Wednesday, May 14, 2025
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Government Confirms Former President Lungu’s Immunity Intact, Calls for Responsible Opposition Critique

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In a press briefing held in Lusaka, Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa reaffirmed that former President Edgar Lungu’s legal immunity remains intact, and the government has no intention of revoking it. Mr. Mweetwa clarified, however, that Mr. Lungu’s immunity does not extend to his family members, and he emphasized that law enforcement agencies are not prohibited from investigating them.

Speaking on behalf of the Zambian government, Mr. Mweetwa, who also serves as the Information and Media Minister, underscored President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to ushering in a new era of politics centered on peace and reconciliation.

Mr. Mweetwa expressed concern over what the government views as a deliberate campaign by the opposition Patriotic Front (PF) to misinform the nation and the international community regarding Mr. Lungu’s legal status. He stated that claims of victimization are unfounded and urged for a more responsible approach to political discourse.

Addressing the recent call by the Consortium of Opposition Political Parties for a national dialogue, Mr. Mweetwa welcomed the initiative, emphasizing President Hichilema’s willingness to engage in candid discussions on matters of national importance.

However, Mr. Mweetwa raised questions about the moral credibility of Citizens First Leader Harry Kalaba and Socialist Party President Fred M’Membe for forming an alliance with a political party they previously labeled as the most violent during the lead-up to the last General Elections. He called for a consistent and principled approach to political alliances and cooperation.

Turning to other matters, Mr. Mweetwa clarified that the newly acquired Zambia Airways plane has no connection to President Hichilema’s name, dismissing allegations made by some opposition leaders. He stressed that the government welcomes constructive critique from the opposition on substantive matters and encourages them to provide credible checks and balances.

Mr.Mweetwa reaffirmed the governments committment to fostering an environment of open dialogue, transparency, and accountability while upholding the rule of law and respecting the legal rights of all citizens, including former officials.

Chitanda Lumamba Hospital Commissioned in Central Province to Enhance Healthcare

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President Hakainde Hichilema yesterday commissioned the Chitanda Lumamba Hospital in Chiyuni, Chibombo District, Central Province.This achievement was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Fountain of Hope Africa, the Seventh Day Adventist Church, and local leadership.

President Hichilema said the governments committment to ensuring the delivery of quality healthcare services remains unwavering. He said the government has been actively recruiting additional healthcare professionals to bridge the gap between service providers and patients, demonstrating its dedication to enhancing healthcare access and quality across the nation.

During the inauguration ceremony, a resounding commitment to promoting development and inclusivity echoed through the words of the speakers. They emphasized the importance of engaging citizens from both the private and public sectors to work together harmoniously towards achieving the best possible outcomes for the nation.

The leaders present called upon traditional leaders across the country to unite and foster national unity in the pursuit of development. Recognizing the hospital’s origin as an initiative of the local community and cooperating partners, they urged those with the means to contribute to their places of origin and support such vital projects.

Foreign National Sentenced to Five Years for Illegal Lion Skin Possession in Sesheke

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In a recent development in Sesheke, the Subordinate Court has handed down a five-year prison sentence to a foreign national, Edward Mushanana, aged 50, hailing from Botswana. Mr. Mushanana was found guilty of illegally possessing a lion skin weighing 12.7 kilograms.

The arrest occurred when Mr. Mushanana was apprehended along with three others: Kennedy Mbanga, a 33-year-old Namibian national, and two Zambians, George Itwi (57) and Chris Mukena (42). The four individuals were taken into custody in Sesheke as they attempted to sell the lion skin without the requisite certificate of ownership issued by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW).

The charges brought against the group include one count of illegal possession of a prescribed trophy, namely one lion skin. In a court appearance at the Sesheke Subordinate Court, Edward Mushanana pleaded guilty to the charge. Consequently, he received a five-year prison sentence for his involvement in the illegal possession of the lion skin.

On the other hand, the remaining three individuals, Kennedy Mbanga, George Itwi, and Chris Mukena, entered pleas of not guilty. The trial for these defendants is ongoing as the legal proceedings continue.

