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ZRA and DEC Recover Over K9.4 Million in Taxes from “Gold Gate” Suspect

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ZRA and DEC Recover Over K9.4 Million in Taxes from “Gold Gate” Suspect

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) have successfully recovered over K9.4 million in taxes from AFME Metal Exchange Limited following an extensive investigation into the company’s tax compliance. The recovery is part of a joint effort to address issues related to the gold scam involving one of the co-accused, Shadrick Kasanda, who is a director and shareholder of the company.

According to a joint statement issued by Oliver Nzala, ZRA Corporate Communications Manager, and Mwenge Mulenga, DEC Public Relations Officer, the investigation focused on Mr. Kasanda’s financial activities, revealing significant unexplained sums of money received from overseas sources without proper tax declarations. Additionally, funds were found in his name without corresponding tax declarations or accountability to the Zambia Revenue Authority.

The recovery process, initiated by the joint investigation, resulted in the assessment of over K52.4 million. The DEC blocked the relevant account, and ZRA garnished it to facilitate the payment of the total assessment amounting to K52,449,413.37.

To safeguard tax revenue, a notice under section 23 of the VAT Act (cap 331), section 171a of the Customs and Excise Act (cap 322), and section 84 of the Income Tax Act (cap 323) was issued to forfeit a total of ZMW 9,433,000.00 from AFME Metal Exchange Limited’s bank account. This amount represented the sole available funds in the account at the time of the DEC’s seizure.

Mr. Nzala and Mr. Mulenga warned that entities failing to comply with tax laws would face scrutiny from Law Enforcement Agencies through the Inter-Agency Framework. They urged all taxpayers to adhere to tax laws and fulfill their obligations to avoid legal consequences.

Nchanga local court set ablaze

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Nchanga local court set ablaze
Unknown people have set ablaze Nchanga local Court in Chingola District  destroying everything including Court records.
 Speaking in an interview, Chingola Resident Magistrate Stephen Mabona said he was informed around 04:00hrs that the Court was on fire and when he rushed to the Scene he found that everything had been gutted.
He explained that he informed fire Fighters from Chingola Municipal Council, and later Konkola Copper Mine( KCM) Fire Fighters  rushed to the scene  to put out the fire but everything had already been gutted.
Magistrate Mabona stated that Preliminary investigations by ZESCO indicate that everything was intact and foul play is suspected.
An eye witness Naomi  Phiri disclosed that the Fire started around 03:00hrs.
Ms Phiri  said they could not manage to put out the fire on their own and informed the Local Authority fire department.
“We were trying to call 111 but it was not going through so we just started shouting for help and the neighborhood contacted the higher offices”,  she said.
Meanwhile Copperbelt Province Police Commanding Officer Peacwell Mweemba is yet to issue a statement on the matter.

Former President Lungu Criticizes President Hichilema’s Handling of Corruption Allegations

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Former President Lungu Criticizes President Hichilema’s Handling of Corruption Allegations

Former President, Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, has expressed concern over President Hakainde Hichilema’s approach to corruption allegations, specifically addressing the case of former Foreign Affairs Minister Stanley Kakubo. In a press statement Mr. Lungu questioned the perceived double standards in President Hichilema’s fight against corruption.

Mr. Lungu highlighted serious allegations against Stanley Kakubo and criticized President Hichilema for merely thanking Kakubo for resigning without allowing a thorough investigation. The former President referenced previous instances where President Hichilema publicly declared innocence for his ministers facing corruption accusations.

The statement pointed to last year’s corruption accusations against Kakubo, where Mr. Hichilema, rather than the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), declared him innocent. Mr. Lungu emphasized the need for a fair investigation and a legal process to determine innocence or guilt, expressing concern that President Hichilema’s interventions could compromise the independence of investigative bodies.

