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The Zambian Civil Liberties Union (ZCLU) has implored the Zambian Government not to send away refugees to third countries for resettlement but fully integrate them into the Zambian Society.
And ZCLU has commended Home Affairs Minister Jack Mwiimbu for his advocacy during the 74th Session of the Executive Committee of the High Commissioner’s Programme in Geneva aimed at securing an increased operational budget for refugees and fostering greater opportunities for Zambian employment within the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), both locally and internationally.
In a press statement released by ZCLU deputy executive director Maurice Makalu, the organisation said keeping refugees in Zambia, rather than relocating them to third-world countries in Europe and the Western world, can bring significant economic benefits to the nation.
‘European and Western countries have effectively harnessed the skills and hard work of refugees to boost their GDP growth – a potential that Zambia, and many other African nations, should not ignore as a means of advancing economic development,” said Mr. Makalu.
ZCLU has however bemoaned the low deliverables associated with the utilisation of international refugee funds by the Zambian government, which it has claims continue to raise concerns among the international donor community that offer support to for refugee programmes.
“Despite generous contributions from governments such as Belgium, Japan, Sweden, Germany and the World Bank who allocated support for local integration programs in the past, there had been a glaring absence of tangible outcomes for refugees on the part of the previous Zambian government,” he said.
ZCLU has also observed extended delays by both previous and current Zambian governments in facilitating the naturalization of refugees eligible under the Refugees Act and the Constitution.
Mr Makalu has urged Minister Mwiimbu to take decisive action by invoking Section 49 of the Refugees Act as a way of demonstrating a stronger commitment to providing lasting solutions for refugees and their integration into Zambian society.
He said the ZCLU still believes the Hichilema administration has an opportunity to still address refugee challenges differently but that such will require a show leadership with courage, commitment, accountability, transparency, inclusivity and humanity.
The Radiation Protection Authority in Zambia has raised alarm over the alarming increase in cancer cases across various age groups within the society. This growing trend of cancer diagnoses has sparked deep concern and led the authority to consider launching investigations into the potential causes.
Brigadier-General Adrian Maleya, the Chairperson of the Radiation Protection Authority Board, expressed his worry as hospitals across the nation are seeing a significant influx of cancer cases. Unfortunately, the precise causes of this surge remain unidentified, making it essential to delve into the root causes of the issue through research.
Dr. Maleya pointed out that dietary habits could be one of the potential factors contributing to the growing number of cancer cases. Understanding the role of food choices and other lifestyle factors in cancer development is among the critical areas that the authority aims to explore in their research efforts.
Speaking in Livingstone, Dr. Maleya officially inaugurated a three-day seminar for Radiation Protection officers from all regions of the country. The seminar serves as a platform for knowledge sharing, discussion, and the development of strategies to address the concerning rise in cancer cases and the potential role of radiation in this context.
Cancer has become a significant public health challenge worldwide, with its effects felt deeply in Zambia.
Zambia National Service (ZNS) is actively pursuing an agreement to broaden the distribution of its affordable mealie meal beyond Shoprite stores, according to the country’s Defence Minister, Ambrose Lufuma. The move to make ZNS mealie meal more accessible to the general public at market-reflective prices has already prompted some private sector players to adjust the cost of this staple commodity.
In an interview with ZNBC News, Minister Lufuma also revealed that ZNS is making preparations to acquire land in all ten provinces of Zambia. This move aims to increase maize production and ensure a steady supply of mealie meal to meet the population’s needs.
The efforts to provide accessible and reasonably priced mealie meal have yielded significant progress thus far, with ZNS Chief of Marketing and Public Relations, Mulenga Nyone, sharing that over 7,060 bags of 25-kilogram mealie meal have been delivered to Shoprite outlets in Lusaka. Furthermore, ZNS has extended its distribution to Melissa Supermarket, offering consumers a wider range of options for procuring the staple.
Colonel Nyone further disclosed that ZNS intends to expand the distribution of mealie meal to Shoprite in Kabwe and other provinces in the coming week, solidifying the organization’s commitment to ensuring that mealie meal remains affordable and accessible to all.
However, recent allegations of price inconsistencies have arisen, with PF Acting President Given Lubinda accusing ZNS of selling mealie meal at different prices. He claimed that a 25kg bag of breakfast mealie meal is sold at K150 at ZNS depots while the same product is available at K230 through Shoprite chain stores.
