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FAZ Chief Celebrates Copper Queens’ WAFCON Qualification

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FAZ Chief Celebrates Copper Queens’ WAFCON Qualification

In an official press statement, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) extended its heartfelt congratulations to the Zambia Women National Team, the Copper Queens, for securing qualification to the Morocco 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations. This triumph follows a resounding 6-0 victory over Angola on the night and an impressive 12-0 aggregate score.

FAZ President, Andrew Kamanga, expressed his pride in the Copper Queens, applauding their consecutive qualification for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Kamanga emphasized that the team has not only made the nation proud but has also solidified its status as a regular contender on the international stage.

“On behalf of my executive committee and myself, I wish to congratulate the Copper Queens and the technical bench for sealing qualification to next year’s WAFCON,” stated Kamanga. “The Copper Queens brand has continued to grow and establish itself as a regular at international tournaments.”

Highlighting the team’s consistent improvement, Kamanga remarked on their progressive performances at each tournament. With qualification secured, he outlined the next steps, focusing on laying the groundwork for thorough preparations.

“Like we have done for any single team that has qualified for major tournaments, we will liaise with the technical bench over an intensive preparatory program,” Kamanga assured.

The FAZ president extended his gratitude to the passionate fans who turned up at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola to support the Copper Queens during their historic debut at the 44,000-capacity stadium. He urged fans to continue rallying behind the team with the same enthusiasm.

“Thanks to the fans that thronged Levy Mwanawasa Stadium that lit the atmosphere and gave our girls an extra push. We urge the fans to continue with the same spirit,” Kamanga expressed his appreciation. He also recognized the efforts of the FAZ secretariat staff, acknowledging their hard work in making the qualification a reality.

The Copper Queens’ stellar performance on Tuesday evening, securing a 6-0 victory over Angola, showed their dominance and determination, culminating in a commanding 12-0 aggregate triumph.

Stakeholders Express Disappointment as Parliament Rejects Motion on Sign Language and Braille

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Stakeholders Express Disappointment as Parliament Rejects Motion on Sign Language and Braille

In North Western Province, several stakeholders have conveyed disappointment in response to Parliament’s decision to reject a motion advocating for the introduction of sign language and Braille writing as optional subjects in all public schools. The motion aimed to address communication barriers for individuals with visual and hearing impairments.

Simona Mubiana, Assistant Provincial Coordinator of the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD), expressed his dismay, terming the motion as progressive and potentially beneficial for the nation. He proposed that the government should reconsider and make sign language a compulsory subject, integrated into the curriculum from Primary to Secondary Schools.

“It is unfortunate that members of parliament have rejected a motion that could have helped to address the communication barriers that exist among the visually impaired, people with hearing impairments, and abled individuals in the country,” remarked Mr. Mubiana.

He emphasized that the rejection of such a motion indirectly promotes inequality, contradicting Zambia’s 2023 vision of becoming a prosperous middle-income country without leaving anyone behind. Mubiana referenced Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 10, emphasizing the need to reduce inequalities through deliberate policies and programs.

Supporting the motion, according to Mr. Mubiana, would have facilitated more effective communication, enabling the future generation to express themselves without depending on interpreters. He expressed concerns about the existing communication barriers, particularly in public service sectors like health, where reliance on interpreters can lead to violations of human rights ethics regarding confidentiality.

Mr. Mubiana urged the church to invest in and incorporate an interpreter’s department to accommodate all congregants, including those with visual and hearing impairments.

Setty Maseka, the Provincial Organizing Secretary of the Zambia National Union of Teacher (ZNUT), shared the sentiment of disappointment. He stressed that the rejection is not only a setback for individuals with hearing and visual impairments but for the education sector as a whole.

“Sign language and Braille writing play a significant role in fostering inclusivity by providing communication accessibility to individuals with hearing and visual impairment,” noted Mr. Maseka.

He implored the National Assembly to reconsider the motion, emphasizing its potential benefits in promoting inclusive education and ensuring that no one is left behind. Last Wednesday, Acting Minister of Community Development and Social Services Rodney Sikumba argued that the motion could not proceed, citing the government’s prior introduction of Braille and Sign Language as optional subjects in the Zambia curriculum framework of 2013.

