Wednesday, May 7, 2025
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Police Warn Against Political Activism During Former President Lungu’s Jogging

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The Zambia Police Service has issued a stern warning, stating that it will not permit former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu to continue his routine jogging with scores of Patriotic Front (PF) members. In a statement released by Police spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, it was made clear that PF members intending to join Mr. Lungu on his jogging program should notify the police in advance.

The Police expressed strong disapproval of the way last Saturday’s jogging event was conducted, describing it as an “unlawful assembly” and “political activism.” Mr. Hamoonga emphasized that Mr. Lungu’s jogging program should be carried out with his security detail and without any political activism.

“The Zambia Police Service has noted with concern the unlawful assembly and political activism that was conducted by Patriotic Front cadres on Saturday, September 23, 2023, when the Former President Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu was conducting his morning jogging routine,” stated Mr. Hamoonga.

“We would like to warn the Patriotic Front cadres that public gatherings or demonstrations, including political events, should be notified to the police as by law established. Failure to do so amounts to a breach of the law. This is to ensure public safety, traffic management, and to prevent disruptions to the daily lives of citizens,” he added.

Mr. Hamoonga concluded by stressing that any future processions involving a former Head of State, such as Mr. Lungu, should strictly adhere to security protocols and should refrain from any form of political activism. The police are determined to maintain law and order and ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens.

Message For Today: Stay on the High Road

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Today’s Scripture

When Isaac planted his crops that year, he harvested a hundred times more grain than he planted, for the LORD blessed him.
Genesis 26:12, NLT

Stay on the High Road

Friend, in Genesis 26, Isaac was living among the Philistines in a time of great famine. He stepped out in faith and sowed seeds despite the drought, and God blessed him with a hundredfold harvest. He became a wealthy man, with large flocks of sheep and great herds of cattle. He was blessed so abundantly that the Philistines became jealous. All was well with the Philistines until Isaac’s business took off. They first clogged up Isaac’s wells, then the king told Isaac he had to move because he was too powerful. Isaac could have argued, could have started a fight, but he understood that with the blessing comes persecution. He kept his peace, moved on, and God brought him into a better place.

When God brings blessings on your life, someone will be jealous and try to stir up trouble. Stay on the high road. Don’t pay attention to the criticism of small-minded people. When you refuse to get bent out of shape, nothing can keep you from the abundance that belongs to you.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You for the promise to bless me right where I am, even when I face opposition and ridicule. I believe that You will multiply me even in the midst of famine. I receive Your peace and declare that I will stay on the high road and avoid conflict. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

[Joel Osteen Ministries]

Over 17,000 Girls in Mkushi to be vaccinated against HPV

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17,480 girls have been targeted to be vaccinated against the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) in a vaccination exercise which starts on September 25 in Mkushi district.

District Administrative Officer, Lucy Chilanga, emphasized the need to create awareness on the exercise in order to increase vaccine uptake.This came to light during the HPV campaign advocacy meeting held at Mkushi District Health Office.She called upon stakeholders to encourage eligible girls to get vaccinated against HPV by addressing misconceptions about the vaccines.

Ms. Chilanga noted that vaccination is important as it helps prevent HPV infection and subsequent diseases like cervical cancer.

“Let’s ensure correct information is given as we create awareness on the program for the good of our girl child,” she said.

Mkushi District Maternal Neonatal and Child Health Coordinator, Cleopatra Kangwa added that the vaccine has been proved to be safe and effective in preventing HPV infections, and hence reduces the incidence of cervical cancer and other anogenital cancers.

She, however, noted that the HPV vaccine does not prevent pregnancies or protect against HIV.
She explained that the World Health Organization (WHO) prequalified the use of the HPV vaccine among adolescent girls since it is more efficacious if administered before sexual debut, and prior exposure to the virus.

“The key is to vaccinate girls before they are sexually active, because HPV is sexually transmitted,” she said.

The HPV vaccination campaign will prioritize coverage in the primary target population of girls within the age range of 9 to 14 years.The campaign is expected to be conducted from 25th September to 30th September, 2023.

