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Professional Teachers Union of Zambia Welcomes Government’s Teacher Recruitment Announcement

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Professional Teachers Union of Zambia Welcomes Government’s Teacher Recruitment Announcement

The Professional Teachers Union of Zambia (PROTUZ) expressed its delight as the long-awaited advertisement for the recruitment of 4,500 teachers has been officially unveiled by the Government through the Teaching Service Commission.

Brian Mwila, the Deputy General Secretary of PROTUZ, emphasized the union’s hope that the government would prioritize the recruitment of mathematics, science, and ICT (Information and Communication Technology) teachers.

“We are highly expectant that the Teaching Service Commission will fulfill its earlier commitment to giving the highest priority to teachers trained in Mathematics, Science, ICT, Design and Technology, and other technical subjects,” stated Mr. Mwila. “We support this approach because our independent analysis of staffing levels in schools has revealed a severe shortage of Mathematics, Science, Design and Technology, and ICT teachers in the majority of schools across the country.”

In light of these findings, the Professional Teachers Union of Zambia is urging the Government through the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) to adhere to its earlier stance and recruit a substantial number of teachers in these subject areas during the 2024 teacher recruitment exercise.

Mr. Mwila emphasized that PROTUZ would closely monitor the recruitment process to ensure that it aligns with the previously communicated priorities.

“Due to the introduction of the Free Education Policy and the subsequent increase in enrollment levels, teachers in the aforementioned subjects are currently overwhelmed, compromising the delivery of quality education,” he noted. “Therefore, the commission must not tolerate any actions that could undermine its commitment to addressing this critical issue.”

PROTUZ’s call for an increased focus on mathematics, science, and ICT teachers underscores the importance of these subjects in providing a well-rounded and competitive education system.

Chief Justice Mumba Malila Recommends Constitutional Court Realignment

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Chief Justice Mumba Malila Recommends Constitutional Court Realignment

Chief Justice Mumba Malila has proposed a significant realignment of the Constitutional Court to optimize the judicial system’s functionality. Justice Malila’s recommendation comes as he highlighted the current challenges posed by the placement of the Constitutional Court at the same level as the Supreme Court.

Speaking in Lusaka during the commemoration of the Supreme Court’s Golden Jubilee, Chief Justice Malila noted that the Constitutional Court’s equal status with the Supreme Court has led to certain Supreme Court judges handling fewer appeal cases. This situation has resulted in some judges having a less active caseload, and as a result, the judicial system’s efficiency has been impacted.

The commemoration of the Supreme Court’s Golden Jubilee was held under the theme “Empowering the Next Generation of Justice Leaders.” It provided an opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments and challenges faced by Zambia’s judiciary over the past fifty years.

In a related development, Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, advocated for the reintroduction of the Ministry of Gender. The move is aimed at bolstering gender equality in various influential positions across the country. Gender equality has been a pressing issue globally, and Zambia’s commitment to addressing this concern demonstrates a dedication to ensuring equal opportunities for all.

Mwangala Zaloumis, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), also weighed in on the matter. Zaloumis proposed the formation of the Political Parties’ Act with provisions aimed at enhancing women’s participation in politics. Empowering women in politics and decision-making roles is seen as a critical step towards achieving gender equality and promoting diverse representation in leadership.

Former Electoral Commission of Zambia Chairperson, Florence Mumba, lauded the judiciary’s progress in advancing female representation in decision-making positions. This recognition reflects the strides made in breaking gender barriers and promoting inclusivity within Zambia’s political and legal systems.

Zambia and Tanzania Collaborate to Enhance TAZAMA Pipeline Regulation

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Zambia and Tanzania Collaborate to Enhance TAZAMA Pipeline Regulation

Zambia and Tanzania are moving forward with plans to strengthen the regulation of the TAZAMA Pipeline through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that will facilitate collaboration between the two countries.

Eng. Reynolds Bowa, the Chairperson of Zambia’s Energy Regulation Board (ERB), recently announced that discussions to finalize the MoU with Tanzania’s Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) have reached advanced stages. This development follows an inspection and familiarization tour of the Tazama Pipelines Limited operations, spanning from Dar es Salaam to Ndola.

