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President Hichilema signs Electronic Governement Regulations SI

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President Hichilema signs Electronic Governement Regulations SI

President Hakainde Hichilema has signed the Electronic Government Regulations Statutory Instrument (SI) No 43 of 2023.

According to a statement issued by Acting Minister of Information and Media Makozo Chikote, the SI will strengthen the role of the Electronic Government Division.

Mr. Chikote said that the SI will enhance promoting the adoption and uptake of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in all Public bodies.

The Acting Minister added that the SI will among others provide for the standardised and integrated implementation of digital solutions in a secure, efficient and cost-effective manner.

“The regulation is aligned with the government’s prioritisation of digital transformation leveraging technology for the enhancement of the well-being of the citizenry through enhanced public service delivery,” Mr Chikote stated.

He therefore urged all public institutions to align their institutional digital implementations with the regulation, to ensure that the public sector derives optimal returns for its investment in technology.

Mr Chikote said it is key in fostering a one government approach towards the implementation of digital transformation across the Country.

Cholera Outbreak in Lusaka: One Fatality and Swift Response

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Cholera Outbreak in Lusaka: One Fatality and Swift Response

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo has confirmed a suspected cholera outbreak in Lusaka’s Kanyama Township, resulting in one fatality. The outbreak was diagnosed on Sunday, October 15, 2023. However, there is positive news that a 21-year-old woman who had been confirmed to have the disease has been successfully treated and is now in stable condition.

Addressing the media during a press briefing in Lusaka, Minister Masebo disclosed that, thanks to prompt medical care and public health efforts, there are currently no active cholera cases in Lusaka district following the successful treatment of the patient in Kanyama.

Cholera outbreaks are more prevalent during the rainy season due to the increased risk of water contamination. Unplanned and densely populated areas have historically been the major cholera hotspots in Zambia, particularly in Lusaka and the Copperbelt provinces.

The 21-year-old woman who presented at Kanyama Hospital with symptoms of acute watery diarrhea and vomiting has since been successfully treated. Rapid response teams were dispatched into the community to conduct contact tracing, and they identified a community death believed to be linked to the initial cholera case.

Minister Masebo urged the public to take proactive measures to prevent the outbreak from escalating, including practicing heightened hygiene, safe water consumption, proper sanitation, food safety, and early reporting of symptoms.

In light of this cholera outbreak, the Ministry of Health is actively working to ensure that communities without sufficient access to clean and safe water sources are provided with the necessary support by engaging the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation.

Health authorities are advising communities to adopt early measures for treating symptoms of cholera, such as diarrhea and vomiting. Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) can be administered even at home to mitigate the effects of the disease.

Funeral management in areas with confirmed cholera cases is of particular concern. Public health measures include no gatherings at the funerals of confirmed cholera cases, with burials supervised by health officials to reduce transmission risks.

The government, with the support of local health authorities, healthcare providers, and community leaders, remains committed to bringing this cholera outbreak under control. President Hakainde Hichilema, who also serves as the Global Cholera Control Champion, has emphasized the importance of working together as a nation to combat the outbreak and achieve a cholera-free Zambia.

National Day of Prayer and Fasting Marks Unity and Faith in Zambia

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National Day of Prayer and Fasting Marks Unity and Faith in Zambia

President Hakainde Hichilema emphasized the pivotal role of the church in fostering unity and peace in Zambia during the National Day of Prayer and Fasting. The event held at the Lusaka Showgrounds was graced by Vice President Mutale Nalumango on behalf of President Hichilema, brought together scores of Zambians to commemorate this annual observance.

President Hichilema, in a speech read by Vice President Nalumango, lauded the church’s influence as the moral compass of society, urging it to continue guiding and uniting the nation. He highlighted that peace and unity are indispensable for national development, calling on all Zambians to work together diligently for the progress of the country.

The National Day of Prayer and Fasting Organizing Committee Chairperson, Esther Jani, echoed these sentiments and urged unity as the key to Zambia’s development. She emphasized that the Christian faith encourages success through unity.

This year’s event centered on the theme, “Building Zambia for Greater Development through Prayer, Unity, and Hard Work.” It aimed to unite the nation, emphasizing the importance of faith and collaboration in fostering progress. Notable attendees included former First Lady Mama Esther Lungu, Acting President of the Patriotic Front (PF) Given Lubinda, Honorable Rev. Godfridah Sumaili, and many more prominent figures.