Mr. Lungu urged Zambians to question the apparent double standards in President Hichilema’s fight against corruption. He argued that while opposition leaders and former government officials are presumed guilty until proven innocent, ministers and government officials enjoy the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

The former President criticized President Hichilema’s swift defense of his ministers in recent corruption allegations involving the Finance and Housing and Infrastructure portfolios. Mr. Lungu questioned the impact of such interventions on the investigative wings and the courts, emphasizing the importance of impartiality in the fight against corruption.

Mr. Lungu highlighted other corruption allegations within the government, expressing disappointment in President Hichilema’s silence on accusations against ministers in the energy and health sectors. He called for a genuine commitment to combating corruption without bias, urging President Hichilema to use such incidents to admonish ministers against engaging in opaque transactions.

The former President concluded by asserting that the fight against corruption should be impartial, without favoritism based on one’s proximity to power. He condemned what he perceived as a selective approach to the fight against corruption, accusing President Hichilema of using it as a smokescreen to target perceived opponents while shielding allies from accountability.

President Hichilema Addresses Corruption Concerns and Urges Responsible Journalism During Choma Visit

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President Hichilema Addresses Corruption Concerns and Urges Responsible Journalism During Choma Visit

President Hakainde Hichilema arrived in Southern Province for the festive holiday, landing at Choma’s St Mawagali grounds at approximately 16:00 aboard the Presidential chopper. The President was warmly received by Southern Province UPND Vice Chairman, the Choma Mayor, and other senior government officials.

During his visit, President Hichilema addressed the media and emphasized the importance of responsible journalism and the fight against corruption. He encouraged the media to disseminate accurate information to the public, stressing that freedom of speech should not be mistaken for the license to insult. President Hichilema signed the Access to Information (ATI) law, ending a two-decade wait for its implementation.

“Insulting should not be mistaken for freedom of speech; an insult is an insult, so let’s not abuse the ATI law that has been signed by this government after so many years of being ignored by the previous regime,” remarked President Hichilema.

In response to a journalist’s question about the fight against corruption, President Hichilema stated that the government’s commitment to eradicating corruption would intensify. He highlighted recent amendments to three laws, ensuring expedited handling of corruption cases. President Hichilema emphasized that there would be no room for corrupt individuals to manipulate the legal system, as cases would now be completed within five months.

President Hichilema set the tone for 2024, focusing on opening up the economy, creating more job opportunities, and ensuring equitable participation for all citizens. He pledged to conclude the debt restructuring process in 2024, fostering economic growth and encouraging all Zambians to work diligently and intelligently.

The President also took the opportunity to advise farmers in Southern Province to capitalize on the rainy season to produce sufficient food for the coming year. He emphasized the government’s support for winter maize production, encouraging farmers to utilize harvested rainwater for irrigation.

Government Imposes Ban on Small-Scale Mining at Sensele Open Pit Mine

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Government Imposes Ban on Small-Scale Mining at Sensele Open Pit Mine

In response to safety concerns, the government, through Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo, has issued a ban on small-scale mining activities at the Sensele Open Pit mine. This decision comes following recent accidents at the mine, prompting the need for heightened security measures and evaluation of mining operations.

Minister Matambo announced the ban during a media briefing held in Chingola, emphasizing that the government has taken steps to secure the pit, and no mining activities will be permitted inside or outside the designated area. To enforce compliance, police officers have been deployed to monitor activities and ensure the safety of the mine.

During the briefing, Minister Matambo revealed that the rescue operation at Sensele Mine has been scaled back due to heavy rains and the unsafe conditions within the mine. The government aims to minimize risks during adverse weather conditions, prioritizing the safety of rescue teams and potential hazards to miners.

Addressing the families of the remaining missing miners at Sensele, Minister Matambo assured them that full-scale rescue operations would resume once the weather conditions improve. The decision to temporarily halt the operation is a precautionary measure to avoid further accidents and protect the well-being of all involved.

Chingola District Administrative Officer Stephen Monze provided an update on the families of the missing miners, indicating that 67 families have come forward, claiming to have relatives among the remaining missing miners at Sensele. The government remains committed to ensuring transparency and communication with the affected families as the situation unfolds.