I was sent to Chimbokaila for fighting for restructure of student loan policies!

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I was sent to Chimbokaila for fighting for restructure of student loan policies!

I spent 8 days at Central Police and one day at Chimbokaila before being released on bail for a case called “Idle and disorderly”, a misdemeanor case which is also given to people for curfew (Shishita). At Chimbokaila, I was in cell 13, the same cell where president Hakainde Hichilema was when he was arrested for treason.

That is why, when I Iook at the people taking credit for a fight they were not even a part of, and a raw deal, it makes me laugh.

We started fighting for the restructure of the HELSB policies in 2018. In 2021 during campaigns, the president simpathized with us and promised that he was going to remove the high and draconian interest rate and monthly deductions which sometimes goes up to 60% of an individuals basic salary immediately he was voted into power, but this was not the case. The fight solidified in 2022 after I launched a massive mobilisation campaign on social media and other media platforms. We formed a committee called the HELSB Restructure Campaign Committee (HELSB-RCC) from a WhatsApp group comprising of at least 850 graduates and students. The committee has played a huge part in terns of planning and contributing resources for programs such that without it, nothing would have happened and I would have been in jail right now.

We started by petitioning HELSB in April 2022, then I did a lone naked protest on 21st May, 2022 where I delivered a petition letter to the ministry of Education. The PS, Mr. Joel Kamoko called us for a meeting, and we concluded that we, as stakeholders, should submit a concept note (position paper) outlining our proposals and that after that, we were going to be called for restructure committee meetings so that we could participate in the restructure process. We were never called for any meeting even after making necessary follow ups, therefore, the restructure was not transparent or participatory.

When nothing happened and our proposals were not included in the 2024 national budget, I did another naked lone protest on 28th September, 2023 where I intended to take a petition to state house. That was when I was arrested taken to Chimbokaila. Many of you saw it, I was holding a pamela and cooking oil in a small plastic, you just thought I was protesting against high cost of living because you didn’t read what was on the placard I was holding. The HESB-RCC committee pushed for my bail and sourced for a lawyer for me through contributions. When I got out, I found that the landlady was a UPND member who even has a position at constituency level, she chased me out of the house, she even reported me at the police station that I was refusing to move out, I had to find a house at a sudden notice and shifted.

The reduction of the interest rate which was done by the government is just a small component of the proposals which we made and a political mingalato(gimmick) which does not even address the many challenges which graduates are facing due to student loans. So it’s only the government, praise singers and uniformed poor students who are celebrating the change they know nothing about. Therefore, we are still organizing a bush protest since the police refused to allow us to go ahead with a normal protest to show our displeasure.

What we proposed was
1. Reduction of high interest rate
2. Reduction of high monthly charges
3. Stopping penalties accrued by unemployed graduates
4. The government to rescind it’s decision to list poor and unemployed graduates on the TransUnion’s Credit Reference Bureau.

By DAVID CHISHIMBA
HELSB-RCC COORDINATOR

CEC announces registration of Zambia’s First Green Bond

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CEC announces registration of Zambia’s First Green Bond

Copperbelt Energy Corporation Plc (CEC) has announced the registration of its green bond with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the sidelines of the COP 28 Climate Summit.

This registration of the Green Bond is a first for Zambia’s capital markets and is expected to attract more green finance in the country.

Making the announcement during the Climate Summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Energy Day, CEC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Owen Silavwe, said, “We are pleased to announce the registration of our US$200 million Green Bond, structured as a programme, whose proceeds will accelerate the actualisation of our ambitions to generate at least 200MW of renewable energy and specifically solar energy with possible storage implementation.”

Speaking at the same function, Minister of Green Economy and Environment Engineer Collins Nzovu said the Zambian Government has developed a Green Growth strategy, which is part of its aspiration to become a prosperous middle-income country by 2023.

He said the Green Growth strategy is Zambia’s blueprint for greening the economy and the environment by deliberately pursuing a development trajectory that is resource efficient, low carbon, climate resilient and socially inclusive.

He added that the Government has put in place two regulatory frames that are being leveraged to raise green investments, these being the Green Bonds Framework issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2019 and the Green Loans Framework issued by the Bank of Zambia.