The National Day of Prayer and Fasting serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and faith, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to its development and prosperity. As the nation joins together in prayer and reflection, the hope is to inspire positive change and progress on various fronts.

Travesty of Justice

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Travesty of Justice

By Isaac Mwanza

JUSTICE, as an ideal, is one of the cornerstones of any civilized society. It encompasses the fair and equitable treatment of individuals within the legal system, aiming to protect the rights and liberties of all citizens.However, in both historical and contemporary contexts, there have been instances where justice has been distorted, resulting in what can only be described as a travesty or miscarriage of justice.

A travesty of justice is a grave departure from the principles of fairness, equity, and due process within the legal system while miscarriages of justice, defined as wrongful convictions or failures in the legal system leading to unjust outcomes, are not unique to any particular country or legal framework.

A travesty of justice happens when the very institutions and processes designed to ensure justice become tools of injustice. This can take various forms, including wrongful convictions, corruption,discrimination, or abuses of power by those in positions of authority.

In Zambia and other countries, we have witnessed cases that exemplify this situation, and there is a growing trend of the state compensating those who have been wrongly detained or maliciously prosecuted.

In Zambia, the case of Hakainde Hichilema and five others serves as an example of potential miscarriages of justice within a political context.

In 2017, Hichilema and his co-accused were arrested and charged with treason after an altercation with the previous government. Many believed that these charges were politically motivated. Although President Hichilema was eventually released, concerns arose about the fairness of the Zambian legal system in dealing with political opponents.

The state has agreed to compensate K6,400,000.00 to each of the five individuals who were arrested and prosecuted alongside President Hichilema.

Another case illustrating a travesty of justice is that of Richard Sakala, who served as President Frederick Chiluba’s aide for press and public relations. In 2002, he was unfairly and unlawfully prosecuted on charges of abusing his office. Notably, these charges were brought by private prosecutors without the required constitutional authority of the Director of Public Prosecutions, who is responsible for overseeing all prosecutions in the country.

The circumstances surrounding the unjust prosecution were influenced by the direct involvement of then-Republican President Dr. Levy Patrick Mwanawasa, who reinstated Mutembo Nchito, a prosecutor who had been removed by the then Director of Public Prosecutions, Mukelabai Mukelabai.

DPP Mukelabai had raised concerns with a tribunal established under the now-repealed Article 58(3)(a) of the Republican Constitution, asserting that the President had exceeded his authority by reinstating Mutembo Nchito to prosecute Sakala.
The tribunal found that President Mwanawasa had indeed exceeded his authority.Miscarriages of justice are not unique to any particular country. They also occur in foreign jurisdictions, as exemplified by the Central Park Five case in the United States.

In 1989, five teenagers – Kevin Richardson, Raymond Santana, Antron McCray, Yusef Salaam, and Korey Wise – were wrongfully convicted of raping a jogger in Central Park, New York City. They were coerced into making false confessions, even though there was no physical evidence connecting them to the crime.

In 2002, after spending 6 to 13 years in prison, the actual perpetrator confessed, and DNA evidence proved their innocence. This case highlights the risks of false confessions and hasty judgments.

In Africa, the 1988 Kenyan Murder of Julie Ward is another illustration. Julie Ward, a British tourist, was found dead in Kenya’s Maasai Mara Game Reserve.

A Kenyan man, Simon ole Makallah, was convicted of her murder despite insufficient evidence.Subsequent investigations suggested that wild animals might have been responsible for her death,raising doubts about Makallah’s conviction.He was released in 2009 after serving several years in prison, underscoring the dangers of rushed decisions and inadequate investigations.

South of our borders in South Africa, the 2001 George Moyo Case also exposes flaws in the South African justice system, including reliance on unreliable witness testimony.George Moyo was wrongly convicted of a murder in Johannesburg, South Africa, and spent over eight years in prison.His conviction was eventually overturned due to newly discovered evidence and the retraction of a key witness.

Several factors contribute to a travesty of justice, including flawed legal procedures, inadequate legal representation, political interference, and corruption, as well as racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic biases.A common reason for travesty or miscarriages of justice is the absence of proper legal representation, especially for marginalized and economically disadvantaged individuals.When people lack access to skilled and dedicated legal counsel, they are more likely to be treated
unfairly within the legal system.

