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Man 26, commits suicide after losing wife

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Man 26, commits suicide after losing wife

A 26-year-old man of Katupisha village in Kabompo district has committed suicide by hanging himself to a tree after losing his wife and unborn baby last month.

Kabompo District Commissioner, Hubert Chinyanga confirmed the incident which occurred yesterday, October 26, 2023 in Senior Chief Sikufele’s area.

Mr. Chinyanga told ZANIS in an interview today that the deceased’s father Kanongesha Malisawa, 56, reported the matter to Police and identified his son as John Malisawa aged 26.

He explained that the deceased failed to accept the death of his wife who died last month and attempted to commit suicide several times prompting the family to take him for church counseling and prayers.

Mr Chinyama said the deceased only managed to succeed in committing suicide yesterday after he was left alone at home by hanging himself using a tree fiber.

“When Police rushed to the scene they found the body still hanging by the neck to a branch tied with a tree fiber. And upon physical inspection no physical injuries were found to suggest foul play hence relatives have been advised to bury as Police opened an inquiry,” he said.

Mr Chinyama said it is unfortunate that the country has lost a young man who was still in the productive age group.

He has since appealed for more mental health facilities especially in the district saying this can help reduce suicide cases in the country.

“It is always sad to lose young lives, 26 is a very productive age for our country, my appeal is to also emphasize to the relevant authorities to introduce more mental health facilities and services so we can have reduced suicide cases as this is very worrisome,” he said.

Polio vaccination campaign kicks off in Kasama

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Polio vaccination campaign kicks off in Kasama

Northern Province Permanent Secretary, Bernard Mpundu has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protect children against various diseases, including Polio.

Mr. Mpundu said Polio is a devastating disease that has no cure, but can be prevented through vaccination.

He said this is why the government, through the Ministry of Health, has been conducting vaccination campaigns as a measure to protect children from the disease.

 Mr Mpundu said this in a speech read on his behalf by Assistant Secretary, Jordan Mwenya at the launch of the Polio Vaccination exercise in Kasama.

Mr Mpundu has commended the Department of Health in the province for being vigilant in the fight against Polio.

And Provincial Public Health Specialist, Paul Mayeya said the ministry is ready to conduct the vaccination campaign saying they have enough vaccines and health workers are already on the ground.

Dr. Mayeya has assured members of the public that the Polio vaccine is safe.

“Please welcome the health workers that are coming to your homes to vaccinate your children,” he said.

And a Chiba resident, Margaret Chansa,  has commended the Ministry of Health for embarking on the vaccination campaign which will help protect children from the disease.

Ms Chansa has since called on the Ministry of Health to continue sensitizing members of the public on the causes, effects and prevention of Polio.

The Polio round four vaccination campaign which runs from 26 to 29 October, 2023, is targeting children who are eight years of age and below.

Zambia, China hold talks to resume digital migration

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Zambia, China hold talks to resume digital migration

Government through the Ministry of Information and Media has started negotiations of a better deal to resume the halted digital migration phases two and three.

Minister of Information and Media, Cornelius Mweetwa who is in China, held talks with StarTimes Chairperson, Xinxing Pang on the possibilities of resuming the project to complete the remaining 10 percent.

Mr Mweetwa says the government wants a win-win situation on the project considering that works that include construction of eight  provincial television studios, transmission sites as well as building of the National Operation Centre was already at 90 percent.

He, however, said one of the reasons that led to the suspension of the project was escalation of prices stating that a better deal will suffice.

Meanwhile, StarTimes Chairperson, Xinxing Pang said a more conducive arrangement will be offered to the Zambian government.

Mr Pang said the company will consider squatting the repayment of the outstanding balances of 590,000 United States dollars for phase one and the 12.5 million dollars for phase two and three.

He said the company is willing to complete the project within 13 months once all formalities are done.

The minister is accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, ZNBC as well as the Planning Department under his Ministry.