Magistrate Court Sentences Housewife to Prison for Stabbing Husband

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Magistrate Court Sentences Housewife to Prison for Stabbing Husband

In a case that unfolded at the Kapiri Mposhi Magistrate Court, a 37-year-old housewife, Sabina Mulenga, has been handed a two-year prison sentence with hard labour for stabbing her husband, George Ngoma, with a knife.

Magistrate Mwila Malupande presided over the case, where Mulenga, a resident of Matilyo compound in Kapiri Mposhi, faced one count of unlawful wounding. The incident occurred on December 17, 2023, around 23:30 hours.

Mulenga admitted to the charge of unlawful wounding during the court proceedings.

The prosecution presented facts stating that Mulenga, on the fateful day around 20:00 hours, returned home intoxicated. When Ngoma inquired about her whereabouts, she responded with insults. Despite Ngoma’s attempts to ignore the situation, Mulenga continued the verbal assault.

Later that night, around 23:30 hours, Ngoma confronted Mulenga, leading to a heated exchange. In the course of the argument, Mulenga produced a knife and stabbed Ngoma on the left side of his chest. Neighbours intervened and rushed Ngoma to Kapiri Mposhi District Hospital, apprehending Mulenga and turning her over to the police.

Due to the severity of Ngoma’s stab wound, he was transferred to Kabwe General Hospital for specialized medical treatment, ultimately being discharged after three days.

In her mitigation, Mulenga appealed for leniency, citing her child with Ngoma and four children from a previous marriage who would suffer if she received a custodial sentence.

However, Magistrate Malupande, in her judgment, noted Mulenga’s violent tendencies, highlighting that the outcome could have been fatal had it not been for the timely intervention of neighbours and medical treatment. To serve as a deterrent, the court imposed a 24-month prison sentence with hard labour on Mulenga.

The verdict emphasizes the seriousness with which the court addresses cases of domestic violence and unlawful acts, aiming to deter individuals from resorting to violence in conflict situations.

Zambia Marks 32nd Anniversary of Christian Nation Declaration

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Zambia Marks 32nd Anniversary of Christian Nation Declaration

Zambia commemorated the 32nd anniversary of its declaration as a Christian nation yesterday, with President Hakainde Hichilema emphasizing the pivotal role Christianity has played in shaping the nation’s values and fostering peace.

President Hichilema, joined by various churches and government officials, spoke at the commemoration held in Lusaka. He underscored the importance of Christian principles, highlighting the need for hard work, honesty, and integrity in daily lives. The president emphasized unity among Christians, rejecting divisions that could hinder harmonious coexistence.

“Zambia is and shall remain a Christian nation that will operate on Christian principles,” President Hichilema stated during the commemoration, reiterating the commitment to uphold Christian values in the country.

Reflecting on the impact of Christianity, President Hichilema attributed Zambia’s status as a peaceful country to the influence of Christian values. He called for a collective rejection of insults, particularly on social media platforms, emphasizing the importance of love and respect among citizens.

President Hichilema took the opportunity to clarify his government’s stance on homosexuality, stating that it goes against Christian values and African culture. He affirmed the government’s commitment to upholding Christian principles in national policies.

In his homily, Bishop Billy Mfula of Jesus Anointed Ministries reflected on the covenant made with God 32 years ago by Second President Frederick Chiluba. Bishop Mfula expressed confidence that Zambia, through this covenant, would overcome various challenges, including economic issues.

The commemoration served as a moment for Zambians to reflect on their treatment of one another and to renew the commitment to Christian values that have been integral to the nation’s identity.

As Zambia marks another year as a Christian nation, the call for unity, love, and adherence to Christian principles remains at the forefront of the national narrative.

FAZ Ethics Committee Lifts Ban on Simataa Simataa

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FAZ Ethics Committee Lifts Ban on Simataa Simataa

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has officially announced the lifting of the ban on Mr. Simataa Simataa, the former FAZ president, following a thorough review by the Ethics Committee. The ban, imposed in April 2018, has been revoked, allowing Mr. Simataa to actively participate in football activities.