In a separate incident, tragedy struck in the Eastern Province of Zambia when a 17-year-old boy from Kankomba village, identified as Aaron Nguni, lost his life to a hippopotamus attack on the Luangwa River. Aaron, a pupil at Kanga Community School in Chief Chikwa’s area, was bathing in the river along with his brother when the incident occurred.

Sakabilo Kalemwe, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Tourism, confirmed the heartbreaking incident. The Department of Wildlife swiftly responded to the incident by eliminating the aggressive hippo to ensure the safety of the local community.

Zambia Face DR Congo in 2024 Fifa Women’s U20 World Cup Qualifier

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Zambia on Saturday begins the 2024 Colombia FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign with a home match against DR Congo in Lusaka.

Zambia and Congo clash in the second round, first leg qualifier at Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka.

Young Shepolopolo coach Charles Haalubono has named his final 18-member squad for this match.

Haalubono believes in his squad to deliver victory against the Congolese.

“We have prepared well and as usual, we train to win so we are prepared for the game. We have a good pool of players; it’s just up to them to prove themselves. The players are good and are ready,” Haalubono said in a pre-match comment.

He added: “I like the pressure because it motivates me and it also motivates our players because that is what everyone is thinking of. If our seniors can do it, we can also do it and we are taking that as a positive.

The second leg is set for Kinshasa next weekend.

ZAMBI FINAL SQUAD

GOALKEEPERS

Chitete Munsaka (Elite Ladies), Christine Hosolo (Indeni Roses)

DEFENDERS

Luty Kamanga, Melissa Mataba (both YASA), Roydah Ng’andu (ZESCO Ndola Girls), Jane Mulenga (Indeni Roses), Martha Banda, Monica Mutisa (both Green Buffaloes), Tionge Sambo (ZANACO Ladies)

MIDFIELDERS

Tisilile Lungu (ZANACO Ladies), Shelly Masumo (Trident Queens), Lucy Kajiya, Lubasi Pumulo (both Green Buffaloes)

STRIKERS

Mercy Chipasula (Kamfinsa Police Blue Eagles), Esnart Mukubwe (Red Arrows), Mary Mbewe (Zesco Ndola Girls), Lydia Shamalima, Elizabeth Mwale (both ZISD)

Government Dispels Claims of Partisan Allocation of Constituency Development Fund

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Vice President Mutale Nalumango Addresses Concerns in National Assembly

In a recent session of the National Assembly, Vice President Mutale Nalumango addressed concerns surrounding the allocation of the 2023 Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and dismissed allegations of partisan distribution. The Vice President emphasized that the government’s allocation of CDF funds was not based on political affiliations but rather on the utilization rates within constituencies.

Responding to a question posed by Bwacha Member of Parliament Sydney Mushanga, who inquired about the perceived preferential treatment of constituencies held by United Party for National Development (UPND) MPs, Vice President Nalumango clarified the government’s stance.

Mrs. Nalumango asserted that the speed at which CDF funds are released is directly linked to the utilization rates within individual constituencies. CDF money, she explained, is disbursed in accordance with how efficiently and effectively the funds allocated for various projects are being utilized.

Expressing her concern, the Vice President noted that constituencies failing to efficiently use the money allocated to them have a detrimental impact on others that are diligently implementing projects in a timely manner. This approach, she emphasized, was designed to promote transparency and accountability in the allocation and utilization of public funds.

Furthermore, Vice President Nalumango urged Members of Parliament to work collaboratively and ensure that allocated funds are utilized promptly. By doing so, she explained, the government could release the next round of CDF funds to all constituencies simultaneously, regardless of their political affiliation.

Govt. to introduce an agriculture credit facility-President Hichilema

President Hakainde Hichilema says government wants to introduce an agriculture credit facility to supplement the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) to enhance productivity.

President Hichilema notes that FISP is not adequate to address the needs of the small scale farmers in the country.

He said this when he met Central Province chiefs in Chibombo District where he is scheduled to commission Chitanda Lumamba Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church mini hospital.

He observed that Zambia has fertile land to increase the production capacity can which can be done through the introduction of a credit facility.

The Head of State also stresses the need for irrigation stating that the government explore ways to encourage irrigation among individual farmers.

And the Head of State has called for partnership in all aspects of development because growth can only be achieved with strong partnerships.