Eng. Njovu congratulated CEC for successfully registering the country’s Debut Green Bond, further commending the private sector’s leadership in showcasing Zambia’s prowess in the green energy transition.

The US$200 million bond programme has its first tranche of US$54 million, closing by the end of the year.

The lead arrangers of the Green Bond are Cygnum Capital, with Emerging Africa Investment Fund (EAIF), as cornerstone investors in partnership with Absa Group.

“We are proud to have been the lead arrangers for CEC’s Green Bond”, Cygnum Capital representative, James Doree said. “It demonstrates how the combination of a strong sponsor, a transparent policy framework and supportive anchor investor can drive private sector solutions to the green energy transition.”

“We are thrilled to be the cornerstone investor to the first Zambian green bond programme,” said Paromita Chatterjee (representative of the Emerging Africa Investment Fund, a Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) company).

He added that he is confident that this avenue of financing will complement the traditional financing options to fast-track energy transition.

“Our partnership with the sponsor has made it possible to actualise the ingenious financing,” said Theuns Ehlers, Head of Project Finance at Absa Group. “Having a sponsor with strong operational and financial capabilities has helped the structuring and bankability of a private-to-private project finance bond raise. Therefore, we are very proud to be associated with this transaction.”

Adding to the conversation, the Securities and Exchange Commission Director for Market Supervision and Development, Nonde Sichilima said, “The announcement of the registration of the Green Bond is a positive development for our capital markets. We anticipate that it will catalyse the listing of more green bonds as a means of capital raising for green initiatives and contribute towards deepening capital in our country.”

The proceeds from the bond, will be deployed towards further solar generation investments within the CEC Group through CEC Renewables.

CEC Renewables is an investment vehicle established by the CEC Group, through which renewable energy development is actualised.

“We began our renewable energy journey, particularly in solar generation five years ago and our announcement today is an affirmation of our commitment to support Zambia’s green energy transition,” said Mr Silavwe.

The Bond will open and close within December 2023.

Barbra Banda Soaks in WAFCON Qualification and Salutes Copperbelt Fans

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Shepolopolo Zambia Captain Barbra Banda has hailed her team’s qualification to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup to be hosted by Morocco.

Zambia qualified for the Africa Cup with a 12-0 aggregate win over Angola.

The Bruce Mwape coached side on Tuesday night secured qualification with a 6-0 home win against Angola at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola after winning the away first leg with an identical score-line in Luanda seven days earlier.

In a post-match comment, Banda has attributed Zambia’s third consecutive WAFCON qualification to teamwork.

“Qualification to the WAFCON is sealed,” Banda wrote on her official face-book page.

“Great effort from the whole team and thank you ba Ndola for the support,” she stated.

This is the fourth appearance Zambia will be making at the WAFCON.

Jailing of Kambwili; good lesson for other tribalists!

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Jailing of Kambwili; good lesson for other tribalists!

We’ve no time celebrating or rejoicing over the sentencing of any human being to prison where they’ll have to swap their designer clothes for the orange garb and get to work undertaking backbreaking chores such as growing cabbages and tomatoes and of course, getting themselves soiled tending to pigs! We are a God fearing people……peace loving, in fact.

However, we have little or no sympathy for one Chishimba Kambwili for the unfortunate situation he finds himself in. In case you are not in the loop, the Kasama Magistrates court has handed him a 5 months jail sentence for the offence of expressing hatred and ridicule of the people of Southern province based on tribe and place of origin. Videos of Kambwili energetically uttering disparaging tribal remarks and spewing venom on a certain ethinic group as one of the former senior leaders of PF who is also an MP smiles, eagerly are available on social media.

Kambwili is not a stranger to stirring controversy on issues of tribe; he is a danger to this nation. As a matter of fact, prior to the 2021 general elections, the Electoral Commission of Zambia had censured and briefly banned him from the campaign trail for committing similar offences as the leadership of PF at the time remained tight lipped on the matter.

