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Safety Concerns at Sensele Mine: Rescue Operation Complicated, Officials Say

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Safety Concerns at Sensele Mine: Rescue Operation Complicated, Officials Say

Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe has raised concerns about the integrity of certain tunnels at Chingola’s Sensele mine, deeming them unsafe. The safety of the tunnels has complicated the ongoing rescue operation for miners who remain trapped underground. Mr. Kabuswe revealed that the rescue team has adjusted its strategy, opting for mechanized operations to navigate the challenging conditions.

In a media briefing, Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe expressed the challenges faced by the rescue team, stating, “The rescue operation for the remaining trapped miners has become complicated, forcing the team to change the strategy by adopting mechanized operations.” He emphasized that the government seeks additional support from various stakeholders to conclude the search successfully.

Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo, speaking during the briefing, provided an update on the rescue efforts, stating that no bodies have been retrieved in the last 24 hours. Despite the challenges faced, Mr. Matambo reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to continuing the rescue operation until all miners are accounted for.

Colonel Chisala Mulenga, Zambia National Service -ZNS- in-Charge of Mines, shed light on the ongoing operation, expressing optimism that the mission could be concluded soon. The collaborative efforts of the rescue team, supported by the adjustment in strategy, are aimed at overcoming the difficulties posed by the unsafe tunnels.

In a display of solidarity and support for the rescue mission, Grizzly Mining Company of Lufwanyama District stepped forward to contribute to the cause. The company donated assorted food items and 210 liters of fuel to aid the rescue operations. Grizzly Mining Limited General Manager, Caroline Sampa, affirmed the company’s commitment to assisting in the search for the missing miners, stating, “The company will endeavor to support the search for the missing miners.”

President Hakainde Hichilema Highlights Key Initiatives and Urges Collaboration at PPDF

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President Hakainde Hichilema Highlights Key Initiatives and Urges Collaboration at PPDF

President Hakainde Hichilema addressed delegates at the second Public Private Dialogue Forum (PPDF) during the Private Sector Day held at Ciela Resort in Chongwe. The President emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors for the economic development of Zambia and outlined key highlights and initiatives.

President Hichilema commended the PPDF as the primary avenue for public and private dialogue, fostering an efficient economy. He urged all sectors to support local businesses, particularly those in manufacturing, emphasizing that this is crucial for job creation and retention within Zambia. The President encouraged the exchange of ideas between established and emerging businesses, emphasizing that the knowledge of longstanding enterprises is invaluable to newer ventures.

Addressing the issue of the exchange rate, President Hichilema stressed the importance of Zambia becoming a net exporter. He shared that producing for both local consumption and export markets is essential for achieving a stable exchange rate. The President called on Zambians to contribute to this vision by producing for both local and international markets.

In a significant announcement, President Hichilema shared details of the country’s debt restructuring efforts. Before restructuring, Zambia was projected to pay US$7.5 billion over ten years. Following restructuring, this amount has been revised to US$750 million over the same period. The President also highlighted the commitment of the French President, Emmanuel Macron, to co-chair Zambian debt restructuring alongside China.

The President outlined several initiatives aimed at revitalizing various sectors of the economy. He expressed the government’s commitment to redirecting funds from wasteful expenditure to the Agriculture Credit Window, which will be managed by the private sector. Adequate financing will be created for agriculture and other sectors to stimulate growth.

President Hichilema encouraged collaboration between old and new businesses, both local and foreign. He highlighted the need for professionals from the private sector to be involved in government transactions and projects, emphasizing that foreign specialists should not be feared but engaged to contribute to the country’s development.

The President emphasized the importance of PPDF in addressing challenges and creating a conducive business environment. He assured that the government is finding lasting solutions to issues such as theft without damaging businesses post the removal of roadblocks. President Hichilema also touched upon the significance of PPDF in promoting domestic transactions, reducing foreign exchange pressure, and eliminating illegal imports that distort the Zambian economy.

The President concluded his address by directing efforts towards producing for export and implementing measures to boost foreign exchange earnings. He assured that the government will practice positive discrimination by buying local products, including Compound D fertilizer, as long as quality and pricing are satisfactory. The President also emphasized the need for all pharmaceutical procurement to be done locally henceforth.