The TAZAMA Pipelines serve as shared infrastructure between Zambia and Tanzania, and both nations recognize the importance of ensuring efficient transmission of petroleum and regulatory compliance. Eng. Bowa explained, “Considering the mutual understanding between the two countries, EWURA and ERB have cross-cutting shared interests in the transmission of petroleum and ensuring compliance by carrying out their mandates of monitoring and regulation respectively.”

Once the MoU is signed, it is expected to significantly enhance the regulation of the TAZAMA Pipeline through collaborative efforts between the two energy regulators.

Additionally, Eng. Bowa highlighted the ERB’s efforts, in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy, to develop a statutory instrument (SI) that would facilitate third-party access to the pipeline. This SI has already received approval in principle from the cabinet after being submitted to the Ministry of Justice.

Eng. Bowa emphasized the importance of creating a level playing field and ensuring that all parties interested in importing Low Sulphur Gasoil (LSGO) through the pipeline can engage with TAZAMA for arrangements in proportion to their established market share.

He further expressed the ERB’s desire to see TAZAMA embark on pipeline expansion projects to eventually transport the entire LSGO supply. Currently, the pipeline meets 80% of the national LSGO demand, with oil marketing companies (OMCs) responsible for importing the remaining 20% to ensure the market’s needs are met.

Eng. Bowa concluded by noting that the ERB is satisfied with the current compliance of the pipeline infrastructure and relevant standards and regulations. However, the regulator will continue to encourage TAZAMA to pursue self-improvement to achieve higher efficiencies, ultimately benefiting consumers in both Zambia and Tanzania through the efficient transportation of LSGO.

Half-million-year-old wooden logs in Zambia challenge Understanding of Early Human Life

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Half-million-year-old wooden logs in Zambia challenge Understanding of Early Human Life

Archaeologists working in Zambia have made a groundbreaking discovery that has the potential to reshape our understanding of early human life. The find consists of ancient wooden logs embedded in the banks of a river, suggesting that stone-age people, almost half a million years ago, used wood to build structures that may have been shelters. This revelation challenges the previous notion that early humans led simple, nomadic lives.

The research, published in the prestigious journal Nature, has generated significant excitement in the archaeological community. It is led by Professor Larry Barham from the University of Liverpool, who heads the Deep Roots of Humanity research project responsible for excavating and analyzing this ancient timber.

The wooden structure, showing where Stone Age Humans have cut into the wood. (Image credit: Professor Larry Barham, University of Liverpool)

“This find has changed how I think about our early ancestors,” stated Professor Barham, reflecting on the implications of the discovery. “They made something new, and large, from wood. They used their intelligence, imagination, and skills to create something they’d never seen before, something that had never previously existed.”

The discovery includes not only the ancient wooden logs but also wooden tools, such as digging sticks. However, what truly astonished the researchers were two pieces of wood positioned at right angles to each other, both bearing notches that were clearly cut using stone tools. This notching allowed the logs to fit together and be used as structural elements.

The ancient wood was preserved in riverbed sediments

The estimated age of these logs is approximately 476,000 years old, a staggering revelation that predates the current belief in the simplicity of early human existence. Until now, evidence of wood use by early humans was primarily limited to fire-making and crafting tools like digging sticks and spears.

The ancient logs were remarkably preserved due to the waterlogged conditions along the Kalambo Falls in northern Zambia, near the Tanzania border. The logs were essentially pickled by the waterlogged environment, providing a unique opportunity for researchers to study ancient wood.

The age of the logs was determined through luminescence dating, which measures the time elapsed since the grains of rock were last exposed to light. This dating method confirmed the logs’ antiquity.

While the exact purpose of these wooden structures remains uncertain, experts speculate that they might have served as platforms for shelters or other functional constructions. It’s unclear which hominid species was responsible for these constructions, as no bones have been discovered at the site so far. However, the discovery raises questions about the sophistication and capabilities of our ancient relatives.