He has commended Keembe Member of Parliament, Princess Kasune , for working with the Fountain of Life Africa and the local traditional leadership to construct the mini hospital in the area.

President Hichilema said government would send health workers to the health facility which will be run by the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) church in order to improve health care services.

“These are the types of partnerships we want to serve the people in the chiefdoms. We want government to work with other partners and chiefs to develop the grassroots especially with the increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF),” he noted.

Meanwhile, President Hichilema has advised chiefs to seek amicable solutions to succession disputes as opposed to taking each other to court.

The Head of State stressed that they should consult other traditional leaders who can help explain the process of succession to resolve the differences.

President Hichilema further stated that government will not sideline any traditional leader in its developmental agenda especially with the increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

“This is because chiefs as custodians of the people understand the developmental needs of the people at grassroot level,” he said.

President Hichilema arrived at Chitanda Lumamba hospital grounds at 10:40 hours and was received by Minister of Health Sylvia Masebo, Minister of Local Government Garry Nkhomba and Central Province Minister Princess Kasune , senior government and UPND party officials.

He is scheduled to fly back to Lusaka soon after commissioning the mini hospital.

CBU lecturer nabbed for sexual gratification

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The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has arrested a Copperbelt University (CBU) lecturer for corrupt practices involving sexual gratification from a named female student.

ACC Head of Corporate Communications, Timothy Moono said Webby Mulyata Mwaka 43, a Lecturer in the School of Engineering, at CBU has been charged for sexual gratification.

Mr Moono notes that Dr Mwaka of Jambo Drive Campus, has been charged with one (1) count of abuse of authority of office contrary to Section 21(c) of the Anti-Corruption Act Number 3 of 2012.

“Details are that Dr. Mwaka on dates unknown but between 1st January 2023 and 3rd October 2023 in Kitwe, did abuse the authority of his office to corruptly solicit sexual gratification from a named female Copperbelt University student as an inducement or reward for himself to help her pass her course, a matter or transaction that concerns the Copperbelt University, a Public Body,” he said.

Mr Moono said Dr. Mwaka has since been released on bond and will appear in court soon.

He added that a month ago, the Commission arrested two other CBU Lecturers on similar charges.

Mr Moono further said the Commission is concerned with the rise in offences of this nature and has appealed to all victims of such immoral and criminal acts not to shy away from reporting such incidents.

He said the incidences of sexual gratification should be reported to the ACC so that corruption in all its forms is eliminated.

This is contained in a statement availed to today.

 

Teachers drowns on teachers day

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A 28 year old teacher of Stela –Malis private school in Kitwe district has drowned during the teachers day celebration at sunset pleasure resort.

Copperbelt province Police commanding Officer Peacewell Mweemba said Pathious Mulenga 29 who was in the company of 18 teachers from the same school went to commemorate teacher’s day where he drowned in a swimming pool.

“ Brief facts of the matter are that on 5 October 10 2023  around 09.00hrs, the deceased in the company of other eighteen (18) teachers left their school located in Twatasha township for the Teacher’s Day celebration at Sunset Pleasure Resort, Zamtan area off Kitwe-Ndola dual carriageway.

In the course of their celebration around 15.30hrs, they all went for a swim in the pool at the same resort,” Mr Mweemba said.

He added that unfortunately, the deceased was only noticed to be at the bottom of the pool and unable to come out.

He said fellow teachers pulled Mulenga out and tried to give him first Aid.

“When they saw that the condition was not improving, they immediately rushed him to Wusakile Mine Hospital where he was unfortunately pronounced dead,” he stated.

Mr Mweemba said a report was then made by Fred Chilufya 28 on behalf of the school.

 He added that Police have since opened up an Inquiry file and the body has been inspected but no physical injuries have been observed.

He further added the body was taken to Kitwe Teaching Hospital mortuary.

President Hichilema to attend inauguration of the Nacala port in Mozambique

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President Hakainde Hichilema is on Saturday October 7th  2023, expected to attend the inauguration of the upgraded Nacala Port in Nampula Province, in the Republic of Mozambique

Host President Filipe Nyusi and Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera will also attend the inauguration ceremony.

As the deepest port in southern Africa, the Port of Nacala has the capacity to handle 30 million tons of coal per year and the potential to become a transport corridor for Zambia, Malawi and South Africa.