Reuben Kamanga, the General Secretary of FAZ, shared the decision of the Ethics Committee in a statement, highlighting the committee’s adherence to established standard principles and a comprehensive review of all circumstances surrounding the matter.

“Given all the circumstances surrounding this matter, the Ethics Committee guided by established standard principles of comfortable satisfaction and personal conviction of the panel forthwith lifts the life ban sanction imposed on Mr. Simataa Simataa,” the statement reads.

The life ban, initially issued for breaching the FAZ Ethics Code, particularly Article 13 (3) of the 2012 FIFA Code of Ethics, has been rescinded, granting Mr. Simataa the freedom to engage in football-related activities.

Reuben Kamanga welcomed Mr. Simataa back to the football community, expressing FAZ’s best wishes for his future endeavors. Kamanga acknowledged that football could benefit significantly from Mr. Simataa’s vast experience.

“We welcome Mr. Simataa back to football and wish him all the best. Football can still gain a lot from his vast experience,” Kamanga stated.

In response to the decision, Simataa expressed gratitude to FAZ for the reconsideration of his ban.

“I would like to thank the FAZ for being magnanimous enough to review their own decision even as per FIFA requirements of the FIFA Ethics Code. They have done a good thing,” Simataa remarked.

He further extended his appreciation to friends who stood by him during this period, emphasizing the need for unity and collective progress within the football community.

“I would like to thank all my friends who have stood by me all this time; I just want to say let us move on, let us go ahead. Football is for all of us,” Simataa concluded.

Grant Cautions Against Putting Pressure of Expectation’s on AFCON Team

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Grant Cautions Against Putting Pressure of Expectation’s on AFCON Team

Chipolopolo coach Avram Grant says Zambia should be reasonable with expectations ahead of month’s Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

Zambia kicked off preliminary preparations for the AFCON in Lusaka on Thursday.

Grant said Zambia is currently ranked third best in Group F of the Africa Cup which has Morocco, Dr Congo and Tanzania.

“You know I don’t like to set targets because you know we need to be reasonable. We were in pot three during the Africa Cup draws so it means there are two teams better than us on paper. But Ivory Coast was better than us (but we beat them). We need to be very realistic, look at the team we have and take the best from the team,” Grant told reporters.

The Israeli coach, however, highlighted that Zambia has the potential to be at the top.

“We are not in the top at the moment but it is our target to be among the top. There are issues we need to sort out on and off the pitch in order to be better. We progressed a lot in the last year but I think we can progress more as individuals and as a team,” Grant said.

The Africa Cup will be staged from January 13 to February 11 in West Africa.

This will be Chipolopolo’s first AFCON outing since 2015.

FAZ Suspends Referee Katiti

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The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has suspended Kafue referee Maimba Katiti who handled last Sunday’s Super Division match between Kabwe Warriors and FC Muza.

Warriors were controversially denied a goal against Muza in the Week 17 match.

FAZ general secretary Reuben Kamanga said the association will be shaming and naming erring referees.

During a media interaction in Lusaka, Kamanga said FAZ had taken strong steps to reprimand erring officials.

DIV 1: Lumwana Stay 3rd in Promotion Race

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Lumwana Radiants stayed third in the FAZ National Division One campaign despite a huge win over limping Mpulungu Youths in a delayed midweek match in Mumbwa.

Lumwana on Wednesday thrashed Mpulungu 3-0 at ZAF Stadium in Mumbwa Town.

Forward Garry Mwelwa scored a brace with Abraham Kanyangala netting the other goal.

Kanyangala opened the scoring just after three minutes, while Mwelwa’s first goal on the day came after 35 minutes and completed his double on 72 minutes.

Lumwana have moved to 31 points half way into the 2023/24 season.

Mpulungu are bottom of the 18-team league with eight points from 14 matches played.

Meanwhile, Nchanga Rangers are leading the chase for promotion to the top league.

Nchanga have finished the first half of the season with a seven point gap at the top of the National Division One table.