In response to these allegations, Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa has rejected the claims as false and misleading. Mweetwa assured the public that the initiative to provide affordable mealie meal is progressing as planned, and noted that some millers have expressed their readiness to join the effort of offering cost-effective mealie meal to chain stores.
The commitment to making mealie meal accessible and affordable remains a priority in Zambia, with various stakeholders working collaboratively to ensure that this essential commodity is within reach of all citizens.
The Euro 2024 qualifier between Belgium and Sweden was suspended at halftime and subsequently abandoned following the fatal shooting of two Swedes in Brussels earlier on Monday, UEFA said. The incident raised Belgium’s terror alert to the highest level.
Belgium raised its terror alert level after a man, claiming affiliation with the Islamic State, posted a video online identifying himself as the assailant.
Swedish reporters at the game said they had been informed of the attack just before the national anthems were played. Sweden’s players decided not to play the second half in light of the situation, and the Belgians agreed with the decision.
The score was level at 1-1 when the match was suspended, and Sweden’s fans were asked to remain in the stadium for safety reasons. The gunman remains at large, and the police are actively searching for him.
Belgium’s Prime Minister Alexandre de Croo confirmed that the two people shot dead in the attack were Swedish nationals and extended his condolences to their families.
The Belgian national FA and the Swedish FA, along with various other organizations, expressed their thoughts and condolences for those affected by the tragic incident.
Distributed rooftop solar electricity solutions empower individual users to manage their own energy needs effectively. Utilising small solar power plants as a source of electricity brings several benefits, including reducing dependency on unreliable utility provision, mitigating environmental harm like pollution and deforestation, offering a straightforward installation process, requiring minimal maintenance, and delivering a long service life that supports sustainability.
Although the initial capital costs of a domestic or commercial solar system may seem daunting for many, there are business models that allow users to lease solar panels while gradually paying off the investment. Solar systems are also modular, enabling users to install equipment according to their budget and expand capacity as their financial situation improves. Moreover, the cost of solar panels has significantly decreased in recent years, making solar power systems one of the most cost-effective means of electricity generation, even on a small scale.
Zambia has ample year-round sunshine for the generation of solar power as shown in the map below. So why are rooftop solar systems not being actively encouraged in Zambia?
Figure 1 – Zambia’s photovoltaic power potential [1] Net Metering
Net metering is a utility billing mechanism that allows residential and commercial customers who generate their own electricity to receive credit for the net power they contribute back to the electricity grid. Utilities will typically offer a tariff for what the customer sells back to the grid that may incentivise more take-up of self-generation. Net metering helps promote the adoption of renewable energy sources like solar power by making it economically beneficial for individuals and businesses to invest in solar panels and reduce their reliance on traditional electricity generation methods. It also reduces the need for costly battery storage solutions.
Draft net metering regulations were issued in Zambia in August 2022 by the Energy Regulation Board (ERB). This was followed by a consultative process calling for electricity supply stakeholders and the public to scrutinise the draft regulations and submit proposed amendments and comments in September 2022. In over a year since then there has been little progress publicly visible on net metering by the main state stakeholder institutions (ERB, ZESCO and the Ministry of Energy).
This has occurred during a time in which the legacy hydropower electricity generation methods have continued to suffer from the ill-effects of climate change leading to a brief period of load shedding in January 2023. With the El Nino climate pattern predicted for the 2023-2024 rainy season there has been an even greater imperative to quickly diversify electricity generation in Zambia away from its high reliance on hydropower.
Net metering represents a novel operational concept that poses a challenge to many utilities and national grid operators. It disrupts the conventional model of stable electricity markets that relied on fixed generation sources in consistent quantities. The integration of rooftop solar into a national grid reduces the market and profitability of historical generators and distributors of electricity. It shifts the balance of generation from utilities to the customer which may make monopolistic state-utilities less keen to support its adoption. The setting of the net metering tariff would be a complex balancing act that needs to meet the needs of existing non-solar customers, new solar customers, other electricity generators, grid operators, solar equipment vendors and the environment.