Barbara Banda Graciously Acknowledges CAF FIFPRO Team of the Year Recognition

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Barbara Banda Graciously Acknowledges CAF FIFPRO Team of the Year Recognition

Zambia’s Copper Queens captain, Barbara Banda, expressed her delight at being named to the CAF FIFPRO Team of the Year, hailing it as a significant honor in her football career. The talented striker took to social media to share her excitement, stating, “Happy to have made it to the CAF FIFPRO team of the year, a great honor.”

Banda also extended heartfelt congratulations to her fellow footballer, the phenomenal Asisat Oshoala of Nigeria, who clinched the coveted title of the 2023 CAF Women’s African Player of the Year. In a gracious display of sportsmanship, Banda acknowledged Oshoala’s achievement, saying, “Congratulations to the amazing @asisat_oshoala for winning the player of the year.”

Despite narrowly missing out on the top spot, Barbara Banda expressed her gratitude for making it to the top three and considered it as motivation to continue pushing herself in her football endeavors. In her social media post, she noted, “Happy to have made the top 3 and motivation for me to keep working hard and pushing myself.”

The Copper Queens captain also took a moment to recognize all the winners across various categories at the CAF awards ceremony held in Morocco. In a show of humility and camaraderie, she extended her commiserations to those who did not emerge victorious, emphasizing that making it to the final three is a victory in itself.

Barbara Banda’s positive and gracious response to the CAF awards reflects the true spirit of sportsmanship, as she not only celebrates her own accomplishments but also acknowledges and congratulates her peers. The awards ceremony, held in Morocco, was undoubtedly a momentous occasion for the football community, recognizing outstanding talent and contributions in women’s football across the African continent.

South African Afro-Pop Sensation Zahara Passes Away at 36

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South African Afro-Pop Sensation Zahara Passes Away at 36

South Africa is mourning the loss of its beloved Afro-pop singer Bulelwa Mkutukana, widely known as Zahara, as announced by the country’s Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa. The award-winning artist passed away on Monday night in a Johannesburg hospital, where she had been receiving medical attention for reported liver complications.

Zahara rose to fame in 2011 with her critically acclaimed album “Loliwe,” which resonated not only in South Africa but across the African continent. The singer’s distinctive voice and musical prowess earned her numerous accolades, both locally and internationally. In 2020, she was honored by being named in the prestigious BBC’s 100 Women list.

Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa expressed his condolences on X (formerly Twitter), acknowledging Zahara’s significant impact on South African music. “Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music,” he posted, reflecting the sentiments of many grieving fans.

The late singer’s battle with alcohol addiction became public in 2019, shedding light on her personal struggles. Despite facing challenges, Zahara continued to share her musical gifts with the world, releasing a total of five albums throughout her career.

Last month, Zahara’s family confirmed her hospitalization, requesting South Africans to keep the talented musician in their prayers. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of fans who have taken to social media to express their grief and share fond memories.

In a statement posted on Zahara’s Instagram account, her family described her as “a pure light, and an even purer heart, in this world. A beacon of hope, a gift, and a blessing to us and countless people around the world.”

Beyond her musical achievements, Zahara used her platform to advocate against violence towards women in South Africa, sharing her own experiences. In a poignant interview with a local radio station last year, she emphasized that her music was not just for recognition but aimed to bring comfort to broken souls in need of healing.

Tanzanian Authorities Investigate Spread of False Information about Vice-President Philip Mpango’s Health

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Tanzanian Authorities Investigate Spread of False Information about Vice-President Philip Mpango’s Health

Tanzanian authorities have launched an investigation into social media users who are accused of spreading false information regarding the health of Vice-President Philip Mpango. Mr. Mpango, who had been absent from public view for over a month, re-emerged on Sunday, putting an end to widespread rumors that he had passed away.

Information Minister Nape Nnauye has ordered investigations into individuals responsible for spreading the unfounded speculation. Mr. Mpango expressed his distress at the false rumors circulating on social media, emphasizing that he was hurt by the misinformation.

The Vice-President’s public absence had triggered concerns and various speculations, with some criticizing the government for not providing clear information about his whereabouts. Mr. Mpango was last seen in public on October 31, representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan during a virtual meeting of leaders from the Southern African Development Community.

