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Zambia Launches Mini-Grid Initiative in Collaboration with Rockefeller Foundation at COP28

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Zambia Launches Mini-Grid Initiative in Collaboration with Rockefeller Foundation at COP28

In a groundbreaking move announced on the sidelines of the Conference Of Parties (COP28) in Dubai, President Hakainde Hichilema revealed Zambia’s ambitious initiative to deploy mini-grids across the nation. This landmark program, a collaboration between the Zambian government and prominent partners, namely the Rockefeller Foundation, the Global Energy Alliance For People and Planet, and Sustainable Energy For All, aims to revolutionize the country’s energy landscape.

During the announcement, President Hichilema emphasized the significance of collaborative efforts between local and foreign investors in propelling accelerated development. The mini-grid initiative is set to address energy accessibility challenges and stimulate growth in crucial sectors, including agriculture, energy, and rural development.

“We are pleased to embark on this transformative journey with the Rockefeller Foundation, the Global Energy Alliance, and Sustainable Energy For All. This initiative symbolizes the power of international partnerships to drive positive change at the local level,” stated President Hichilema.

In recognition of the potential hurdles for smaller installations, the Zambian Government has taken proactive measures by passing a statutory instrument to streamline regulatory processes. This move is expected to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and facilitate the swift implementation of the mini-grid project.

Expressing gratitude to the President of the Rockefeller Foundation, Mr. Rajiv J. Shah, President Hichilema acknowledged the Foundation’s pivotal role in this significant endeavor. Mr. Shah, in turn, highlighted the Foundation’s commitment to the project, announcing the commencement with an initial deployment of 1400 mini-grids and outlining a long-term expansion plan.

“The Rockefeller Foundation is proud to partner with Zambia in this initiative. Our goal is to bring sustainable and reliable electricity to communities, unlocking new opportunities for economic development and improved quality of life,” affirmed Mr. Shah.

President Hichilema echoed the sentiment, noting that the mini-grids will not only address energy challenges but also catalyze economic growth in key sectors. Looking ahead, President Hichilema outlined the ambitious trajectory of the project, projecting an expansion to over 5,000 mini-grids within the next five years.

The launch of the mini-grid initiative marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s pursuit of sustainable development and energy accessibility. As the project unfolds, it is expected to contribute not only to energy transformation but also to the overall socio-economic advancement of the nation.

Zambia’s Strategic Position and Inclusion in Central Corridor Agreement Set to Boost Regional Prosperity

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Zambia’s Strategic Position and Inclusion in Central Corridor Agreement Set to Boost Regional Prosperity

Zambia, with its strategic location as a land-linked nation and the existence of vital transportation corridors like Lobito, Benguela, and TAZARA, is poised to emerge as a significant food basket for both the region and the continent. This was the focal point of a high-level discussion between President Hakainde Hichilema and His Excellency Hailemariam Dessalegn Boshe, the Board Chair of the Pan African NGO, Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA).

During the discussion, President Hichilema commended AGRA’s commitment to investing $100 million in enhancing sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems across seven African countries. The alignment of AGRA’s support with Zambia’s intensified efforts to achieve food security and surplus for export was a central theme of the conversation.

“Ensuring citizens’ food security remains a paramount goal,” emphasized President Hichilema, highlighting the crucial role Zambia can play in contributing to regional and continental food production.

The President acknowledged Zambia’s favorable hydrology, climate, and fertile soils as key assets in realizing the country’s potential as an agricultural powerhouse. Collaborating with AGRA is expected to further enhance Zambia’s capabilities in sustainable agriculture and food production.

In a related development, the Central Corridor Transit Transport Agency Inter State Council of Ministers has agreed to include Zambia in the Central Corridor Agreement. Transport Minister Frank Tayali announced this significant development following an extraordinary meeting in Tanzania.

Minister Tayali stated that Zambia would now focus on internal legal and administrative processes to formalize its accession to the Central Corridor Agreement. These internal processes are anticipated to be completed within the first quarter of the upcoming year.

The Transport Minister emphasized the Zambian government’s commitment to a robust program aimed at creating and transforming transport corridors traversing the nation. Zambia’s engagement with the Central Corridor is expected to result in improvements to transport infrastructure, fostering enhanced connectivity and trade facilitation.