Arresting Former First Lady was wrong-PAC President, Andyford Mayele Banda

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By Andyford Mayele Banda
PAC President
Disclaimer: I have never ever met H.E. ECL on one on one basis for personal discussion. I have never ever met former first lady Esther Lungu in my life. I don’t have any personal relationship with any member of the family. I have never been a member of PF and never worked with them. I have a little note though and these are my earnest feelings.

Former first lady Madam Esther Lungu has been formally charged and arrested on among others counts the notorious theft of Motor Vehicle. I can’t imagine what’s going on in the Lungu family. A wife, a woman is the pillar of the house. The question is did she really steal the vehicle or the flawed laws are being used for imingalato?

our laws are flawed in most cases and in politics these laws are being used to punish people. Why would Madam Esther Lungu stage a robbery to steal a car when her husband a former President is entitled to vehicles for the rest of his life?

Look people empathy is important. No one should be exempted from the law. But our laws are flawed in most cases and in politics these laws are being used to punish people. Why would Madam Esther Lungu stage a robbery to steal a car when her husband a former President is entitled to vehicles for the rest of his life?

This is the same things I have said before, we are not different from the colonialists or apartheid regime leaders who created laws to punish people. Now I am not saying these laws have been created now. But why behave like everyone using flawed laws to punish people? No, this is not right. Charge her with other things not theft of motor vehicle. No people. No this is not right.

Esther Lungu despite whatever the Lungu family has done right or wrong has been our mother. The only close association she has to politics is supporting her husband. No people. I am so touched that a former first lady like a reserved mother like Esther Lungu can be subjected to sleeping in cells on things that could have been discussed and resolved.

Look why can’t we learn from the past that power is not permanent. Why is it that almost everyone who comes to power thinks that they can do as they wish because they feel they will be in power forever through them or their surrogates ? Like I said before if any leader does not focus on alleviating problems or poverty in the country, Zambia will vote them out no matter how many people they arrest. We have seen this before. Learn from it. At the moment Zambians are more focused on dealing with economic issues. They also want corruption to be dealt with not just in the past but even in the current.

I am so sorry mum Esther Lungu that you are being subjected to this. Its not difficult for anyone to tell that the only crime you have committed in Zambia is being married to former President H.E. Edgar Lungu. I am so sorry that our country is still being led like we are in colonialism. May God grant you the strength and fortitude you need in this trying time.
Sorry

Former Vice President Enoch Kavindele to head SADC Electoral Observer Mission to Eswatini

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The Southern African Development Community Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) has initiated the deployment of observers to four regions within the Kingdom of Eswatini. This move comes in anticipation of the General Elections scheduled for September 29, 2023, in Eswatini.

Heading the SEOM delegation, Enock Kavindele, affirmed that the forthcoming elections in Eswatini are in accordance with the nation’s legal framework as dictated by the Kingdom’s constitution. The election process is governed by a comprehensive set of relevant laws, including the Elections and Boundaries Commission Act, the Voter Registration Act, and the Elections Act.

In an official statement released by SADC, Mr. Kavindele urged all stakeholders involved in the electoral process to ensure that the elections are conducted peacefully, freely, fairly, transparently, and credibly. He emphasized the importance of fostering an environment where voters can exercise their democratic rights without fear or bias, encouraging active participation in the political process.

Furthermore, Mr. Kavindele provided guidance to the deployed observers, stressing the need for them to maintain an objective approach and exhibit maturity, diplomatic tact, discretion, and a deep understanding of the constitutional and cultural dynamics within the Eswatini community.

He underlined the significant role that observers play in the electoral process, emphasizing their responsibility in ensuring the integrity and fairness of the elections. Their presence and impartiality serve as a vital component in upholding democratic values and principles during the electoral proceedings.

MPs Urged to Familiarize Themselves with Reformed National Budgeting System

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The Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, has called upon Members of Parliament (MPs) to acquaint themselves with the reformed national budgeting system, emphasizing the transition from activity-based to output-based budgeting in recent years. Ms. Mutti highlighted this significant shift, which has been facilitated through the enactment of the National Planning and Budgeting Act of 2020.