Interference by politicians in legal matters can weaken the independence of the judiciary, resulting in decisions that favour those in positions of power.Corruption within the legal system can also erode public trust and lead to wrongful convictions.
Discrimination based on factors like political affiliation, race, ethnicity, or economic status can result in unjust outcomes in the legal system.

This may manifest as racial profiling, unequal access to resources, and systemic biases that lead to individuals receiving unfair treatment under the law.Outdated or flawed legal procedures and investigative methods can, in some cases, lead to wrongful convictions.These flaws can include cases of mistaken identity, false confessions, and unreliable evidence, all of
which contribute to miscarriages of justice.The consequences of a travesty of justice are extensive and profound, impacting not only the individuals directly affected but society as a whole.Wrongful convictions can result in the imprisonment of innocent individuals, causing them and their families immense suffering, including physical, emotional, and psychological trauma, and potentially irreparable damage to their lives.

When the public loses faith in the legal system’s capacity to deliver justice, it diminishes trust in institutions and makes it challenging to maintain social order and stability.For example, recent developments at Zambia’s Constitutional Court, which is the highest court for constitutional matters, are causing concern.

Many members of the public may soon lose confidence in that Court due to perceived partiality and a lack of comprehensive constitutional analysis in its judgments.A single travesty of justice can perpetuate a cycle of injustice, as it may lead to further mistrust and disenfranchisement, causing individuals to lose hope in the legal system.The financial costs of a travesty of justice are substantial. Taxpayers may bear the burden of compensating the wrongfully convicted, and the legal system may need to allocate resources to rectify its mistakes.

Addressing and rectifying a travesty of justice is essential for a just and equitable society. In order to prevent and correct such miscarriages, there is need for legal reforms of our justice system and increasing transparency and accountability.
Implementing legal reforms that address systemic issues, such as biased sentencing, discriminatory policing, or wrongful convictions, can help prevent future travesties of justice.

On the other hand, promoting transparency and accountability within the legal system, and ensuring an independent judiciary, can help prevent political interference and corruption.Over the years, calls from the public and the international community have always focused on the need for the executive arm of government to be accountable and rarely has it been recognized that a
judiciary that is not accountable in its decisions is more dangerous.

There is also need to establish support systems for wrongfully convicted individuals, including
access to legal assistance and rehabilitation programs. This is crucial for their reintegration into
society.
There is also need to encourage public awareness and advocacy for reform of the justice system.Grassroots movements and public pressure can drive change within the legal system.A travesty of justice represents a failure of the legal system to uphold its core principles of fairness,equity, and due process. The causes are multifaceted, and the consequences are profound, affecting
both individuals and society as a whole.

Addressing and rectifying these miscarriages is not only a moral imperative but also crucial for the maintenance of a just and equitable society.

By reforming the legal system, ensuring accountability, and promoting public awareness, we can take significant steps toward preventing and rectifying these travesties, ultimately moving closer to a more just and fairer world.The cases from the USA, Kenya, South Africa, and Zambia demonstrate the global nature of miscarriages of justice.

These cases underscore the need and importance of a fair and impartial legal system, thorough investigations, and the need to protect the rights of the accused.

In each case, individuals suffered wrongful detentions or convictions, often due to a combination of factors, including coerced confessions, unreliable witnesses or political pressures. These cases should serve as powerful reminders of the importance of constant vigilance in upholding justice and protecting the rights of all individuals within a legal system.

[For any contributions or questions, write to [email protected]]

National Day of Prayer and Fasting: A Call for Unity and Reflection

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National Day of Prayer and Fasting: A Call for Unity and Reflection

The UPND government has issued an invitation to all citizens to participate in the National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation. This important day on the national calendar, which also marks a public holiday, serves as an occasion for unity, reflection, and seeking divine intervention.

The Acting Chief Government Spokesperson, Makozo Chikote, reaffirmed the significance of the National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation. Falling just six days before Zambia celebrates 59 years of independence, this day holds a special place in the hearts of all Zambians. It is a day to recognize the stability and unity that has prevailed throughout the nation’s journey, even during transitions from one government to another.

Mr. Chikote attributed this stability to the favor and love of God, which has blessed Zambia with peace and unity. The National Day provides a moment to reflect on God’s love and Lordship and how it has benefited the nation.

At the national level, a special church service is planned at the Show Grounds in Lusaka, commencing at 09:00 hours. Members of the public are warmly invited to join this service, which will bring together leaders from various backgrounds, including religious communities. This collective prayer and thanksgiving will focus on how the Lord has safeguarded the nation.