As Zambia positions itself to play a pivotal role in regional food production and transportation, these developments underscore the nation’s commitment to economic growth, sustainability, and collaboration on the African continent. The inclusion in the Central Corridor Agreement is poised to bring about transformative changes to Zambia’s transportation infrastructure, further solidifying its role in regional trade and development.

Miners Remain Trapped in Chingola Mine accident: President Hichilema Expresses Condolences and Reaffirms Commitment to Mining Safety

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Miners Remain Trapped in Chingola Mine accident: President Hichilema Expresses Condolences and Reaffirms Commitment to Mining Safety

In a devastating turn of events, rescue operations are underway in Chingola on the Copperbelt, where illegal miners find themselves trapped following the collapse of an open pit mine. The incident has prompted urgent efforts by a collaborative rescue team comprising individuals from Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) and the Mines Safety Department.

A ZNBC news crew, on-site yesterday, reported that the rescue team is diligently pumping water from underground pits where the miners are believed to be trapped. Unfortunately, as of 09:30 hours, no miners had been successfully retrieved, leaving an atmosphere of concern and urgency.

Chingola District Commissioner Raphael Chimupi provided an update, stating that the rescue efforts are ongoing, and the situation remains critical.

The incident has garnered the attention of Chingola residents, who are calling on the government to expedite the rescue operations. Their collective concern reflects the gravity of the situation and the impact it has on the community.

In response to the tragedy, President Hakainde Hichilema expressed his condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the accident. The President, in a statement, said, “We are saddened to hear about the tragic accident at a makeshift mine site in Chingola that has claimed many lives. Our prayers are with the families and loved ones of those who died in the accident.”

President Hichilema also extended gratitude to the rescuers and volunteers who are working tirelessly to reach those still trapped in the mine. He acknowledged their bravery and dedication in the face of a challenging rescue mission.

“This incident reinforces our government’s commitment to implementing strict mining safety policies to ensure the well-being of citizens,” President Hichilema emphasized.

The tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with illegal mining activities and underscores the importance of enforcing stringent safety measures.

President Hakainde Hichilema Addresses “Leaders’ Event On Carbon Markets” Alongside Global Dignitaries

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President Hakainde Hichilema Addresses “Leaders’ Event On Carbon Markets” Alongside Global Dignitaries

President Hakainde Hichilema took center stage at the prestigious “Leaders’ Event On Carbon Markets” hosted by the European Union, an event that featured influential leaders such as Her Excellency Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Union, His Excellency Pedro Sánchez, Prime Minister of Spain, and Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Kristalina Georgieva.

The distinguished gathering also included Her Excellency Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), and His Excellency Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank.

Expressing gratitude to the European Union for organizing the event, President Hichilema underscored the vital role of the EU’s support to Zambia, particularly in terms of institutional and technical capacity aligning with the Paris initiative on carbon markets. The President emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing global climate challenges.

During his keynote intervention, President Hichilema shared Zambia’s commitment to environmental sustainability. He revealed that Zambia has implemented a national climate adaptation policy, actively promoting the development of carbon markets. Furthermore, he highlighted ongoing legislative efforts to address climate change, with specific provisions aimed at advancing the country’s engagement in carbon markets.

President Hichilema stressed the significance of ensuring that rural communities, heavily reliant on natural resources, are actively involved in carbon projects. He asserted that for meaningful participation, it is crucial to clearly define and demonstrate the benefits of carbon markets to these communities.

“We believe that for carbon markets to truly contribute to sustainable development, it is imperative that the benefits are accessible and well-defined, particularly for our rural communities whose livelihoods depend on natural resources,” President Hichilema stated.

President Hichilema concluded by affirming his commitment to further engagements at the event, expressing optimism that these discussions will lead to positive outcomes that benefit not only Zambia but also its citizens, particularly those in rural areas.

President Hakainde Hichilema Holds Bilateral Talks with French President Macron and Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang

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President Hakainde Hichilema Holds Bilateral Talks with French President Macron and Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang

On the sidelines of the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28), President Hakainde Hichilema engaged in fruitful bilateral discussions with President Emmanuel Macron of France and His Excellency Ding Xuexiang, the Executive Vice Premier of the People’s Republic of China.

The talks with President Macron focused on matters of mutual interest affecting both Zambia and France. The leaders, representing nations that enjoy longstanding and cordial relations, discussed avenues for further cooperation in various areas of development and technical assistance. President Hichilema expressed gratitude to President Macron and the French people for their continued support and underscored the importance of nurturing the growing ties between the two nations.