Addressing MPs during a social sector analysis training workshop, Speaker Mutti stressed the importance of sector-specific budget analysis as a means to strengthen Parliament’s role in the budget approval process. She emphasized that this approach would allow for a more comprehensive understanding of budget allocations across various sectors.

Furthermore, Speaker Mutti noted that the transition process included a pilot exercise in 2022 involving two parliamentary committees: the Committee on Agriculture, Lands, and Natural Resources and the Committee on Energy, Water, Development, and Tourism. This pilot phase, she explained, is set to continue as part of the scrutiny process for the 2024 budget estimates, with an additional five committees to be included.

United Nations Resident Coordinator, Beatrice Mutali, expressed her satisfaction with the Zambian government’s commitment to expanding the social sector budget, particularly in areas such as health, education, and social protection. This reflects a positive development toward addressing critical social issues in the country.

Meanwhile, Herrick Mpuku, Executive Director of the Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR), highlighted the pivotal role of Parliament in economic management. He stressed that MPs play a crucial part in the development and approval of the national budget, as well as in closely monitoring and controlling government expenditure. Dr. Mpuku emphasized the necessity of equipping MPs with the tools and knowledge required to scrutinize the national budget effectively, ensuring a balanced approach between expenditure and revenue.

As Zambia continues to refine its budgeting system and enhance parliamentary oversight, these developments are expected to contribute to more effective governance and resource allocation, ultimately benefitting the nation’s citizens.

Blueberry Exports to China Opens Lucrative Market for Farmers

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President Hakainde Hichilema showcased what the results of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with China would look like, granting Zambian farmers access to the world’s largest market for fresh blueberries. This significant achievement is poised to provide a substantial boost to the nation’s horticulture industry, marking a new era of agricultural opportunities for Zambia.

The MOU, signed during President Hichilema’s visit to China, cements a vital partnership that promises to stimulate economic growth and improve the livelihoods of Zambian farmers. Under this agreement, Zambia will be able to export its locally grown blueberries to China, tapping into a market that imported a staggering 43,000 Metric Tonnes of blueberries in 2022 alone.

President Hichilema, who has been a vocal advocate for the development of Zambia’s agricultural sector, expressed his enthusiasm for this groundbreaking achievement. He said, “Farming is not just a way of life; it is a business that can drive our economy forward. This MOU with China opens up a world of opportunities for our farmers. We are ready to take our agricultural products to global markets and showcase the high quality and exceptional taste of Zambian blueberries.”

This significant market linkage is poised to have several positive impacts on Zambia’s agricultural landscape:

1. Economic Growth: The export of blueberries to China is expected to boost Zambia’s GDP, create employment opportunities, and generate foreign exchange earnings. Increased economic activity in the horticulture sector can contribute significantly to the nation’s overall economic development.

2. Income Generation: Zambian farmers, especially those involved in blueberry cultivation, stand to benefit immensely from this market access. The demand for fresh blueberries in China presents an opportunity for farmers to increase their income and improve their living standards.

3. Technological Advancements: As the demand for blueberries grows, farmers are likely to adopt modern farming techniques and technologies to meet international quality standards. This could lead to improvements in agricultural practices across the country.

4. Diversification: This partnership marks a significant step in diversifying Zambia’s export portfolio. Reducing reliance on traditional commodities and exploring new markets for non-traditional products is a strategy that can bolster the nation’s resilience in international trade.

5. Strengthening International Relations: Beyond economic benefits, the MOU strengthens diplomatic ties between Zambia and China. It underscores the value of collaboration and cooperation in addressing mutual interests and challenges.

With Zambia’s agricultural sector poised to become a cornerstone of the country’s economy, this MOU aligns perfectly with President Hichilema’s vision of transforming farming into a thriving business venture. It not only opens doors for Zambian blueberry farmers but also sets a precedent for other agricultural products to enter the global market.

ZTE Chairman to visit Zambia for talks on setting up a smart phone factory

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The Chinese government has announced that the Chairman of one of the World’s leading telecommunications Company ZTE Li Zixue is expected in the country on Monday to begin the implementation process of setting up a smart phone factory in Zambia.