Since 2014, the port of Nacala has undergone repair works of port berths, installation of new equipment to modernize fuel operations, construction of a new railway terminal, upgrading the liquid bulk terminal and upgrading container operations with rubber-tired gantry cranes.

All these upgrades are aimed at improving operations at the port.

And speaking in an interview in Nacala district, Zambian High Commissioner to Mozambique Mary Chirwa disclosed that  while in Mozambique President Hakainde Hichilema, President Filipe Nyusi and President Lazarus Chakwera are expected to sign the tripartite institutional agreement on the Nacala Development Corridor agreement, while Ministers responsible for transport in the three countries will sign agreements in the areas of road and rail.

Ms. Chirwa stated that these agreements will result in enhanced cross-border coordination in the planning and development of physical infrastructure, lower operating costs and reducing travel times by transporters which will ultimately improve and stimulate regional connectivity and integration through the implementation of harmonized trade facilitation instruments, transport policies, laws, regulation and standards for efficient cross-border transport, easing the movements of goods and services, boost private sector investments, create jobs and foster economic growth in the three countries.

The Zambian envoy further stressed that the agreements will also result in unlocking the business potential along the corridor through effective participation of small and medium enterprises in economic value chains

The Nacala Development corridor is a Multi-Model Transport and logistics infrastructure network traversing 1, 710 Kilometers within and through the republics of Malawi, Zambia and Mozambique.

In Zambia, the corridor passes through Nyimba, Petauke, Katete, sinda, Chadiza, Chipata, Mambwe, Lundazi and Chama in the Eastern Part of Zambia and Luangwa, Rufunsa, Chongwe and Lusaka in Lusaka province as well as Chama district in Muchinga Province

Zambia Bench Defends Quality of COSAFA Womens Cup Team

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The Shepolopolo Zambia coaching bench is under fire after starting the COSAFA Cup campaign with a disappointing goalless draw against Mozambique in South Africa on Thursday.

Mozambique gave champions Zambia a tough match in their Group B match at Lucas Moripe Stadium.

Coach Bruce Mwape’s bench has carried local players to South Africa.

In a post match comment, assistant coach Florence Mwila defended the decision to carry local players for the COSAFA Cup trip.

Mwila said champions Zambia want to defend the COSAFA Cup title while glooming players for the future.

She said Zambia was determined to defend their maiden COSAFA Cup despite pressure.

“We knew that it was not going to be easy playing against Mozambique but we didn’t expect a draw,” Mwila said.

“We have about 15 new players in the team with some of them playing national matches for the first time,” Mwila said.

“When you are defending champion there is always pressure, everyone has to come prepared for you,” she said.

Mwila added:”Defending COSAFA is a priority and grooming is another thing. This is an opportunity to see other players.”

Cleo Ice Queen’s “Ma Zale” Music Video: A Zambian Hip-Hop Adventure

Cleo ice queen Ma Zale

Zambia’s music scene is buzzing, and Cleo Ice Queen is a shining star. Her latest music video, “Ma Zale,” featuring Jae Cash and Dizmo, is a thrilling ride through Zambian rap culture, with Lo behind the camera. Let’s dive into this exciting piece of art.

Three Hip-Hop Heroes

“Ma Zale” brings together Cleo Ice Queen, Jae Cash, and Dizmo, each known for their unique rap styles. Together, they make an unbeatable team.

 

 

Starlink Launches Business Services in Zambia, Partnering with Paratus Group

Access to cutting-edge technology and information has taken a significant leap forward in Zambia as Starlink, a global leader in satellite internet services, has officially launched its business services in the country. This milestone follows a reseller agreement between Starlink and Paratus Group, a pan-African telecommunications, data center, and network services provider.

Paratus Zambia, a subsidiary of Paratus Group, is playing a pivotal role in bringing Starlink’s high-speed broadband internet services to businesses in Zambia. Marius van Vuuren, Country Manager of Paratus Zambia, expressed his excitement about this initiative, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of the Zambian government, regulatory authorities, and Starlink in making this cutting-edge technology accessible to the Zambian market.