Mixed reactions have followed the Vice-President’s return, with debates emerging on the government’s handling of the situation. Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa had previously cautioned citizens against engaging in speculation.

Mr. Mpango, appearing unannounced at a Sunday service in the capital, Dodoma, assured the public that he was in good health and had not lost any weight. Addressing the false reports, he said, “There have been photos circulating alongside a candle, and claims that I have passed away. It’s too early – I haven’t completed the job God sent me to do.”

He went on to reveal that he had been abroad on “special duties” but did not provide further details.

In response to Mr. Mpango’s plea for responsible social media use, Information Minister Nape Nnauye directed relevant state agencies to take action against those responsible for spreading rumors about the Vice-President’s whereabouts. Mr. Nnauye emphasized that any freedom that infringes on the freedom of another person amounts to disobedience of the law, stating, “We cannot have a society that views that as normal.” However, he did not specify which laws might have potentially been violated.

Tanzania enacted stringent laws against the spread of “fake news” in 2018, a move criticized by some as an attempt to curtail freedom of expression.

This incident is not the first time false rumors have circulated about Vice-President Philip Mpango’s health. In a meeting on Sunday at Chamwino State House, Mr. Mpango revealed that his sister had fainted in 2021 after receiving false reports about his death. President Samia advised the Vice-President to acknowledge that, as a public figure, he should be prepared for such speculation.

Fire burns Kasumbalesa bound trucks

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Fire burns Kasumbalesa bound trucks
FIRE on Tuesday night swept through a truck park at the Kasumbalesa border post in Chililabombwe district on the Copperbelt burning three trucks with assorted goods that were destined for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The Government through the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) says it will come up with a robust  mechanism that can help avert such eventualities occurring in the district.
Both Chililabombwe District Commissioner (DC) Precious Njekwa and Mayor Lucky Sichone confirmed the development in separate interviews.
Ms Njekwa said the three trucks which included one from Zambia and the other two of  foreign origin caught fire around 20:00 hours at a truck park at  the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) facility.
She said two of the trucks were carrying Sulphur while the other one had 36 drums of extraction regents, both materials were being transported to the mines.
“Three trucks on Tuesday night caught fire at the Kasumbalesa border post leaving the assorted goods they were carrying to the DRC burnt during the incident, “she said.
Ms Njekwa said a team of fire fighters from the DRC, Chililabombwe Municipal Council (CMC),Chingola Municipal Council(CMC), Lubambe Copper Mines (LCM) and Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) team were dispatched to the scene of the incident to quench the fire.
She said the team managed to quench the fire around 24:00 hours  adding that the delay was as a result of failure to have a stationed fire engine and officers at the border.
Ms Njekwa also explained  that the cause  of fire was not yet known and investigations have since been instituted.
She said her office was yet to make an official appeal to relevant authorities, especially through the central government to enable the area to have its own fire response team and equipment stationed at the border to help respond to emergencies.
“The fire was quenched quite late because we do not have an available fire tender and officers stationed at the border to respond to such emergencies and this is why we need to have such facilities here so that response is quickened,my office is yet to lobby through central government on this matter,”she said.
Mr Sichone described the situation as unfortunate and also reiterated the need to have equipment and officers stationed at the border.
Meanwhile DMMU national coordinator Gabriel Pollen who visited the scene of the incident said he was saddened with the loss incurred by the three trucks hence the need to ensure that a solution was found to minimize loss of goods , property as well as lives.
Dr Pollen said the unit was in talks with the ministry of local government, the council and other stakeholders at the border to come up with a robust comprehensive mechanism that could help avert such eventualities occurring in the district.
He said such incidents had the potential to frustrate the economic activities of the country.
“My office will ensure that we come up with a robust comprehensive mechanism in terms of standards of operating procedures when we have such emergencies because as you know such incidents have the potential to frustrate economic activities of the country, “he  said.
SADC truck drivers association of Zambia secretary general Jackson Banda cautioned truck drivers against the tendency of cooking near truck parks.
Mr Banda said there was a need to ban cooking under or near trucks.