The wooden artifacts are currently being stored in controlled environments in the UK to preserve their remarkable state. However, they will eventually be returned to Zambia for public display.

Zambia: The ‘National Anthem’ Revisited

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Zambia: The ‘National Anthem’ Revisited

By Henry Kyambalesa

This article is about suggested revisions to the lyrics of the National Anthem of the Republic of Zambia following the observations of some recipients of the original article.

Firstly, we need to change “for the right” in Part I of the Anthem to “for our rights.” Secondly, as Mr. Belly Dubeka has suggested, “Africa” at the beginning of Part II of the Anthem should be replaced by “Zambia.”

This makes sense because the Anthem is, after all, not for “Africa” but for the Republic of Zambia.

Thirdly, we need to add the following soon after the “Brothers under the sun” line in Part II: “Si’ters under the sun,” where “Si’ters” would represent “Sisters.” Fourthly, we need to change the “is our cry” in the first line of Part III to “are our cry.”

And fifthly, we need to change the “Free men we stand” in the chorus to “Free ‘zens we stand,” where “‘zens” would represent “citizens.” Alternately, as Oliebenthal has suggested, we may replace the “Free men we stand” by “Freely we stand.”

We need to seriously consider the prospect of making the foregoing minor changes to our beloved country’s National Anthem mainly to make it more gender-neutral, and to correct the apparent grammatical errors in the current lyrics.

The new era National Anthem for the Republic of Zambia should, therefore, be read and/or sung as follows with the suggested changes placed in brackets:

“Stand and sing of Zambia, proud and free,
Land of work and joy in unity,
Victors in the struggle for [our rights],
We’ve won freedom’s fight.
All one, strong and free.

[Zambia] is our own motherland,
Fashion’d with and blessed by God’s good hand,
Let us all her people join as one,
Brothers under the sun,
[Si’ters under the sun],
All one, strong and free.

One land and one nation [are] our cry,
Dignity and peace ‘neath Zambia’s sky,
Like our noble eagle in its flight,
Zambia, praise to thee.
All one, strong and free.

Chorus:

Praise be to God,
Praise be, praise be, praise be,
Bless our great nation,
Zambia, Zambia, Zambia.
[Freely] we stand,
Under the flag of our land.
Zambia, praise to thee!
All one, strong and free.”

The next generation of our fellow citizens needs to inherit the foregoing Anthem for our beloved country.

Bakala Earns Nkana First Point of the Season With MUZA Draw

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Bakala Earns Nkana First Point of the Season With MUZA Draw

Coach Ian Bakala has launched his reign as Nkana trainer with a 1-1 draw against FC Muza in a delayed FAZ Super Division match played at Woodlands Stadium in Lusaka.

This was Nkana’s first point in the four-match old league season.

Kalampa came from behind in the midweek encounter to briefly recover from three straight defeats this term.

Substitute Royd Katuta leveled seven minutes away from time when heading in a Bernard Kumwenda cross.

Patrick Gondwe had paved the way for Katuta earlier in the second half.

Muza took a 1-0 lead into the break thanks to Bienvenu Bongo Ekofo’s 10th minute goal.

In the other midweek fixture, Nkana’s Kitwe rivals Power Dynamos thumped Green Eagles 2-0 at home in Kitwe.

Champions Power have joined Zanaco at the top of the table with eight points in four matches.

Zambia’s Ex-President : Rights and Status Question

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Zambia’s Ex-President : Rights and Status Question

By Isaac Mwanza

The global human rights community is increasingly observing the imposition of restrictions on former President Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu by the new administration in the Republic of Zambia.

This situation calls for reflection and raises concerns, particularly in light of President Hakainde Hichilema’s stated commitment to building a human rights legacy.

These actions have garnered unfavourable attention and raised concerns about President Hichilema’s administration. It’s important to note that recent actions taken against Mr. Lungu are not isolated incidents but seem to reflect a broader trend.

The sequence of events began with an unsuccessful attempt by some supporters of the UPND in Eastern Province to prevent the former President from attending a traditional ceremony.

Subsequently, more formal and organized measures have been employed, involving government institutions and offices.