The day also presents an opportunity for the nation to seek God’s divine intervention and guidance in building a stronger Zambia. The event will be mirrored at provincial and district levels, where people from all walks of life will come together to commemorate this important day.

Under the theme “Building Zambia for Greater Development through Prayer, Unity, and Hard Work,” Zambia will observe the National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation on October 18, 2023. It is a day to reaffirm unity, gratitude, and the importance of spiritual reflection in the nation’s journey towards a brighter future.

Bulk Medicines and Medical Supplies Arrive in Zambia from Egypt: A Boost for Healthcare

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Bulk Medicines and Medical Supplies Arrive in Zambia from Egypt: A Boost for Healthcare

In a significant development for healthcare in Zambia, a shipment of bulk medicines and medical supplies procured from the Arab Republic of Egypt has arrived in the country. The official handover of these crucial medical resources took place at the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) offices, with a speech delivered by the Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Administration, Christopher Simoonga, on behalf of Health Minister Sylvia Masebo.

Minister Masebo emphasized that the procurement of these medicines represents the Zambian government’s steadfast commitment to providing quality healthcare to all of its citizens. These medicines and supplies are expected to play a pivotal role in stabilizing drug supplies across the country.

The Health Minister took the opportunity to call upon healthcare workers and the general public to act responsibly and ensure the responsible use and safeguarding of these valuable resources. The delivery of these medical supplies is a critical step towards addressing healthcare challenges and improving the quality of medical services in the nation.

In attendance was the Egyptian Deputy Ambassador to Zambia, Noha Samir, who highlighted the significance of the drug supply as a symbol of the growing cooperation between the two countries. This procurement of essential medicines and medical supplies was made possible through the Unified Procurement Authority (UPA) established by the Arab Republic of Egypt.

This much-anticipated arrival of bulk medicines and medical supplies represents a significant boost for Zambia’s healthcare sector and is expected to contribute to the enhanced availability and accessibility of medical resources for the benefit of the Zambian population.

bulk medicines from Egypt

UPND Government’s Response to Allegations of Harassment Against Former President

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UPND Government’s Response to Allegations of Harassment Against Former President

In recent times, allegations of government harassment against former Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu have stirred public debate and concern. These claims, coupled with warnings of potential turmoil in the country, have prompted Acting Minister of Information and Media and Chief Government Spokesperson,Hon Makozo Chikote to issue a statement denying any such harassment and setting the record straight on the treatment of the former President and his family.

Respect for the Former President:

The UPND government maintains that it has consistently respected and upheld the institution of the former President, as mandated by the country’s laws. This respect extends to various aspects of the former President’s status, including privileges and entitlements. The government’s stance aligns with established legal norms.

Immunity Privilege:

One of the key points the government emphasizes is that the immunity granted to former President Lungu is a privilege extended exclusively to him. This privilege does not apply to any of his family members. It is imperative to distinguish between the legal status of the former President and that of his relatives.

Due Process for All:

The statement emphasized the principle of equality before the law, stating that if any family member of the former President is suspected of wrongdoing, they, like any other citizen, are subject to investigation and other due legal processes. In this context, the rule of law prevails.

Commitment to Upholding the Rule of Law:

Furthermore, the government reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law for the benefit of all Zambian citizens, including the former President. The government considers itself bound to ensure that legal standards and principles are upheld, irrespective of one’s status, in the interests of justice and fairness.

Brussels Shooting Suspect Killed by Police Following Terrorist Attack

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Brussels Shooting Suspect Killed by Police Following Terrorist Attack

An overnight manhunt for the gunman responsible for a terrorist attack in Brussels came to an end when police shot and killed the suspect. The attacker, suspected of killing two Swedish nationals, was apprehended at a cafe in the Brussels municipality of Schaerbeek around 8:00 a.m. local time on Tuesday.

Belgian authorities have been on high alert since the deadly attack occurred on Monday evening. During the attack, a man with an automatic rifle opened fire near Boulevard d’Ypres, just 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the King Baudouin Stadium, where Belgium was playing Sweden in a Euro 2024 qualifier soccer match. This act of terror forced the match to be abandoned at half-time, and the stadium was evacuated, with fans being instructed to return home immediately.

The gunman claimed his actions were inspired by the Islamic State in a video posted on social media. He also mentioned the Swedish nationality of the victims as a probable motivation. In addition to his social media posts, the attacker had expressed support for the Palestinian people, leading Belgian officials to consider a potential link between the attack and the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza.