Cholera Outbreak in Lusaka: 26 Confirmed Cases and 2 Fatalities

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Cholera Outbreak in Lusaka: 26 Confirmed Cases and 2 Fatalities

A cholera outbreak has emerged in Lusaka, with health authorities confirming a total of 26 cases since the disease’s outbreak on October 15th. This outbreak has claimed the lives of two individuals within the same period.

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo made this revelation in a Ministerial Statement delivered in Parliament. The affected areas include Kanyama, Chawama, and Chipata Compounds, which have been particularly hard-hit by the outbreak.

In response to this public health crisis, Ms. Masebo reported that health officers have intensified surveillance and contact tracing efforts in the affected regions. These proactive measures are aimed at containing the spread of the disease and mitigating its impact on the community.

Additionally, Health Minister Masebo issued a plea to the public, emphasizing the importance of taking preventive measures to reduce the risk of cholera transmission. She urged individuals to boil their drinking water and adhere to stringent hygiene practices. These measures are vital in safeguarding the public’s health and preventing further cases of the disease.

The government is working diligently in collaboration with healthcare professionals to manage the outbreak and provide necessary medical assistance to those affected. Cholera is a highly contagious waterborne disease that can spread rapidly, making the prompt response of health authorities crucial in safeguarding public health.

President Hichilema Pays Respects to Late Finance Minister Ng’andu Magande

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President Hichilema Pays Respects to Late Finance Minister Ng’andu Magande

President Hakainde Hichilema has extended his heartfelt condolences to the family and the nation as a whole following the passing of former Minister of Finance and National Planning, Ng’andu Magande. The President described the late Mr. Magande as a dignified, hardworking man who had left an indelible mark on Zambia.

President Hichilema lauded Mr. Magande for not only his strong work ethic but also his unwavering honesty in serving the country. He emphasized that Mr. Magande had conducted himself in a highly professional manner while carrying out his duties, setting an example that young people should strive to emulate.

The Head of State expressed his deep sense of loss and highlighted that Mr. Magande’s departure was not only a profound tragedy for his family but also for the entire nation. The late Mr. Magande’s contributions to the country, particularly in the field of finance and planning, were described as invaluable.

During his visit to the funeral house in Lusaka’s Chilanga area, President Hichilema took a moment to reflect on the late Mr. Magande’s remarkable career. He thanked God for the opportunity to serve the nation, beginning from parastatal organizations to central government.

President Hichilema underscored the importance of cherishing individuals who demonstrate a strong work ethic and uphold integrity in their public and private endeavors. He encouraged young people to draw inspiration from Mr. Magande’s exemplary life as they navigate their own paths.

At the funeral house, President Hichilema was welcomed with traditional dances and songs, reflecting the respect and reverence for the departed former Finance Minister.

Ng’andu Magande’s final resting place will be at Leopards Hill Memorial Park in Lusaka, where he will be laid to rest on October 27, 2023.

Several prominent figures, including Vice President Mutale Nalumango and Dr. Nevers Mumba, expressed their heartfelt condolences and deep respect for the late Mr. Magande. His passing has deeply touched the nation, with many acknowledging his significant contributions to Zambia and his exemplary public service.

Dr.Nevers Mumba signs the book of condolence in honour of the late former Finance Minister Ngandu Magande.
Vice President Mutale Nalumango at the funeral house of the late Former Finance Minister of Ngandu Magande
Socialist Party President Fred Mmembe visits the funeral house of the late Former Finance Minister Ngandu Magande

Sean Tembo’s Language: A Growing Concern in Zambia’s Political Discourse”

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Sean Tembo’s Language: A Growing Concern in Zambia’s Political Discourse”

Of swelling scrotums & masturbation!

By Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Day by day, Sean Tembo, leader of a nondescript political establishment is fast proving himself to the public as a raw, uncouth and uncultured politician. Why do we say so?

Whenever he try to engage in political discourse or dialogue of any kind, be it splashing his thoughts or going live on Social media, he chooses to use the most corrosive, condescending, insulting and vile language! Surely, is this the way we should be conducting our politics in this era of Social media when our children are ever fidgeting with handsets in pursuit of knowledge or anything entertaining?