In a span of just two weeks, former President Lungu has faced several restrictions on his rights.

He was initially denied the right to travel to South Africa for medical treatment, followed by an incident in Ndola where he was prevented from assembling for a church service to which he had been invited.

Most recently, he was ejected from a plane and prevented from traveling to South Korea to attend a World Peace Conference.

The government’s explanation for these restrictions, as conveyed by the Chief Government Spokesperson, was notably flimsy and playful.

It was stated that President Lungu did not obtain the necessary permission from the Cabinet to travel abroad.

If it was comrade Thabo Kwana who made these excuses, it would be understood. However, the implications of these actions go beyond mere administrative procedures.

What is particularly concerning is that, in the history of Zambia, this is the first time that a former Head of State has had his constitutional rights restricted in such a manner.

It raises questions about whether the government is implying that a former Head of State no longer possesses inherent rights. Such a precedent could have far-reaching implications for the treatment of former Presidents in the future.

In this context, it is essential to turn to the Constitution of Zambia for guidance. Article 22 of the Constitution specifically safeguards the rights of all citizens to travel freely. It expressly states:

“22. (1) Subject to the other provisions of this Article and except in accordance with any other written law, no citizen shall be deprived of his freedom of movement, and for the purposes of this Article, freedom of movement means –
(a) the right to move freely throughout Zambia;
(b) the right to reside in any part of Zambia; and
(c) the right to leave Zambia and to return to Zambia.”

This constitutional provision underscores the fundamental right of all Zambian citizens to move freely within the country, to reside in any part of Zambia, and crucially, the right to leave Zambia and return without unjustified hindrance.

The recent restrictions placed on former President Lungu’s ability to travel and assemble raise important questions about whether they comply with the Constitution’s criteria for reasonable limitations.

The government’s assertion that Cabinet permission was necessary for the former President to travel abroad may require further interrogation but it may change nothing for now.

The only reasonable explanation for the State’s ability to impose travel restrictions on the former President is if such restrictions are genuinely necessary in the interests of defence, public safety, public order, public morality, public health, or for regulating land and property use in Zambia.

Moreover, any denial of the right to travel on these grounds should be demonstrably justifiable within the framework of a democratic society. This is precisely why the explanations provided by the Chief Government Spokesperson is derisory.

In the event that the decision to restrict the former President’s rights were to be legally challenged in an impartial court of law, a fair-minded judge would likely find such actions deserving of censure.

However, it is the view of this author that pursuing such a legal challenge may not yield fruitful results. The predictability of our court system and the way decisions are typically rendered make it seem like a potentially futile endeavour.

Another significant matter to be addressed in this article pertains to the ongoing debate concerning the political status of former President Lungu.

It is noteworthy that President Lungu formally communicated his intention to retire from active politics to his party. Subsequently, he also informed the Cabinet of this decision.

It is crucial to examine President Lungu’s notices to both the Party and the Cabinet holistically.

The complexity arises from the fact that this retirement notice is not immediate; rather, it is conditional on President Lungu handing over power to the next party President of the Patriotic Front, to be elected at the upcoming convention.

This effectively places President Lungu in a situation where he is simultaneously involved in politics and transitioning into retirement from active political engagement.

According to the Benefits of the Former Presidents’ Act, retirement from active politics entails refraining from holding elective or appointive positions within a political party or aspiring to do so.

As the current situation stands, this interpretation is affirmed by the PF Party Chairperson for Legal Affairs, Mr. George Chisanga, who also serves as a lawmaker for Lukashya Constituency.

Mr. Chisanga’s perspective holds merit because the notice to the Secretary to Cabinet cannot be viewed independently of the attached conditional letter, in which President Lungu expressed his intent to step down within the party.

In practical terms, this dual role implies that President Lungu remains an active participant in politics as long as he retains his position within the former ruling party, pending the transfer of power to the individual elected at the forthcoming convention, whenever that may occur.

What is evident is that President Lungu’s leadership within the ruling party remains in effect until April 2026, marking five years from his last election as the former ruling party’s President.