Duck Curve
Increased solar power generation attached to the grid introduces more variability compared to conventional baseload sources like hydropower. This variability is evident in the creation of the “duck curve” (resembling the silhouette of a duck) of grid electricity power demand, resulting from abundant solar generation during daylight hours, followed by a rapid decline in generation as the day ends. Addressing this shift requires the development of innovative supply and demand management techniques to ensure grid stability, especially as peak electricity demand occurs just after sunset.
One of the key components required to stabilise the grid with significant solar penetration is a battery or other energy storage system that can be quickly deployed as the sun sets. The Zambian electricity grid has ready-made energy storage infrastructure at Kariba Dam. Kariba Dam typically stores approximately 5750 GWh of electrical energy or about 30% of Zambia’s annual generation of 19,400 GWh in 2022. Displacing some of the use of hydropower generated at Kariba Dam with distributed rooftop solar during the day and reserving hydropower water for the evening peak would increase overall generation capacity. This is illustrated in the three plots below.
The first plot shows the modelled baseline demand and power generation mix for an average day in 2022 based on data from the ERB 2022 Energy Sector Report [2].
Figure 2 – Modelled power generation for average day in 2022
The introduction of 389 GWh of rooftop solar electricity annually, equivalent to 2% of total annual electricity generation, with a peak power of 150 MW, is shown modelled in the plot below. This indicates that the rooftop solar power could largely displace power produced at Kariba North Bank Extension (KNBE) during the morning and afternoon peak.
Figure 3 – Modelled power generation for average day in 2022 with 2% energy provided by rooftop solar PV
Further increases of rooftop solar to 5% of total annual electricity generation, 972 GWh with peak power 370 MW, as modelled below could further displace generation at KNBE but also require reduced production at the main Kariba North Bank (KNB) power plant. Managing such a variable output from KNB and KNBE would require innovative techniques of grid stability operation. This would be needed throughout the day as well as at sunset when generation at both stations would have to be ramped up to compensate for the loss of significant amounts of solar generation.
Figure 4 – Modelled power generation for average day in 2022 with 5% energy provided by rooftop solar PV
Smart Grid
The technology required to create a grid responsive to the new dynamics caused by increased generation variability would invariably increase costs for grid operators. However, with rooftop solar, this could be offset financially by increasing power generation without having to invest in large scale grid upgrades. It would also be the advent of a smart grid which is a necessary innovation from a technological advancement point of view.
A smart grid relies on various equipment and technologies to enhance the efficiency and reliability of electrical power distribution. Key components include smart meters, communication networks, data management systems, analytics software, remote sensors and switches, demand response systems, energy storage, cybersecurity measures and grid management systems. Such equipment would enable real-time monitoring, data exchange, and efficient management of the grid, facilitating better integration of renewable energy, improved reliability, and allow demand-side participation. A cost-benefit analysis would be required to weigh these additional costs against the wider benefits of adoption of rooftop solar systems. This could start with small proof of concept tests to help understand and develop the technology.
A typical grid of the future may look like the image below with a mix of grid-scale generation and localised rooftop generation all managed by smart grid software and tools.
South Africa
Figure 5 – Depiction of a smart grid [3]South Africa
The South African electricity grid has been subjected to load shedding at various times since 2008. To counter this effect a recent surge in solar panel installations has occurred on the rooftops of houses and commercial and industrial buildings. In the 18 months to July 2023 a capacity of 3800 MW of solar panels has been installed. This is equal to 11% of peak power demand.
Figure 4 – Increase in rooftop solar power generation in South Africa [4]Whilst there is not yet a net-metering policy in place across South Africa (some municipalities are in the process of implementing one), the main driver for the greater uptake of rooftop solar has been the crippling effect of extended periods of load shedding. For the commercial and industrial sectors, a relaxation of the rules has allowed embedded systems greater than 1 MW to be installed without needing government approval.
Vietnam
The rooftop solar capacity in Vietnam increased by a factor of 25 in 2020 going from 378 MW in December 2019 to 9.3 GW in December 2020. This was encouraged by policy incentives including a net metering tariff of USD 0.084 per kWh of electricity sold back to the grid (on par with other solar generation) and power purchasing contracts of 20 years duration. This expansion of solar power generation also helped create a solar panel manufacturing industry in Vietnam.