Tembo probably thinks he’s endearing himself to the public by electing to unleash expletives on Facebook once in a while. To the contrary, he’s being a bad example to the youth of this country and probably his own children as they are likely to take it as normal to use insulting language.

We will cite a few examples: Commenting on the affordable mealie meal that ZNS is offloading through some chain stores to cushion the impact of the exploitative price of our staple food; he wrote on his Facebook page, “Bally selling few bags of ZNS mealie meal using Shoprite to create a perception of low prices is equal to masturbation.” Say what! Language experts would be quick to explain to you this does not only constitute hate speech, but is equally insulting to the head of state since he’s the subject in this sentence.

In another video which has gone viral on Facebook whereby he’s complaining about the torture occasioned on him by the police at a location in Makeni, he claims that the cops had to use pliers to squeeze his scrotum, hence making it swollen. It’s a pity if such a thing happened to our brother; but surely, couldn’t he have found palatable or politically correct language to use such as ‘private parts’ as opposed to perforating the ear drums of little children with his strong language?

What Tembo is doing isn’t the best way to showcase himself to the general public as a fearless man that doesn’t fear anyone! Not even Julius Malema, the South African outspoken opposition leader uses such kind of coarse and graphic language as he engages with his perceived opponents. We know everyone is desperate to go to Plot 1 Independence Avenue but let us try to civil at all times!

Man Hit By Train as He Listened to Music Using Headphones

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Man Hit By Train as He Listened to Music Using Headphones

A devastating incident unfolded in Kabanana compound, Lusaka, as a 35-year-old man was tragically struck by a goods train. Gilbert Kapenda, a Community School Teacher at Chimwansa Community School in Kabanana, sustained severe injuries and, regrettably, was pronounced dead upon arrival at the University Teaching Hospital.

According to Deputy Police Public Relations Officer Danny Mwale, the incident occurred at approximately 11:00 hours in Kabanana Compound on the previous day. Swift responses from officers of the Zambia Police and Zambia Railways Police confirmed the incident.

Police investigations into the incident indicate that Mr. Kapenda was walking alongside the railway line while wearing headsets, engrossed in music streaming from his cellphone. The proximity of the headphones seemingly left him unable to hear the train’s warning signals.

At the scene of the accident, authorities discovered Mr. Kapenda’s headsets and cellphone, providing somber evidence of the circumstances that led to this tragic event. His life was abruptly cut short as a result of the collision.

The deceased’s body currently rests in the University Teaching Hospital’s mortuary, awaiting a postmortem examination.

A Bitter Taste of One’s Own Medicine: PF Faces Consequences

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A Bitter Taste of One’s Own Medicine: PF Faces Consequences

The Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD) has expressed its concern over the prevailing state of confusion within the former ruling Patriotic Front (PF) party. While not celebrating the PF’s predicament, the MMD has pointed out that the former ruling party is now experiencing a taste of its own medicine.

In a statement released by Dr.Nevers Mumba , the MMD has highlighted what it sees as hypocrisy and arrogance among those who previously orchestrated injustices against others. The MMD emphasizes that it is surprising to witness the very people who once remained silent in the face of these injustices now becoming the most vocal in their pleas for support and sympathy.

Recalling events from a few years ago, the MMD reminisces that it was the Patriotic Front itself that launched a protracted, immoral, and well-funded assault on the MMD. During this period, not a single word of objection was raised by those who are currently advocating for the MMD to come to their defense.

MMD President Nevers Mumba
MMD President Nevers Mumba

The MMD’s perspective on the situation is aptly summarized by the biblical verse Ecclesiastes 1:9, which states, “That which has been is what will be, that which is done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun.” This appears to suggest that the cycle of political events may repeat, and the consequences faced by one party today were once endured by another.

The MMD’s statement highlights the complex and often cyclical nature of political dynamics in Zambia, where parties and individuals may find themselves experiencing the very challenges they once imposed on others. This current situation within the Patriotic Front serves as a poignant reminder that the political landscape is ever-evolving, and circumstances can change rapidly.