The ZTE Chairman’s visit follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ZTE and the Zambian government at the ZTE Headquarters in the Chinese City of Shenzhen.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka, Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Du Xiaohui said China recognises Zambia as an important market for investment especially in the Southern African region.

Ambassador Xiaohui explains that the coming of the ZTE Chairman will officially set the tone for the actual commencement and implementation of the smart phone factory.

The Chinese envoy further stated that China has committed to implementing in earnest some of the signed agreements during the state visit to China by President Hakainde Hichilema.

Meanwhile Ambassador Xiaohui said China remains committed to helping Zambia in her development process.

He said as a way of boosting the country’s development process, the Chinese government will offer Zambia technology, machinery and capital for the various sectors.

Ambassador Xiaohui said as agreed by President Hakainde Hichilema and President Xi Jinping, China will support Zambia in the area of international equity and justice which is an active contributor to regional and global peace and development.

He further announced enhanced collaborations between the two countries in the area of climate change.

The Chinese envoy stated that China will help Zambia with technology in smart agriculture in view of the effects of Climate change.

”Zambia and China will establish a green development strategic partnership and enhance cooperation on environmental protection, combating climate change, green economy and emergency risk response mechanism among others” The Ambassador said.

Ambassador Xiaohui also said that China will support Zambia in the establishment of industries aimed at value addition.

While in China, President Hichilema witnessed the signing of 15 MoU’s between China and Zambia in various sectors of the two countries’ economies

Lusaka High Court Grants Leave for Contempt Proceedings Against PF’s Given Lubinda and Raphael Nakachinda

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The Lusaka High Court has granted leave to Patriotic Front (PF) member Miles Sampa to initiate contempt proceedings against party Vice President Given Lubinda. Sampa has accused Lubinda of holding himself as PF Acting President in violation of a court order. The court’s decision to allow Sampa to proceed with these proceedings was announced by Judge Timothy Katenekwa.

The motion to commence contempt proceedings against Lubinda comes in response to an application filed by Miles Sampa on September 20, 2023. In his application, Sampa alleged that Given Lubinda had acted in contempt of court by assuming the role of PF Acting President.

In addition to Lubinda, Sampa also named Raphael Nakachinda, the newly appointed PF Secretary General, as the second defendant in the case. The allegations made by Sampa have brought to the forefront a contentious legal dispute within the PF.

The developments surrounding this legal action have underscored the internal tensions and divisions that have been brewing within the PF in recent times. The court’s decision to grant leave for the contempt proceedings indicates that the matter will now proceed to a more comprehensive legal examination.

Miles Sampa’s Challenge to Edgar Lungu Over “Alebwelelapo” Project Escalates Tensions In PFns in O

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The political landscape in Zambia continues to be marked by dramatic twists and turns as former Lusaka Mayor, Miles Sampa, issued a direct challenge to former President Edgar Lungu, urging him to reconsider his “Alebwelelapo” project.

Sampa’s provocative question, “What are you going to do that you didn’t do in seven years?” has added another layer of complexity to the ongoing political saga.

Miles Sampa publicly challenged Edgar Lungu’s “Alebwelelapo” project, raising questions about its objectives and feasibility.

In response earlier in the week the Patriotic Front (PF) in Matero Constituency and the 5 PF councillors in the area petitioned the Central Committee to expel Matero member of Parliament Miles Sampa from the party.
Speaking at the PF Secretariat on Wednesday some of the speakers denounced the Matero law maker as being a non entity in politics.The function was also attended by former PF General secretary Davis Mwila and newly appointed PF (GS) Raphael Nakachinda members of the central committee and party structures.

The UPND has challenged PF to expel Miles Sampa to facilitate a by elections. However, under the new constitution, an expelled MP becomes independent MP without the need for the costly by elections. Unless he is convicted, all MPs are entitled to a full term or until the next general elections.