Figure 7: Increase in rooftop solar capacity in Vietnam in 2020 [5]Australia
Australia has one of the highest per capita installations of solar capacity at over 1 kW per person. Most of this solar capacity is rooftop solar. The growth of rooftop solar uptake has been driven by natural advantages (plenty of sunshine) and progressive policy measures. Net metering tariffs and capital cost rebates for solar systems have helped. In addition, a light touch regulatory system has made it simple to install rooftop solar systems. The record of 39% of Australia’s national electricity power supply being provided by rooftop solar was achieved in September 2023 and is shown in the chart below.
Figure 8: Australia’s record distributed solar PV contribution of 39% of total supply at 12:30 pm on 21 September 2023 [6]Conclusion
Net metering is a compelling incentive for consumers to adopt solar power systems, enabling them to generate electricity for own use. The added benefit of selling excess electricity back to the grid significantly bolsters the financial case for investing in distributed solar power, mitigating the need for costly battery storage that could otherwise double capital expenditures. The substantial impact of rooftop solar on a nation’s total electricity generation capacity has been proven in countries that have incentivised this approach for customers. To rapidly expand Zambia’s electricity generation capacity, the energy sector must proactively embrace the future of rooftop solar generation and net metering integrated with cutting-edge smart grid technology.
Ministry of Youth Sport and Arts permanent secretary, Kangwa Chileshe has noted that involving the youths in decision making is a vital pillar for economic growth, innovation, peace, and security.
Mr Chileshe has ,therefore, commended the youths for their resilience and dedication to change the continent for the better.
He was speaking during the official opening of the second Inter-generational dialogue forum being held in Lusaka, under the theme “peace and security as a catalyst to the implementation of the African continental free trade area”.
The permanent secretary told the gathering that government has been responsive to engaging the youth on various matters of national development.
“I urge the youth attending this forum to make use of this opportunity to discuss various aspects of peace and security as a catalyst for the implementation of the African continental free trade area,” he explained.
He added that the youths should also use the forum to draw inspiration from the elders who strive for political liberty of the continent and economic emancipation.
Speaking earlier , the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) secretary general, Chileshe Kapwepwe said the continued rise in conflict has negatively affected the development of the continent.
Ms Kapwepwe said it is imperative to address the conflict through Collaborating within the African Union between the elderly and the young people.
Ms Kapwepwe said this in a speech read on her behalf by her representative, Mohamed Kadah.
Chambeshi Water Supply and Sanitation Company has embarked on rationing of water supply to its customers in Nakonde District owing to scarcity of fresh water caused by climate change and a growing population.
Chambeshi Public Relations Officer Masiye Mulenga said the extreme weather conditions have led to the partial drying up of the Nakonde river, forcing the water utility to implement measures to conserve the available water.
Ms Mulenga said this in a press statement made available to ZANIS in Nakonde today.
“Climate change has led to extreme weather events and consequently, the scarcity of fresh water. This has affected the stability and provision of clean water,” she stated.
She disclosed that the company is currently searching for an alternative water source to ensure a steady and reliable supply for the residents of Nakonde.
Ms Mulenga also mentioned that the company is collaborating with various stakeholders to find a permanent solution to the water supply challenges in the district.
The water utility Public Relations Officer further urged the residents in Nakonde to help conserve water by using the commodity efficiently and adopting water-saving practices in their daily lives.
Ms Mulenga encouraged the community to report any water leakages they come across, as these can significantly contribute to water loss in the area.
“As a utility company, we therefore would like to urge our customers to play a pivotal role in water conservation. They should report leakages promptly to prevent wastage,” she said.
To my fellow over 50s – so you don’t know Ne-Yo? Don’t stress – many of us do not know him. I first heard about Ne-Yo from a young Zambian friend working abroad who told me, two months ago, that she was coming home for the Stanbic Music Festival.
Her attractions were Ne-Yo, Sampa the Great, Pompi and James Sakala. Don’t beat yourself if you don’t know Ne-Yo – even some under 40s that I know, do not know him. These things are about interest, religious inclination, your generation, chance and time.
In our prime years there was only one hit at a time. Which was why on a periodic basis there would be the latest album or the latest hit single and we would all know it and know the singer. We would even refer to some tracks eg John Secada’s ‘Just Another Day’ as the ‘national anthem’. Of course there would be several hits but the highest selling album (or 12” Single) would feature for weeks before another artiste would take the reigns. With no internet, the latest hit would come to Zambia through Lusaka (mainly through Zambia Airways – QZ or British Airways) and then would be shared with the Copperbelt and other provinces (via cassette tape and Radio).
