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President Hichilema salutes organisations supplementing governments efforts

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President Hichilema salutes organisations supplementing governments efforts

President Hakainde Hichilema has welcomed organisations that supplement government’s agenda to improve the education sector, which he has described as a catalyst for economic growth of the country.

Mr Hichilema says education is paramount in government’s efforts to achieve its economic growth, adding that his administration is working tirelessly to grow the economy.

Speaking when the UK based religious leader, BHAI SHAIB, and his delegation paid a courtesy call on him at the State House in Lusaka today, Mr Hichilema explained that his Government is growing the economy to generate resources that can be channelled to support the education sector.

“I believe that education is key to the country’s economic growth and my Administration welcomes organisations that invest in the education sector, to supplement our efforts in our journey to provide quality education,” he said.

The Head of State has since commended Guru Nanak Nshkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ) spiritual leader, Bhai Shaib, for investing in education, health and religion.

“Let me commend you for doing a lot of noble work in the area of education, as you know education is very important of course religion, I consider education as the best investment and equaliser, it is the best gift we can give to our children and grandchildren and generations to come,” he added.

He further reiterated that his Government is focused on growing the economy to create job opportunities for the people, especially the youthful population.

The President noted that his administration is working to increase the treasury income to support children in school, the sick and the old as well as persons with disabilities.

And Guru Nanak Nshkam Sewak Jatha spiritual leader, BHAI Shaib explained that his organisation has invested in education, health and religion to help the people of Zambia.

He disclosed that his organisation yesterday also commissioned a clinic in Lusaka’s Mumana area to help address the health challenges that people are faced with.

Lungu’s Funeral Fumble: UPND Batuke Imenda’s Statement and HHs Rule

Chief Editor
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Lungu’s Funeral Fumble: UPND Batuke Imenda’s Statement and HHs Rule

In an era when artificial intelligence can fake official statements, the authenticity of a message attributed to UPND Secretary General Batuke Imenda—directing party officials to refrain from commenting on former President Edgar Lungu’s funeral—remains uncertain. Its tone, urging prayers for the former First Family, is uncharacteristically restrained for a party that has often treated Mr. Lungu with open contempt. Whether genuine or not, the statement has raised questions about intent, and strategy.

If authentic, it marks a surprising shift in the UPND’s handling of politically sensitive matters. It begs the question, who is advising President Hakainde Hichilema during this crisis?

Until now, Mr. Hichilema has appeared passive while senior government figures hurled insults at his predecessor. Vice President Mutale Nalumango told Parliament the Patriotic Front should not allow “someone defeated in life to be defeated in death.” Party cadres circulated slurs, even referring to Lungu’s remains as “akatumbi,” while Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha publicly gloated over a temporary legal win in South Africa regarding the former president’s repatriation—only to see the case advance to the Constitutional Court, as well as appealed.

From a legal perspective, Kabesha’s public commentary was reckless. Standard practice dictates restraint–as a lawyer, he knows that attorneys are discouraged from prejudging or celebrating outcomes still subject to appeal. His words may now be used in further filings, potentially undermining Zambia’s position. The case also raises serious constitutional questions. Can Zambian law legitimately frame proceedings in South Africa, or must they be decided strictly within the ambit of South Africa’s own Constitution? These are thorny, complex issues that demanded sober handling—not premature triumphalism. The AG is well aware of this.

If the Constitutional Court reverses the earlier ruling, the government risks reputational and political fallout. Such an outcome would not only reopen questions about Zambia’s respect for due process but also drag back into focus corruption allegations hinted at in leaked audio recordings. The damage would extend well beyond the Lungu family, cutting at the credibility of the state itself.

The Imenda statement—if indeed authentic—reads less like leadership than retreat. It feels like damage control rather than principled governance, a late recognition that earlier approaches have backfired. Timing, in politics, is everything. Contrition delivered too late is indistinguishable from weakness. No doubt this is the case here. It is too late to call for civility now–the damage is already done. Many Zambians already know where UPND stands on this funeral.

Sadly, demeaning Lungu in death only created a leadership vacuum in the nation. What Zambia needs is ethical leadership and disciplined communication in moments of national crisis. A government that lurches from controversy to controversy, reacting instead of anticipating, erodes not just its moral authority but also the very legitimacy of its institutions.

