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Shepolopolo Magnanimous in Cosafa Final Defeat

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Shepolopolo Zambia assistant coach Florence Mwila has congratulated rivals Malawi for a well deserved 2023 COSAFA Women’s Championship triumph in South Africa.

Malawi dethroned 2022 Champions Zambia via a 2-1 win in the final at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday.

Malawi scored in each half with Zambia grabbing the consolation in between.

In a post-match comment, Mwila said Malawi played well.

“It was a tough match as anticipated,” Mwila said .

“We are just proud of the girls. Look at how much they fought despite most of them coming to the tournament for the first time,” she said.

“They really put up a good fight and congratulations to Malawi. Malawi played well and carried the day,” Mwila said.

Zambia’s MOU with Official Creditors Sets Path for Economic Development

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The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Zambia and its official creditors marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s efforts to address its debt crisis. The Center for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) believes that this agreement will pave the way for increased resources to be allocated to development projects, thus benefiting the nation’s economic growth.

Isaac Mwaipopo, the Executive Director of CTPD, emphasized the positive impact of the MOU on Zambia’s quest to alleviate its debt burden. He noted that this development will enable the government to allocate more resources to areas in need of development. In the past, a substantial portion of the government’s budget was directed toward servicing the national debt annually.

Mwaipopo’s comments come in light of International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva’s praise for Zambia’s agreement with official creditors. Georgieva has described the MOU as great news and extended her congratulations to the Zambian government for reaching this crucial milestone.

Zambia and its official creditors reached an agreement on a comprehensive debt treatment in June 2023. The MOU formalizes this agreement and represents an important step toward ensuring long-term debt sustainability. The co-chairs of Zambia’s Official Creditor Committee are China and France, with South Africa serving as Vice-Chair.

With the signing of the MOU, each official creditor will initiate their internal processes to formalize the agreement. Subsequently, the terms outlined in the MOU will be implemented through bilateral agreements with each member of the Official Creditor Committee.

The Ministry of Finance and National Planning in Zambia is optimistic that the formalization of the Official Creditor Committee agreement will further support the country’s ongoing efforts to secure a comparable agreement with its private creditors, ultimately resolving the debt overhang.

The signing of this MOU is seen as a positive step forward in Zambia’s path toward achieving long-term financial stability and fostering economic development.

Regenerate

Gaza Residents Flee as Israel Intensifies Warnings of Imminent Offensive

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Deir Al-Balah, Gaza Strip – The situation in northern Gaza remains dire as Palestinians attempt to escape the impending offensive by Israel, while thousands seek refuge in the target zone near a hospital, hoping to avoid the impending assault. Israel’s intensified warnings of an imminent offensive by air, ground, and sea come in response to a deadly rampage carried out by Hamas militants in Israel a week ago.

The Israeli military has made efforts to clear civilians from the targeted area in the north to prepare for a concentrated campaign against Hamas militants, including those believed to be in underground hideouts in Gaza City. However, Hamas has urged people to stay in their homes.

The United Nations and aid groups have expressed their concerns about the rapid evacuation and Israel’s blockade of the territory, warning that it would lead to significant human suffering. The World Health Organization stated that the evacuation “could be tantamount to a death sentence” for over 2,000 patients in northern hospitals, including newborns in incubators and individuals in intensive care.

Gaza is already grappling with a worsening humanitarian crisis due to a week-old Israeli blockade that has caused a shortage of water, medical supplies, and even electricity as fuel supplies for electrical plants have been cut off.

Despite the obstacles and deteriorating conditions, residents of northern Gaza are grappling with the difficult decision of whether to evacuate or remain in their homes. The Israeli military has urged more than one million Gaza residents to move south, and a significant number have heeded this warning, at least temporarily.

In response to the situation, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced the deployment of a second carrier strike group, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, as a deterrence measure to discourage further escalation in the region.

While Israel’s military has called up reserves, and tensions remain high, Palestinian militants have continued to fire rockets into Israel, with Hamas remaining defiant in the face of mounting pressure.

Fighting between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants has persisted, with an Israeli airstrike near the Jabaliya refugee camp in northern Gaza leading to a tragic loss of life, including numerous women and children. Hospitals, already struggling with limited supplies, are inundated with the wounded.

Basic necessities like food, fuel, and clean drinking water have become scarce in Gaza due to the ongoing blockade and conflict. The situation continues to escalate, with no immediate resolution in sight.

The U.S. Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has called for Israel to protect civilians in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding innocent lives during this volatile period.