The decision as to whether he wishes to be regarded as an active political figure by retaining his position or to make it unequivocally clear that he no longer holds the role of the former ruling party’s President rests entirely with him.

However, in the hypothetical scenario where the former President has indeed retired from active politics, meaning he does not hold or aspire to hold any elective or appointive position within the former ruling party, questions arise regarding his political rights.

Specifically, it raises the question of whether he retains the rights guaranteed by the constitution to affiliate with any political party of his choice, including being an ordinary member of the former ruling party.

The Zambian Constitution, as articulated in Article 21, unequivocally safeguards the former President’s right to association and assembly.

Article 21 makes it clear that no one can be hindered in the exercise of their freedom to assemble freely, associate with others, and, notably, form or belong to any political party, trade union, or other association for the protection of their interests without their consent.

The framers of the Benefits of Former Presidents’ Act did not intend to diminish this constitutional right to remain or join a party of one’s choice as an ordinary member.

Consequently, a former President who retires from active politics, as we see from the United States, continues to enjoy the right to vote for any candidate of their choosing, join any association of their preference, and even participate in election campaigns, albeit not as a candidate for themselves but in support of those running under their party’s ticket.

In summary, the limitations placed on former President Lungu’s travel and his political status require a rational discussion, free from emotional biases that could potentially lead to the infringement of his constitutional rights by the State.

Government must give better reasons for restricting his freedom of movement and we must as a society assess whether such reasons align with the Constitution’s criteria for reasonable justification. Apparently, it appears that they do not.

Additionally, the ambiguous political status of President Lungu has understandably created unease among those currently in authority.

His simultaneous involvement in politics while transitioning into retirement has posed a challenge, causing some in power to question whether he should continue to enjoy fundamental rights like association and assembly.

Given this uncertainty, it is advisable for the former President to carefully reconsider his position.

President Hichilema should handle this matter judiciously to avoid the perception that his administration is leaning towards autocracy.

It remains crucial for him to counsel his government colleagues on the importance of safeguarding the rights of former President Lungu and upholding the principles of the rule of law, regardless of any personal reservations.

Demonstrating tolerance should be a hallmark of President Hichilema’s leadership.Top of Form
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[For any comments and contributions, send email to: [email protected]]

Rwandan President Paul Kagame Announces Bid for Fourth Term

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Rwandan President Paul Kagame Announces Bid for Fourth Term

Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has officially declared his candidacy for a fourth term in the country’s upcoming presidential election, scheduled for next year. Kagame, who has been in power since 2000, aims to extend his rule for another seven-year term.

In a recent interview with the pan-African Jeune Afrique magazine, President Kagame confirmed his intention to run for re-election, stating, “I am happy with the confidence that the Rwandans have shown in me. I will always serve them, as much when I can. Yes, I am indeed a candidate.”

Kagame’s eligibility to seek another term was made possible by a constitutional amendment in 2015, which removed term limits that would have otherwise required him to step down in 2017. He was re-elected in August 2017, winning 98.63% of the vote, as reported by the electoral commission.

Under Kagame’s leadership, Rwanda has witnessed significant development and economic growth, particularly in the aftermath of the 1994 genocide, which claimed the lives of an estimated 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus. His administration has been praised for maintaining peace and stability in the country.

However, Kagame’s extended stay in power has faced criticism from some quarters, both domestically and internationally. Critics and human rights groups have raised concerns about limitations on political freedoms and the suppression of dissent during his tenure.

In response to questions about Western perceptions of his decision to run for another term, Kagame remarked, “I’m sorry for the West, but what the West thinks is not my problem.” He appears determined to continue serving his nation as its leader.

As Rwanda prepares for the upcoming election, the decision of President Kagame to seek re-election is expected to be a focal point of both domestic and international discussions.

Constitutional Court Upholds Appointment of Judges by President Hichilema

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Constitutional Court Upholds Appointment of Judges by President Hichilema

The Constitutional Court of Zambia has dismissed a petition brought forward by two governance activists, Isaac Mwanza and Maurice Makulu. The activists had contested the appointment of 20 new judges to the Constitutional Court, Court of Appeal, and High Court by President Hakainde Hichilema.