Ne-yo performing at the Stanbic Music Festival
Most people in Zambia do not even know our local musicians. When a singer dies most of us ask what song he or she has to their credit. I didn’t know Yo Maps until two years ago, even though I had been listening to some of his music for about two years. One of my sisters (who is even younger than me) can’t tell the difference between Yo Maps and Macky 2., even though she loves ‘ Finally’ and ‘Season Yanga’ by Yo Maps Another younger sister, didn’t know until this week that my all-time favourite singer, Whitney Houston had died.
Last month, I asked a male friend if he had seen any of J Lo’s movies and he asked me who J Lo is. So what am I saying? Don’t stress if there are some singers or actors that you do not know. There is a lot going on and too fast. We are really in the Information Age and are overwhelmed. Google does help. Use it when you are curious. You do not need to know all the musicians. Enjoy what appeals to you. And the Beat Goes On!
Zambia High Commission in Gaborone has urged entrepreneurs in both Zambia and Botswana to access investment opportunities through established channels to reduce the risk of dealing with fake entrepreneurs.
This is in view of the rising number of cases where citizens from Zambia and Botswana are being swindled of their money in fake agro business transactions.
In a statement issued to ZANIS in Lusaka, First Secretary Press Zambia High Commission, in Botswana Julia Malunga stated that the mission has received numerous complaints from agro dealers, from both Zambia and Botswana who have been swindled in the process of either trying to sell or buy agricultural produce or agro-products.
She indicated that the mission has noted the rise in the number of cases where Zambians are purporting to have agro products for sale, when in fact not.
Ms Malunga added that the mission has also noted many of the linkages between and among agro dealers have been established through unverified social media and other online platforms.
“The High Commission notes that there are a lot of opportunities for mutually beneficial trade between Botswana and Zambia that are not fully exploited, and that the current trend may result in reduced trade activities between the two countries especially for small and medium scale entrepreneurs. This may tarnish the image of Zambia which is currently a trusted trade partner in the region and beyond,” she stated.
Ms Malunga said that the High Commission has encouraged entrepreneurs to engage it for verification of companies before they conclude any business transactions across the border.
Government has asked Mopani Copper Mines to address the dust emissions from their tailings dam in Bwafwano area, polluting the air and choking residents of Kalulushi on the Copperbelt.
Kalulushi District Commissioner Kelly Jibinga said residents of Bwafwano have complained to the Government over the persistent dust emissions from the Mopani Tailings dam which has become a health hazard.
Speaking during a stakeholders meeting between Mopani, residents and ZEMA Mr Jibinga urged Mopani to conclusively address the matter to protect human lives.
Mr Jibinga said he wants Mopani to show their concern by being visible to the community of Bwafwano and take responsibility for the dust emissions in one way or another.
“I acknowledge the fact that ZEMA has been part of the need to find a lasting solution and as a government we will rely so much on what ZEMA will guide to mitigate this dust pollution,” said Mr Jibinga.
Mr Jibinga further said Mopani has been polluting the area for a long time now and the Government expects the mine to find a permanent solution regarding the dust emissions in the area.
And Mopani Nkana Manager Metallurgical Cyril Muyoba said the company is willing to provide interventions to mitigate or reduce the effect of the dust on the health of the people.
Mr Muyoba said for the immediate action, Mopani has been undertaking the spraying of molasses. He said the company has three bowsers that spray molasses in order for the dust to be suppressed on a daily basis.Mr Muyoba said Mopani is willing to hear from other stakeholders to come up with health interventions for the people.
President Hakainde Hichilema held a meeting with His Royal Highness Chief Chisunka of the Ushi people of Luapula Province, who also serves as the Chairperson of the House of Chiefs and the Luapula Council of Chiefs. In addition to these roles, Chief Chisunka leads the Ushi Chiefs of Mansa District.
Their discussions revolved around various critical topics, including Agriculture and Food Security, Constituency Development Fund, and Road Infrastructure Development in Luapula Province. The leaders also delved into the merits of free education and emphasized the necessity of collaboration between the House of Chiefs and the Ministries of Local Government and Justice. This collaboration is seen as vital in addressing issues related to decentralization and succession disputes.