As the region remains on the brink of further conflict, the world watches with deep concern, hoping for a peaceful resolution to this ongoing crisis.

Message For Today: Be Comfortable Not Knowing

Today’s Scripture

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths..
Proverbs 3:5–6, NKJV

Be Comfortable Not Knowing

Friend, faith says, “God, I don’t know how I’m going to raise these children, but I’m not going to live worried and stressed out. I don’t know how my business is going to make it, but I trust You when I don’t have the answer. I don’t see how my family can be restored, but I trust You when I don’t see a way. I realize I don’t have to know because You know, and You control the universe.” That attitude of faith is what allows God to do great things—to make ways where you don’t see a way. The fact is that He had the solution before you had the problem.

He could show you how it’s going to be resolved. He could give you all the details, but if He’s not, then it’s a test. He doesn’t want you to know right now. Will you be comfortable not knowing? Will you trust Him when you don’t see how it can happen?

You may have some things you don’t understand, can’t figure out, and don’t see an answer to. That’s okay. You don’t have to see it. Don’t get discouraged, and don’t start complaining. God is working behind the scenes. He’s about to make things happen that you didn’t see coming. It’s going to be out of the ordinary, unusual. You’re going to know it’s the goodness of God. Moses didn’t have all the answers. He didn’t know how the Israelites would make it through the desert, but God gave them manna to eat each morning, something like bread that formed on the ground. He brought water out of a rock—unusual, uncommon. He guided them with a cloud during the day and a pillar of fire at night. He brought the walls of Jericho down, not by them fighting, not by their own effort, but simply by the Israelites marching around the walls. They experienced supernatural protection and supernatural provision. Just because you don’t have the answer doesn’t mean God is not going to show up and do amazing things.

Reflection

Reflect on how you can Be Comfortable Not Knowing. From what you’ve read, how can you apply this to your life today? What about going forward?

Imagine you are in a situation where you would usually get frustrated or upset. Maybe it’s in traffic or a larger situation that you’ve been praying about for a while. Think and write about how this principle can bring you peace during these times.

Declaration

Today, I declare that my life is safe and secure in the hands of my Heavenly Father. I will trust in Him and be comfortable not knowing the details. I declare that God is working all things for my good, preparing me for things better than I can imagine. He goes before me to make crooked places straight, and He has not brought me this far to leave me. I declare that I will walk by faith and not by sight, knowing He will bring every promise to pass.

Prayer

Dear God, even though there are things I can’t understand or figure out, I trust in You. I might not see the answer yet, but I won’t lose faith. I won’t let discouragement or complaint enter my heart. I know You’re working behind the scenes. You’re preparing blessings that I can’t see coming, things out of the ordinary. I trust these blessings will be so unusual, so beautiful that I will know they are from You. I am looking forward to experiencing Your goodness, feeling it in my life, and knowing it’s on the way. Thank you, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

[Joel Osteen Ministries]

Independent Churches of Zambia Mourns the Passing of Archbishop Peter Ndhlovu of BIGOCA

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The Independent Churches of Zambia (ICZ) President, David Masupa, expressed deep sadness over the passing of Archbishop Peter Ndhlovu, Overseer of the Bible Gospel Church in Africa (BIGOCA). Archbishop Ndhlovu’s death has left a void in the inter-religious community, as he had served on the Executive Board of the Inter-Religious Association for Peace and Development.

Archbishop Peter Ndhlovu, who passed away Friday night at Maina Soko Military Hospital following an illness, is remembered for his significant contributions to the Christian community. His leadership attributes have left an indelible mark on the body of Christ.

Bishop Masupa acknowledged Archbishop Ndhlovu’s pivotal role in shaping Zambian Christianity and noted that he was a spiritual father to many, providing wisdom and guidance to numerous pastors and believers.

BIGOCA Deputy Overseer Bishop Lazarus Shumba confirmed Archbishop Ndhlovu’s passing. He announced that the funeral service for Archbishop Ndhlovu would be held at the BIGOCA Church in Matero for the next seven days. During this period, the church will come together to celebrate the life and legacy of their beloved Overseer.

Archbishop Peter Ndhlovu was a highly respected figure within the Zambian Christian community, and his influence extended far beyond the boundaries of his church. His commitment to faith and service to the body of Christ will be cherished and remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

As the nation mourns the loss of this esteemed spiritual leader, the impact of his contributions to Zambian Christianity will continue to be felt by many, and his legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those he touched throughout his lifetime.

