myths and educating the masses that blood donation is not associated with ritual acts but is a lifeline in hospitals, saving countless lives,” Ms. Kumwenda stated.

The Donor Manager expressed gratitude to the government for providing vehicles to support community sensitization programs, enhancing ZNBTS’s efforts to encourage blood donation across the country.

In a positive example, Kashimba Kandumba, a student nurse at Solwezi Nursing School, shared her motivation for donating blood. “I decided to come here to donate blood because I have seen a lot of patients in hospitals suffering from various health conditions and need blood transfusions. This is my first time donating blood, and I believe that from now on, I will become a regular blood donor,” Kandumba said.

Encouraging her peers to join the cause, Ms. Kandumba urged them to dismiss myths surrounding blood transfusions and embrace the opportunity to contribute to saving lives. The efforts of individuals like Ms. Kandumba underscore the importance of continuous education and community engagement in fostering a culture of voluntary blood donation. As ZNBTS advocates for increased awareness, collaboration with stakeholders becomes pivotal in achieving their mission to ensure a steady and sufficient blood supply for those in need.

TD Jakes Denies Recent Sex-Based Allegations

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TD Jakes Denies Recent Sex-Based Allegations

Bishop T.D. Jakes, the renowned televangelist and leader of The Potter’s House megachurch in Dallas, Texas, finds himself at the center of controversy as unverified allegations circulate on social media. The accusations claim that Jakes has been a frequent participant in sex parties hosted by music mogul Sean Combs, commonly known as Diddy.

These sensational claims, however, have been vehemently denied by a representative for Bishop T.D. Jakes. Jordan A. Hora, the executive director of public relations and communications for the T.D. Jakes Group, T.D. Jakes Ministries, and The Potter’s House, released an exclusive statement to The Christian Post, categorically dismissing the allegations as “unequivocally false and baseless.”

Quoting the late Pastor Charles H. Spurgeon, Hora emphasized the challenge of combating falsehoods in the age of social media. “If you want the truth to go round the world you must hire an express train to pull it; but if you want a lie to go round the world, it will fly; it is as light as a feather, and a breath will carry it,” he added.

The representative went on to clarify that the accusations against Bishop T.D. Jakes are rooted in false and sensationalized misrepresentations, including the use of deepfake photos. As these claims gained traction on social media platforms, a YouTube channel named Tuff News TV alleged that singer Cassie had turned over a burner phone belonging to the late model Kim Porter. Supposedly, this phone contained recordings of Diddy’s alleged “sex parties” attended by Jakes. However, the source of these allegations remains unverified, and Tuff News TV has yet to respond to requests for comment from The Christian Post.

Despite the unverified nature of the accusations, the controversy has prompted a response from Jakes’ team, underlining their commitment to creating positive change globally through compassion, service, and ministry. The team also highlighted Jakes’ longstanding reputation as a prominent figure in the Christian community, recognized for his books and philanthropic work.

Derrick Williams, executive vice president of TD Jakes Entertainment, provided additional context, explaining that Bishop Jakes, in his role as CEO of T.D. Jakes Entertainment, had attended an event celebrating Diddy’s birthday. Williams clarified that Jakes’ appearance was a brief and respectful acknowledgment, and any suggestion of impropriety is “wholly unsubstantiated, unverified, and false.”

Williams emphasized that Bishop Jakes will continue to break down barriers and find meaningful ways to share faith-based and value-based stories, reaffirming this as their guiding principle.

As these unverified allegations continue to circulate, Christians are reminded to approach such claims with caution and seek the truth. The Bible teaches the importance of compassion and care for others, urging believers to exercise discernment and withhold judgment until verified information is available. Spreading unverified information, especially of such a sensitive nature, can be harmful, and the pursuit of truth remains paramount in addressing any allegations.

Two Suspected Wizards Face Court Charges for Graveyard Trespass

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Two Suspected Wizards Face Court Charges for Graveyard Trespass

Two individuals, Mary Katongo (56) and Dismas Mulobela (67), found themselves before the Luwingu Subordinate Court on a charge of trespassing into a graveyard, a violation of Zambia’s penal code. The accused allegedly performed rituals at the burial site, even claiming to have raised a person who had passed away 15 months ago.

The proceedings, presided over by Magistrate Maybin Kapaya, unfolded on December 22, where the duo faced accusations of criminal trespass under section 130 of the penal code chapter 87.

The bizarre incident came to light when three young boys, out hunting for wild rodents known locally as “bakateka,” stumbled upon Katongo and Mulobela engaged in mysterious activities at the graveyard. According to witness Maggie Musonda, the boys reported that the accused had exhumed Musonda’s late grandfather and purportedly resurrected him.

Musonda, after consulting with a local pastor and Chief Tungati, reported the matter to the authorities. Chief Tungati, in an effort to ward off potential demonic attacks on the young witnesses, reportedly ordered the accused to administer traditional medicine to the boys.

