Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Home Blog Page 202

Chipolopolo Drawn Against FIFA WCQ Opponent Morocco at AFCON

3

Chipolopolo have been drawn against Morocco in Group F of next year’s Africa Cup to be hosted by Cote d’Ivoire.

Zambia will also face Congo DR and Tanzania in Group F.

Group F teams will be based in San Pedro.

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.

Eight Ministry Directors Charged Over Audit Query Document Loss, Cabinet Takes Action

26

Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa, has revealed that eight directors from a specific Ministry have been officially charged due to the unaccounted absence of documents related to audit queries. The announcement was made during a press briefing in Lusaka, where Mr. Kangwa emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to addressing issues arising from audit queries.

According to Mr. Kangwa, the directors in question have faced charges stemming from their failure to account for essential documents connected to audit queries. The loss of these documents has raised concerns about transparency and accountability within the Ministry.

“Cabinet Office is not taking audit queries lightly, and as a response, numerous officers have been suspended, and eight directors have been formally charged,” stated Mr. Kangwa during the press briefing, underscoring the government’s commitment to address audit-related matters.

In a related development, Acting Secretary to the Treasury, Danies Chisenda, who also serves as the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, addressed the issue of audit queries. He urged controlling officers to work diligently to rectify any areas of weakness within their departments, emphasizing the importance of preventing audit queries.

Mr. Chisenda highlighted the necessity of avoiding audit queries and underlined the potential consequences of failing to do so. He expressed a firm belief in the importance of maintaining financial accountability and ensuring that public resources are managed responsibly.

Zambia Set to Sign MOU on Debt Restructuring with Official Creditors, Paving the Way for IMF Funding

10

Zambia is on the brink of signing a crucial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to facilitate the restructuring of its debt with official creditors. Finance Minister Situmbeo Musokotwane has revealed in Marrakech, Morocco that significant progress has been made, marking a key milestone in securing the next tranche of funding from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Dr. Musokotwane, while speaking to Reuters during a visit to Marrakech, expressed optimism regarding the MOU’s imminent signing. He confirmed that the negotiations between Zambia and its official creditors have advanced to a stage where the agreement is close to being finalized.

“The MOU will hopefully be signed next week, as we are in the final stages of reaching an agreement,” Dr. Musokotwane informed reporters after participating in panel discussions.

Zambia reached an agreement in June to restructure a substantial $6.3 billion debt owed to foreign governments, including China and members of the Paris Club of creditor nations. To formalize this significant debt deal, Zambia must sign an MOU with its official creditors.

This development is seen as a significant step in Zambia’s efforts to stabilize its fiscal situation and chart a sustainable path for its economic recovery. The debt restructuring agreement is expected to provide much-needed financial relief to the country, helping it address the economic challenges it has faced in recent years.

By securing this MOU, Zambia positions itself to receive critical support from the International Monetary Fund, which is a key player in the country’s efforts to restore its economic stability and ensure a more prosperous future.

Attorney General Urges Dismissal of Lusambo’s Petition Against Economic and Financial Crimes Court

10

Attorney General, Mulilo Kabesha, has called upon the Constitutional Court to reject the petition submitted by former Lusaka Province Minister Bowman Lusambo, challenging the legality of the Economic and Financial Crimes Court. Attorney General Kabesha labeled the petition as ill-fated and without foundation.

In a hearing before the Constitutional Court, Mr. Kabesha firmly countered Mr. Lusambo’s assertion that the establishment of the Economic and Financial Crimes Court violates Articles 120 and 266 of the Constitution. Mr. Kabesha argued that the Economic and Financial Crimes Court had been established administratively, similar to the Gender-Based Violence Fast Track Court and Fast Track Traffic Court.

Mr. Kabesha presented his arguments before the Constitutional Court today, emphasizing that the Economic and Financial Crimes Court’s establishment followed administrative procedures and was in line with other specialized court divisions.

However, Mr. Lusambo remained steadfast in his claim that the creation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Court was in violation of Articles 120 and 266 of the Constitution. Represented by his lawyer, Jonas Zimba of Makebi Zulu and Company, Mr. Lusambo pointed to Article 133, Sub-article 2, which, he contended, did not include the Economic and Financial Crimes Court in the list of divisions of the High Court.

Mr. Lusambo’s legal challenge comes in the wake of a previous plea he made before the Lusaka High Court in February. In that plea, he sought to halt the trials conducted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Court in a case where he is facing charges related to the possession of assets believed to be proceeds of criminal activities.