And way back in 2009, Local Government and Housing Minister at the time, Hon. Benny Tetamashimba, had requested Patriotic Front (PF) president Michael Sata to discipline his Roan Member of Parliament Chishimba Kambwili for insulting the humble people of North-Western province during a public rally in Kitwe. During the rally, Kambwili blamed the people of Luanshya for having voted for Labour and Social Security Deputy Minister Simon Kachimba as Member of Parliament for the area, saying he knew a lot of well meaning and successful Luvales, but not Mr Kachimba.

Why should Kambwili always bring in the issue of tribe whenever he’s conducting his politics? Pitying one ethnic grouping against another isn’t healthy in a nation which is already polarised. We praise God for President Hakainde Hichilema who is already trying hard to reunite our nation by taking development to every corner of the nation and assembling a government that represents a national character.

Unfortunately, it seems our colleagues in PF and certain opposition political parties are are not comfortable with certain tribes! Whenever a golden opportunity presents itself, you’ll see them go to town demeaning and scandalizing those tribes. We’ve seen this from former cabinet ministers, senior members of the party and some of their MPs. We ought to remind these individuals that the genocide in Rwanda was a culmination of decades of division and incitement of hatred towards the Tutsi by extremists in the country’s leadership, which was controlled by members of the Hutu majority group.

It’s important to reiterate that there are still a few individuals still on the loose out there, including Patriotic Front MPs and so called opposition leaders. They remain unrepentant in as far promoting hate speech is concerned. Like rabid dogs, they have little trouble poking and provoking other ethnic groups by continuously stereotyping or labelling them.

We’d like to sound a clarion call to the police not to hesitate to bring to book such enemies of the people and subject them court processes where appropriate punishment will be prescribed to them as an example to other would be culprits.

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a

Political/Social Analyst

Seeking Answers: Accountability in Zambia’s Gassing Saga

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Seeking Answers: Accountability in Zambia’s Gassing Saga

By Mischeck Kakonde

Zambia’s recent history has been shrouded in a convoluted narrative, a tale woven with elements of
evasive justice, political intricacies, and a labyrinth of unanswered questions. The exoneration of a former presidential advisor Dr Zimba and other implicated individuals, accused in the tragic loss of over 50 lives due to alleged gassing incidents, lays bare the unsettling shadows haunting the nations collective conscience.

The nation bore witness to a saga echoing through its political corridors, leaving citizens perplexed and disheartened. The arrest of the ex-political advisor, purportedly tied to the chaotic gas attacks, carried the weight of governmental assertions and vows of retribution.
However, the passage of time and legal procedures unfurled a different narrative, casting doubt on the allegations against the once-incarcerated political figure. With the acquittal of Dr Zumani Zimba and others accused, a glaring void in accountability emerges, prompting the pressing question: who is genuinely accountable for the tragic gassing incidents that claimed innocent Zambian lives?

The imperative need for truth resonates strongly among the Zambian populace.
The government, swift in leveling accusations, now stands on the brink of accountability. The same
authority that implicated Dr. Zumani Zimba in these serious acts must step into the realm of truth. Zambian citizens, grappling with the aftermath of these harrowing events, demand more than superficial political statements or attempts to placate public sentiment. They clamor for transparency, accountability, and the unmasking of those responsible for these grave state crimes.
Moreover, the revelation that over 50 lives were lost during the gassing episodes demands more than mere acknowledgment. Families shattered by irreparable loss seek not only closure but rightful justice. Hence, the question arises: will the Zambian Attorney General heed the calls for reparation, ensuring that those affected find solace within a justice system that upholds fairness and sanctity? Compensation for the bereaved families, if proven, is a necessity.

Restoring faith in governance and the rule of law necessitates truth, closure, and accountability. Hence, I advocate for an immediate commission of inquiry into this transgression against the Zambian people.Politicians must not merely play to the gallery; the truth regarding the matter, including the names and burial details of the deceased, must be unveiled through this inquiry.
Furthermore, unveiling the names of the victims symbolizes acknowledgment, honoring their memory and reaffirming the pledge to never forget. It should serve as a significant stride towards healing the wounds inflicted on the nation and commemorating those who were tragically taken.