Attorney General Kabesha Makes Lifetime Donation to Cancer Patient Welfare

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Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha, has appealed to Society to come to support health facilities providing health care services and treatment to cancer patients.

Mr Kabesha , who is also Chairperson of the Zambia Institute of Advanced Legal Education (ZIALE), urged the general public to lend their support to institutions that play key roles in the battle against cancer.

Mr. Kabesha emphasized that many patients admitted to cancer healthcare institutions find themselves in frightful circumstances, often isolated from family and friends, and struggling to meet their basic needs.

He encouraged Zambians to unite in the fight against cancer, stressing the importance of regular screenings.Mr. Kabesha proposed setting up a dedicated charity account to facilitate donations.

Mr Kabesha said this will allow well-wishers to contribute to helping cancer health institutions.

In a heartfelt tribute to his late wife, who tragically lost her life to cancer, Mr Kabesha pledged a monthly donation of K5, 000.00 to the account once it is established to be used for the welfare and upkeep of cancer patients.

And Acting Director and Chief Executive Officer of ZIALE, Loah Ngulube, expressed sincere gratitude for the support of well-wishers as ZIALE celebrated its 55th anniversary.

Mrs Ngulube said ZIALE used the occasion to donate materials to the cancer disease hospital.Mrs. Ngulube applauded the remarkable resilience of the patients battling cancer.

Chief Nursing Officer Biemba Maliti highlighted the impact of such acts of kindness on patients, as it provides them with a sense of visibility and dignity.

Ms Maliti encouraged Zambians to undergo cancer screenings, emphasizing the critical role of early detection in saving lives.
“At the same moment, on behalf of both the patients and the hospital management, heartfelt thanks were extended to ZIALE for their unselfish efforts and kindness, underlining the significance of their contributions in the ongoing fight against cancer,” said Ms Maliti.

Senior Medical Superintendent Susan Musadabwe expressed gratitude for the kind gestures and support from the team.
She called for more well-wishers highlighting the importance of community involvement in providing hope and care to patients in need.

ZNS Enhances Mealie Meal Production to Meet Growing Demand

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In a recent update provided by Henry Kapata, Director and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Information and Media, the current situation regarding Zambia National Service (ZNS) mealie meal production was unveiled, shedding light on important developments to meet the growing demand for this essential staple.

Key highlights of the update include:

ZNS Chongwe Milling Plant: The Chongwe Milling Plant, one of the three ZNS milling plants, boasts a daily production capacity of 40 tons.

Chinese-Aided Project: These three milling plants were constructed as part of a China-aided project, a testament to the strong and enduring partnership between Zambia and the People’s Republic of China.

Other Plant Locations: In addition to Chongwe, the two other milling plants are located in Monze and Mpika, with impressive daily production capacities of 240 tons each.

Official Handover: The Chongwe Milling Plant was officially handed over to the Zambian Government on June 3, 2022.

Effective Operation: Since the handover, the Chongwe Milling Plant has been operating effectively, serving the local community and contributing to mealie meal production.

Expanding Capacity: In response to the high demand for mealie meal in Lusaka, the ZNS Command made the strategic decision to enhance mealie meal production by complementing the Chongwe Plant with Superior and Mushe Milling Plants.

Henry Kapata emphasized that increasing production capacity is essential in making mealie meal more accessible and affordable to the citizens of Lusaka and beyond. By expanding the production facilities, the government is addressing the growing demand for this staple food product.

GBFC Trod on Power Dynamos,MUZA Held

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Defending champions Power Dynamos and last season’s runners up FC Muza missed a chance to move to the top of the FAZ Super Division table after failing to win their rescheduled matches on Saturday.

Green Buffaloes thumped Power 3-1 at Edwin Imboela Stadium in Lusaka to move out of relegation when ending their four match win-less run.

Power would have opened a one point lead had they beaten the Soldiers in the capital city.

The Kitwe outfits gave up a 1-0 lead to lose the match.

Andy Boyeli’s 4th minute goal was cancelled by George Ngoma after 30 minutes.

Ngoma completed his brace with a 60th minute goal before Golden Mashata concluded the scoring with a goal on 87 minutes.

Buffaloes have moved four places up to number 12 with eight points as Power remained in fourth place with 12 points after seven matches.

Meanwhile, FC Muza drew 2-2 against Forest Rangers in the other delayed league match on Saturday.

Muza moved one place up to number three with 13 points while, Forest are placed 10th on the table with nine points in seven matches played.