Belgium’s national crisis center confirmed the suspect’s death following a police intervention. While efforts were made to resuscitate him, he was pronounced dead at the hospital later that morning. A military weapon was discovered at the cafe where the incident occurred.

The suspected gunman, a 45-year-old Tunisian man known as Abdesalem Al Guilani, had sought asylum in Belgium in November 2019, but his application was subsequently rejected. He had a history of legal issues in Belgium, including being known to authorities in connection with people-smuggling and illegal residence. The investigation into the attacker’s motivations is ongoing.

The attack, occurring as Belgium hosted Sweden in a soccer match, resulted in heightened security measures and the raising of the terror threat level to the highest level of 4. The French Interior Ministry also increased checks at the Franco-Belgian border in response to the situation.

Belgian officials have condemned the attack, with the country’s foreign minister, Hadja Lahbib, expressing their determination to combat radicalism and their condolences to the victims’ families and law enforcement.

The attack comes amid heightened security concerns in Europe due to the Israel-Hamas conflict. France recently deployed an additional 7,000 troops in response to a fatal stabbing incident that the French president, Emmanuel Macron, characterized as “barbaric Islamic terrorism.”

The shooting in Brussels has prompted discussions on border security and the need to bolster security measures across the European Union.

Chipolopolo Thump Uganda in Friendly

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Chipolopolo thumped Uganda 3-0 in a friendly match played in the Middle East on Tuesday evening.

This was Zambia’s second friendly match in six days having succumbed to a 1-0 loss to Egypt last Thursday.

At the Al Hamriya Sports Club Stadium in Sharjah, Leicester City striker Patson Daka was the star of the game after netting a brace.

Daka put Avram Grant’s side in front when converting from the spot six minutes into the match.

Forward Fashion Sakala doubled the lead in the 64th minute with Daka completing his double five minutes later.

The Chipolopolo Boys are warming up for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the January Africa Cup of Nations.

Zambia’s Starting Line up against Uganda:

Francis Mwansa 1, Roderick Kabwe (C) 23, Golden Mafwenta 21, Zepheniah Phiri 24, Dominic Chanda 25, Stopilla Sunzu 13, Emmanuel Banda 12, Edward Chilufya 14, Patson Daka 20, Kings Kangwa 22, Fashion Sakala 10

Crocodile Claims 14-Year-Old Boy’s Life

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Crocodile Claims 14-Year-Old Boy’s Life

A 14-year-old boy of Jilayantenga village in Chadiza district of Eastern province was yesterday mauled to death by a huge crocodile in Nsadzu river.The Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer, Limpo Liywalii, confirmed this devastating incident in a statement.

The young victim was identified as Smart Banda, a resident of Jilayantenga village in Chief Mlolo’s area. According to Mr. Liywalii, the boy had ventured to the river to get a drink of water, accompanied by some friends. It was during this trip that the horrifying encounter with the crocodile took place.

As the crocodile attacked, Smart Banda suffered multiple wounds on his face and a fractured right arm, injuries sustained during the deadly struggle. His friends, who witnessed the terrifying incident unfold, immediately ran to alert the boy’s parents about the dire situation.

Following the distress call, local police and fire brigade officers were promptly dispatched to the scene. Their joint efforts led to the recovery of the boy’s body at around 17:30 hours.

Despite being well aware of the crocodile-infested waters in Nsadzu river, many local residents often underestimate the dangers these reptiles pose, a disregard that has leads to tragic outcomes like this one.

President Hichilema Receives Credentials of Several Ambassadors, Calls for Global Peace

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President Hichilema Receives Credentials of Several Ambassadors, Calls for Global Peace

In an official ceremony held at State House, His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema received the letters of credence from various Ambassadors, reaffirming the commitment of their respective countries to fostering diplomatic relations with Zambia.

The dignitaries who presented their credentials to President Hichilema included Her Excellency Ms. Karolina Stasiak, Head of the European Union Delegation to the Republic of Zambia and COMESA; His Excellency Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Gian Luca Perici, Ambassador of the Holy See to Zambia; and Her Excellency Mrs. Ingrid Marie Mickelson, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to the Republic of Zambia.

Additionally, Mr. Adam Burakowski, Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to Zambia, and Mr. Jean-Marie Somet, Ambassador of the Republic of Cote d’Ivoire to the Republic of Zambia, were welcomed as they assumed their diplomatic posts.