Both President Hichilema and Chief Chisunka reiterated the view that Government and Traditional leadership serve the same people who require development. They emphasized that their efforts were not in competition but rather complementary.
In particular, President Hichilema pledged to rectify land transactions where large tracts of land were illegally awarded to individuals. In cases where proper procedures were not followed, he expressed his willingness to reverse such transactions to protect the interests of the locals.
Additionally, President Hichilema announced the expedited process of legalizing the mining of Sugilite in Luapula Province. He emphasized the issuance of mining licenses to communities and encouraged partnerships between locals living in areas where Sugilite is mined and those with capital. This strategy aims to ensure that communities benefit from the mineral.
Furthermore, President Hichilema disclosed plans for Provinces and Districts to have their own budgets. This measure aims to empower local regions to plan and execute their development projects independently.
Chief Chisunka had raised concerns about people in Luapula Province being incarcerated for illegal Sugilite mining due to a lack of regulations. He appealed to the government to legalize the mining of the mineral and provide licenses to locals.
The Chief also thanked the government for increasing the Constituency Development Funds (CDF), which he believed would lead to the successful implementation of more projects in Chiefdoms. Chief Chisunka assured that Royal Establishments were ready to monitor CDF projects.
He also expressed the need for Parliament to act on motions passed by the House of Chiefs, as these have often gone unaddressed. Chief Chisunka raised concerns about the prolonged disposition of succession cases in Chiefdoms and suggested that the House of Chiefs handle such cases.
In response, President Hichilema committed to facilitating meetings where the House of Chiefs could engage with the National Assembly and the Judiciary on these matters.
Shepolopolo Zambia assistant coach Florence Mwila has congratulated rivals Malawi for a well deserved 2023 COSAFA Women’s Championship triumph in South Africa.
Malawi dethroned 2022 Champions Zambia via a 2-1 win in the final at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday.
Malawi scored in each half with Zambia grabbing the consolation in between.
In a post-match comment, Mwila said Malawi played well.
“It was a tough match as anticipated,” Mwila said .
“We are just proud of the girls. Look at how much they fought despite most of them coming to the tournament for the first time,” she said.
“They really put up a good fight and congratulations to Malawi. Malawi played well and carried the day,” Mwila said.
The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Zambia and its official creditors marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s efforts to address its debt crisis. The Center for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) believes that this agreement will pave the way for increased resources to be allocated to development projects, thus benefiting the nation’s economic growth.
Isaac Mwaipopo, the Executive Director of CTPD, emphasized the positive impact of the MOU on Zambia’s quest to alleviate its debt burden. He noted that this development will enable the government to allocate more resources to areas in need of development. In the past, a substantial portion of the government’s budget was directed toward servicing the national debt annually.
Mwaipopo’s comments come in light of International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva’s praise for Zambia’s agreement with official creditors. Georgieva has described the MOU as great news and extended her congratulations to the Zambian government for reaching this crucial milestone.
Zambia and its official creditors reached an agreement on a comprehensive debt treatment in June 2023. The MOU formalizes this agreement and represents an important step toward ensuring long-term debt sustainability. The co-chairs of Zambia’s Official Creditor Committee are China and France, with South Africa serving as Vice-Chair.
With the signing of the MOU, each official creditor will initiate their internal processes to formalize the agreement. Subsequently, the terms outlined in the MOU will be implemented through bilateral agreements with each member of the Official Creditor Committee.
The Ministry of Finance and National Planning in Zambia is optimistic that the formalization of the Official Creditor Committee agreement will further support the country’s ongoing efforts to secure a comparable agreement with its private creditors, ultimately resolving the debt overhang.
The signing of this MOU is seen as a positive step forward in Zambia’s path toward achieving long-term financial stability and fostering economic development.
Deir Al-Balah, Gaza Strip – The situation in northern Gaza remains dire as Palestinians attempt to escape the impending offensive by Israel, while thousands seek refuge in the target zone near a hospital, hoping to avoid the impending assault. Israel’s intensified warnings of an imminent offensive by air, ground, and sea come in response to a deadly rampage carried out by Hamas militants in Israel a week ago.
The Israeli military has made efforts to clear civilians from the targeted area in the north to prepare for a concentrated campaign against Hamas militants, including those believed to be in underground hideouts in Gaza City. However, Hamas has urged people to stay in their homes.