“We appreciate the support that France has provided to Zambia over the years, and we look forward to strengthening our partnership for the benefit of our countries and peoples,” President Hichilema stated.

President Hichilema acknowledged the historical growth in relations between Zambia and France and highlighted the commitment to fostering increased collaboration on shared interests.

President Hichilema and Ding Xuexiang, the Executive Vice Premier of the People’s Republic of China.

In a separate bilateral meeting with Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, President Hichilema extended gratitude to His Excellency Xi Jinping, the President of the People’s Republic of China, for the warm welcome extended during his recent State Visit to China. President Hichilema conveyed his best wishes for the continued prosperity of China and its people.

During the talks, the leaders emphasized the enduring nature of the ‘all-weather friendship’ between Zambia and China, dating back to Zambia’s independence in 1964. The discussions centered on further strengthening this friendship and exploring new avenues for cooperation.

“We are committed to building on the solid foundation of our bilateral relations with China for the benefit of both our nations. The talks with Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang were productive and reflect our mutual desire for continued growth and collaboration,” President Hichilema stated.

As President Hichilema continues his diplomatic engagements at COP28, these bilateral talks underscore Zambia’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and strengthening ties with key global partners. The discussions with President Macron and Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang mark significant steps towards enhancing diplomatic and economic relations for the mutual benefit of Zambia and its partner nations.

President Hichilema and French President Emmanuel Macron

President Hichilema and French President Emmanuel Macron

 

Chipata recording 28 mental illness cases per month

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Chipata recording 28 mental illness cases per month

Chipata Central Hospital is reportedly admitting an average of 28 mental health patients , per month. Out of these cases , schizophrenia which is associated with disillusions is the most common mental illness among patients.

Schizophrenia is associated with hallucinations, alcohol and substance abuse induced, HIV/AIDS induced, psychosis and bipolar mood disorders.

Eastern Province Clinical Care Specialist, Francis Mubanga, in an interview said the region had generally been recording an increase in mental health cases, some of which were managed in communities.

ZANIS reports that Dr Mubanga said in an interview today that his facility had recorded an increase of mental illness from nine cases in April, 2023 to 31, by presstime.

“In April this year, Chipata Central Hospital recorded nine cases, then rose to 31 cases in months that followed,” he listed.

“We do home visits for management of some cases but in instances where we decline, that is when we see fluctuating cases at facility level,” he said.

Other factors leading to the increase in mental health cases included availability and abuse of drugs on the market, myths and misconceptions, among others.

Dr Mubanga identified one of the myths as abusing drugs by HIV positive people with the hope of lowering CD4 count.

“What is disheartening about drug abuse is that apart from the famous marijuana, we now even have drugs like cocaine and heroin on the market. This situation is quite worrisome because drug abuse is becoming a serious vice amongst young people,” he explained.

Meanwhile, old aged mental patients have been listed as victims of abuse and discrimination.

This is as a result of myths and misconceptions surrounding mental health issues that were sometimes linked to witchcraft. Dr Mubanga identified Alzheimer’s disease, which destroyed memory and other important mental functions, as one such illness.

“There are various myths around mental health especially relating to the elderly, who could be suffering from epilepsy or Alzheimer’s disease or any other conditions but such patients may be perceived as witches because of some change in their behaviour,” he elaborated.

He further appealed to members of the community to help identify people who might be having mental health challenges so that they were taken to the nearest facility for professional help.

According to the World Health Organisation’s recent document entitled Mental Health, Human Rights and Legislation guidance and practice, Article 19 of the CRPD recognizes the equal right of all persons with disabilities to live independently and be included in the community.

“ This involves a person exercising freedom of choice and control over the decisions affecting their life, with the maximum level of self-determination and independence within society, “ reads the publication in part.

Accordingly, persons with mental health conditions and psychosocial disabilities must have the opportunity to choose how, where, and with whom to live, on an equal basis with others, without being obliged to live in a particular living arrangement, such as an institutional setting.

Furthermore, they must also have access to a range of community support services, including individualized disability-specific support and mainstream services and facilities for the general population in the community.

Government Halts Mining Operations Following Chingola Mine Accident

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Government Halts Mining Operations Following Chingola Mine Accident

The government has ordered an immediate halt to mining operations at Seseli mine in Chingola, following a devastating accident that has left over 30 illegal miners feared dead after being buried alive. Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe made the announcement after visiting the accident site in Chingola yesterday.