Husband fined for wounding man who slept with his wife

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Husband fined for wounding man who slept with his wife

In a Chadiza Magistrate Court ruling, a 22-year-old husband, Thamison Phiri of Lavu village, has been fined K7,000 or faces 30 months of simple imprisonment for unlawfully wounding 18-year-old Azion Tembo. The incident occurred when Phiri discovered Tembo committing adultery with Phiri’s wife in the shrubs.

Magistrate Fred Munsaka presided over the case, and Phiri admitted to unlawfully wounding Tembo after catching him red-handed with his wife on November 22, 2023, around 20 hours.

Phiri, who had been married to his wife for eight months, expressed his deep distress upon witnessing the act. He resorted to assaulting Tembo with a knife in a fit of anger, leading to injuries on Tembo’s forehead, left ear, and left arm.

During the court proceedings, Phiri explained, “The sight of the boy and my wife having sex in the bush was heart-breaking. Up to now, I am still broken.”

Magistrate Munsaka, in delivering the judgment, emphasized the need for Phiri to manage his anger. He considered Phiri’s use of a knife against an unarmed Tembo as excessive force and dangerous.

As a deterrent to potential offenders, Magistrate Munsaka imposed a K7,000 fine on Phiri, with an alternative of 30 months of simple imprisonment in default. The court ruled that K6,000 would be awarded to Tembo, the complainant, who sustained injuries, and K1,000 would go to the state.

Government to Continue Resolving Matters Out of Court, Says Solicitor General

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Government to Continue Resolving Matters Out of Court, Says Solicitor General

Solicitor General Marshal Muchende has announced that the government will persist in resolving legal matters out of court, particularly those cases where the government acknowledges its wrongdoing. Mr. Muchende emphasized that the determination of damages and costs would be subject to assessment by the courts of law.

He made these remarks during the official opening of the Attorney General’s Office in Livingstone, a move aimed at enhancing legal services and representation in the region.

Southern Province Minister Credo Nanjuwa, represented by Provincial Permanent Secretary Namani Monze, delivered a speech expressing optimism that the presence of the Attorney General’s Office in the region would expedite the clearance of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) contracts.

Chief Mukuni commended the government for decentralizing the Attorney General’s Office. He asserted that this decentralization initiative would contribute to promoting justice for all through improved legal representation and support.

The commitment to resolving matters out of court aligns with the government’s strategy to streamline legal processes and foster efficient dispute resolution. By opting for consent judgments in cases where the government is at fault, the authorities aim to save time and resources while upholding accountability. The move is expected to contribute to a more responsive and accessible legal system for citizens across the country.

Weakening Kwacha Linked to Declining Copper Production, Says Socialist Party

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Weakening Kwacha Linked to Declining Copper Production, Says Socialist Party

The Socialist Party’s Copperbelt Province Spokesperson, Reagan Kashinga, has attributed the recent depreciation of the Zambian Kwacha to a decline in copper production in the country. As of Monday, the Kwacha was trading between K24.10 and K24.57 against the US Dollar.

In a media statement, Mr. Kashinga pointed out that the weakened state of the Kwacha is a direct consequence of the reduced foreign revenue generated from copper exports. He contended that the depreciation trend would persist as long as major copper mining operations, such as Konkola Copper Mines and Mopani, face operational challenges due to financial constraints.

“The Kwacha will continue depreciating due to low copper production, leading to diminished copper export volumes. The country’s foreign income has been negatively impacted by this decline, resulting in the weakened performance of the Kwacha,” stated Mr. Kashinga.

He asserted that the unresolved issues affecting the efficient operation of Konkola Copper Mines and Mopani Copper Mines were significant contributors to the Kwacha’s depreciation. According to Mr. Kashinga, the financial constraints and operational challenges faced by these strategic mines have led to decreased copper production.

Mr. Kashinga criticized the New Dawn Government, accusing it of failing to address the issues in the mining sector and lacking a clear strategy for the swift revival of Konkola Copper Mines and Mopani.

“We urge the New Dawn Government to resolve the challenges in the mining sector, ensuring that by January 2024, Mopani and KCM are operating at full capacity. However, it appears that the UPND Government lacks a plan or strategy to address the issues at Mopani and KCM. If not addressed promptly, the Kwacha may reach K25 or K26 against the dollar. These signs indicate a lamentable failure on the part of those managing the country’s affairs,” Mr. Kashinga concluded.