President Hichilema extended his warm congratulations to the incoming Ambassadors, acknowledging their appointments as a testament to the enduring and robust relations their nations share with Zambia. This diplomatic exchange exemplifies the nation’s commitment to strengthening international ties.

During the discussions, President Hichilema reiterated Zambia’s unwavering dedication to two fundamental principles of diplomacy: Peace, Stability, and Security, and Economic Diplomacy, aimed at fostering job creation and poverty alleviation.

The President underscored the significance of these pillars in the face of regional and international instability, such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has had far-reaching consequences on fuel and fertilizer prices and, in turn, global food costs. Zambia believes that global instability anywhere has repercussions everywhere.

President Hichilema urged the newly appointed Ambassadors to play an active role in establishing and expanding trade and investment connections during their tenures, with the goal of enhancing the well-being of the Zambian people. He assured them of the Zambian Government’s commitment to collaborative efforts that lead to tangible outcomes.

In his call for global peace, President Hichilema emphasized the need to end hostilities in conflict-ridden regions worldwide. He stressed that conflicts and wars have not only created instability but have also contributed to escalating fuel and fertilizer prices. Acknowledging that instability affects everyone, he underscored the importance of working towards peace and stability in afflicted nations to ensure sustained economic and social development. President Hichilema emphasized that peace, security, and stability are essential elements for promoting both economic and social progress.

President Hakainde Hichilema expressed his desire for strengthened and deepened relations with the countries represented by the Ambassadors, emphasizing that his government’s foreign policy is centered on the promotion of peace, security, stability, and economic and social development.

In response to the reception of her credentials, Ambassador Karolina Stasiak affirmed the European Union’s commitment to its partnership with Zambia across various areas of development. Additionally, Archbishop Gian Luca Perici reiterated the Vatican’s dedication to strengthening the cordial relationship with the Zambian Government.

Zambians Want Former President Edgar Lungu’s Return to Politics -Ng’ambi

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Zambians Want Former President Edgar Lungu’s Return to Politics -Ng’ambi

Patriotic Front (PF) National Chairperson for Industries Frank Ng’ambi believes the people of Zambia want former President Edgar Lungu to return to active politics in order to salvage the nation.

Mr. Ng’ambi said the UPND Government has failed to improve the quality of life for Zambians after coming into office in 2021.

The immediate past Chifubu Member of Parliament in Ndola said people’s livelihoods have worsened owing to the tripled prices of mealie meal, fuel, fertiliser and electricity.

Featuring on a special interview on Muvi Television in Lusaka, Mr. Ng’ambi said the people of Zambia have realised that President Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND formed Government in 2021 on rhetoric.

He said President Hichilema has failed to reduce the cost of mealie meal, fuel, fertiliser which is contrary to his campaign promises prior to the elections.

Mr. Ng’ambi said President Hichilema promised to facilitate the lowering of fuel prices by removing perceived corrupt middle men in the petroleum industry.

“The cost of simple vegetables like rape has gone up. I am basically saying this aspect wherever ECL goes people are rising in larger numbers persuading him to come back to politics. This is because people have compared the governance of ECL and the current President. I know that ECL graciously retired from politics but it is the Zambian people each time they see him. They are persuading him to come back to politics,” Mr. Ng’ambi said.

He said the removal of subsidies on fuel has contributed to the high cost of living currently prevailing in Zambia.

Meanwhile, Mr. Ng’ambi has charged that rule of law has degenerated under the UPND reign.

He said the UPND has not restored rule of law as promised as evidenced by its intolerance and the tendency of denying opposition political parties from holding public rallies.

Don’t send refugees away, Zambian Government told

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Don’t send refugees away, Zambian Government told

The Zambian Civil Liberties Union (ZCLU) has implored the Zambian Government not to send away refugees to third countries for resettlement but fully integrate them into the Zambian Society.

And ZCLU has commended Home Affairs Minister Jack Mwiimbu for his advocacy during the 74th Session of the Executive Committee of the High Commissioner’s Programme in Geneva aimed at securing an increased operational budget for refugees and fostering greater opportunities for Zambian employment within the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), both locally and internationally.

In a press statement released by ZCLU deputy executive director Maurice Makalu, the organisation said keeping refugees in Zambia, rather than relocating them to third-world countries in Europe and the Western world, can bring significant economic benefits to the nation.