Complaints of Poor Working Conditions among Drivers Raise Concerns

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Complaints of Poor Working Conditions among Drivers Raise Concerns

The government has been registering an increasing number of complaints regarding the subpar working conditions faced by drivers throughout the country. The Minister of Labour and Social Security, Brenda Tambatamba, emphasized the importance of fostering healthy relationships between workers and employers within the transport sector.

Minister Tambatamba stressed the pivotal role the transport industry plays in the modern economy and noted that workers are the driving force behind the nation’s prosperity. Her remarks were made during the inaugural stakeholder consultative meeting held in Lusaka, referred to as the “Transport Sector Indaba.”

The Minister acknowledged the ongoing grievances from drivers concerning inadequate working conditions but also highlighted employers’ concerns regarding the high costs associated with conducting business in the sector. The Transport Sector Indaba aims to address these pressing issues and find solutions that benefit both drivers and employers.

Zechariah Luhanga, the acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, encouraged all stakeholders to familiarize themselves with the various initiatives provided by the Ministry. These initiatives include a toll-free helpline and readily available reports accessible on the ministry’s website.

The Zambia Federation of Employers President, Mara Sakala, revealed that the Indaba emerged as a result of a labor inspection conducted to assess compliance within the transportation sector concerning workers’ rights, in accordance with Zambia’s labor laws. This inspection sought to ensure that employees in the sector receive fair treatment and protection.

Joseph Chewe, the President of the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions, expressed satisfaction with the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges outlined in the stakeholder report. He emphasized that stability within the sector is crucial for fostering growth and development.

As discussions continue at the Transport Sector Indaba, the hope is that solutions will be found to enhance working conditions for drivers while ensuring the sustainability and growth of the transport industry.

Former President Edgar Lungu announces his return to active politics

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Former President Edgar Lungu announces his return to active politics

In a powerful and impassioned speech delivered during the 9th Memorial Anniversary of Zambia’s late President Michael Chilufya Sata, Former President Edgar C. Lungu, announced his return to active politics as the leader of the Patriotic Front (PF). The event, held at the Cathedral of Child Jesus in Lusaka, provided a platform for the former President to reflect on the legacy of President Sata, share his commitment to upholding democracy, and extend an invitation to opposition parties to join forces.

The speech began with tributes to President Sata, remembered as a freedom fighter, pragmatic and fearless leader, democrat, and mentor. Dr. Lungu emphasized the remarkable quality of President Sata’s leadership that enabled him to embrace former adversaries and work collaboratively. He invoked President Sata’s rare ability to forgive and work with those who had insulted, ridiculed, or abused him.

Former President Edgar Lungu and his supporters

Dr. Lungu then turned to the challenges within the PF party. He acknowledged that recent events had raised concerns, with some members and leaders involved in actions that threatened the party’s unity and democracy. Dr. Lungu unequivocally declared that he would not allow the PF, the party President Sata entrusted to him, to perish under his watch. He expressed his determination to safeguard the PF and called for the end of factionalism within the party.

The former President highlighted the broader context of preserving democracy in Zambia. He accused those in power of attempting to undermine democracy for their selfish political interests. To counter this, he declared his readiness to return to active politics as PF President to protect the party and defend democracy.

Dr. Lungu extended an invitation to all opposition parties to unite with the PF in this effort. He emphasized that his actions were not driven by personal ambition but by the collective goal of preserving democracy and the rule of law. Dr. Lungu was prepared to support any opposition leader chosen by the Zambian people to champion their aspirations and counteract the current trend of authoritarianism.

UPND distances itself from PF Controversial Conference; Sets the Record Straight

Lusaka Times Editor
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UPND distances itself from PF Controversial Conference; Sets the Record Straight

The United Party for National Development (UPND) has come forward to vehemently disavow any claims of involvement in the controversial conference held by the Patriotic Front (PF) at Mulungushi Conference Centre. This statement was made by Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa, a Member of Parliament, Chief Government Spokesperson an Minister for the Ministry of Information and Media.