Nkana Legend Chipepo Dies at 99

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Nkana FC is mourning club legend Simon Kaluba Chipepo has died in Kitwe aged 99.

Chipepo was the father of Power Dynamos coach Mwenya Chipepo.

Chipepo has confirmed to Radio Icengelo’s Clara Chisenga that his father died on Saturday morning at Kitwe Teaching Hospital.

He was admitted to the hospital last Thursday.

Born in 1924, Chipepo was among the first black footballers to play for Rhokana United now called Nkana Football Club.

Chipepo at his peak in the 1950s graced Scrivener Stadium in Wusakile, Kitwe which was later renamed Nkana Stadium.

Chipepo was nicknamed Malamba “mine train” because of his speed.

He played as a left back at the Scrivener and retired from active playing in 1969.

After hanging his boots,Chipepo was part of the technical bench at young Nkana academy that tutored the likes of Fred Mwila Senior and the late HurbetChime.

He worked in the mines under ZCCM until his retirement in 1979.

Chipepo lived in Kitwe’s Ndeke – Changachanga Township.

Generation of power drops at Lunzua Hydro Power Station

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The generation of electricity has drastically reduced at Lunzua Hydro Power Station in Mpulungu District of Northern Province from 14.8 Megawatts to 3 Megawatts.

Speaking during a stakeholder’s engagement held in Mpulungu, Northern Province Minister, Leonard Mbao said the government is concerned with the current situation at the power plant.

Mr Mbao noted that there is an urgent need to address the situation.

He said that the drastic reduction of power generation is worrying as it has affected various sectors of the economy in the region.

The Provincial Minister said it is unfortunate that despite the area being endowed with massive water bodies, the situation has persisted from the time the power plant was commissioned in 2015.

Mr Mbao has since called on Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO Limited) to find a lasting solution to the problem.

And ZESCO Limited Deputy Director for Power Generation, Royd Chijikwa attributed the reduction in power generation to the low flow of water from the Lunzua stream.

Mr  Chijikwa noted that the power station cannot operate at full capacity as a result of  the low water levels

He added that during this period of the year, a number of power plants in the country reduce generation of power due to low water levels.

Mr Chijikwa was however quick to disclose that the power utility company is doing everything possible to improve the generation capacity at Lunzua Hydro Power Station.

He added that the power utility company will also take advantage of various streams in the area to rectify the situation.

Speaking earlier, Water Resources and Management Authority –WARMA Catchment Manager, Mwiza Muzumara said the adverse effects of climate change has contributed to reduced water levels across the region.

Engineer Muzumara has since called on various stakeholders to get involved in the fight against climate change to heighten mitigation.

President Hichilema Commemorates Chibombo Jiangxi Economic Cooperation Zone Commissioning

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President Hakainde Hichilema, along with key officials, officially commissioned the Chibombo Jiangxi Economic Cooperation Zone in Chibombo District, Central Province. The event was held in conjunction with the Zambia-China Jiangxi Investment and Trade Cooperation Promotion Conference, marking another crucial milestone in Zambia’s ongoing partnership with China.

This conference comes just one month after President Hichilema’s successful State Visit to the People’s Republic of China, where both nations entered into several Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), strengthening the sisterly relationship between Zambia’s Central Province and China’s Jiangxi Province.

President Hichilema expressed his appreciation for Jiangxi United’s commendable efforts in attracting a diverse range of companies to the newly commissioned facility. Notable enterprises in the zone include medical equipment manufacturers, a steel processing plant, and an electrical insulator factory, among many others.

The President used the occasion to encourage local businesses to actively participate in the opportunities presented by the economic cooperation zone. The Zambian government has introduced various initiatives to facilitate citizens’ access to credit facilities, along with incentives like tax holidays designed to entice local investors.

“Your government is committed to promoting special economic zones and industrial parks, leveraging Zambia’s strategic location to expedite our industrial development and work towards our goal of becoming the regional manufacturing and processing powerhouse,” President Hichilema proclaimed. The Chibombo Jiangxi Economic Cooperation Zone signifies a crucial component in realizing this vision.

The President also underscored the significance of the Road and Belt Initiative, demonstrating the deep-rooted, all-weather relationship that has been cultivated over decades between Zambia and China. This enduring bond, highlighted by today’s event, celebrates the TAZARA spirit, which forms the bedrock of bilateral relations between the two countries.