‘European and Western countries have effectively harnessed the skills and hard work of refugees to boost their GDP growth – a potential that Zambia, and many other African nations, should not ignore as a means of advancing economic development,” said Mr. Makalu.

ZCLU has however bemoaned the low deliverables associated with the utilisation of international refugee funds by the Zambian government, which it has claims continue to raise concerns among the international donor community that offer support to for refugee programmes.

“Despite generous contributions from governments such as Belgium, Japan, Sweden, Germany and the World Bank who allocated support for local integration programs in the past, there had been a glaring absence of tangible outcomes for refugees on the part of the previous Zambian government,” he said.

ZCLU has also observed extended delays by both previous and current Zambian governments in facilitating the naturalization of refugees eligible under the Refugees Act and the Constitution.

Mr Makalu has urged Minister Mwiimbu to take decisive action by invoking Section 49 of the Refugees Act as a way of demonstrating a stronger commitment to providing lasting solutions for refugees and their integration into Zambian society.

He said the ZCLU still believes the Hichilema administration has an opportunity to still address refugee challenges differently but that such will require a show leadership with courage, commitment, accountability, transparency, inclusivity and humanity.

Radiation Protection Authority Expresses Concern Over Rising Cancer Cases in Zambia

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Radiation Protection Authority Expresses Concern Over Rising Cancer Cases in Zambia

The Radiation Protection Authority in Zambia has raised alarm over the alarming increase in cancer cases across various age groups within the society. This growing trend of cancer diagnoses has sparked deep concern and led the authority to consider launching investigations into the potential causes.

Brigadier-General Adrian Maleya, the Chairperson of the Radiation Protection Authority Board, expressed his worry as hospitals across the nation are seeing a significant influx of cancer cases. Unfortunately, the precise causes of this surge remain unidentified, making it essential to delve into the root causes of the issue through research.

Dr. Maleya pointed out that dietary habits could be one of the potential factors contributing to the growing number of cancer cases. Understanding the role of food choices and other lifestyle factors in cancer development is among the critical areas that the authority aims to explore in their research efforts.

Speaking in Livingstone, Dr. Maleya officially inaugurated a three-day seminar for Radiation Protection officers from all regions of the country. The seminar serves as a platform for knowledge sharing, discussion, and the development of strategies to address the concerning rise in cancer cases and the potential role of radiation in this context.

Cancer has become a significant public health challenge worldwide, with its effects felt deeply in Zambia.

Zambia National Service Explores Supplying Cheaper Mealie Meal

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Zambia National Service Explores Supplying Cheaper Mealie Meal

Zambia National Service (ZNS) is actively pursuing an agreement to broaden the distribution of its affordable mealie meal beyond Shoprite stores, according to the country’s Defence Minister, Ambrose Lufuma. The move to make ZNS mealie meal more accessible to the general public at market-reflective prices has already prompted some private sector players to adjust the cost of this staple commodity.

In an interview with ZNBC News, Minister Lufuma also revealed that ZNS is making preparations to acquire land in all ten provinces of Zambia. This move aims to increase maize production and ensure a steady supply of mealie meal to meet the population’s needs.

The efforts to provide accessible and reasonably priced mealie meal have yielded significant progress thus far, with ZNS Chief of Marketing and Public Relations, Mulenga Nyone, sharing that over 7,060 bags of 25-kilogram mealie meal have been delivered to Shoprite outlets in Lusaka. Furthermore, ZNS has extended its distribution to Melissa Supermarket, offering consumers a wider range of options for procuring the staple.

Colonel Nyone further disclosed that ZNS intends to expand the distribution of mealie meal to Shoprite in Kabwe and other provinces in the coming week, solidifying the organization’s commitment to ensuring that mealie meal remains affordable and accessible to all.

However, recent allegations of price inconsistencies have arisen, with PF Acting President Given Lubinda accusing ZNS of selling mealie meal at different prices. He claimed that a 25kg bag of breakfast mealie meal is sold at K150 at ZNS depots while the same product is available at K230 through Shoprite chain stores.

In response to these allegations, Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa has rejected the claims as false and misleading. Mweetwa assured the public that the initiative to provide affordable mealie meal is progressing as planned, and noted that some millers have expressed their readiness to join the effort of offering cost-effective mealie meal to chain stores.

The commitment to making mealie meal accessible and affordable remains a priority in Zambia, with various stakeholders working collaboratively to ensure that this essential commodity is within reach of all citizens.

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