The conference in question has been a topic of intense debate and speculation, particularly due to allegations of UPND’s supposed involvement and sponsorship of Miles Sampa, a significant player in Zambian politics.

Mr. Emmanuel Mwamba, a key figure in the political scene, aired his views on the situation through a video on his Facebook page immediately after Miles Sampa was declared President of the Patriotic Front following a contentious and allegedly illegal general conference. The implications of this conference and the supposed UPND involvement have sent shockwaves through the nation.

Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa, speaking on behalf of the UPND and the government, made a statement to put the record straight. In his words, “We would like to clarify and put on record, that as UPND, we were not involved in the conference or conversion that was held by the Patriotic Front at Mulungushi Conference Centre.”

He went on to stress the importance of making it abundantly clear to all citizens that neither State House nor the leadership of Hakainde Hichilema, the President of the Republic of Zambia, had any involvement in the PF’s controversial conversion. Mweetwa asserted, “That conversion arises out of their own intra-party agreement and arrangement based on their rules and regulations and constitution. It has nothing to do with State House or UPND; it’s simply their intra-party arrangement.”

The UPND’s spokesperson sought to distance his party from the ongoing wrangles engulfing the Patriotic Front. “Now we are at a stage that they held a conversion in which we, UPND, were not participants in any way whatsoever.”

This statement from Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa clarifies the UPND’s position in the midst of a brewing political storm. It serves as a resounding assertion of their non-involvement in the controversial Patriotic Front conference, and it underscores the importance of separating party dynamics from the nation’s leadership.

As the nation watches with bated breath, the dynamics of Zambian politics continue to evolve, and the fallout from the PF’s controversial conference is sure to have far-reaching consequences for the country’s political future.

Struggling Nkana To Reinforce Team

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Struggling Nkana To Reinforce Team

kana Football Club management say it is to reinforce the team following a slow start to the FAZ Super Division season.

Winless Kalampa are bottom of the table with just three points in eight matches.

Nkana Chief Executive Officer Kelvin Mutafu has branded his team’s start to the season as shaky.

Mutafu has assured supporters that Nkana will bounce back to winning ways soon.

“I need not to remind you that our start of the league has been shaky, but the Executive Committee and technical bench are up to speed to ensure that the necessary steps needed to reinforce the team are taken,” he said.

“We wish to earnestly thank you the supporters and sympathizers for your support during this very difficult period, especially coupled with challenges of playing away from our Home Ground. Nevertheless, be assured that we will bounce back soon, and get back into the winning Gear,” Mutafu said.

He confirmed that Nkana was returning to Nkana Stadium in Kitwe on November 12, 2023.

“Another reminder is that unfortunately once we get back Pa Chilata (Nkana Stadium), we will kick-start our home journey without you, our. 12th player (fans). This will definitely take a toll on our finances as we will have no game revenue to fulfill fixtures. We know this period will be tough but with your support we shall conquer,” Mutafu said in a written statement.

PF writes to Speaker – “Matero Constituency seat stands vacant.

Lusaka Times Editor
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PF writes to Speaker – “Matero Constituency seat stands vacant.

In an electrifying twist that has left Zambia’s political landscape in a state of unprecedented upheaval, the Patriotic Front (PF) has officially expelled its prominent member, Miles Sampa. This shocking development has triggered a domino effect, setting off a chain reaction of political chaos and intrigue that is capturing the nation’s attention.

As previously reported by Lusakatimes, the recent dramatic turn of events is a testament to the volatile nature of Zambian politics. The saga began with a legal showdown that saw the PF’s Secretary General, Raphael Nakachinda, obtaining a high-stakes injunction against Miles Sampa. This legal maneuver not only prevents Sampa from impersonating the PF President but also effectively suspends him from participating in any activities on behalf of the party. The most intriguing aspect of this legal maneuver is its impact on the party’s official signatories, effectively freezing any attempts to modify them at the Registrar of Societies. The issued ex-parte order makes its intention clear: Miles Sampa is now legally restrained from identifying as a member of the Patriotic Front Party, functioning as a party official, or assuming leadership within the party.