Petroleum Transporters Association of Zambia Demands Action Against Oil Marketing Companies for Non-Compliance

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PTAZ Urges Ministry of Energy to Sue Firms for Failing to Engage Local Transporters

The Petroleum Transporters Association of Zambia (PTAZ) has called on the Ministry of Energy to take legal action against Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) for their failure to comply with Statutory Instrument Number 35 of 2021. This legislation mandates OMCs to allocate a minimum of 50 percent of fuel transportation contracts to local companies.

Expressing disappointment over the continuous disregard for the law by OMCs, Ministry of Energy Permanent Secretary Chisangano Zyambo recently criticized their non-compliance with Statutory Instrument Number 35 of 2021 and the use of local transporters.

Benson Tembo, the Secretary General of PTAZ, lamented the persistent violation of the directive by Minister of Energy Peter Kapala by OMCs despite numerous reminders. In a phone interview, Mr. Tembo highlighted the unjust disadvantage faced by local transporters as OMCs continued to favor foreign transporters.

The dominance of East African transporters in the local petroleum industry has exacerbated the challenges faced by Zambian transport companies, and PTAZ is now urging swift and decisive action to rectify the situation.

The dispute underscores the importance of enforcing local content laws to ensure equitable opportunities for domestic businesses and promote economic growth.

Roy Ngulube appointed clerk of the National Assembly

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The National Assembly of Zambia has ratified the Presidential appointment of Roy Ngulube as Clerk of the National Assembly.

The Parliamentary select committee appointed on 25th July 2023, scrutinized the appointment of Mr. Ngulube to serve as clerk of the National Assembly.

This is pursuant to section 3c of the National Assembly staff act chapter 257 of the laws of Zambia.
Mr. Ngulube brings to the National Assembly a wealth of experience with 33 years working experience most of which has been in the public service.

He served as Assistant Committee clerk, Executive Assistant to the Secretary General at the Southern Africa Development Committee and the Parliamentary forum.

He also served as Executive assistant to the Speaker of the National assembly, where he rose to the position of deputy Clerk-Procedure before taking up the role of Deputy Clerk Administration.

Mr Ngulube was in 2022 to date acting Clerk of the National Assembly of Zambia until his appointment as Clerk of the National Assembly.

As the Clerk of the National Assembly he will be responsible for overseeing the administration and procedural functions of the National Assembly.

This is contained in a statement issuedto the media by Deputy Clerk Corporate Affairs Stephen Kawimbe.

Zambia to Expand Energy Access with 1,500 Mini-Grids

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In a virtual address to the Global Leadership Council of the Rockefeller Foundation, President Hakainde Hichilema unveiled an ambitious plan to revolutionize Zambia’s energy landscape and provide electricity to communities living off the national grid. This transformative initiative aims to bring essential services, economic opportunities, and improved living conditions to underserved regions across the country.

President Hichilema, in his address, expressed his commitment to improving the lives of Zambians through enhanced access to electricity. He unveiled the groundbreaking plan to deploy approximately 1,500 mini-grids throughout the nation, marking a significant step toward achieving energy independence and bridging the energy access gap that has plagued many communities for far too long.

The President announced that the groundbreaking ceremony for the first of these mini-grids is set to take place before the end of this year, signaling an expedited timeline for tangible change. These mini-grids will not only bring power to remote regions but will also be run as businesses, offering local communities opportunities to increase income and access improved health services, among a host of other benefits.

This endeavor has been made possible through collaboration and support from The Rockefeller Foundation and the ‘Sustainable Energy for All’ team. President Hichilema expressed gratitude for their partnership and encouraged more partners to join this life-changing initiative. As this project gains momentum, it is expected that additional organizations and stakeholders will come forward to contribute to its success.

President Hichilema invited the youth and cooperatives of Zambia to seize this extraordinary opportunity. By engaging with the mini-grid initiative, they can enhance business prospects, stimulate trade, and attract investment to their communities. This collective effort will not only bridge the energy access gap but also build a brighter and more prosperous future for all Zambians.

Increased human-wildlife conflict worries govt.

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Government has expressed concern over the increased reports of human-wildlife conflict as it affects the lives of people and food security.

Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba said human-wildlife conflicts are more prevalent in communities that live near protected areas and game management areas.