The former Lusaka Province Minister has consistently argued that the establishment of the Economic and Financial Crimes Court lacks constitutional backing, and he has taken legal action to address this matter.

Nepotism is stealing Africa’s future

6
  • Nepotism is not limited to isolated cases in Africa, but a trend throughout the continent.
  • Allowing nepotism practices through family, friends and those least qualified to occupy leadership positions is tantamount to stealing Africa’s future from its young generation.
  • The liberation movement of the 1960s has not succeeded in addressing nepotism successfully as we see today that the post-colonial project has failed to resolve many socio-economic issues.

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa recently raised a number of eyebrows – and elicited no shortage of criticism – when he appointed that his son, David Mnangagwa, as Deputy Finance Minister. What further irked opposition parties was the appointment of his nephew Tongai Mnangagwa as Deputy Tourism Minister, with a number of claims that neither possess the necessary skills or experience for their respective positions.

In 2020, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo, appointed his son Félix Tshilombo Tshisekedi as the head of the state-owned mining company, Gécamines. In Equatorial Guinea, President Teodoro Obiang Nguema have long been accused of nepotistic practices, and the same can be said of Cameroon President Paul Biya. These are not isolated cases, but a trend throughout the continent.

According to Prof Kedibone Phago, director of the North-West University in South Africa’s School for Government Studies, Africa’s needs to buck this trend, and it needs to do so with haste.

“Allowing nepotism practices through family, friends and those least qualified to occupy leadership positions is tantamount to stealing Africa’s future from its young generation. This is because if resources are not properly managed to benefit Africans, but are only used to serve the interests of small political elite groups, the trap of a vicious cycle would remain intact and perpetual.”

According to Prof Phago, there are a number of reasons for why nepotism is so prevalent in Africa.

“Nepotism is a form of spoils system that rewards elections winners and their associates. It is closely associated with a system of cadre deployment and are both ideal to help us realise who is getting rewarded and who is not especially after a favourable election outcome (or even military take over). This is indeed prevalent in most African countries and appears in various forms because there is a need to reward loyalty over competence. In most cases this is not done based on a political ideology but merely based on loyalty and greed to plunder resources for individual gain. We also need to remember that this is a historical problem which was one of the modus operandi of the colonial project which sought to put pliant leaders and their families in positions of power. The liberation movement of the 1960s has not succeeded in addressing this successfully as we see today that post-colonial project has failed to resolve many socio-economic issues, bar only political emancipation,” he explains.

This has dire consequences for Africa’s growth.

“The issue of Africa’s economic growth or a lack thereof is imperative to be considered on this conversation because this is required to ensure that Africa’s Agenda 2063 is achieved along with the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030. The AU Agenda 2063 and Sustainable Development Goals 2030 need to be some of the critical guiding instruments to ensure that African governments remain focused on critical developmental initiatives. This is because without any meaningful progress and development, these problems would be perpetual and difficult to address,” says Prof Phago.

What then is the cure for this infection that is severely affecting the continent’s health?

“Since this is a historical matter and many leaders are highly insecure, nepotism is considered a soft landing for them. This is because it rewards loyalty to the leader and help them to evade accountability from the relevant governance structures in place such as Parliament. There have been many attempts in the past that were directed towards addressing this matter and it remains an albatross on our governance systems because it is propped up by political and even military power. This requires a strong mobilisation of the various sections of the society to get involved in influencing public policy in an active manner. Sectors such as civil society, academia and media need to join hands in setting an agenda which could exert an additional pressure and bring such matters on a spotlight as a way of making a case of ethical conduct as a basic requirement among leaders within the public sector. Perhaps we should consider continuous revision and provide better protection to whistle blowers and other citizens that report these malpractices to law enforcement agencies. The other problem here is also that some of the institutions lack capacity to investigate and lead to prosecution of these cases as they are usually pitted against political power.”

Change is needed, and until accountability is prioritised, progress will remain more of a hope than a reality.

By Prof Kedibone Phagho

Source: NWU News

Former Government Chief Whip Warns UPND Government: Focus on the Economy, Not Lungu’s Return

Former Government Chief Whip, Steve Chungu, has issued a stern caution to the UPND (United Party for National Development) Government, urging them to shift their focus away from the political activities of former President Edgar Lungu. Chungu stressed the need for the government to address pressing issues facing the country, with the ailing economy taking top priority.