Agnes Chomba, another witness, corroborated the story, stating that her son had reported seeing Katongo and Mulobela conducting rituals at the graveyard. The witnesses testified before the court, describing the surreal scene where the accused allegedly raised the deceased man from the grave.

During cross-examination, Katongo and Mulobela failed to challenge the minors’ accounts effectively, leaving the court to adjourn the proceedings to December 26, 2023, for the commencement of the defense. The accused are currently on police bond.

The Luwingu community awaits further developments in this mystifying case, as the accused prepare to present their side of the story in the upcoming court session.

President Hichilema signs Access to Information bill into Law

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President Hichilema signs Access to Information bill into Law

President Hakainde Hichilema has signed the long awaited Access to Information Bill (ATI) into law to the excitement of the media personnel and other stakeholders in the country.

President Hichilema says the signing of ATI into law is a major milestone in the media sector and the country at large as it will promote access to information by the media and other players.

President Hichilema signed the  ATI Bill during the press conference in Lusaka today, making it historical considering the many years that have passed for the piece of legislation to be signed into law.

The historical signing of the ATI will also promote human rights and democracy in the country as people will freely approach government agencies and other institutions to get vital information on any issue.

And Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana said the signing of the Bill will remove limitations that people face in search of vital information.

He observed that it has taken over two decades for the country to arrive at the stage where the President has signed the much awaited ATI Bill.

Sometime this year the Minister of Information and Media, Cornelius Mweetwa presented the ATI Bill to parliament for consideration and was passed by it before closing business.

Napsa gives K4 million cleaning contract to a foreign company

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Napsa gives K4 million cleaning contract to a foreign company

Zambia’s largest pension fund NAPSA has awarded a K4 million contract for cleaning services to a foreign owned firm that is under investigations by the Anti Corruption Commission for corruption, tax evasion and money laundering.

Tender documents seen confirm that the firm was recently awarded the lucrative contract to clean Napsa owned properties including Levy Mall, Napsa Headquarters including regional offices.

The award of the contract has infuriated the Cleaning Association of Zambia and have since called for its cancellation.

Association President Lawrence Makumbi stated that awarding such a huge contract to a foreign entity abrogates the law that stipulates that the cleaning sector is a preserve of local companies.

Mr Makumbi wondered why Napsa can proceed to do business with an entity which had had its accounts frozen by the ACC for corruption related offenses.

“We know that the ACC has found some very damaging issues at this company and its mind boggling that Napsa has ignored all those and awarded the contract,” he said.

Mr Makumbi believes that awarding such a huge contract to a locally indigenous owned company would have gone a long way in growing the cleaning sector.

“Imagine 4 million given to a local coming, even splitting the order so that more companies participate. That would help grow our industry,” he stated.

Mr Makumbi has since implored President Hakainde Hichilema to take a keen interest at the happenings in some parastatals.

“Our appeal is that the procurement team at Napsa be disbanded, some people there have overstated and they are acting not in the interest of the organisation and are facilitating corruption,” he said.

Mr. Makumbi insisted that local cleaning firms have the capacity to clean all major establishments in the country.

“Who is cleaning these places? It’s the same Zambian men and women. The foreign company owners just come here to get the contracts and they ask our people to clean the places. So Zambians can clean and clean very well.”

International Holdings Resources new owners of Mopani mine

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International Holdings Resources new owners of Mopani mine

 International Holdings Resources (IHR) is the new investor in Mopani Copper Mine and is expected to pump in US$1.1 billion dollars in the mining operation.

 President Hakainde Hichilema announced the completion of the Mopani Copper mine transaction during a press conference at Mulungushi International Conference centre in Lusaka.

The Head of State disclosed that the investment will be split between equity and debt.

President Hichilema explained that about US$400 million dollars will be provided as a shareholder loan to Mopani Copper Mine as part of the consideration to settle the original Glencore debt of US$1.5 billion dollars.

The president said that this is the first time that a transaction has been able to agree a new equity capital with a share factor of 51 percent stake in Mopani copper mines and 49 percent to the government through ZCCM-IH.

President Hichilema stated that there was need to amend the wrong transactions

, and pointed out that in the near future, transactions should not take longer because it costs money and time.

President Hichilema reiterated the government’s commitment to serving the interests of citizens to the best of the State’s ability, stressing the need for private sector skills to be engaged in future mining transaction negotiations.

And President Hichilema said that the government will continue driving the necessary changes in the mining sector in an effort to achieve the three million tonnes production target.

Mr Hichilema thanked the committee of ministers and other stakeholders for the successful conclusion of the Mopani transaction.

Nitrogen Chemicals to build US$ 6 million blended fertilizer plant

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Nitrogen Chemicals to build US$ 6 million blended fertilizer plant

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.

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