President Hichilema must recognize that credibility cannot be managed by sporadic statements. It must be earned through restraint, consistency, and a demonstrable respect for the rule of law. Thus far, his administration has governed with pride but without prudence—too often mistaking arrogance for strength. The handling of Lungu’s funeral has laid bare a deeper problem–this government lacks grown-ups in the room.

Without sober counsel, the President risks ruling not as a statesman, but as someone surrounded by children—loud, impulsive, and unchecked. In times of national mourning, that failure of maturity becomes impossible to ignore.

Kapya Kaoma

State and Family Urged to Act as Preservation Clock Ticks on Lungu’s Body

Lusaka Times Editor
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State and Family Urged to Act as Preservation Clock Ticks on Lungu’s Body

The dispute over the burial of Zambia’s former president Edgar Lungu has now acquired an uncomfortable urgency, with biology threatening to overtake legal argument. Two Mountains Burial Services, in a formal letter dated 11 August and released through KBN TV, has placed both the Lungu family and the Zambian state on notice: while the remains are embalmed and stable, time is a material factor that can no longer be ignored.

The company’s representative, Johan Furstenberg, confirmed that embalming had provided temporary preservation but cautioned that no such measure is indefinite. Prolonged storage, he warned, inevitably increases the risk of visible deterioration. His firm has mooted the engagement of a pathologist and embalmer for an expert prognosis, yet pointedly asked who would bear the costs. That appeal was not theatrics. It was a reminder that in the science of preservation, delay is not neutral.

From the outset, the family has insisted on privacy, even attempting a tightly controlled burial in Johannesburg earlier this month. Cameras were barred, entry was restricted, and the ceremony was to proceed away from public scrutiny until the South African courts halted the process. That secrecy has collided with the state’s statutory duty to inter a former head of state at Embassy Park, a duty affirmed by the Pretoria High Court on 8 August. When the family escalated the case to the Constitutional Court, the High Court adjourned the matter sine die. The law has paused, but the passage of time has not.

The result has been fertile ground for speculation. Since 5 June, Zambian public discourse has been awash with conjecture about the circumstances of Lungu’s death, ranging from alleged gunfire to baseless claims of a faked demise. None has been supported by admissible evidence. Yet secrecy has created a vacuum into which rumour has effortlessly poured. Two Mountains’ intervention is a sober reminder: silence is rarely neutral in politics, and in death, as in life, perception can calcify into narrative if facts are withheld.

There remains a narrow, rational path forward. Both family and state could agree to a regime of limited disclosure, one that protects dignity while satisfying the public’s right to clarity. A joint medical note prepared by an independent pathologist, endorsed by both parties, could state the current condition of the remains, affirm the chain of custody, and specify preservation measures in place. Such a document would involve no photographs, no spectacle, but would place verifiable fact against rumour.

Chain-of-custody discipline is equally crucial. A contemporaneous log recording every transfer, temperature reading, and intervention would be invaluable. It would protect the family against allegations of mishandling, and the state against accusations of overreach. More importantly, it would ensure that if the Constitutional Court orders execution of the High Court’s judgment, repatriation can proceed without avoidable dispute over the body’s integrity.

Diplomatic space also exists. The government can reassure the family that before any formal state-led funeral, a family-led vigil will be allowed, respecting personal and religious rites. The family, in turn, can acknowledge that a president’s burial is inherently a matter of public interest, not partisan manoeuvring. Transparency on essentials is not political entrapment. It is a recognition that private grief and public duty are not mutually exclusive. Each side’s willingness to compromise would shorten the timeline and ease the national mood.

Two Mountains’ request for expert consultation should, therefore, be treated with urgency and routine pragmatism. If additional embalming, restorative care, or casket sealing is required, it ought to be done without delay. The financial implications are minor compared to the reputational damage of preventable deterioration. A nation’s dignity is ultimately reflected in how it says farewell to its leaders.

The court’s adjournment has created a procedural pause, not a pause in consequences. Biology advances regardless of legal briefs. Each day of impasse increases the risk that conversation drifts from protocol and law to speculation and grievance. What is needed now is a factual joint update, a clear logistical plan, and a narrowing of space for rumour. In this matter, time is not an ally.

Zambia’s Industrial Awakening

Lusaka Times Editor
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Zambia’s Industrial Awakening

Zambia’s Industrial Awakening

By Kelvin Phiri

For decades, Zambia was typecast as a resource economy a nation rich in copper yet trapped by its dependency on exporting raw ore. Factories once thrived but later shuttered, and communities suffered when global copper prices collapsed. For years, the country carried the stigma of underdevelopment. That reputation is now being rewritten.