The author is a legal scholar, comparative politics specialist, History and Cultural Studies, expertise in international relations, negotiation, and protocol (ZIDIS). Author of the book “peering into Zambian Cultures, Ceremonies; and contributor in the book “Young Zambia between poverty and abundant resources”. Email: [email protected]

Prosecutors’ Jurisdictional Absence Delays Malanji-Yamba Trial”

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Prosecutors’ Jurisdictional Absence Delays Malanji-Yamba Trial”

The trial of former Foreign Affairs Minister, Joseph Malanji, and former Secretary to the Treasury, Fredson Yamba, faced another delay as prosecutors were reportedly out of jurisdiction. The two officials are jointly charged with corruption and possession of goods deemed to be proceeds of crime.

The matter, brought before Lusaka Resident Magistrate Ireen Washimanga, witnessed State prosecutor Lewis Kandela applying for an adjournment, citing the unavailability of two prosecutors who were out of jurisdiction, with one handling a matter on the Copperbelt. The State sought an adjournment to December 13, 2023.

In response, defense lawyer Jackson Mwamba objected to the application, expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of evidence provided by the prosecutor. Mwamba argued for more details on the prosecutors’ whereabouts, given the seriousness of the matter.

During the court proceeding, lawyer Makebi Zulu echoed concerns about the compelling nature of the reasons for an adjournment, emphasizing the time-consuming nature of repeated delays.

Magistrate Washimanga expressed displeasure with the absence of the two prosecutors and the lack of detailed information about their whereabouts. She emphasized the importance of ensuring the proceedings are conducted efficiently, expressing the view that other prosecutors could attend to the matter.

The case involves charges against Malanji for possession of goods deemed to be proceeds of crime, including a helicopter and the Gibson Royal Hotel in Kitwe. Yamba faces charges related to the alleged transfer of funds to Zambia’s mission account in Turkey for real estate procurement without following applicable laws and procedures.

Magistrate Washimanga adjourned the trial to December 7, 2023, for continuation, as the legal proceedings continue to navigate logistical challenges.

Don’t Politicize the Senseli Tragedy – Dr.Mmembe

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Don’t Politicize the Senseli Tragedy – Dr.Mmembe

Leader of the opposition Socialist Party (SP) Fred M’membe has frowned upon politicking the Senseli mine tragedy that left numerous people trapped.

Featuring on Prime TV’s Oxygen of Democracy yesterday, Dr M’membe shocked the host of the show as he shunned away from politics while commenting on the matter in question.
The host seemingly expected the opposition leader to emulate the stance of other party leaders who have been pointing fingers at government on the tragedy.

Among the many issues raised regarding the matter in question, the politicians in question questioned why President Hakainde Hichilema had opted to stay in Dubai when there was such a tragedy back home.

But in response, Dr M’membe said “I don’t think this is the time to delve into what happened, who is at fault, what went wrong, now our focus is on the recovery of those who have been buried so that there can be a closure for the families. It’s time also to mourn the dead.”
“People are in mourning, people are in grief, pain, I think there will be a time to look at what happened, but not now.”

Dr M’membe said time will come to look at what happened.He said no one should be encouraged to start politicking the matter.

“Ninshita yakulosha ino, and I think let us focus on that. Let’s make it as easy as possible for those who have lost dear ones. Time will come to look at what happened,” he said.
“The focus now is to retrieve the remains, the bodies of those who are perishing in that accident and ensure that you know, they are given a decent burial, and their families are comforted, we mourn with them. It’s a nation in mourning now.”

President Hichilema Urges Calm Among Trapped Miners’ Families, Assures Ongoing Government Support

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President Hichilema Urges Calm Among Trapped Miners’ Families, Assures Ongoing Government Support

In the midst of a grave situation at the Senseli Open-pit mine in Chingola, President Hakainde Hichilema has extended a compassionate plea to the families of approximately 30 miners currently trapped underground. During a meeting at the Chingola Civic Centre, the President urged calm and patience among the affected families, assuring them that the government is exerting every effort to conclude the rescue operation successfully.

President Hichilema, accompanied by government officials, expressed empathy for the families’ distress and urged them not to begin mourning but to focus on prayer, hoping for the safe retrieval of their loved ones. In a gesture of immediate support, the President provided ten thousand Kwacha each to the affected families, acknowledging their endurance and resilience during this challenging period.