In delivering the judgment today, Constitutional Court Judge Palan Mulonda stated that the appointments made by President Hichilema were in compliance with the Zambian Constitution. The court found that there was no violation of constitutional provisions in the appointment of the judges.

However, Judge Mulonda urged the Zambian Parliament to enact subsidiary legislation to provide clear guidance on the appointment process of judges in accordance with the Republican Constitution. This recommendation aims to enhance transparency and accountability in future judicial appointments.

Isaac Mwanza and Maurice Makulu’s petition had argued that the appointment of the 20 judges was in violation of Articles 8, 173, and 210 of the Constitution. These provisions relate to the appointment and functions of judges in the Zambian judiciary.

President Hakainde Hichilema appointed the 20 judges to the Constitutional Court, Court of Appeal, and High Court in February of this year.

TAZAMA Constructs Fuel Pipeline to Enhance Fuel Distribution in Northern Zambia

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TAZAMA Constructs Fuel Pipeline to Enhance Fuel Distribution in Northern Zambia

The Tanzania Zambia Mafuta (TAZAMA) Limited is making significant strides in improving fuel distribution in northern Zambia with the construction of the region’s first-ever fuel pipeline. This pipeline will connect the main TAZAMA pipeline to the Mpika Fuel Depot, which is government-owned.

TAZAMA’s Managing Director, Davison Thawete, announced that this three-kilometer pipeline will supply the 6.5 million liters Mpika Fuel Depot. The project, which commenced last month, is expected to be completed by November this year. The Zambian Government is funding this essential infrastructure development at a cost of US$1.5 million.

Once the pipeline is operational, Oil Marketing Companies responsible for fuel deliveries to Luapula, Muchinga, and Northern Provinces will no longer need to collect fuel from Ndola, as has been the practice in the past. This improvement in fuel distribution logistics will streamline operations, reduce transportation costs, and enhance the availability of fuel in the region.

Mr. Thawete shared this exciting development during a visit to Mpika, where he led the Chairperson of the Energy Regulation Board (ERB), Reynolds Bowa, on an inspection of the construction progress of the pipeline.

Reynolds Bowa commended the project as a demonstration of the Zambian Government’s commitment to lowering the cost of transporting fuel and ensuring efficient fuel distribution. He also emphasized that this project would serve as a benchmark for potential expansion to other parts of the country, ultimately benefiting more regions with improved fuel accessibility and affordability.

The TAZAMA fuel pipeline project represents a significant step forward in bolstering fuel infrastructure in northern Zambia, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the lives of local communities by ensuring a consistent fuel supply.

Experts call for tech solutions that are relevant to the African context

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Experts call for tech solutions that are relevant to the African context

Leading Experts working in Artificial Intelligence, Automation, and Information Security in Africa have called for the creation of technological solutions that relevant to the continent.

At the end of a three day, “The Future of Artificial Intelligence, Automation, and Information Security in Africa Global Summit 2023” held in Livingstone last week, Experts and Thought Leaders drawn from Europe, South Africa and Zambia pledged their commitment to achieving the goal of creating A.I solutions that are relevant to the African context.

They also acknowledged that A.I and automation have immense potential to contribute significantly to Africa’s industrial growth, economic development and improved livelihoods.

They further noted that data security is paramount to ensure that the benefits of these technologies are realised without compromising the privacy and security of the people of Africa.

The Experts also committed themselves to using the Summit to foster collaborations, knowledge sharing and to harnessing the power of A.I and automation in Africa’s development.

The summit was organised by Compu-Connect Education, a 100% female-owned, IT and smart technology company with operations in Zambia and South Africa that is contributing toward raising awareness regarding A.I conversation in Africa because of the opportunities and challenges that the technology brings.

Sarah Luyele Njamu, CEO of Compu-Connect Education who served as Summit Chairperson commented, “The summit exceeded all expectations in its excellence. It was a great success mainly due to the event’s rigorous planning and excellent execution.”