According to a recent Nation report, Zambia has entered the top 10 list of Africa’s most industrialised countries, joining giants such as South Africa and Egypt. It is a milestone that signals more than just statistical recognition. It speaks to resilience, bold reform, and a vision that is gradually transforming the country from a commodity-dependent state into a diversified industrial hub.

Reform as the Turning Point

The turning point came in 2021, when President Hakainde Hichilema assumed office at the height of one of Zambia’s most severe economic crises. Public debt had spiralled, investor confidence had evaporated, and the kwacha faced instability. Instead of settling for survival mode, the administration pursued tough but necessary measures. Billions of dollars in public debt were restructured, and the government re-engaged with the International Monetary Fund and other global institutions. This injected credibility back into Zambia’s economy and created the foundation on which new industries could be built.

The reforms were not only about balancing ledgers. They sent a clear message: Zambia was open to business, open to diversification, and determined to reclaim its future.

Energy as the Backbone of Growth

No country industrialises without reliable energy, and Zambia understood this. Long reliant on hydroelectric power, the nation was repeatedly exposed to the consequences of drought. The answer lay in both expansion and diversification.

In 2023, the Kafue Gorge hydroelectric plant was fully commissioned, adding a substantial 750 megawatts to the grid. Almost simultaneously, two solar power plants in Kitwe — Riverside (34 MW) and Atimpi (60 MW)  came online. These investments stabilised electricity supply, gave industries a reliable backbone, and positioned Zambia as a potential exporter of energy within the Southern African region.With energy secured, the wheels of industry began to spin.

Industrial Zones and Global Investment

Across Chibombo, Ndola, and Lusaka South, new multi-facility economic zones have sprung to life. These industrial parks, designed with tax incentives and ready infrastructure, have attracted major players such as Tradeking, Zambeef, Lafarge, and Dangote. Within them, industries as diverse as cement, steel, food processing, and packaging are flourishing.

It is no longer about Zambia shipping off raw maize or copper. Instead, the country is adding value producing packaged goods, processed foods, and manufactured components destined not just for Africa but for Europe and beyond. A vivid example came recently when Zambia exported its first consignments of avocados to South Africa, signalling agricultural diversification and new trade opportunities.

The Future in Copper and Cobalt

Copper remains the country’s economic mainstay, accounting for about 70 percent of export earnings in 2022. But the approach to copper is changing. Rather than sending ore overseas, Zambia is actively negotiating with Afrexim Bank and Chinese partners to establish a value chain for electric vehicle batteries. This would mean using local copper and cobalt to produce battery components within Africa, securing Zambia a foothold in the booming global green economy.

If successful, the initiative would mark one of the most significant industrial breakthroughs in Zambia’s modern history.

Growth That Includes People

What makes this transformation remarkable is its inclusivity. In the new factories, young Zambians are employed in clean, modern environments. Smallholder farmers are supplying food processors, drawing rural communities into national value chains. Members of the diaspora are returning, establishing factories and investing in agriculture.

This is not growth reserved for foreign investors or corporate boardrooms; it is growth being experienced by ordinary people. It is a form of industrialisation that uplifts as it expands.

A Signal to Africa

Challenges remain. Copper still dominates exports, making Zambia vulnerable to price fluctuations. Agriculture continues to wrestle with climate change and limited mechanisation. Education and skills training must catch up with the demands of a modern economy. Yet the difference today is that Zambia is no longer passive. It is shaping its own destiny, leveraging reform, energy, and industrialisation to carve a new path.

When Zambia is named among Africa’s most industrialised countries, it is not just a trophy. It is a signal. A signal that when leadership, policy, and people align, transformation is possible.

For Zambians at home and abroad, this is an invitation to invest, to innovate, and to dream bigger. The Zambia of 2050 is being built today  not with copper alone, but with steel, energy, agriculture, and above all, determination.

President‘s son received no special treatment during ZNS training

Chief Editor
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President‘s son received no special treatment during ZNS training

Government says Lt. Habwela Hichilema, son of President Hakainde Hichilema, was officially commissioned as a military officer in the Zambia National Service (ZNS) following a rigorous training programme in which he reportedly received no preferential treatment.

Speaking at a joint press briefing with ZNS in Lusaka, Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana dismissed speculation that the President’s son was given special privileges during training.