In a candid statement, Mr. Chungu pointed out that the government should not concern itself with whether Mr. Lungu intends to make a return to politics. The former Luanshya Member of Parliament underscored that, like any citizen, Mr. Lungu has the right to re-enter politics if he so desires, and the UPND government should not obstruct him.

“Mr. Lungu has the right to come back into politics if he wishes, and the UPND government should not stop him,” Mr. Chungu stated.

Chungu further emphasized that diverting attention towards preventing Mr. Lungu from reentering politics would be a misallocation of the government’s efforts, which should be directed at issues that hold greater significance for the people of Zambia, particularly the struggling economy.

“He alleged that stopping Mr. Lungu from participating in politics would be tantamount to misdirecting its energies to non-important issues of no value to the people of Zambia,” the former Chief Whip stated.

Moreover, Mr. Chungu criticized the police’s recent action of preventing the opposition Socialist Party from holding a public rally at Changanamai grounds in Kitwe. He regarded this as a negative development for democracy in the country and expressed concern over the alleged suppression of opposition parties since the UPND government assumed power.

“The observed that ever since the UPND government came to office opposition political parties have not been allowed to freely express themselves,” Mr. Chungu noted, highlighting a perceived decline in democratic rights since the change in government.

Zambia’s Face Massive COSAFA Women’s Semfinal Test

0

Shepolopolo assistant coach Florence Mwila has warned that Zambian players must be at their best to overcome Zimbabwe in Friday’s COSAFA Women’s Championship semifinal clash in Gauteng, South Africa.

Mwila has predicted a tough semifinal clash against Zimbabwe.

In a pre-match comment, Mwila said Zimbabwe have a strong squad.

“Zimbabwe has a good side. They are strong and quick. It is not going to be an easy one but we just have to put in our best,” she said.

Zimbabwe have returned to the regional championship after missing out in 2022 due to their suspension from FIFA, which has since been lifted.

“We are encouraging our girls to push hard and be able to score early goals. Zimbabwe have come back with hunger, you can see how well they have been playing,” Mwila said.

Shepolopolo are seeking to defend their maiden regional championship title.

Meanwhile, Malawi will face Mozambique in the second semifinal later on Friday.

President Hakainde Hichilema Commends Infrastructure Rehabilitation Amid Fiscal Challenges

6

Public Private Partnerships Prove Effective in Easing Pressure on National Treasury

President Hakainde Hichilema has expressed his satisfaction with the government’s commitment to rehabilitating roads and other critical infrastructure projects across the country, despite facing fiscal constraints. The President lauded the use of the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model, which has effectively contributed to these developments while relieving the burden on the national treasury.

In a statement released today, President Hichilema acknowledged the importance of these infrastructure projects in improving the country’s overall infrastructure and fostering economic growth. He emphasized the significance of involving the private sector through the PPP model, which has not only ensured the progress of these projects but also substantially reduced the financial pressure on the national treasury.

“We are glad to note that despite the tight fiscal space in our budget, your government is undertaking rehabilitation roads and other infrastructure projects across the country,” President Hichilema stated. “The Public Private Partnership (PPP) model we have adopted is equally yielding desired results. This has also reduced pressure on the national treasury as these projects are being financed by the private sector.”

President Hichilema went on to encourage local companies to actively participate in the bidding process for the infrastructure projects currently underway. He believes that this will lead to the creation of a significant number of jobs during the construction phases, benefitting various regions throughout the country.

“We encourage local companies to bid for some of these projects being undertaken. We believe there will be a sizeable number of jobs that will be created during the construction periods in different parts of the country,” the President stated.

One of President Hichilema’s key messages was a plea for quality workmanship in these projects, ensuring that they will withstand the test of time. He expressed disappointment over the recent instances of poorly executed projects that resulted in dilapidated roads and infrastructure, all at a high cost to the nation.

“Our call to those undertaking these projects is to prioritize quality works that will last for a long time. It is disappointing that some of the dilapidated roads and other infrastructure around the country were recently done at a very high cost,” President Hichilema concluded.

Auditor General report 2022 records positives

5

The Auditor General’s report for the financial year ended December 31, 2022, has recorded improvements in the public financial management, with 14 ministries and provinces recording zero audit queries.

Speaking during the presentation of the report at Mulungushi International Conference Centre, Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa stated that the report shows a positive trajectory in the financial management, under President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration.

Highlighting some of the achievements attained, Mr. Kangwa disclosed that the number of ministries and provinces not cited in the auditor general’s report has doubled from seven in the year ended 31st December 2021 to 14 in the year under discussion.