Rescue teams at Senseli mine

“Our heartfelt appreciation also goes to the family members who have patiently endured, keeping vigil at the site while awaiting any news about their loved ones. We express our deepest sympathy and understanding of their anguish.The small-scale miners engaged in these activities are our fellow Zambians, whom the UPND government is committed to empowering with mining skills and equipment. This empowerment aims to ensure safe mining practices and prevent tragic accidents.
Fellow citizens, in the face of past tragedies, we have set aside our differences and united, working and praying together as one nation under one God.
Today, we witnessed the industrious and hardworking nature of our people, showcasing their determination to earn a living. Therefore, it is our duty as a government and as a people to harness our human resources by facilitating a secure work environment through stringent safety regulations,” President Hichilema said

A representative of the affected families, Dorothy Kangwa, conveyed gratitude to the government for its support and the initiation of the rescue operation. The President’s visit and personal interaction with the families underscored the government’s commitment to standing in solidarity with those affected by the tragic incident.

In a separate address to the nation, President Hichilema expressed admiration for the dedicated rescue teams working tirelessly to save the trapped miners. His visit to the mine emphasized not only the gravity of the situation but also the government’s dedication to leading with empathy and action during times of crisis.

The unfolding events have captivated the nation, shedding light on the challenges and emotional toll faced by individuals and families directly affected by mining accidents. As the rescue teams continue their arduous task, the focus remains on the trapped miners and their families, with the collective hope and prayers of the nation echoing for a swift and successful rescue operation.

Rescue teams and onlookers at Senseli mine
Senseli mine the sight of the landslide that trapped 30 miners

Tobacco control bill to soon be presented in parliament

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Tobacco control bill to soon be presented in parliament

The UPND has revealed its commitment to enacting the long-awaited Tobacco Control Bill, stating that it will soon be presented to parliament for consideration. Minister of Information and Media, Cornelius Mweetwa, addressed stakeholders during the 2023 Zambia Media Network Against Tobacco (ZAMNAT) Media Awards ceremony held at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre.

Mr. Mweetwa, also the Chief Government Spokesperson, acknowledged the concerns and anxiety among stakeholders regarding the delay in enacting the tobacco control bill. Despite Zambia ratifying the World Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco (FCTC) 15 years ago, successive administrations had not domesticated the WHO-FCTC.

“I am pleased to inform you that the new dawn government has made unprecedented tangible headway in enacting a tobacco control law and will, in the very near future, present the tobacco control bill to parliament for enactment,” Mr. Mweetwa declared.

Expressing gratitude to the media and various stakeholders for their continued efforts in promoting a tobacco and nicotine-free nation, Mr. Mweetwa emphasized the importance of media innovation in reinforcing information on the dangers of tobacco and nicotine consumption.

“There is, therefore, a need for innovative ways to reinforce information about the dangers of tobacco and nicotine consumption, as well as the crucial measures that need to be taken to prevent, treat, and combat it. To keep the topic of tobacco control fresh, I encourage the media in their diversity to engage in creative in-depth journalistic pieces that will cover, educate, and stimulate public discourse,” he urged.

Lusaka Province Permanent Secretary, Robert Kamalata, echoed the sentiment, urging the media to familiarize itself with the government’s procedures for accessing relevant information. Kamalata stressed the importance of engaging the appropriate authorities to obtain accurate and timely information.

Addressing the gathering, ZAMNAT Chairperson Paxina Phiri called on the government to collaborate with civil society organizations to implement the mandate of the WHO-FCTC. She emphasized the need to protect and educate citizens about the dangers of tobacco and nicotine substances.

During a panel discussion, ZAMNAT Patron and Director, Professor Faston Goma, urged the media to intensify awareness efforts around the dangers of tobacco and other substances. He encouraged journalists to play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and fostering a healthier society.

The awards ceremony recognized journalists from both public and private media for their outstanding efforts in raising awareness about the effects of tobacco, with various prizes awarded to the deserving recipients. The event concluded with a renewed sense of commitment from all stakeholders towards achieving a tobacco-free Zambia.