Mr Kawana said the young officer cadet shared basic accommodation with three others, dug and slept in his own trench during a week-long bush exercise, and was only recognised by some instructors and fellow cadets as the President’s son during commissioning.

“Lt. Habwela Hichilema lived and trained like every other officer cadet, he participated in all scheduled training activities, including bush exercises, and endured the same hardships as his colleagues. When necessary, he was subjected to disciplinary measures like any other trainee.” Mr Kawana said.

ZNS Public Relations Officer, Brigadier Mable Nyone said ZNS felt privileged that the First Family chose it for his training, a decision she said the institution views as an honor.

She urged the public to see him as an individual forging his own path.

Meanwhile Fellow Trainees have defended the President’s Son, against claims of favoritism during military training, offering a detailed and emotional account of the young man’s physical and mental resilience throughout the program.

Captain Siva Asani, recalled a moment early in the program when he encountered the President’s son at the clinic, suffering from severely swollen legs due to the intense physical demands of training.

“That caught my attention, as a health professional, I knew what that kind of pain meant, but he didn’t stop. He continued participating in all activities, even those that were physically draining,” Captain Asani said.

“He’s someone who believes in doing things by the book. Even toward the end of training, during long hours of parade rehearsals, he kept encouraging us. He would whisper, ‘This is our commission, we must give it everything,” Asani said.

“The worst thing you can do to someone who has gone through military training is to claim they didn’t earn it. That would be unfair, we went through every phase, breaking down, rebuilding, and preparation. He was there, every step of the way,”he added.

Another trainee Sherry Kalela, praised Lt. Habwela Hichilema for his humility and strong work ethic, saying he completed training like any other recruit, without seeking or receiving special treatment.

“He trained with us from day one, ate what we ate, and did every task assigned, No instructor gave him anything extra, he earned everything,” she said.

Another officer, Jack Zimba, added that it was unfair for anyone to suggest the President’s son didn’t train, pointing out that he only revealed his identity on the day of commissioning.

President Hichilema and First Lady at the Commissioning Parade of over 400 officer cadets at ZNS Charles Joseph Nyirenda in Kafue District.

50 year old Lumezi man survives crocodile attack

Chief Editor
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50 year old Lumezi man survives crocodile attack

A 50 year old man of Lumezi District of Eastern Province is nursing injuries at Chipata Central Hospital after he was reportedly attacked by a crocodile on Luangwa River.

Eastern Province Police Commissioner, Robertson Mweemba, has told ZANIS confirmed that the incident happened on August 18, 2025 around 21:00 hours in Chitungulu area.Mr Mweemba identified the victim as Frackson Zulu, aged 50, of Chief Chitungulu’s area in Lumezi.He revealed that the victim sustained deep multiple injuries on his left leg.

“Brief facts are that the victim, in the company of his friend, went fishing on Saturday August 16, 2025, and they had been camping since that day,” he explained.

Mr Mweemba indicated that the victim was attacked when he came out of the canoe to grab a net.

“The moment the victim came out of the canoe trying to pull the net, a crocodile got hold of him on his left leg trying to drag him into the deep water,” he explained.

He further disclosed that the friend managed to pick a log and hit the crocodile until it let go of the victim who was later pulled out of the water.

Mr Mweemba said the victim was taken to Chitungulu Clinic before he was referred to Lumezi Hospital, and later referred to Chipata Central Hospital for further treatment due to the seriousness of the injuries.

Chief Chamuka allocates land to 3, 000 women in his chiefdom

Chief Editor
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Chief Chamuka allocates land to 3, 000 women in his chiefdom

Chief Chamuka of the Lenje people of Chisamba District of Central Province has in the recent past allocated land to 3,000 women in an effort to increase access to land among women in his chiefdom.

Chief Chamuka said the move is in line with the 2021 National Land Policy, which stipulates that 50 percent of available land should be reserved for women, while 20 percent should be reserved for youths and persons with disabilities.

Speaking in an interview with ZANIS, the traditional leader stated that empowering women with land enables them to engage in income generating ventures such as agricultural activities and construction of rental properties.

He observed that social practices in the past made it difficult for women in rural areas to own land, adding that land acquisition was previously a preserve of men and a few elite women.

“We are empowering women with land because an empowered woman is a powerful woman. Most of the women who have acquired customary land certificates in my Chiefdom have converted it to state land, while some are still in the process of doing so,” Chief Chamuka said.

The Chief added that he is promoting gender equality in his chiefdom as both men and women are striving to improve their standards of living.