The Secretary to the Cabinet added that even those cited in the report had fewer audit queries than in the previous years.

He revealed that misappropriation of funds was pegged at five billion kwacha last year, but reduced to K135 thousand, representing 97 percent reduction, while unaccounted for funds dropped from K83 million to K388 thousand, almost a 100 percent drop.

He commended the controlling officers for taking the lead to achieve zero audit queries as evident in the audit outcomes.

“I would like to thank the President for the continuous push on us as a team to ensure that we bring audit queries down and improve in the manner in which we account for government resources,” Mr. Kangwa stated.

He noted that with the introduction of the new disciplinary code, more action has been undertaken, resulting in the reported improvement.

And Acting Secretary to the Treasury Danies Chisenda reminded the controlling officers of their responsibilities to preside over the management of public resources and can only earn trust from citizens if zero audits are achieved.

Mr. Chisenda said it was imperative that areas of weaknesses are strengthened and corrective measures put in place so that queries are not repetitive.

He assured the Treasury’s support by improving systems and offering training to accounting, auditing and other staff in various institutions to achieve efficiency, timeliness and accuracy in their operations.

Meanwhile, Director in Charge of Planning in the Office of the Auditor General Bornwell Mpofu appreciated the compliance levels among current controlling officers who provided evidence on time.

Mr. Mpofu made an appeal for the audit process to be followed so that the office carries out its evaluations on time.

Among those not cited included Ministries of Green Economy and Environment, Technology and Science, Commerce, Trade and Industry, Energy, Information and Media, Justice, Tourism, Labour and Social Security, Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Infrastructure and Urban Development, Central Province, Lusaka Province, North-Western Province,  Cabinet Office, and Department of Gender.

Vice President Nalumango speaks out on water management

3

Vice President Mutale Nalumango has challenged Zambians to conserve water and avoid water duplication.

Ms. Nalumango says if people do not conserve water, it may lead to food insecurity and malnutrition.

She says government is concerned with the misuse of water, adding that there is an urgent need to preserve the resource.

The Vice President said this today when she officiated at the National Networking Breakfast Meeting ahead of the World Food Day Commemoration which will be held on the 16th of October 2023 under the theme: Water is life, water is food leave no one behind.

Ms. Nalumango added that water is one of the drivers of the economy but that the duplication of water is getting closer day by day.

She said the importance of water cannot be overemphasized as it is the resource for sustaining life and food production.

Ms. Nalumango stated that government working with different stakeholders is ensuring that food is made available to everyone and that hunger is eradicated by the year 2030.

She noted that the eradication of hunger by the year 2030 is in line with the sustainable development goals.

“I am happy to learn that there are a number of activities lined up ahead of the commemoration that will be held on the 16th of this month. And I am sure that this will create awareness of the importance of food and water in our lives as government is doing everything possible to ensure that the country has no hunger.” Ms. Nalumango stated.

Speaking at the same event, Minister of Agriculture Reuben Mtolo said in order to promote water and irrigation systems in the country, the ministry has implemented a number of interventions.

Mr. Mtolo said inventions such as the construction of seven dams in different provinces are under way.

He said once the construction of these dams are completed, they will help improve the water systems in the country.

Mr. Mtolo noted that irrigation systems are also being worked on, adding that government will not allow the country to only be cultivating once a year when the country has good water bodies.

He noted that some large scale farmers are able to manage irrigation systems adding that for some small scale farmers the case is different.

Earlier, European Union (EU) Counsellor- Troika Chairperson for Agriculture Fisheries and Livestock (AgFiLi) Matthias Reusing who commended government for its efforts to end hunger in the country, said there is need to preserve and conserve water and forests in the country.

Mr. Reusing said there is an urgent need to safeguard water bodies and the forests as they are the source of food production.

He said without water and forests there can never be food in the country therefore there is need to invest in the two resources.

“We should not take water for granted. Together with our forests. These two are the source of food. So let us preserve these two if we are to eliminate hunger in the country. Mr Reusing noted.

And the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Country Representative Suze Filippini says the World Food Day is held to create awareness of the need to eliminate hunger in the world.

Ms Filippini said the day is also a reflection of the effective policies and interventions that governments should make to ensure food availability for all.

She noted that every individual regardless of status needs a healthy diet to live a healthy and productive life.

Ms Filippini stated that FAO will continue supporting Zambia to improve nutrition conditions in the country adding that nutrition and malnutrition have continued to be a challenge in the country.