PF MPs Urged to Embrace New Leadership Dynamics in National Assembly

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PF MPs Urged to Embrace New Leadership Dynamics in National Assembly

The leader of the opposition in Parliament, Robert Chabinga, has commended President Hakainde Hichilema for demonstrating a spirit of unity and magnanimity towards his predecessor, former President Edgar Lungu. In the midst of heightened provocations, Mr. Chabinga emphasized that President Hichilema and the United Party for National Development (UPND) are not responsible for the challenges within the former ruling Patriotic Front (PF).

Speaking from his position as the Member of Parliament for Mafinga, Mr. Chabinga advised PF Members of Parliament to acknowledge the changed leadership in the National Assembly. He urged them to embrace discipline and decorum in the legislative body, emphasizing the importance of non-political conduct and effective representation aligned with the wishes of the electorate.

“President Hichilema has demonstrated love towards his predecessor, former President Lungu, even in the face of heightened provocation. The challenges within the PF should not be laid at the doorstep of President Hichilema and the UPND. It is essential for PF MPs to accept the new reality and move forward,” stated Mr. Chabinga in a statement issued to ZNBC News in Lusaka.

He underscored the importance of maintaining discipline in the National Assembly, urging MPs to prioritize the interests of the people who elected them. Mr. Chabinga emphasized the need for constructive checks and balances from opposition MPs, fostering an environment of cooperation and effective governance.

“Opposition MPs have a crucial role in providing constructive checks and balances in the House. It is imperative for all MPs to refrain from antagonizing one another and focus on contributing positively to the legislative process,” added Mr. Chabinga.

Vernon Mwaanga Urges Zambians to Prioritize National Peace and Dialogue

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Vernon Mwaanga Urges Zambians to Prioritize National Peace and Dialogue

Renowned veteran politician and former diplomat, Vernon Mwaanga, is urging fellow Zambians to actively contribute towards the promotion of national peace and development. In a recent statement, Dr. Mwaanga emphasized the critical role of peace in Zambia’s pursuit of economic development and called on citizens to work collectively towards this common goal.

Highlighting the importance of peace as a foundation for progress, Dr. Mwaanga stressed that national peace is not just a given but must be actively pursued and maintained by the citizens. He underscored the need for constructive dialogue and lamented the apparent lack of recognition of its value among the new generation of politicians.

“We fought very hard to get rid of colonialism. We worked very hard to ensure that ‘one Zambia, one Nation’ remained our national motto. We have maintained good neighborliness with all the eight countries around us since our independence in October 1964. Our new generation of politicians is failing to understand and recognize the value of dialogue. Our politicians have opted to talk at each other but not to each other,” expressed Dr. Mwaanga.

Drawing from his experiences, Dr. Mwaanga highlighted the significance of dialogue and understanding diverse perspectives. He recalled the establishment of the Center for Inter-Party Dialogue during his generation, emphasizing its role in providing a platform for political parties to freely discuss matters of concern.

“In any free and diverse political environment, the difference of opinion is inevitable. Respect for each other’s opinions is vital. Civil discourse usually leads to finding common ground, which then produces compromises,” Dr. Mwaanga explained.

The veteran politician urged for civility in political discourse, emphasizing the importance of respectful disagreement and the recognition that differing opinions do not necessarily lead to hostility. He emphasized that fostering a peaceful political environment is crucial for economic growth and the well-being of the nation.

As Zambia faces the challenges of rebuilding its economy, Dr. Mwaanga emphasized the necessity of a peaceful political atmosphere. He called on all political parties to commit themselves to non-violence and ensure that this commitment reaches their supporters.

“There is nowhere in this world where there are no disagreements among people. We must also be cognizant of the fact that, in all the older and nascent democracies, people and institutions function within the laws on their statutes. Lawlessness is not synonymous with democracy. We all have a duty to help create an environment where our children and children’s children will live in peace and harmony,” Dr. Mwaanga concluded.

His words serve as a reminder of the responsibility each citizen holds in shaping the nation’s future, underscoring the importance of fostering an environment conducive to dialogue, understanding, and national unity.

President Hichilema to Visit Seseli Mine

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President Hichilema to Visit Seseli Mine

President Hakainde Hichilema is scheduled to visit Seseli Mine in Chingola on the Copperbelt, where a number of illegal miners find themselves trapped in a flooded open-pit mine. The announcement was made by Copper Minister Elisha Matambo during a press briefing in Chingola, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing the critical situation.