President Hichilema Affirms Commitment to Sensele Mine Rescue Efforts

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President Hichilema Affirms Commitment to Sensele Mine Rescue Efforts

President Hakainde Hichilema has assured the nation that the government will persist in the ongoing efforts to retrieve the remaining trapped miners at Sensele Open Pit Mine in Chingola. However, he emphasized that areas with potential risks would be assessed with utmost care to ensure the safety of rescue operations.

Addressing the public during the Mass burial for nine of the Sensele Mine accident victims at Chingola Town cemetery, President Hichilema expressed his deep sorrow over the tragic incident. Describing it as unfortunate, he pledged that the government would prioritize safety in mining operations to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

“The government will not abandon the ongoing search to retrieve the remaining trapped miners at Sensele Open Pit Mine. We understand the gravity of the situation, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to bring this operation to a conclusion,” President Hichilema stated.

Acknowledging the challenges and risks involved in the rescue mission, the President assured the public that every effort would be made to ensure the safety of both the rescue team and the trapped miners. The tragedy at Sensele Mine has prompted a thorough review of safety protocols in mining operations across the country.

Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo expressed gratitude to the family members for their cooperation with the government during this challenging period. He acknowledged the collective effort to support and comfort one another in the face of tragedy.

Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe reiterated the government’s commitment to exhaust all possible measures to conclude the search and rescue operations. The collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including the mining community, have been instrumental in the ongoing mission.

Chingola Member of Parliament Chipoka Mulenga pledged to adhere to the Presidential directive of providing an additional K10,000 to each bereaved family affected by the Sensele Mine accident. The government’s support aims to alleviate the financial burden on the affected families during this difficult time.

Vice President Mutale Nalumango in Geneva for Human Rights Forum

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Vice President Mutale Nalumango in Geneva for Human Rights Forum

Vice President Mutale Nalumango arrived in Geneva, Switzerland for a series of engagements that include addressing the Human Rights 75 event and the Global Refugee Forum.

The meetings will take place at the United Nations Office in Geneva from 11th to 14th December, 2023. On the sidelines of the two events, the Vice President is scheduled to confer with several Heads of UN organisations on various issues including disaster risk management.

Speaking on arrival at Geneva International Airport, Mrs. Nalumango said Zambia will continue to participate at global fora in such engagements to remain current on issues that affect development such as human rights and refugee challenges.

“I believe that discussing human rights today is important so that we can see how we can approach this in light of various developmental challenges such as climate change that affect the wellbeing of our people. And this is why as Zambia we are attending these events,” she said.

The Vice President stated that Zambia will not relent in its efforts to shelter people seeking refuge from other countries due to conflicts as mandated by the UN, hence making programmes such as the Global Forum on Refugees in Geneva, an important undertaking for the Country to participate in.
“As a country we have hosted refugees for many years and we will continue providing shelter to those seeking protection from conflicts in our region,” she said.

The UN is celebrating 75 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and would like nations across the globe to make fresh pledges in the wake of new challenges regarding the protection of fundamental human rights in member States.

Countries are further expected to reaffirm their commitment to addressing climate change issues that have continued impacting human developmental programmes globally.

During the Global Forum on Refugees, member States and stakeholders will also be given a platform to take stock of current refugee challenges as well as discussing opportunities ahead.
Mrs. Nalumango will be among hundreds of Heads of State and government that will grace the UN meetings in Geneva.

Several stakeholders, human rights defenders, artists, sports leaders and young people are also expected to be among delegates to the two global events at the Pale Denasio in the heart of Geneva.

Zambia at the 2023 Global Refugee Forum

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Zambia at the 2023 Global Refugee Forum

By Isaac Mwanza

ON 13 DECEMBER, 2023, the global spotlight will shine on Geneva, where leaders from around the world will convene for the second Global Refugee Forum. The Zambian Government delegation, led by Her Honour the Vice President, Mutale Nalumango, will make appearance at Palexpo and seize the opportunity to spotlight Zambia’s achievements in implementing pledges made during the initial global gathering in 2019.

Crucially, our Vice President will unveil concrete pledges and contributions from the new administration, led by Republican President, His Excellency, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema.