Meanwhile, Speaking on behalf of the National Nutritional Coordinating Committee Chairperson Patrick Kangwa, Deputy Vice Chairperson of the committee Lilian Kapusana says the World Food Day commemoration should remind stakeholders of the multi sectoral approach to end zero hunger in the country.

Mr Kangwa said the breakfast meeting is one of the events that are lined up ahead of the World Food Day Commemoration which will be held on the 16th of October 2023.

He said a food fair and a farming demonstration will be held before the commemoration.

She has since called upon stakeholders to come on board and partner with government not only to hold a successful World Food Day commemoration but also to end hunger in the country.

Zambia Face Zimbabwe in COSAFA Womens Semifinal

0

Holders Shepolopolo Zambia will face Zimbabwe in the semifinals of the 2023 COSAFA Women’s Championship on Friday in Gauteng, South Africa.

Zambia and Zimbabwe will clash in the first semifinal on Friday at 12h00.

Zimbabwe booked a date against Zambia on Wednesday after winning Group C following a 1-1 draw against Botswana.

Zimbabwe have returned to the regional championship after missing out in 2022 due to their suspension from FIFA, which has since been lifted.

Shepolopolo advanced to the last four with a 5-1 win over Comoros in their final Group B match earlier on Tuesday.

Zambia won Group B with seven points.

Meanwhile, Malawi and Mozambique go head-to-head in the second semifinal match at 15h30 on Friday.

Political Parties React to Registrar of Societies’ Directive on Intra-Party Elections

15

The recent directive from the Registrar of Societies to political parties, instructing them to hold intra-party elections for vacant positions within 60 days, has stirred mixed reactions among political leaders and their respective parties.

Citizens First Leader Harry Kalaba has reacted strongly to the directive, threatening to take legal action against the Registrar of Societies. In a telephone interview with ZNBC News, Kalaba expressed his discontent, noting that this directive marks the first instance where the Registrar of Societies has pushed political parties to hold conventions. His concerns highlight the significant impact this directive has on the internal affairs of political parties.

The Patriotic Front (PF) has also weighed in on the matter, describing the ultimatum as illegal. PF’s Chairperson for Information and Publicity, Emmanuel Mwamba, held a press briefing in Lusaka to assert the party’s stance. Mwamba emphasized that the Registrar’s ultimatum lacks a legal basis.

Furthermore, Mwamba announced that the PF will convene a Central Committee Meeting on October 21, which will address a range of important issues, including setting a new date for an extraordinary party convention to elect a new party President. This convention, initially scheduled for July 29, had been postponed.

On the other hand, Party for National Unity and Progress (PNUP) Leader Highvie Hamududu indicated that the Registrar of Societies’ directive does not apply to his party. He clarified that the PNUP is unaffected because it currently has no vacancies, and its constitution stipulates a five-year term that has not yet expired.

Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa has defended the Registrar’s directive, stating that it aligns with the provisions of the law. In a meeting with heads of media houses in Lusaka, Mweetwa emphasized that political parties, as entities created by law, must comply with the Registrar of Societies’ mandates. He also underscored the importance of conducting party conventions in a democratic manner, reflecting Zambia’s democratic principles.

Mweetwa further called on the media fraternity to develop legislation that allows for self-regulation. This, he argued, would promote ethical conduct and professionalism within the industry. Mweetwa expressed concern over individuals without journalism training participating in reporting and the lack of mechanisms for holding them accountable.

He assured that the UPND Government would uphold media freedom and media houses’ rights. Additionally, Mweetwa revealed that the government is actively reviewing the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) and Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Acts, while also developing a communication strategy in its draft stage.

All set for Mukubwe By-election

5

The stage is set for the Mukubwe Ward By-election in Ngabwe District, located in the heart of Central Province, Zambia. This highly anticipated democratic event is scheduled to take place on Thursday, 12th October 2023, with the local populace eagerly awaiting the opportunity to exercise their electoral rights.

Three political parties are actively participating in this critical by-election. The contest features the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) as well as the opposition’s Patriotic Front (PF) and the Socialist Party (SP).

Anticipation and optimism run high as candidates from each political party gear up to compete for the Mukubwe Ward seat. This democratic showdown promises to be a platform for political parties to present their vision and policies to the electorate while seeking to secure victory.

Representing the UPND in the by-election is Alick Lumingu, who aims to carry forward the party’s agenda in the Mukubwe Ward. Standing in opposition to Lumingu is Erick Chiyuni, nominated by the Patriotic Front (PF), and Christopher Kabunda, the candidate put forth by the Socialist Party (SP).