The closure comes as rescue and recovery efforts are underway to retrieve the bodies of the victims. Minister Kabuswe expressed deep concern over the incident and assured that the government would provide a comprehensive statement once the bodies of the victims are recovered.

The tragedy unfolded at Seseli mine, where illegal miners were reportedly trapped in the underground mine during heavy rains. The exact cause of the accident is yet to be determined, but initial reports suggest a collapse or landslide within the mine, trapping the miners underground.

Chingola District Commissioner Raphael Chimupi, visibly distressed, conveyed the devastation felt by the district. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting the dangers faced by illegal miners who often operate in unsafe and unregulated environments.

landslide at Seseli mine in Chingola

Rescue teams, comprising local authorities, mining officials, and emergency services, are working tirelessly to locate and recover the trapped miners. The challenging conditions within the mine pose a significant obstacle to the rescue efforts.

Illegal mining activities have been a persistent issue in various regions, driven by factors such as economic hardships and lack of alternative employment opportunities. The government has periodically conducted crackdowns on illegal mining, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety regulations to prevent such tragedies.

Zambian Tycoon Accuses Bob Diamond’s Atlas Mara of Breach of Agreement

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Zambian Tycoon Accuses Bob Diamond’s Atlas Mara of Breach of Agreement

Dr. Rajan Mahtani, the 75-year-old founder of Finance Bank Zambia (FBZ), has testified in a London court, alleging that Bob Diamond’s Atlas Mara breached the terms of an acquisition agreement. Dr. Mahtani, along with co-claimants, is seeking up to $100 million (£80m) in damages from Atlas Mara, accusing them of acting with “sinister motives.”

The dispute revolves around the acquisition of FBZ by Atlas Mara, with Dr. Mahtani intending to secure the future of the bank. However, he claims that Atlas Mara failed to honor the terms of the agreement, leading to financial losses and reputational damage.

During the court proceedings, Dr. Mahtani detailed events leading up to the 2016 deadline for repurchasing one of FBZ’s subsidiaries from Atlas Mara. Under the agreement, Atlas Mara would sell Finance Building Society (FBS) to a third party if a buyer was found by December 31, 2016. Dr. Mahtani, intending to buy and run it as a standalone business, claims that Atlas Mara breached this agreement.

Atlas Mara’s legal representative, Anna Boase KC, suggested that Dr. Mahtani orchestrated a series of communications to pressure Atlas Mara into selling FBS back to him. She referenced emails and letters sent on December 21, 2016, containing confirmation of his intention to repurchase FBS. Boase accused Dr. Mahtani of disregarding the sale and purchase agreement (SPA) and attempting to manipulate the situation.

In response, Dr. Mahtani denied the allegations, stating that he believed he was dealing with “honorable, bona fide parties” and accused Atlas Mara of breaching the agreement with “sinister motives.” He highlighted a lack of cooperation and adherence to the SPA, leading to difficulties in completing the transaction.

Beatrice Hamza Bassey, General Counsel of Atlas Mara, testified that the firm did not take Dr. Mahtani’s intentions seriously and had no reason to ask for the SPA, as they did not consider the deal a priority. She claimed that it was impossible to conclude the deal by the deadline and accused Dr. Mahtani of an “ambush” with a barrage of documents.

Dr. Bwalya Ng’andu, former Deputy Governor of the Bank of Zambia, provided testimony related to the court case. He confirmed that the Bank of Zambia did not take a position on whether the repurchase of FBS by Dr. Mahtani should proceed. He clarified that the commercial terms agreed upon by the parties, as outlined in the SPA, would apply.

Denying claims of expressing views that could discredit Dr. Mahtani, Dr. Ng’andu emphasized the professional relationship maintained by the Bank of Zambia. He stated that the bank would not give signals to others about issues unrelated to them.

The court hearing is set to continue, with further testimonies and evidence presented.

Source:Nick Forbes
Central News, Press Room, Central Criminal Court

Hichilema must go…unless he changes course

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Hichilema must go…unless he changes course

By Sishuwa Sishuwa

Hakainde Hichilema stood in the queue to becoming President of Zambia for 15 years before voters finally removed him from it in August 2021. This demonstrates how badly the man wanted this job. But it has taken him only two years in office to display his unfitness for the role. When it comes to the bigger national issues, such as safeguarding our cherished democracy, getting the best out of Zambia’s mineral wealth, respecting the constitution and the rule of law, fighting corruption beyond rhetoric, genuine promotion of national unity and equitable distribution of appointments to public service positions, sorting out the cost-of-living crisis and the deplorable conditions of life for most Zambians, Hichilema has, so far, lamentably failed.