She added, “The presentations were dynamic and relatable due to the Speakers’ knowledge, competence, and passion to convey the Summit in an engaging way. The most urgent issues in artificial intelligence, automation, and information security were covered in each session, which was a masterclass in and of itself.”

Mrs Njamu said the presence of several seasoned and experienced captains of industry at the Summit served as proof of the significance of A.I and information security.

“As Compu-Connect Education, we wish to thank the Government of Zambia through the Ministry of Technology and Science and the media houses in Zambia for the unwavering support received during the preparation period and has committed to hosting this global summit in Zambia annually as a result of the initial event’s success.”

FQM Founder Philip Pascall dies

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FQM Founder Philip Pascall dies

First Quantum Minerals Board Chairperson and founder Philip Pascall has died.

He died at home in Perth, Australia.

Below is the official announcement

It is with great sadness that the Board of First Quantum Minerals announces that one of our Founders and current Chairman, Philip Pascall passed away peacefully this morning at home in Perth, Western Australia.

Philip built First Quantum Minerals from a small mineral reprocessing plant into a multi-national diversified mining company that employs tens of thousands of people and touches the lives of many more in the communities in which the Company operates and far beyond; improving the livelihoods, health and education in the most remote places. He challenged our thinking and drove us to always achieve more. Philip’s legacy is the unique culture that he created, and this will endure – the First Quantum Way.

By his transition from CEO last year, Philip had built a vibrant, growing company for Tristan and all of us to take forward. Philip would have wanted business as usual, and for us to look to the future. The Lead Non-executive Director Bob Harding will now step-up as Interim Chairman. Bob has been a Non-executive Director since 2013 and he is well known across the company.

Our thoughts and condolences are with Philip’s family.

Alison Quinn
Group Manager, HR

Speaker Nelly Mutti’s Visit to Holy Cross Girls Secondary School Sparks Hope and Inspiration

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Speaker Nelly Mutti’s Visit to Holy Cross Girls Secondary School Sparks Hope and Inspiration

On Monday, September 18, 2023, the Speaker of the National Assembly, The Rt. Hon Nelly Mutti, visited her former school, Holy Cross Girls Secondary in Mongu, creating a heartwarming connection with her past. As she sat in a classroom she had last occupied 49 years ago, fond memories of her school days flooded back. This journey down memory lane rekindled her belief that education is the great equalizer, and she urged young citizens to treasure education and take full advantage of Free Education as a fundamental key to their future and the nation’s development.

As a testament to her commitment to empowering the girl child and, by extension, the entire nation, The Rt. Hon Nelly Mutti officially launched the Nelly Mutti Foundation (NMF) during the event. Her donation of laptops to Holy Cross Girls Secondary School through NMF sends a powerful message: empower girls, empower the nation.

The Speaker’s visit was warmly welcomed, and her actions serve as a source of inspiration for others. Reflecting on her visit, the Provincial Administration thanked her for setting a positive example and leading the way. They discussed the potential impact if all individuals who have achieved some level of success contributed to their communities in similar ways, suggesting that such actions could significantly benefit Western Province.

Speaker Nelly Mutti poses with staff and pupils at holy Cross Girls Secondary School in Mongu

The Sesheke Secondary School Alumni, who are planning to meet on September 30, 2023, were encouraged to follow The Rt. Hon Nelly Mutti’s lead in giving back to their communities.

In her address to the pupils, The Rt. Hon Nelly Mutti emphasized two valuable lessons:

Never limit themselves; aspire to reach the top. Her journey from a student in the same school uniform they wear today to the Speaker of the National Assembly is living proof.
Embrace the spirit of community service and giving. The Speaker traveled many kilometers to give back to the community, demonstrating that serving fellow human beings should be a priority in society.
The launch of the NELLY MUTTI Foundation at Holy Cross Girls Catholic Secondary School in Mongu District, Western Province, was a beacon of hope and inspiration for the community. During the launch, Speaker NELLY MUTTI donated 20 laptops and sports jerseys worth 400,000 Kwacha, benefiting approximately 600 learners and addressing the shortage of information and communication technology (ICT) equipment at the school.