“Land is a non-diminishing resource, one can use it for a settlement, collateral for loans from banks and for farming,” he said.

Chief Chamuka has since encouraged more women in his area to acquire land and ensure they follow the right channel of application.

President Hichilema commissions USD 1.25 billion Kansanshi Mine Plc Expansion Project

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President Hichilema commissions USD 1.25 billion Kansanshi Mine Plc Expansion Project

President Hakainde Hichilema congratulated First Quantum Minerals (FQM), the Kansanshi Team, and the people of Zambia on the remarkable launch of the S3 Expansion Project.

The President said First Quantum Minerals (FQM) Kansanshi Mine Plc Sulphide (S3) Expansion Project, is a reflection of the private sector’s confidence in government. He further noted that the establishment of such a huge US$ 1.25 Billion investment in Zambia, shows that the country is open for business.

Valued at over USD 1.25 billion, the S3 Expansion is one of the largest private investments in Zambia’s history. It will extend the mine’s life by more than 20 years and increase copper output to nearly 300,000 tonnes annually.

“This transformative project will generate significant benefits for our nation. It will boost export earnings, strengthen our balance of payments, create quality jobs, support local businesses, and enhance corporate social responsibility initiatives,” the president said.

President Hakainde Hichilema emphasized that while Zambia celebrates major investments in large-scale projects such as the S3 mine, equal attention must be given to securing the future of artisanal and small-scale miners.

“As we celebrate this major investment, we must also secure the future of our artisanal and small-scale miners. That is why we have directed the Ministry of Mines to convene an Artisanal Mining Conference to develop policies that promote legal, safe, and formalized mining practices. By doing so, we will protect lives, unlock opportunities for our citizens, and ensure Zambia’s mineral wealth benefits all,” he said, stressing that illegal mining will not be tolerated.

The initiative is expected to complement large-scale ventures while fostering a more inclusive and sustainable mining sector for generations to come.

President Hichilema extended gratitude to Traditional Leaders for their guidance, support, and leadership throughout the whole process.


Minister of Mines, Paul Kabuswe, noted that FQM is one of the highest single taxpayers in the country, attributing this success to the President’s vision and good leadership that activated the favourable investment environment in the country.

He explained that the project is one way of promoting the country’s economic growth through direct and indirect jobs.

Mr Kabuswe praised the government’s good policies that are in line with ensuring economic growth in the country.

And, First Quantum Minerals (FQM) Chief Executive Officer, Tristan Pascall, explained that the US$1.25 Billion investment is more than investment, stating that it’s a shared vision of prosperity for the country and beyond.

Mr Pascall said FQM remains firmly committed to community stewardship through technology that reduces emissions not just for the mine but also for the safety of communities.He further emphasised the need for mines to improve lives within communities, citing the company’s corporate social responsibility through education, among others.

In her remarks earlier, British High Commissioner to Zambia, Rebecca Terzeon, explained that the S3 Project, will contribute to the increased copper cathode produced in Zambia.Ms Terzeon stated that the expansion of the project is testament to FQM’s commitment to the Zambian people through long term economic growth. She recounted President Hichilema’s vision for the Zambian government’s ambition to achieve the production of three million tonnes of copper.

“We are dedicated to ensuring that our investments contribute positively to Zambia’s development,” she stated.And ZCCM-IH Board Chairman, Phesto Musonda, underpinned the government’s investment vision for the country. He said ZCCM-IH which holds 20 percent stake in Kansanshi Mine, has through the mine royalty, received K1.4 Billion.Mr Musonda said the company’s revenues that are actualised are meant to help the national goal such as the energy sector.

Meanwhile, in his welcoming remarks, North-western Province Minister, Robert Lihefu, highlighted that the province has become a beacon of economic growth.He stated that the project has enhanced employment opportunities in the province, a milestone that he said must be commended.

Come and watch the African Nations Championship with 1xBet and get a chance to win valuable prizes!

Chief Editor
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Come and watch the African Nations Championship with 1xBet and get a chance to win valuable prizes!

Come and watch the African Nations Championship with 1xBet and get a chance to win valuable prizes!
The grand continental tournament between African national teams is in full swing. Especially for this football event, the betting company 1xBet is launching a new hot promo for Zambian fans!

Starting on August 22, Buffalo Park in Lusaka will host joint viewings of the African Nations Championship matches. The 1xBet brand will show the quarter-finals, semi-finals and the final. Visitors will be able to get cool gifts and take part in a draw for valuable prizes!