And if Zambians were to see the contents of the just signed Shareholder Agreement with Vedanta Resources Limited for the takeover of Konkola Copper Mines, many will be so livid that they will likely demand his immediate resignation for working against the interests of the Republic. I have seen, read, and understood the Agreement, and I challenge the Government to publish it in full in the name of transparency and accountability if they have nothing to hide. I am aware that Hichilema discarded the terms and conditions prepared by patriotic and very capable technocrats in the civil service and exerted pressure on the Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines-Investment Holdings (ZCCM-IH) to wholly accept the ones produced by Vedanta Resources. The concessions given to Vedanta – let us just say the concessions Vedanta has effectively given itself and which Hichilema agreed to without even subjecting the Shareholder Agreement to discussion in Cabinet – are so dreadful and anti-Zambia that any citizen who signs that terrible agreement must ordinarily be charged with SABOTAGE or TREASON. The contents of the Agreement with Vedanta constitute the ultimate betrayal of public trust and the interests of the State.

Argh! We are going nowhere serious with Hichilema at the helm of Zambia, unless he changes course, for the better. He has become a clear and present danger to Zambia’s economy, to our democracy, our constitutional order, our nationhood and its future, to the lives of ordinary Zambians, and must be peacefully removed from office at the earliest available opportunity. What consoles me is the knowledge that as of today, many people in Zambia may not know who they will vote for in the next election, but they already know who they will not vote for.

The best thing about electing Hichilema president was that we are no longer distracted by his threat or potential to be better than those who came before him and we can now start looking for suitable, if better, alternatives. If Hichilema did not become President of Zambia, we would have lived with some degree of guilty for not giving him the chance to govern. We could have also succumbed to certain narratives that suggest that some regions of Zambia can provide better leaders than others. To some extent, it is not regrettable that the man got the opportunity to lead. Now we know that in order to develop, Zambia does not need a given region or an individual from a particular ethnic group in State House. The country simply needs competent men and women who are patriots, have a feasible plan, and are committed to restoring the nation’s dignity, where they come from notwithstanding.

In a certain weird and perverted sense, it is good that Zambians gave Hichilema a chance to reveal who he truly is. The Chewa-speaking people of Zambia have a saying that “The best way of proving the potency of a man who claims that he is able to achieve an erection is for the woman to undress for him.” In August 2021, Zambians undressed for Hichilema after a decade-and-half of claiming that he is capable of taking them to greater heights!

Zambia Arrive at Ndola Camp Ahead of WAFCON Date

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Zambia Shepolopolo have set up camp in Ndola ahead of next Tuesday’s 2024 Women’s Africa Cup qualifier match against Angola at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.

The team is back in Zambia after beating Angola 6-0 in the first leg match on Wednesday away in Luanda.

The over winners between Zambia and Angola will qualify for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup to be hosted in Morocco.

Meanwhile, striker Rachael Kundananji has asked fans to rally her team in the return match against the Angolans.

President Hakainde Hichilema Embarks on Key Engagements at COP28 in Dubai

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President Hakainde Hichilema Embarks on Key Engagements at COP28 in Dubai

President Hakainde Hichilema landed in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, ahead of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) High-Level Segment for Heads of State and Government. This marks a significant presence for Zambia at COP28, and President Hichilema is set to play a prominent role in the upcoming climate discussions.

President Hichilema is slated to deliver a keynote address on behalf of the African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change at the Climate Change Conference. His participation emphasizes Zambia’s commitment to addressing climate-related challenges and contributing to global efforts for sustainable solutions.

Among the key engagements, the Zambian Head of State will take part in a moderated Round Table discussion at the High-Level Stake Presidential Event organized by AUDA-NEPAD and AGRA. The focus will be on leveraging investment for climate adaptation through Food Systems Transformation, underscoring the intersectionality of climate, agriculture, and sustainable development.

State House Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka has outlined that President Hichilema is also expected to attend the Commonwealth Royal Reception. This event marks the launch of the inaugural Business and Philanthropy Climate Forum by Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland. The reception will be graced by King Charles the Third of England and President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

During his stay in Dubai, President Hichilema will engage in crucial bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. These discussions are anticipated to address collaborative efforts in tackling climate change, fostering international partnerships, and advancing sustainable development goals.