These new pledges aim to propel the objectives of the Global Compact focused on fostering tangible benefits for both refugees residing in Zambia and the communities generously hosting them. The Global Compact on Refugees, endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly on 17 December, 2019, stands as a groundbreaking international framework fostering global solidarity to empower refugees.

In Zambia, where the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security reported hosting 93,183 refugees as at October, 2023, including nearly 50 percent being children under 18, this Forum is particularly important. Of the children refugee population, 20,162 are females and 20,374 are males.

Notably, 1,489 children were born on Zambian soil in 2023 alone, inheriting the refugee status from their parents. Importantly, these refugee children, born and raised in Zambia, have never known any other home apart from Zambia. The principle of jus soli, recognizing the right to citizenship based on place of birth, underscores their claim to Zambian citizenship which we continue to deny them.

Essentially, the Zambian delegation to the 2023 Global Refugee Forum will be presenting Zambia’s more predictable and comprehensive response that covers the welfare and future of 31,694 refugee families and Zambians who live with them in those communities.

Since assuming the presidency in 2021, President Hichilema’s approach to refugee matters has somehow been methodical but the true litmus test lies in translating these commitments into tangible outcomes.

His administration has notably crafted a comprehensive national refugee policy, showcasing a new commitment to coordinated refugee response in Zambia. The implementation of an innovative modernization program for both refugees and host communities also underscores his dedication to fostering sustainable solutions.

A pivotal moment in this journey was the National Refugee Forum convened in Lusaka by this administration on 27 November, 2023 in partnership with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees Zambian office.

This inclusive gathering brought together diverse stakeholders both state and non-state actors, reflecting a proactive approach towards reviewing Zambia’s progress in fulfilling its 2019 pledges. The collaborative efforts at this forum culminated in the identification of new commitments, a testament of the administration’s commitment to a more participatory process in arriving at new pledges.

But Zambia has historically grappled, not with a shortage of leaders who make good promises or enact good laws but with a shortage of leaders who are translate their words into impactful actions.

In the year 2019, the Zambian government, under the leadership of the sixth President, His Excellency Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, articulated a compelling vision for the integration and well-being of refugees. Among the seven significant pledges made, a paramount commitment was the completion of local integration for former refugees from Angola and Rwanda.

Former President Lungu’s administration recognized the need for flexibility in documentation of refugees, proposing the exploration of alternative identity documents beyond national passports for obtaining residence permits.

Recognizing the vital role refugees could play in national food security, the Lungu administration had further pledged to extend the Farmer Input Support Program (FISP) to include refugees. This foresighted initiative aimed not only to enhance the livelihoods of refugees but also to contribute to the overall food production capacity of the nation.

Former President Lungu’s vision extended to the social fabric, with a commitment to integrate refugees into the national education system. From early childhood to college and university education, the pledge sought to break down barriers, providing refugees with opportunities for learning and skills development.

While the above and many other pledges were made under the Lungu administration, it is imperative to critically assess the progress made. The implementation of the pledges made under previous administration exemplified the unfortunate trend of making grand promises without genuine commitment to delivery.

Despite international support from countries such as Sweden, Belgium, Japan, Germany, the United States of America, and Britain, which poured millions into local integration programs based on Zambian government pledges, the results were dishearteningly minimal under the previous regime.

Amidst these shortcomings, there was a glimmer of promise in the Lungu administration’s commitment to reforming refugee laws. Notably, their focus on crafting the law on naturalizing former refugees and facilitating their acquisition of Zambian citizenship addressed a historical lapse unfulfilled by the preceding MMD administration under President Levy Patrick Mwanawasa.

However, despite the passage of the refugee law in 2017, the tangible results in naturalizing former refugees or facilitating their journey towards Zambian citizenship remained disappointingly elusive under the Lungu administration. That administration lacked the courage to make such bold decisions.

In the wake of the November 2023 National Refugee Forum, Zambia is set on a transformative path with the adoption of nine ground-breaking pledges. The question now is whether, under the leadership of President Hichilema, Zambia can be on the brink of opening a new chapter in its commitment to providing long-term sustainable solutions and protection to refugees lawfully living within our borders.