He said currently the number of human lives that have been lost this year due to human-animal conflict stands at ten.

Mr Sikumba said human-wildlife conflict has continued to be a major challenge affecting the wildlife conservation efforts.

He attributed increased cases of human-wildlife conflict to population growth, bushfires, poor agriculture practices and significant reduction of prey in game management areas.

ZANIS reports that Mr Sikumba disclosed during a media briefing that in the second quarter Zambia recorded 4,206 human wildlife conflict reports.

He cited Muchinga, Eastern, Lower Zambezi, Southern, Western and Kafue region as areas with most reports of human-wildlife incidences.

Mr Sikumba indicated that most of the human-wildlife animal conflicts were caused by elephants, buffaloes, hippopotamus, crocodiles and bush pigs.

He further disclosed that a total of 53 problematic animals were controlled as part of conservation measures as they became a threat to human life.

And commenting on the increased reports of human-wildlife conflicts in Livingstone, Mr Sikumba explained that African elephant herds often move out of the park at night in the dry season in search of food in surrounding areas.

He said due to lack of a buffer zone, animals end up straying in communities between Livingstone and Kazungula thereby destroying people’s gardens.

Meanwhile, Mr Sikumba has announced that the Ministry of Tourism through the Department of National Parks and Wildlife will next month in October beef up deployment of wildlife officers in hot spot regions so as to reduce human wildlife conflict.

He named the hot spot regions where more reports of human wildlife conflict have been reported as Muchinga, Eastern, Lower Zambezi, Southern, Western and Kafue region.

On poaching, Mr Sikumba said cases of animal poaching across the country have reduced as a result of increased enforcement and patrols by the wildlife officers.

Meanwhile, a 38 year old man of Maloni Compound has been found dead after he went missing on Sunday September 17, 2023.

Southern Province Police Commanding Officer Auxensio Daka said Police in Livingstone picked up the body of Peter Mwangala near Maloni Sakubita collapsed bridge.

He said the body of the deceased had multiple injuries as it is believed that he was trampled to death by an elephant.

“Police received a report of a dead body having been discovered at Maloni Sakubita bridge and visited the scene and established that the person could have been killed by an elephant as it had multiple body injuries and in a decomposed state”, he said.

Police have since picked up the body and deposited it in Batoka Hospital Mortuary awaiting burial and post mortem.

European Investment Bank Vice President expected in Zambia

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European Investment Bank (EIB) Vice President Thomas Ostros is expected in Zambia for a three-day official visit.

Speaking ahead of the visit, Mr Ostros says his engagement in Lusaka from 25th to 26th September, 2023 will reinforce the strong partnership between Zambia and the European Union as well as mark the first high-level EIB visit to Zambia since the launch of EIB Global.

The Vice President who will be accompanied by international partners in the company of technical and financing experts from the EIB’s regional hub in Pretoria and Luxembourg headquarters, as well as the European Union Delegation in Zambia will meet Zambian political, banking and business leaders.

Mr Ostros said during the visit he will formally sign the first financing under the EIB’s groundbreaking pan-African agricultural and agribusiness financing programme.

“This landmark agreement, made with Zambian partner First Capital Bank and backed by the European Union, is set to unlock substantial investment opportunities in agriculture and agribusiness across the country and demonstrates the EIB’s strengthened support for agricultural development and food security in Zambia and throughout Africa,” he said.

Mr Ostros indicated that on Wednesday, he will open the EIB Southern Africa Small and Medium Enterprise Banking and Finance Academy with Minister of Finance and National Planning Situmbeko Musokotwane.

He further added that more than 100 regional banking leaders and international partners will attend the Lusaka academy aimed at promoting financial inclusion and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region.

“Lusaka will also host the unveiling of the EIB 2023 Financing in Africa report, which provides valuable insights into banking and access to finance across the continent.

Zambia is the EIB’s largest country of operation in Southern Africa and over the past five decades, the EIB has provided more than EUR 1.2 billion for priority business, water, energy, and transport investment across the country.

This is contained in a statement issued to ZANIS today by the European Investment Bank.