Ruling UPND Secures Victory in Mukubwe Ward By-Election

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The United Party for National Development (UPND), emerged victorious in the Mukubwe ward by-election held in Ngabwe District. Alick Lumingu, the UPND candidate, secured a substantial win with 678 votes. The election results were announced by Returning Officer Joseph Kalola.

In a convincing performance, Alick Lumingu outpaced his competitors, with Christopher Kabunda of the Socialist Party finishing in second place with 178 votes, and the Patriotic Front candidate, Erick Chiyuni, securing third place with 66 votes.

Following the announcement of the results, the newly elected Mukubwe Ward Councillor, Alick Lumingu, expressed his gratitude to the people in his area for their unwavering support throughout the campaign. He addressed his supporters, acknowledging their role in the electoral victory.

UPND National Chairperson Collins Maoma celebrated the election win, describing it as a testament to the confidence that Zambians place in the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema. The victory underscores the continued support for the UPND and its governance under President Hichilema’s leadership.

Additionally, Members of Parliament Collins Nzovu of Nangoma and Webster Kolala of Lufubu both noted that Central Province has solidified its position as a UPND stronghold.

The Mukubwe Ward by-election was prompted by the unfortunate passing of Councillor Chrispin Himuntanga, a UPND representative, in August of this year.

VP Nalumango Assures That ZNS Mealie Meal in Shoprite Is Not GMO

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Vice President Mutale Nalumango has offered reassurances to the nation that the mealie meal produced by the Zambia National Service (ZNS) Eagles and sold in Shoprite outlets is milled from maize grown locally. Mrs. Nalumango emphasized that the maize used by ZNS for milling is sourced from the Food Reserve Agency (FRA), further underlining the government’s commitment to supporting local agriculture.

Her statement came in response to queries posed by the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Brian Mundubile, who sought clarification on whether ZNS would provide mealie meal made from imported genetically modified maize.

Vice President Nalumango affirmed that the government is focused on promoting locally grown maize and supporting national food security, ensuring that mealie meal supplied to citizens meets high-quality standards.

In addition to addressing the mealie meal supply concerns, Mrs. Nalumango also commented on the government’s fiscal responsibilities. She disclosed that the government currently owes more than $800 million for past fuel supplies. As a result, she explained, it is essential to price fuel in line with international market rates to manage the financial implications.

This response was made in answer to a question from Stephen Kampyongo, the Member of Parliament for Shiwang’andu, who inquired about the government’s stance on fuel price reduction.

Vice President Nalumango also clarified the government’s approach to foreign travel delegations. She confirmed that President Hakainde Hichilema remains committed to maintaining lean delegations when traveling abroad. However, she pointed out that the recent visit to China included eight ministers due to the specific nature of the engagements and discussions with the Chinese government.

Her response came following a query by Sydney Mushanga, the Member of Parliament for Bwacha, who sought to understand whether the President had altered his approach regarding delegation sizes when traveling internationally.

Government Encourages Farmers to Utilize New Credit Window for Increased Production

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Green Mbozi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, is urging farmers who won’t be beneficiaries of the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) in the 2023/24 season to seize the opportunity provided by the government’s new credit window. This initiative aims to empower farmers and enhance agricultural production across Zambia.

Mr. Mbozi disclosed that the government will soon announce the financial institutions where farmers can access this new credit service. The move is intended to support those farmers who may not qualify for FISP assistance.

Recognizing that FISP had been plagued by issues of misallocation and irregularities in the past, Mr. Mbozi called upon the Office of District Commissioners to collaborate with the Ministry of Agriculture in ensuring that inputs are allocated to deserving beneficiaries, thereby promoting transparency and fairness in the distribution process.

Mr. Mbozi made these remarks during a visit to Kalulushi, where he led a delegation of experts from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Ministry of Agriculture officials, and collaborating partners. The purpose of the visit was to pay a courtesy call on Kalulushi District Commissioner, Kelly Jibinga.

District Commissioner Jibinga shared positive news, confirming that Kalulushi District had received a full consignment of D’Compound fertilizer, along with 18,000 of the 23,540 x 50 kg bags of Urea allocated for the region.

Mr. Jibinga expressed his gratitude to JICA for its contributions toward improving the livelihoods of the Zambian people, underscoring the importance of such partnerships in advancing agricultural development and food security.

The visiting delegation’s presence in the Copperbelt region is to gain a firsthand understanding of the development efforts being undertaken by the government and JICA through the Smallholder Horticultural Empowerment Programme. This collaborative endeavor aims to enhance the agricultural landscape in Zambia and uplift the lives of small-scale farmers across the country.