In the wake of this startling legal twist, the PF executed a bold move by submitting an official notice to the Speaker of the National Assembly. In a bold declaration, they asserted that the Matero Constituency seat stands vacant due to Miles Sampa’s expulsion. What makes this declaration all the more intriguing is its immediate transmission to the Electoral Commission of Zambia. The letter, dated October 25, 2023, addressed to the Speaker of the National Assembly, reads, “Take notice that Miles Sampa is no longer a Member of the Patriotic Front Party and no longer represents the interests of the party on whose ticket he stood. In that vein, Matero Constituency stands vacant and should be declared as such. Attached herewith is a copy of an injunction enjoining Mr. Sampa from holding himself out as a member of the Patriotic Front Party.”

This explosive political showdown has left the nation in suspense, as observers and citizens alike eagerly await the next chapters in this unfolding drama. The uncertainties surrounding the PF’s future and the far-reaching implications for Matero Constituency are generating profound concern and debate. As the political turmoil in Zambia takes center stage, the nation watches with rapt attention, eager to witness how this unprecedented political saga will continue to evolve. This extraordinary turn of events has set the political world abuzz and promises to be a defining moment in Zambia’s political history.

Sampa The Great Receives President’s Insignia of Recognition for Elevating Zambian Music Globally

Entertainment Editor
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Sampa The Great Receives President’s Insignia of Recognition for Elevating Zambian Music Globally
Sampa the great
H.E President Hakainde Hichilema honoring Sampa The Great

In a momentous event that sends ripples of pride throughout the Zambian music industry, Sampa Tembo , know musically as Sampa The Great, an artist whose talents have transcended borders and made her a global sensation, was honored with the President’s Insignia of Recognition, Order of Distinguished Service 2nd Division during this year 59th Independence celebration. This prestigious recognition is a testament to her exceptional contributions to the world of music and her unwavering commitment to showcasing the beauty of Zambian culture on the global stage.

Sampa The Great, born Sampa Tembo, is a name that resonates with music enthusiasts across the globe. Hailing from Zambia, she embarked on a remarkable musical journey that has seen her ascend to the highest echelons of the international music scene. Her artistry, characterized by a unique blend of genres and a profound lyricism, has earned her acclaim and admiration from fans and critics alike.

What sets Sampa The Great apart is not only her captivating music but also her dedication to representing her Zambian heritage. With authenticity at the core of her work, she has demonstrated that art has the power to bridge cultures and connect people from diverse backgrounds. Her music serves as a conduit through which the rich tapestry of Zambian culture is woven into the global soundscape.

This recognition is not just a momentous occasion for Sampa The Great; it’s a celebration of the thriving Zambian music industry and the artists who are elevating it on the world stage. The Zambian music scene is teeming with talent, and this award underscores the potential for global recognition that lies within the nation’s borders.

Sampa The Great’s journey is a source of inspiration for aspiring Zambian musicians who now have a shining example of what can be achieved with talent, dedication, and a global vision. Her success reminds us that our roots, no matter how humble, can be the foundation upon which we build something extraordinary.

In addition to Sampa The Great, 15 other outstanding individuals were also awarded for their invaluable service to Zambia. These recipients, in their own unique ways, have contributed to the growth and progress of the nation. Their dedication and achievements serve as a source of inspiration for us all.

As Sampa The Great continues to fly the Zambian flag high on the global stage, she stands as a symbol of the limitless potential of Zambian talent. Her music not only resonates with her compatriots but also transcends borders, uniting people through the universal language of music.

Sampa The Great’s recognition is a proud moment for Zambia and an acknowledgment of the nation’s vibrant and diverse culture. As we celebrate her accomplishments, we also look forward to the new horizons her music will explore and the heights she will undoubtedly reach in the future.

In honoring Sampa The Great, we celebrate the beauty and richness of Zambian music and culture, and we look ahead with optimism, knowing that our artists will continue to shine brightly on the world stage.