NATIONAL DIVISION ONE TABLE (TOP 8) -WEEK 17

1. Nchanga Rangers 38 points

2. Atletico Lusaka 31 points

3. Lumwana Radiants 31

4. Indeni 26

5. City of Lusaka 25

6. Chambishi 24

7. Young Buffaloes 24

8. Kitwe United 23

Zambia Development Agency records nearly US$40 Billion in committed investments

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Zambia Development Agency records nearly US$40 Billion in committed investments

The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) has marked the culmination of 2023 by announcing an impressive achievement in the realm of investment, with nearly US$40 billion worth of committed investments and over 160,000 jobs stemming from 379 investment projects.

During the end-of-year Media Briefing in Lusaka, ZDA Board Chairperson Professor Biemba Maliti attributed this substantial success to the exemplary leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema. Professor Maliti highlighted that President Hichilema’s strategic engagement with global leaders and investors had opened doors, making Zambia an attractive destination for investments.

“President Hichilema’s leadership has inspired investor confidence, resulting in the implementation of numerous committed investments from Europe, China, the United Kingdom, the United States, the Middle East, and other parts of the world,” Professor Maliti explained.

The ZDA Board Chairperson outlined the key drivers behind the significant investment projects, citing stable macroeconomic fundamentals, government-led business reforms such as the Public Private Dialogue Forum and the Presidential Delivery Unit, and increased funding to the ZDA as pivotal factors.

In addition to committed investments, Professor Maliti highlighted the ZDA’s efforts in facilitating market access for exporters. The Agency assisted 283 exporters in reaching potential buyers in countries such as Congo DR, Botswana, Mozambique, South Africa, and Angola. Furthermore, 347 exporters received training in export readiness, while 700 were facilitated to access trade information.

Looking ahead to 2024, Professor Maliti outlined the ZDA’s upcoming initiatives, including hosting the Make in Zambia Investment Conference, supporting the development of Special Economic Zones, launching a virtual deal room, and focusing on the electric vehicle batteries and battery accessories value chain.

In the trade and business development sector, the ZDA aims to increase Trade Missions into the Democratic Republic of Congo, establish beef and crop zones, and facilitate partnerships and joint ventures.

The remarkable success of the ZDA in 2023 represents a substantial leap, with a 300 percent increase in commitments compared to the previous year. The manufacturing sector took the lead with investments totaling US$19.72 billion, followed by the energy sector at US$8.9 billion and mining at US$6 billion. Professor Maliti expressed optimism for continued growth and economic transformation in the coming year.

Zambia breweries concerned with alcohol abuse among citizens

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Zambia breweries concerned with alcohol abuse among citizens

Zambia Breweries is concerned with alcohol abuse among members of the public across the country.

Zambian Breweries’ Better World Manager, Bridget Banda says the company is aware of the health and social risks associated with alcohol abuse and has embarked on a campaign to sensitize people.

Ms Banda said in order to ensure a wide outreach of the sensitization, Zambia breweries has partnered with the Lusaka City Council’s Public Health department and the Lusaka City Council’s Junior Council to help curb irresponsible drinking of alcohol among members of the public.

She said the campaign is called the Cheers 2 Tomorrow Campaign and it is a community-focused initiative aimed at promoting responsible alcohol consumption among young adults and legal drinking-age individuals.

Ms Banda said the joint pressure groups have also engaged Matero and Chunga Secondary Schools in order to promote positive behaviours in schools and discourage detrimental choices among the young individuals.

She noted that the campaign has already been rolled out through roadshows and market activations in Kanyama and Chibolya.

Ms Banda said Zambia Breweries and the Lusaka City Council have a Memorandum of Understanding in places meant to promote smart drinking in the communities.

“The joint collaboration in the fight against alcohol signifies a commitment to corporate responsibility and community well-being,’’ Ms. Banda

And Lusaka City Council Assistant Public Relations Manager, Nyambe Bulumba said that the group will conduct door-to-door campaigns and roadshows around Lusaka to deliver messages against alcohol abuse.