Mr. van Vuuren stated, “We recognize and applaud the hard work done by our government, regulator, and other authorities, in conjunction with Starlink, in ensuring this leading-edge technology is available to the Zambian market. As Paratus, we pride ourselves on being technology and telecommunication leaders, and being directly involved with Starlink aligns with this.”

Mr. van Vuuren emphasized their readiness to deliver Starlink services efficiently, stating, “We have our own stock on-site here in Lusaka, and this means we will be able to deliver and provide an installation service and technical support expeditiously.”

Starlink, renowned for its high-speed, scalable satellite internet services, is designed to provide reliable connectivity to businesses regardless of their location. It offers primary business connectivity, backup solutions, interim setups, and emergency services. With an impressive network uptime exceeding 99%, Starlink ensures uninterrupted operations for its customers.

Paratus Zambia’s partnership with Starlink not only brings fixed and mobility services to business customers but also guarantees 24/7 technical support. This collaboration is expected to benefit various industries, including energy, mining, hospitality, education, healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and more, by providing them with dependable connectivity, even in remote areas.

ZICA Calls for Auditing of Constituency Development Fund Utilization

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The Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants (ZICA) has expressed concerns regarding the lack of consolidated audits on the utilization of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). ZICA President Yande Mwenye has called for the auditing of CDF expenditure and emphasized the importance of ensuring that those responsible for managing public funds are adequately trained.

Ms. Mwenye made these remarks during the Post Budget Analysis for 2024, organized by FNB and held at Garden Court in Kitwe. She appealed to the government to establish clear oversight mechanisms for the use of CDF to ensure transparency and accountability.

In a positive note, Ms. Mwenye commended the government’s proposal to increase the allocation of CDF to each constituency. The allocation is set to rise from the current K2.83 Million to K30.6 Million in the 2024 National Budget. This move is part of the government’s plan to allocate a total of K4.8 Billion to CDF in the coming year.

The call for auditing and increased oversight of CDF utilization reflects the growing concern for transparent and efficient management of public funds in Zambia. ZICA’s recommendations aim to enhance accountability and ensure that CDF funds are directed toward projects that benefit local communities and contribute to national development.

Speaker Nelly Mutti Receives Commonwealth Parliamentarian of the Year 2023 Award

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The Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, Nelly Mutti, has been honored with the prestigious Commonwealth Parliamentarian of the Year 2023 award. This recognition was bestowed upon her during the 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference held in Accra, Ghana.

Ms. Mutti’s outstanding achievements and dedication to her parliamentary duties were acknowledged by the selection committee, which conducted a thorough adjudication process involving eight nominations from across the Commonwealth. Her unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting transparency in parliamentary processes, and ensuring citizens’ access to parliamentary information and proceedings were commended by the committee.

In her acceptance speech, Speaker Nelly Mutti graciously dedicated the award to all female parliamentarians in the Commonwealth. She highlighted the collective efforts of women in the field of politics and their ongoing endeavors to achieve gender parity in parliaments worldwide.

This recognition not only reflects Ms. Mutti’s individual accomplishments but also serves as a testament to the significant strides made by Zambia in parliamentary governance and the promotion of gender equality.

Over 2.3 Million Children Return to School under Free Education Policy

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The government’s implementation of the free education policy has resulted in over 2.3 million children returning to school, ensuring greater access to education without discrimination, according to Education Minister Douglas Syakalima. The policy has been instrumental in providing educational opportunities for children across the country.

Speaking during this year’s World Teachers Day commemoration, Minister Syakalima highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of teachers and improving their living standards. Acknowledging the pivotal role teachers play in the education system, he emphasized the need for educators to continue advancing themselves professionally.

Daphne Chimuka, Chairperson of the Teaching Service Commission, revealed that the pupil-teacher ratio has been impacted by the implementation of the free education policy. To address this issue, she stressed the importance of the government’s continued recruitment of teachers as a means of improving the teacher-pupil ratio.

UNESCO Representative Remmy Mukonka also weighed in on the global teacher shortage issue, affirming its significance and the need for action on a global scale. Addressing the teacher shortage is a collective challenge that requires attention and solutions at both national and international levels.

The government’s commitment to improving education access and supporting its teaching workforce has been a cornerstone of its education policy. As the country continues to focus on education development, it remains poised to address challenges and ensure that every child receives a quality education.