Additionally, President Hichilema will be present at the launch of the Critical Materials Club by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. This initiative aligns with global efforts to secure critical resources for clean energy technologies, a critical aspect of the transition to a sustainable and low-carbon future.

President Hichilema expressed his commitment to ensuring that Zambia benefits from the global pledges and initiatives discussed during COP28, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to bridge the financing gap required for achieving net-zero emissions and restoring biodiversity.

This series of engagements reflects Zambia’s active involvement in shaping the discourse and actions surrounding climate change on the international stage. President Hichilema’s participation underscores the nation’s dedication to contributing to global solutions for a more sustainable and resilient future.

Opposition Politician Chishimba Kambwili Sentenced to Five Months for Hate Speech

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Opposition Politician Chishimba Kambwili Sentenced to Five Months for Hate Speech

Chishimba Kambwili, a member of the Central Committee of the Patriotic Front (PF) and prominent opposition figure, has been sentenced to five months imprisonment with hard labor by Senior Resident Magistrate Samson Mumba in Kasama.

The judgment comes after Mr. Kambwili faced charges related to hate speech, specifically accused of expressing disdain and ridicule towards the people of Southern Province based on their tribe and place of origin. The verdict was delivered yesterday in Kasama, leading to Kambwili being taken to the Milima Correctional Facility in Kasama.

The case against Kambwili has been a topic of significant attention and has now resulted in a prison sentence. The opposition politician, aged 54 and residing at house number 9, Wisteria Avenue, Luanshya, appeared before the Kasama Resident Magistrate for the judgment.

Kambwili is expected to appeal both the conviction and the imposed five-month sentence. His defense was represented by Kaizala Tembo from Ferd Jere & Company.

Church to continue advocating for abstinence – Fr. Mulenga

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Church to continue advocating for abstinence – Fr. Mulenga

Radio Yangeni Director Father Constatino Mulenga says the church will continue to advocate for abstinence as a way of reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS in the country.

Fr. Mulenga pointed out that abstinence is the only sure way of preventing the spread of the HIV/AIDS hence it needs to be promoted.

Speaking during the candle light service at Mansa Catholic Cathedral , he explained that the church does not encourage other methods of HIV prevention such as condom use as it is not 100 percent perfect.

” Condom use is not something which should be promoted as you can end up regretting so we should all be advocating for abstinence as the only sure way,” he said.

The Radio Yangeni Director noted that HIV/AIDS infection is high among adolescents which shows that there is still more work which needs to be done if HIV/ AIDS is to be eradicated.

Young people need to be given the correct information with regards HIV prevention as opposed to encouraging them to be venturing into pre-marital sex as long as they used a condom.

” There is need to join hands and ensure that young people are given correct messages which will enable them stay aware from sex before marriage if we are to see a reduction in HIV cases,” he observed.

And Fr. Mulenga has encouraged couples to remain faithful to each other as this will help to reduce the spread of HIV.

He pointed out that the behavior of some married couples leaves much to be desired saying they are the ones who are in the habit of spreading the virus a situation which is said should not be happening in a country like Zambia.

Fr. Mulenga said that it was possible for the fight against HIV/AIDS to be won if only everyone takes this fight seriously.

He explains that HIV/AIDS is still around and that each day there are new infections which are recorded hence the need to double the efforts by all the stakeholders involved in this fight.

The HIV /AIDS candle light this year was celebrated under the theme: Let communities take the lead.

Sishuwa asks government to publish agreement with Vedanta, calls it greatest betrayal of Zambians

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Sishuwa asks government to publish agreement with Vedanta, calls it greatest betrayal of Zambians

Historian Sishuwa Sishuwa has challenged the Zambian government to publish contents of the agreement with Vedanta Resources regarding KCM.

Writing on X, Sishuwa says if Zambians were to see the contents of the just signed Shareholder Agreement with Vedanta for the takeover of KCM, many will be so livid that they will likely demand for the immediate resignation of President Hakainde Hichilema for working against the interests of the Republic.

“I have seen, read, and understood the Agreement, and I challenge the Government to publish it in full in the name of transparency and accountability if they have nothing to hide,” he stressed.