He said that young people need to be empowered with the necessary information and knowledge on the vice.Mwembeshi ward Junior Councillor, Innocent Sikwibele thanked Zambia Breweries for the support.

‘’It is great that Zambian Breweries and the Lusaka City Council are willing to work with us as a Junior Council on the fight against alcohol abuse”.

Zambia Breweries Cheers 2 Tomorrow Campaign
Zambia Breweries Cheers 2 Tomorrow Campaign
Zambia Breweries Cheers 2 Tomorrow Campaign

From Security Guard to Nurse: Annie Nakushwela’s Inspirational Journey Recognized by Health Minister

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From Security Guard to Nurse: Annie Nakushwela’s Inspirational Journey Recognized by Health Minister

In a heartwarming encounter , Health Minister Honorable Sylvia Masebo met with Annie Nakushwela, the young woman whose inspirational journey from working as a security guard to becoming a nurse has captured the nation’s admiration.

Annie’s story gained prominence a few weeks ago when she successfully graduated from nursing school, having financed her education while working as a security guard. This week marked another significant milestone in her remarkable journey as she received her official employment letter as a nurse, set to be deployed in Chirundu district.

Minister Masebo, visibly moved by Annie’s determination and success, commended her during the meeting, saying, “This young lady is an inspiration to all the young people who have a dream to become someone. Truly dreams do come true with sacrifice and hard work. Congratulations on your new job.”

Annie, who continues to work as a security guard at a named security firm in Lusaka, expressed her joy and gratitude, stating, “I had a dream, and despite the hardship, mockery, and difficulties, I stayed focused and determined. Today, my journey to that dream has hit another milestone. I am so, so happy.”

The minister congratulated Annie for her tenacity and applauded her for turning her dreams into reality. Annie Nakushwela’s journey serves as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of determination, hard work, and unwavering commitment to one’s aspirations.

Annie Nakushwela
Annie Nakushwela

Cholera Outbreak Claims Five Lives in 24 Hours as Government Implements Preventive Measures

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Cholera Outbreak Claims Five Lives in 24 Hours as Government Implements Preventive Measures

The Minister of Health, Sylvia Masebo, has confirmed that five people lost their lives to cholera in the last 24 hours as the outbreak continues to escalate, affecting a total of 12 districts across the country.

During a press briefing in Lusaka on Thursday morning, Minister Masebo disclosed that since the beginning of the year, there have been 2,473 reported cases of cholera, resulting in 74 fatalities. Currently, 207 patients are admitted to various Cholera Treatment Centers nationwide.

The affected towns include Kapiri Mposhi, Kabwe, Petauke, Vubwi, Chadiza in Eastern Province, and Mumbwa, Chibombo, and Mpulungu, among others.

Minister Masebo urged citizens to prioritize preventive measures, emphasizing the “3 C’s to kick out Cholera”: Clean Water, Clean Hands, and Early Care. She emphasized the importance of drinking clean water, practicing proper hand hygiene, and seeking early treatment to control the spread of cholera.

Health Minister Masebo provided an update on the latest cases, revealing that 111 new cholera cases were recorded in the last 24 hours. She expressed concern about the geographical spread of cholera, with cases now reported in Eastern, Central, and Northern Provinces.

In response to the escalating crisis, the government has imposed a ban on street vending. Local Government and Rural Development Minister Gary Nkombo enforced Statutory Instrument number 18 of 2018, criminalizing the buying and selling of goods on the streets. Minister Nkombo highlighted the need for bars, bus stops, churches, sporting facilities, and other public places to maintain high hygiene standards.

Water Development and Sanitation Minister Mike Mposha outlined government initiatives to address water and sanitation challenges. The government has placed water tanks in underserviced areas to provide water, and plans are in place to empty 20,000 pit latrines in Lusaka.

The three ministers delivered their statements during an Inter-Ministerial Briefing on Cholera in Lusaka, underscoring the urgency and coordinated efforts needed to combat the outbreak.

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