• Everyone who comes to Buffalo Park and deposits at least 100 ZMW during one of the games will get stylish sunglasses.
• A bet of at least 100 ZMW on any of the matches will get you a voucher worth 100 ZMW to use at the bar. You can also use your receipt to enter the grand prize draw.

On August 30, after the African Nations Championship final, all receipts will be placed in a raffle drum and entered into a draw, with the lucky winners receiving:

• a TV set
• a smartphone
• a bar voucher worth 1,000 ZMW

Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy top-level football in friendly company and win cool prizes from 1xBet. Come and watch the African Nations Championship at Buffalo Park and bet on your favorites. Remember: the more tickets there are in the raffle drum, the greater your chances of winning!

To stay up to date with all upcoming promos from 1xBet, subscribe to the company’s social media pages. Also, regularly visit the Promo section on the brand’s official website so you don’t miss out on the most profitable offers from the the best bookmaker.

No Evidence Kambwili in Danger, Says HRC

Lusaka Times Editor
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No Evidence Kambwili in Danger, Says HRC

No Evidence Kambwili in Danger, Says HRC

The Human Rights Commission (HRC) has reported that there is no evidence opposition figure Chishimba Kambwili’s health requires evacuation from prison, dismissing claims that the jailed politician is at risk.

Kambwili, serving a sentence for hate speech, has been the subject of concern from family and political allies who say he needs specialised care. However, HRC officials who visited him at Lusaka Central Correctional Facility said he was receiving regular medical attention, had access to necessary facilities, and was monitored by medical personnel.

The HRC emphasised that its findings were based on direct observation and interaction with both Kambwili and prison staff. He was reported to be in stable condition, with no signs warranting emergency evacuation.

The statement has political implications. The PF has repeatedly alleged government is neglecting Kambwili for political reasons. The HRC’s position undermines those claims and places responsibility on political actors not to exaggerate medical concerns for political mileage.

The issue underscores the intersection of politics and prison conditions in Zambia. While healthcare in prisons has long been a concern, this case highlights how it becomes politicised when involving high-profile figures. The Commission’s assurance shifts the debate towards broader prison standards and the need for government to improve healthcare for all inmates, not just political detainees.

Rights activists welcomed the HRC’s transparency but urged authorities to remain vigilant. For Kambwili, the spotlight on his case ensures his wellbeing will continue to be scrutinised. For government, it is a reminder that prisons remain a measure of human rights standards in Zambia, and how they are managed carries political weight.

Binwell Appears in Court Over Social Media Post

Lusaka Times Editor
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Binwell Appears in Court Over Social Media Post

Binwell Appears in Court Over Social Media Post

Independent Nkana Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu yesterday appeared in the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court, charged with seditious practices over a Facebook post made in December 2024. The controversial post urged politicians to “buy guns” for self-defence following what he described as a wave of attacks on opposition leaders.

The matter, presided over briefly by Magistrate Davis Chibwili, was reallocated to Magistrate Webster Milumbe after Chibwili recused himself. Plea-taking could not proceed because the Director of Public Prosecutions had not yet granted consent, a legal prerequisite in cases of sedition. The case was adjourned to September 16.

Mpundu, a vocal critic of government, maintained a calm demeanour as he appeared in court. Outside the courtroom, his supporters said the charges were politically motivated and meant to silence opposition voices. The state, however, argues that Mpundu’s words crossed the line between free expression and incitement to violence, raising questions about security and responsible use of social media.

The charge under Zambia’s penal laws is serious, as sedition is considered an offence against public order. Legal analysts note that while freedom of expression is constitutionally guaranteed, it is not absolute. Calls for arming politicians could be interpreted as incitement, especially in a nation with a history of politically related violence.

Civil society groups are divided. Some argue that prosecuting such statements protects the country from inflammatory rhetoric that can destabilise peace. Others caution against using sedition laws to target critics, warning that excessive restrictions undermine democratic freedoms.

This case also reflects a growing trend across Africa, where politicians and activists face prosecution for online speech. Social media has become a vital space for political engagement, but also a theatre for misinformation, personal attacks, and incitement. Governments increasingly feel compelled to regulate that space, while rights defenders urge restraint.

Mpundu’s case will test how Zambia balances free speech with public safety. The adjournment leaves uncertainty for now, but its political resonance is already evident. For the ruling party, pursuing the case signals an attempt to draw a line against inflammatory rhetoric. For the opposition, it is evidence of shrinking democratic space.