The United Nations and aid groups have expressed their concerns about the rapid evacuation and Israel’s blockade of the territory, warning that it would lead to significant human suffering. The World Health Organization stated that the evacuation “could be tantamount to a death sentence” for over 2,000 patients in northern hospitals, including newborns in incubators and individuals in intensive care.
Gaza is already grappling with a worsening humanitarian crisis due to a week-old Israeli blockade that has caused a shortage of water, medical supplies, and even electricity as fuel supplies for electrical plants have been cut off.
Despite the obstacles and deteriorating conditions, residents of northern Gaza are grappling with the difficult decision of whether to evacuate or remain in their homes. The Israeli military has urged more than one million Gaza residents to move south, and a significant number have heeded this warning, at least temporarily.
In response to the situation, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced the deployment of a second carrier strike group, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, as a deterrence measure to discourage further escalation in the region.
While Israel’s military has called up reserves, and tensions remain high, Palestinian militants have continued to fire rockets into Israel, with Hamas remaining defiant in the face of mounting pressure.
Fighting between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants has persisted, with an Israeli airstrike near the Jabaliya refugee camp in northern Gaza leading to a tragic loss of life, including numerous women and children. Hospitals, already struggling with limited supplies, are inundated with the wounded.
Basic necessities like food, fuel, and clean drinking water have become scarce in Gaza due to the ongoing blockade and conflict. The situation continues to escalate, with no immediate resolution in sight.
The U.S. Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has called for Israel to protect civilians in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding innocent lives during this volatile period.
As the region remains on the brink of further conflict, the world watches with deep concern, hoping for a peaceful resolution to this ongoing crisis.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths..
Proverbs 3:5–6, NKJV
Be Comfortable Not Knowing
Friend, faith says, “God, I don’t know how I’m going to raise these children, but I’m not going to live worried and stressed out. I don’t know how my business is going to make it, but I trust You when I don’t have the answer. I don’t see how my family can be restored, but I trust You when I don’t see a way. I realize I don’t have to know because You know, and You control the universe.” That attitude of faith is what allows God to do great things—to make ways where you don’t see a way. The fact is that He had the solution before you had the problem.
He could show you how it’s going to be resolved. He could give you all the details, but if He’s not, then it’s a test. He doesn’t want you to know right now. Will you be comfortable not knowing? Will you trust Him when you don’t see how it can happen?
You may have some things you don’t understand, can’t figure out, and don’t see an answer to. That’s okay. You don’t have to see it. Don’t get discouraged, and don’t start complaining. God is working behind the scenes. He’s about to make things happen that you didn’t see coming. It’s going to be out of the ordinary, unusual. You’re going to know it’s the goodness of God. Moses didn’t have all the answers. He didn’t know how the Israelites would make it through the desert, but God gave them manna to eat each morning, something like bread that formed on the ground. He brought water out of a rock—unusual, uncommon. He guided them with a cloud during the day and a pillar of fire at night. He brought the walls of Jericho down, not by them fighting, not by their own effort, but simply by the Israelites marching around the walls. They experienced supernatural protection and supernatural provision. Just because you don’t have the answer doesn’t mean God is not going to show up and do amazing things.
Reflection
Reflect on how you can Be Comfortable Not Knowing. From what you’ve read, how can you apply this to your life today? What about going forward?
Imagine you are in a situation where you would usually get frustrated or upset. Maybe it’s in traffic or a larger situation that you’ve been praying about for a while. Think and write about how this principle can bring you peace during these times.
Declaration
Today, I declare that my life is safe and secure in the hands of my Heavenly Father. I will trust in Him and be comfortable not knowing the details. I declare that God is working all things for my good, preparing me for things better than I can imagine. He goes before me to make crooked places straight, and He has not brought me this far to leave me. I declare that I will walk by faith and not by sight, knowing He will bring every promise to pass.
Prayer
Dear God, even though there are things I can’t understand or figure out, I trust in You. I might not see the answer yet, but I won’t lose faith. I won’t let discouragement or complaint enter my heart. I know You’re working behind the scenes. You’re preparing blessings that I can’t see coming, things out of the ordinary. I trust these blessings will be so unusual, so beautiful that I will know they are from You. I am looking forward to experiencing Your goodness, feeling it in my life, and knowing it’s on the way. Thank you, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