Minister Matambo expressed confidence in the measures and interventions implemented by the government, ensuring that the ongoing rescue mission will reach the trapped miners. The President’s visit underscores the gravity of the situation and the government’s hands-on approach in coordinating the rescue efforts.

Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe provided further assurance, stating that safety precautions are rigorously being followed to maximize the chances of a successful rescue operation. He emphasized that the government has engaged with families affected by the incident, with twenty-seven families having come forward to claim missing relatives.

“So far, the government has met the affected family members, providing support and information on the ongoing rescue efforts,” noted Minister Kabuswe.

To enhance the manpower involved in the rescue operation, the government has enlisted the support of approximately 400 casual workers. Copperbelt Deputy Permanent Secretary Daniel Kamenga confirmed this development during a donation event where the Chinese Community, led by New Future Investment, contributed food supplies to the rescue team.

“Government is doing everything possible to ensure that the rescue operation is concluded as soon as possible,” assured Mr. Kamenga. The additional workforce reflects the collective efforts to intensify the ongoing rescue mission.

Sandy Shi, Director of New Future Investment, conveyed the concern of the Chinese Community in Chingola, emphasizing their commitment to supporting the government in alleviating the burden posed by the tragic incident. The collaborative efforts between the government and various stakeholders, including the Chinese Community, highlight the unity of purpose in the face of adversity.

Question of Roadblocks; Debunking M’membe’s Mindless Conspiracy Theories!

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Question of Roadblocks; Debunking M’membe’s Mindless Conspiracy Theories!

As our nation continues grappling with AIDS………yes, you heard me right; Acquired Inadequate Development Syndrome (AIDS), we expected those that have had the privilege of perambulating through the gates of institutions of higher learning to memorise theories and walked away cum laude, to be busy prescribing smart solutions for our endemic malaise!

But what have we witnessed from these armchair critics, instead? Constant bickering and squabbling and spewing out cheap propaganda from desperate individuals eager to hoodwink the public……nay, access the honeycomb so that they can equally have their fair share of the spoils and thrills!

For instance, the Zambia Police under the New Dawn Administration just announced scrapping of all static security checkpoints and roadblocks on all our roads…. Just when we expected the likes of perennial critics such as self imposed leader of the Socialist Party, Fred M’membe to embrace and applaud such a revolutionary feat, he drops a bomb that has left many of us with jaws dropping!

“By removing static security checkpoint and roadblocks on these haulage routes what activities is Mr Hichilema and his government trying to ease? What really is going on here? Can they come clean and tell the nation the logic behind this highly suspicious decision?” wonders M’membe on his Facebook page.

Absolutely hogwash; mindless conspiracy theories!

On several occasions, I have endured the 1,398.2km stretch between Cape Town and Johannesburg by bus in crime prone South Africa; I’ve equally been chauffeur driven on the 147km highway from Friesland to Amsterdam in the Netherlands at the height of terrorist attacks, on both occasions I have never encountered any unnecessary road blocks or police check points. The only time I’ve witnessed road blocks is when there’s been a grisly road carnage or money heist and the terrorist threat has been upgraded to red alert in the two countries, respectively. What I’ve seen instead, are highway patrol vehicles strategically stationed on either side of the road eagerly waiting to give chase to suspicious looking vehicles!

Road blocks and check points have not only been a nuisance for most road users, but actually precious mines where corrupt cops turned up each day to mint gold! Challenge the Anti Corruption Commission to conduct investigations, you’ll be shocked to see assets some of these police officers have accumulated compared to their modest salaries.

If my civic education knowledge serves me right, road blocks and check points were introduced during the colonial era to monitor the movement of freedom fighters or indeed set traps for them! After the liberation struggle, the UNIP government equally adopted the same strategy mainly to detect clandestine activities of insurgents who were active at the time sniffing for opportunities to erase our strategic installations such as bridges, airports and communication facilities etc. to the ground as punishment for sheltering freedom fighters from Southern Africa.

Come on dude; we no longer live in the Dark Ages! There are always advanced techniques available to monitor the movement of our precious minerals or indeed intercept drunks and those those who may have committed heinous crimes in one place or another. What happened to the concept of smart cities anyway?

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

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