The NELLY MUTTI Foundation is dedicated to bringing hope and sustainable innovation to communities, and this impactful launch is just the beginning.

National Airports Report Increased Traffic Due to Eased Travel Restrictions

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National Airports Report Increased Traffic Due to Eased Travel Restrictions

The National Airports Corporation has reported a significant increase in air traffic during the first quarter of 2023 as more countries ease travel restrictions and open up their markets.

Mweembe Sikaulu, Communications and Brand Manager of Zambia Airports Corporation Limited, attributes this growth to several key factors, including a rising propensity for air travel and the opening of new markets. During the first half of 2023, the corporation served over eight million passengers through its airports, compared to just over six million during the same period in 2022, approximately two million in 2021, three million in 2020, and over eight million in 2019.

“The passenger statistics in the first half of 2023 represent a combined recovery of 104% to pre-COVID-19 levels, compared to recovery levels of 79% in 2022, 34% in 2021, and 39% in 2020,”Sikaulu highlighted.

Domestic passengers have shown an impressive recovery, surpassing pre-COVID-19 levels by 126%, while international passengers have recovered by 98%. This recovery in international traffic can be attributed to the complete removal of COVID-19 requirements by the Ministry of Health in March 2023, as well as the hosting of various meetings, conferences, and events, including the Summit for Democracy, the Barcelona Legends Vs. Zambia Legends Exhibition Football Match, and the COMESA Heads of State and Government Summit.

Additionally, the introduction of operations by Mozambique Airlines, the resumption of flights by Turkish Airlines, and the launch of new routes by airlines like Proflight Zambia from Lusaka to Cape Town have contributed to the resurgence in passenger numbers.

Sikaulu emphasized that the domestic market’s recovery continues to be driven by competitive pricing of domestic travel provided by Zambia Airways and Proflight Zambia, especially to destinations like Livingstone, Solwezi, Mansa, and Ndola.

The Zambia Airports Corporation remains committed to collaborating with key stakeholders in the industry to make Zambia an attractive and affordable destination for meetings, conferences, and events, further boosting the aviation sector’s recovery.

CiSCA Condemns Restrictions on Former President Lungu’s Travel

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CiSCA Condemns Restrictions on Former President Lungu’s Travel

The Civil Society Constitution Agenda (CiSCA) has strongly condemned the recent cancellation of former President Edgar Lungu’s travel plans to South Africa and South Korea by the Cabinet Office.

In a letter dated September 7, 2023, Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet Dr. Oliver Kalabo communicated the Cabinet Office’s refusal of the former President’s request to travel to South Africa, providing no reasons for the denial. This decision came in response to a letter sent to Cabinet Office on August 16, 2023, by the office of the Sixth Republican President, indicating that the former President had been invited as a guest speaker, alongside other former regional Presidents, to a World Peace Conference scheduled to take place in Seoul. Shockingly, the trip to South Korea was abruptly canceled, and the former President was removed from the plane after having already boarded.

As a human rights advocacy group committed to promoting the rights and freedoms of all citizens, CiSCA emphasizes the importance of respecting Article 11(b) of the Constitution, which outlines the Fundamental Rights and Freedoms. This article stipulates that every person in Zambia is entitled to fundamental rights and freedoms, including the right to freedom of movement, regardless of race, place of origin, political opinions, color, creed, sex, or marital status. Article 22 specifically guarantees the right to leave Zambia and return to Zambia.

Former President Lungu’s attempts to travel abroad were merely exercising his right to movement, as provided for under the freedom of movement enshrined in Article 22. The government’s decision to restrict his travel to South Korea without justifiable reasons is deemed unconstitutional and unacceptable, especially considering the lack of explanations for the denial, in stark contrast to the South Africa trip, where clearance had been sought but was rejected without providing reasons.

Given that the medical review is not time-bound and the World Peace Conference is scheduled for September 20, 2023, CiSCA unequivocally demands that former President Lungu be allowed to immediately exercise his constitutional rights to travel to South Africa for medical attention and to South Korea to participate in the World Peace Conference in Seoul.

Issued by:

Perry Chisamu
Acting CiSCA Chairperson

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