As we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Sampa The Great, we are filled with pride and excitement for the bright future of Zambian music, culture, and the artists who will carry the torch forward. The President’s Insignia of Recognition is a milestone, but it’s also a stepping stone to even greater accomplishments on the global stage. The Zambian flag is held high, not only by Sampa The Great but by all those who recognize the power and potential of our nation’s artistic talent.

Stream Sampa The Great’s music HERE

Tanzania Gives Zambia 20 Hectares of Land at Mtwara Port as Independence Day Gift

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Tanzania Gives Zambia 20 Hectares of Land at Mtwara Port as Independence Day Gift

In a gesture of friendship and cooperation, Tanzanian President Samia Hassan announced a generous gift to Zambia during the celebration of Zambia’s 59th Independence Day. President Hassan, who is on a three-day state visit to Zambia, revealed that Tanzania would allocate 20 hectares of land at the Port of Mtwara to Zambia. This land grant is intended for the storage of goods and trade facilitation, aiming to strengthen economic ties between the two neighboring nations.

The Tanzanian Head of State made this significant announcement while gracing Zambia’s Independence Day anniversary at State House in Lusaka, emphasizing that this allocation of land at the modernizing Mtwara Dry Port would greatly enhance the business relationship between Zambia and Tanzania. President Hassan also extended the offer of longer storage duration for Zambia, a move intended to alleviate the congestion caused by the substantial volumes of consignments passing through the region.

In her address, President Hassan challenged Zambian businesses to seize this opportunity and expand their operations, thereby fostering trade not only with Tanzania but also with other nations in the region.

Hassan underscored the alignment of Zambia’s independence theme, “Accelerating National Development through equitable distribution of resources,” with Tanzania’s commitment to promoting economic transformation and development cooperation. She expressed her government’s dedication to working closely with Zambia to realize the shared vision of improving the well-being of both nations’ citizens.

The Tanzanian President reaffirmed her country’s commitment to collaborating with Zambia on development and infrastructure projects that would further connect the two nations. She also pledged to support the construction of a new natural gas pipeline to meet Zambia’s growing energy needs, which are essential for the Zambian economy’s continued growth.

President Hassan commended President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration for the significant economic progress achieved in recent times and the continued social integration and unity within Zambia. She urged Zambians to use Independence Day commemorations as an opportunity to remember the sacrifices of liberation heroes and work towards shaping the nation’s development trajectory.

In response, President Hichilema expressed gratitude to President Hassan for gracing Zambia’s 59th Independence Day celebrations. He emphasized Zambia’s eagerness to deepen its relationship with Tanzania, particularly in the development of joint infrastructure ventures that would benefit the citizens of both countries.

Hichilema stressed the importance of African countries, such as Zambia and Tanzania, expediting economic and social transformation to ensure that ordinary citizens can enjoy the fruits of their countries’ liberation. He called for the utilization of natural resources to transform the socio-economic landscape and guarantee the well-being of the people.

President Hichilema highlighted the government’s commitment to improving the country’s economic fortunes and its investment in free education to provide young Zambians with opportunities for participating in the nation’s development.

He also pledged that Zambia would continue to make the Tazara corridor a focal point for trade, investment, and the movement of people to foster regional peace and development. Hichilema affirmed that other corridors, such as Nacala, Beira, Lobito, and the South-to-South corridor, would also play a vital role in facilitating trade and investment in the region.

Additionally, he expressed his commitment to working with President Hassan, who serves as Deputy Chair of the SADC Troika Committee, to ensure peace, security, and stability in the region.

The Independence Day celebrations were attended by numerous dignitaries, including Vice President Mutale Nalumango, Defense and Service Chiefs, Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti, former Vice Presidents Nevers Mumba and Enoch Kavindele, Cabinet Ministers, Traditional Leaders, Diplomats, senior government officials, and invited citizens.

The festivities were marked by a jubilant atmosphere, with entertainment provided by the Defence Force Choir, UPND Choir, Amayenge Band, and other performances, as well as moments of humor. President Hassan is scheduled to address the National Assembly of Zambia on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, concluding her state visit to Zambia on a positive note of strengthened bilateral relations.

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