These new pledges, unanimously embraced by all stakeholders including key state institutions, will chart the course for the Zambian government’s response to refugee challenges over the next four years, and President Hichilema has a rare opportunity to implement such pledges with backing from all stakeholders.

Anticipating Vice President Nalumango’s announcement in Geneva, one of the standout pledges revolves around enhanced local integration and documentation. Under this pledge, the Zambian government is expected to commit itself to naturalising 50 percent of former Angolan and Rwandan refugees born in Zambia who have reached the age of 18 by the close of 2024.

This commitment finds solid legal support in Section 49 of the Refugees Act, allowing the Minister of Home Affairs to confer naturalization on former refugees, and is reinforced by Article 37 of Zambia’s Constitution as the supreme law of the land.

Another pivotal commitment expected to be articulated in Geneva is the issuance of resident permits to 30 percent of refugees by 2027. The recommendation to extend permit validity to 10 years not only streamlines administrative processes but also enhances the stability and security of refugees residing in Zambia.

Another landmark pledge aimed at improving refugee livelihoods involves the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises Development, who it was agreed should provide support for self-employment of refugees. Many refugees, operating informally and without contributing taxes, will now have the opportunity to legitimize their businesses. This pledge by the Zambian Government will not only benefit refugees but also contribute to Zambia’s treasury as the informal sector in which refugees operate continues to gain recognition.

Building on the momentum from the previous regime, the Hichilema administration has now received the green light from the National Refugee Forum to persist in its commitment to grant refugees access to the entire cycle of education, recommending that barriers such as study permits hindering refugee children from pursuing higher education should be removed, promising equal opportunities for all.

Recent findings from a United Nations study unveiled in September 2023 underscore the urgency of addressing education gaps for refugee children. With only 50 percent of refugee children enrolled in 14 schools across three settlements, the study highlights the need for comprehensive educational reforms.

The Hichilema administration, backed by stakeholders who gathered at the National Refugee Forum and the international community, should break down these barriers, ensuring refugee children, even those born in Zambia, have unhindered access to tertiary education, without the burden of costly study permits or restrictions.

There is a whole robust support system which this administration can capitalize on which includes the existence of a good Constitution, existing laws, both non-state and state actors who support implementation of fresh pledges Government will be committing itself to. The crucial question lingers: does President Hichilema possess the capacity to turn these commitments into tangible actions?

The track record of the previous administration, despite promising pronouncements and commendable laws, faltered in the implementation phase. The Hichilema administration now faces the challenge of not just promising change but effectively enacting the necessary reforms.

Acknowledging the negative signs of the past regime and some positives exhibited thus far by this administration, it’s essential to exercise caution to prematurely judge President Hichilema and his administration.

Implementing the pledge on naturalization of former refugees in line with Section 49 of the Refugees Act will stand as a key challenge. President Hichilema will have to raise and counter anti-refugee sentiments and attitudes among certain public officers tasked with guiding this intricate process.

While President Hichilema may be committed to implementing the law on naturalization, the path ahead requires navigating through bureaucratic challenges and ingrained attitudes among some of his top civil servants.

If Zambia take bold steps as agreed by all stakeholders in November, 2023, the country will emerge as a beacon of commitment and inclusivity, setting a precedent for transformative refugee policies on the global stage.

As Vice President Nalumango takes the stage in Geneva, she carries not just the voice of the Zambian Government but the hopes and dreams of thousands of refugees, particularly the children whose lives are entwined with Zambia.

President Hichilema’s administration has the chance to transform promises into action, setting a precedent for compassionate governance and global responsibility. In this pivotal moment, the world will witness whether President Hichilema and his colleagues are doers of the word, turning rhetoric into positive change for those who need it the most.

We wish Vice President Nalumango and Zambian delegation a productive time in Geneva and we look forward to the report.

[The author is Executive-Director of the Zambian Civil Liberties Union (ZCLU) and all contributions should be channelled to [email protected]]

Nkana’s Mini Revival Cheers Bakala

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Coach Ian Bakala has branded struggling Nkana’s away goalless draw against Kansanshi Dynamos as a good result.

Nkana are second from the bottom of the FAZ Super Division table with 13 points in 15 matches played after the draw at Nchanga Stadium on Sunday.