The Mukubwe Ward seat became vacant earlier this year following the unfortunate passing of Christopher Hamuntanga Halwando.

Child Justice Week Launched : VP Nalumango Emphasizes the Power of the Children’s Code Act

4

The Vice President , Mutale Nalumango, has emphasized the importance of harnessing the Children’s Code Act as a potent instrument for safeguarding the rights and welfare of children in the nation. She made this call during the launch of Child Justice Week, a significant event aimed at promoting the effective implementation of the Children’s Code Act in Lusaka.

Vice President Nalumango expressed her belief that it is vital for the government and stakeholders to join forces to ensure that the Children’s Code Act does not remain a mere legal document but becomes a catalyst for positive change in the lives of children across the country. She said that the enactment of the Children’s Code Act stands as a remarkable milestone in the administration of child justice in Zambia, reflecting the government’s unwavering commitment to protect and support the rights of children.

One of the key priorities highlighted by Ms. Nalumango was the need to focus on capacity building for individuals involved in child justice. The Act’s primary focus is on the protection of child victims and witnesses during investigative and judicial processes. It acknowledges the vulnerability of children in such circumstances and provides essential safeguards to ensure their well-being and rights are upheld.

The official launch of Child Justice Week featured the theme, “Collaborative Implementation of the Children’s Code Act: Transforming Child Justice in Zambia.” The week-long event will see various stakeholders coming together to discuss and facilitate the effective enforcement of the Children’s Code Act.

Deputy Chief Justice Michael Musonda also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the significance of Child Justice Week as an opportunity to reflect on the progress achieved in implementing the Children’s Code Act. He urged all stakeholders to recommit themselves to the cause of child justice, ensuring that the Act is executed effectively for the betterment of children in Zambia.

Justice Musonda further underscored the collective responsibility of society in caring for children, emphasizing that the way a country cares for its children is a significant measure of its character.

The collaborative efforts of the government, stakeholders, and the public will play a crucial role in transforming the Children’s Code Act from a legal document into a powerful tool for positive change in the lives of children throughout Zambia.

PCCZ Cautions Men on Prostate Cancer Testing: Early Detection Key to Survival

2

Prostate Cancer Campaign Zambia (PCCZ), a leading organization dedicated to raising awareness about the prevalence of prostate cancer, is urging men aged 40 and above to prioritize regular prostate cancer check-ups. The organization, led by Founder and Executive Director Mike Changwe, emphasizes that early detection plays a pivotal role in improving the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival.

Prostate cancer, a disease that affects a significant number of men globally, can often be successfully treated if diagnosed in its early stages. Mr. Changwe highlights that procedures like radical prostatectomy surgery have proven effective in treating the disease when detected early.

Statistics have indicated that men are at risk of developing prostate cancer, and the causes behind this concerning trend remain largely unknown. According to Mr. Changwe, one of the major contributing factors to the high mortality rate associated with prostate cancer is the lack of awareness and understanding among men.

“Too many men are reluctant to seek medical attention until the cancer has reached an advanced stage, often leading to the spread of the disease to other vital organs,” Mr. Changwe said. This delay in seeking medical help significantly reduces the available treatment options and diminishes the chances of positive outcomes.

PCCZ’s mission extends beyond urban areas, with a commitment to reaching even the most remote regions of Zambia, where healthcare access and awareness may be limited. Mike Changwe has acknowledged the commendable efforts by the Ministry of Health in raising awareness about breast and cervical cancer. However, he emphasizes the need for the government to allocate additional resources to preventive measures and support training programs for healthcare providers.

“Equipping healthcare professionals in every center with the knowledge and skills will help detect and manage prostate cancer cases effectively,” Mr. Changwe emphasized. He highlighted that prostate cancer is not a contagious or shameful disease, but rather a health challenge that can be managed and, in many cases, prevented with the right knowledge and resources.

Taking a proactive approach to prostate cancer through regular check-ups and early detection can potentially save lives and reduce the suffering caused by this disease. PCCZ continues to be at the forefront of the campaign to spread awareness and education about prostate cancer, with the ultimate goal of improving the health and well-being of men across Zambia.

Therefore, men are encouraged to take charge of their health and prioritize regular prostate cancer check-ups. By doing so, they not only increase their chances of early detection and successful treatment but also contribute to the overall well-being of the community. Prostate cancer is a challenge that can be effectively managed with the right knowledge, resources, and proactive healthcare practices.