As the September date approaches, the public will watch whether the DPP consents to prosecution and how the courts interpret Mpundu’s words. His trial could set a precedent for how social media activism is treated under Zambian law — and how far political leaders can go in their online expressions.

“Not Guilty: Oscar Chavula Defies Shadow Prosecution”

Lusaka Times Editor
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“Not Guilty: Oscar Chavula Defies Shadow Prosecution”

“Not Guilty!” declared media entrepreneur Oscar Chavula, as he stood in the dock facing what he calls a politically engineered case meant to silence him. In a powerful reflection, Chavula narrates how successive governments have targeted him and Hot FM, confusing his business with politics and mistaking accountability for opposition. He describes his plea as more than a courtroom defence,it is a stand against “shadow prosecutions” designed to intimidate independent voices. His message is defiant: he has never been a poodle for politicians, and no threats, legal or political, will shake his commitment to Zambia’s truth.

In His Words
A few weeks ago I stood in the Dock of a court in this land of work and joy for purely being Oscar Chavula, the instruction are “find something on him and take him to court.” Initially, I thought it was just mere over reach by the system until I had to plead not Guilty, for a crime I was nowhere near nor present. They elected to create a crime scene for me in the hope that I will oblige to their whims.

I am a firm believer in equal justice and no one should be above the law, I however, feel to persecute people through shadow prosecutions is not only unsustainable but a grave injustice.

I have lived through five regimes largely. The confusion between me and the businesses I run is always perplexing. Operatives of subsequent governments never seem to see the distinction between the two. Whoever is in power always takes the position that we are against them just by merely holding them accountable or asking them to keep the promises they made or letting Zambians ask them the questions directly through Hot FM. Yes Hot FM is my baby and it speaks largely to our promise and values. It’s Zambia above all else, from day one we espoused this value, it is the reason even those in power felt they had a voice before they had power.

The MMD continually with consistency wanted us to fire the Presenters of the Kawala party (a fictional party) or we will be closed down. On one occasion the then SG Mr Kachingwe called me to his office had a major “go” at me and insisted I fire China Zaza because he didn’t like our editorial direction, I called his bluff, by not doing his bidding after his 24 hours ultimatum elapsed. He didn’t like it but I couldn’t care less. Where are we today?

After His appointment as PS, Emmanuel Mwamba called me the same afternoon to find out why his first instruction from George Chellah was close Hot FM down? I was in shock but not moved, I sought an audience with the President a (MCS) and few days later and he quashed that abhorrent “disrespectful order” from his rogue handler.

Mutale Mwanza, while on RHB (Red Hot Breakfast) called on people to stop blaming ECLs handlers for his inept handling of the National Affairs on Live Radio. The President was voot, He instructed the Minister to deal with us firmly, Dora ( a good friend of mine) called me and Costa to government complex to let us know of the president’s displeasure of our newsrooms and shows and requested subliminally that we do something about it. I was clear even then, I do not fire people at the behest of politicians or government, and I would not oblige, I didnt!

Examples are endless.
Here is my truth, I live in a world of perception and counter perception, when it suits them I am the best thing after toast but when it doesn’t, I am a sponsored charlatan or a hired gun. I am not a creature of convenience and I do not intend to start now. I have never been paid to do harm or good by anyone, I do not do narrative control for anyone and I am never against the ordinary Zambian for my comfort.

By nature I am not a coward and I care less for political antics, either dressed in threats of closure or pimped in legal attacks or threats of imprisonment, am simply not a poodle of Mr. Anybody. Instinct tells me not to let bullies get away with murder at my expense.

I will go through the court process just like anyone would do but today’s politicians more specifically the UPND should remember that the PF illtreated us and felt invincible but where we now? Disoriented and apologetic… Mokili tour-a-tour!

If you can’t close them down, at least lock the owners down. In short lock the shepherd and the sheep will scatter. Our businesses are built on systems and values not individuals, my absence will change nothing… totally! Our call is to the nation nothing more nothing less. He concludes with the below Bible Quote

Pro 1:18
But [when these men set a trap for others] they are lying in wait for their own blood; they set an ambush for their own lives.

His declaration of “Not Guilty” is more than a legal plea; it is a broader challenge to what he calls shadow prosecutions and political bullying. For Chavula, the battle ahead is not just about his name but about the principle of independent voices surviving in Zambia’s democracy.