This was Kalampa’s fourth draw of the season.

“I think it is a good result despite wanting it the most. I think the way we played, we could have won this game but that is the name of the game. We had lapses in certain positions but it is good that we managed to get a point,” Bakala said.

He said Nkana will fight to survive relegation.

“We just have to fight. We won at home, drew away and playing at home again we are going to fight for a win,” Bakala said.

Nkana are preparing to host Kabwe Warriors in their next match.

Meanwhile, Kansanshi acting coach Donewell Yobe was disappointed with the stalemate.

He, however, praised the zeal shown by his players.

“Coming from a loss, playing Nkana – a motivated team coming from a win. I think a draw is disappointing because we wanted three points but I will take it because the boys gave it their all,” Yobe said.

Kansanshi are just one place above relegation with 16 points in 15 matches played.

FAZ Super Division WEEK15

10/12/2023

Zanaco 1-2 Red Arrows

Kansanshi Dynamos 0-0 Nkana

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Barbra Banda Attends CAF Awards 2023 in Morocco

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Barbra Banda Attends CAF Awards 2023 in Morocco

The spotlight is on Zambia’s football sensation as Copper Queens Captain Barbra Banda attends the prestigious CAF Awards 2023 in Morocco tonight. Banda, a formidable force on the field, is nominated for the 2023 CAF Women’s African Player of the Year Award.

Competing against tough contenders, Banda finds herself in the esteemed company of Thembi Kgatlana from South Africa and Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala. The outcome of the awards ceremony will unveil the recipient of this prestigious title, celebrating the outstanding achievements of female footballers on the African continent.

Barbra Banda’s nomination is a testament to her remarkable contributions both at the national and club levels. With an impressive record of 32 goals for both the country and her club, Banda has consistently showcased exceptional skill, dedication, and sportsmanship throughout her career.

As the Copper Queens Captain, Banda has been a pivotal figure, leading the national team to significant victories and representing Zambia with pride on the international stage. Her impact extends beyond the field, inspiring aspiring footballers and earning her a well-deserved place among the top contenders for the CAF Women’s African Player of the Year Award.

Zambia eagerly awaits the announcement of the award results, with supporters and football enthusiasts across the nation rallying behind Barbra Banda. Regardless of the outcome, her nomination alone is a momentous recognition of her talent and commitment to the sport.

The CAF Awards ceremony serves as a platform to honor and celebrate the achievements of African football players, coaches, and teams.

Government to formulate Policy to protect local contractors and suppliers

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Government to formulate Policy to protect local contractors and suppliers

Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry Chipoka Mulenga says the government is working on the policy framework to protect local contractors and suppliers in the country.

Speaking at the 2023 North Western Chamber of Commerce Trade and Industry (NWCCI) Business Awards Giving Gala Dinner held in Solwezi District, Mr. Mulenga said there is a need to add value to the contracts that are being given to local contractors.

He stated that this will help to develop the economy and improve the living standards of citizens.
Mr. Mulenga said government has conducted wide stakeholder engagement and before the end of December the Ministry of Commerce alongside the Ministry of Mines will announce the local content policy framework to protect contractors and suppliers.

“Your government has also listened to your calls on the 20 percent local supply policy with the mining companies and we want to re-look that policy. And soon I will table this framework before the Cabinet,” he said.

Mr. Mulenga further encouraged the private sector to partner with government through various platforms that have been put in place such as the Public Private Dialogue Forum (PPDF), the President’s Delivery Unit and most recently the Ministerial Delivery Unit.

Meanwhile, NWCCI President Kayula Lombanya said the event was important to celebrate and appreciate the role of business companies and entrepreneurs for their resilience in 2023.
Ms. Lombanya noted that 2023 was challenging and a year that opened innovative businesses that have seen creation of jobs for many citizens in the Province.

The event which was held under the theme ‘A night of brilliance,’ brought various corporate companies and entrepreneurs together and saw more than 40 being awarded in various categories.
North-Western Province Permanent Secretary Col. Grandson Katambi (Rtd), Solwezi Mayor Remmy Kalepa, Acting Solwezi District Commissioner Anthony Fulwe and the Angolan Consul representative attended the event.

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