“I am aware that Hichilema discarded the terms and conditions prepared by patriotic and very capable technocrats in the civil service and exerted pressure on the Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines-Investment Holdings (ZCCM-IH) to wholly accept the ones produced by Vedanta Resources. The concessions given to Vedanta – let us just say the concessions Vedanta has effectively given itself and which Hichilema agreed to without even subjecting the Shareholder Agreement to discussion in Cabinet – are so dreadful and anti-Zambia that any citizen who signs that terrible agreement must ordinarily be charged with SABOTAGE or TREASON.

Dr Sishuwa said the contents of the Agreement with Vedanta constitute the ultimate betrayal of public trust and the interests of the State.

“Argh! We are going nowhere serious with Hichilema at the helm of Zambia, unless he changes course, for the better. He has become a clear and present danger to Zambia’s economy, to our democracy, our constitutional order, our nationhood and its future, to the lives of ordinary Zambians, and must be peacefully removed from office at the earliest available opportunity.”

Dr Sishuwa said what consoles him is the knowledge that as of today, many people in Zambia may not know who they will vote for in the next election, but they already know who they will not vote for.

“The best thing about electing Hichilema president was that we are no longer distracted by his threat or potential to be better than those who came before him and we can now start looking for suitable, if better, alternatives. If Hichilema did not become President of Zambia, we would have lived with some degree of guilty for not giving him the chance to govern. We could have also succumbed to certain narratives that suggest that some regions of Zambia can provide better leaders than others. To some extent, it is not regrettable that the man got the opportunity to lead.”

He added, “Now we know that in order to develop, Zambia does not need a given region or an individual from a particular ethnic group in State House. The country simply needs competent men and women who are patriots, have a feasible plan, and are committed to restoring the nation’s dignity, where they come from notwithstanding.”

He said, “In a certain weird and perverted sense, it is good that Zambians gave Hichilema a chance to reveal who he truly is.”

Dr Sishuwa said the Chewa-speaking people of Zambia have a saying that “The best way of proving the potency of a man who claims that he is able to achieve an erection is for the woman to undress for him.”

He said in August 2021, Zambians undressed for Hichilema after a decade-and-half of claiming that he is capable of taking them to greater heights.

Some Consent Judgments amount to corruption-Prof Ndulo and Dr Kaaba

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Some Consent Judgments amount to corruption-Prof Ndulo and Dr Kaaba

Prominent legal scholars Prof Muna Ndulo and Dr Obrien Kaaba have described some recent Consent Judgements entered into between the state and some individuals as acts of corruption.

In a statement, Prof. Ndulo of Cornell University and Dr Kaaba from UNZA noted that although some Consent Judgements are justifiable, some are a racketeering scheme.

The duo have since appealed to President Hichilema to put a stop to this.

“We are also concerned that in some cases, the lawyers representing concerned individuals and those in State Chambers have previously had personal connections, raising questions about conflict of interest and the credibility of the negotiations and the protection of public interest in these settlements,” they said.

They also called on President Hichilema to critically analyze his legal team at State House and dismiss those who are behind the racketeering scheme.

Below is the full statement

Press Statement by Prof Muna Ndulo and Dr O’Brien Kaaba on the Consent Orders Being Entered into by the State and Various Litigants

We have observed with bewilderment and disbelief several consent orders entered into between the State Chambers and various individuals involving huge sums of money.
Although some appear well deserving, in a number these cases, there is either no sound legal justification for the settlements or the awards and the legal costs are grossly inflated. For example, in the case of Kaizar Zulu, it is clear he was not acting on behalf of the state and there is no moral or legal justification whatsoever for the state to compensate those he injured in his private capacity. It would appear that someone in the State Chambers is fishing for such cases for personal gain, and that is corruption. It must be stopped forthwith.
We are also concerned that in some cases the lawyers representing concerned individuals and those in State Chambers have previously had personal connections, raising questions about conflict of interest and the credibility of the negotiations and the protection of public interest in these settlements.
We call upon President Hichilema to critically evaluate his legal team in State Chambers and dismiss those who are behind these racketeering schemes.
We are appalled that oversight institutions such as the ACC, which should be in the forefront of protecting public resources, are doing nothing serious about the problem. This should have been stopped a long time ago had ACC been proactive, strategic and serious about protecting public resources.
The deals at the Ministry of Justice clearly indicate that to have a sustainable fight against corruption, it is not enough that the top national leadership is committed to the eradication of corruption. We need institutional transformation. We need to redesign institutions like ACC to make them capable and truly professional and independent.
Professor Muna Ndulo, Cornell University
O’Brien Kaaba, University of Zambia

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