As this case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the indispensable role the media plays in holding power to account. At its best, journalism is fearless, uncompromising, and non-partisan, committed to truth above all else. Chavula’s stand is therefore not only personal but symbolic, urging all media practitioners to remain firm, factual, and unbowed in the face of intimidation. The future of a just society, he argues, depends on truth-tellers refusing to bend.

Kansanshi mine to double its processing capacity

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Kansanshi mine to double its processing capacity

Kansanshi Mine Plc is poised to double its processing capacity, increasing from the current 27-28 million tons to approximately 53 million tons of ore annually through its expanded S3 plant.

Operations Superintendent Patricia Mankubwa stated that the expansion will enable the plant to process an additional 25 million tons of ore each year.

Ms Mankubwa highlighted that the development marks a significant milestone for the future of mining and Kansanshi Mine.

She also highlighted that the project has four main expansions such as the mining area where a new mining pit, called South-East dorm will be opened in addition to the already existing North-West pit and the main pit.

“These 3 pits will be used for the Kansanshi life of mining,” she added.

Ms Mankubwa also added that the mine has managed to employ about 900 permanent workers in various departments.

“We considered local residents for on-boarding and training to ensure that they are the ones that run the plant,” she stated.

The Kansanshi Mine S3 plant is expected to be officially commissioned by President Hakainde Hichilema.

CAMFED launches camp for girls

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CAMFED launches camp for girls

The Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED) Zambia has embarked on a two-week camp aimed at empowering girls through education sponsorship and mentorship.

Speaking during the official opening of the camp, CAMFED Zambia Board Chairperson, Enita Hamatumbika, noted that the initiative is aimed at helping transform communities through education.

She explained that the achievement goes beyond numbers, noting that each girl represents a life changed and a dream enabled.

“I am proud to share that in 2024, 46,191 girls benefited from community support at secondary school level.

“This is not just a number, it represents lives changed, dreams enabled and communities empowered,” Ms Hamatumbika said.

She disclosed that 1,400 more girls are expected to be supported this year to ensure that no child is left behind because of lack of an opportunity.

“When a girl is educated, she does not just change her life. She changes the lives of her family, her community and her country,” Ms Hamatumbika stated.

And Ministry of Education Principal Education Officer for Secondary Schools, Andrian Kambunga, emphasised the importance of educating a girl child for it benefits the nation.

“Through the 2023 curriculum framework, we are promoting ICT and STEM education in order to prepare learners with knowledge, competencies and positive values for a better quality of life which also includes a girl child,” Mr Kambunga said.

He noted that today’s STEM Camp is a practical example of how partnerships can inspire young people as it gives them the confidence to believe that their curiosity can lead to innovation and their ideas can change the world.

Meanwhile, Crusible Lusaka Director of Admissions, Nyamutuma Mwandila reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting girls.

“Together we will continue to strengthen STEM education and support Zambia’s next generation of female innovators and leaders,” she said.

Ms Mwandila further urged the participants to work with dedication and resilience.

Akums Pharmaceuticals of India to build a pharmaceutical plant in Zambia

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Akums Pharmaceuticals of India to build a pharmaceutical plant in Zambia

Government remains committed to reducing importation of medical essentials through Joint Venture Partnerships.

Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Technical Services, Kennedy Lishimpi, says the government’s partnership with India’s Akums Drug and Pharmaceuticals Limited, will transform access to affordable, effective, and quality medicines for the country.

Dr Lishimpi was speaking in Lusaka at the Lusaka South Multi Facility Economic Zone, where Akums Pharmaceuticals Limited is earmarked to construct a state of art Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Plant.

He added that the plant will not only ensure a steady supply of medicines but also position Zambia as a regional pharmaceutical manufacturing hub.

The Permanent Secretary further said the plant will produce over 100 product lines, reducing the country’s dependence on imported medical essentials.

“The facility is expected to create job opportunities thereby contributing to the economic growth and development,” he added.

He also pointed out that the plant will transfer advanced technology and technical skills that will accelerate industrialisation in the country.

“By producing medicines locally, the country will conserve foreign exchange which can be channeled towards other critical sectors,” Dr Lishimpi noted.

Meanwhile, Akums President for International Business, Ashok Saroha, emphasised the company’s commitment to making Zambia self-reliant in essential medicines.

“This project goes beyond commerce, it’s about healthcare and sovereignty,” Mr Saroha said.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the plant is scheduled for September this year.

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