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Government Withdraws Retirement Benefits for Former President Lungu After Return to Politics

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Government Withdraws Retirement Benefits for Former President Lungu After Return to Politics

The government has officially revoked the retirement benefits and privileges previously extended to former President Edgar Lungu. The decision follows Mr. Lungu’s return to active politics, a move that has led to the withdrawal of his retirement benefits in accordance with the Benefits of Former Presidents Act.

Information and Media Minister Cornelius Mweetwa made this announcement during a press briefing held in Kitwe, explaining that Section 5 of the Benefits of Former Presidents Act stipulates the conditions under which such benefits can be withdrawn. According to the Act, a former President’s retirement benefits and privileges can be revoked if they actively engage in politics after their term in office.

Mr. Mweetwa emphasized that the ruling party is not threatened by Mr. Lungu’s return to active politics. The decision to withdraw his retirement benefits is based on the legal framework established by the Benefits of Former Presidents Act, which aims to uphold the principles of political neutrality for former heads of state.

In a separate development, more milling companies have expressed interest in producing and distributing the Zambia National Service (ZNS) branded mealie meal across the nation. Minister Mweetwa disclosed that the government is currently engaged in discussions with these millers who seek to provide affordable mealie meal to the Zambian public.

He assured that the ZNS-branded mealie meal will be made available in all areas of the country where it has not yet been distributed. This initiative is in line with the government’s commitment to ensuring food security and affordable essential commodities for its citizens.

Addressing another issue, Minister Mweetwa refuted claims made by opposition political parties regarding the importation of genetically modified organism (GMO) mealie meal from South Africa to be sold in Zambia under the ZNS Eagles brand. He clarified that such allegations are unfounded, emphasizing that the government is committed to adhering to safety and quality standards in food production and distribution.

Zambia’s Food Security Stable, but Regional Insecurity Looms Large

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Zambia’s Food Security Stable, but Regional Insecurity Looms Large

President Hakainde Hichilema has called for collaborative efforts within the region to combat food insecurity, as the nation grapples with the impact of regional food instability exacerbated by climate challenges and conflicts in neighboring countries.

During a meeting with the World Food Programme Director for the Southern Africa Development Community Region (SADC), Menghestab Haile, President Hichilema highlighted the vulnerability of the region’s food security. He emphasized the challenges posed by prolonged droughts, flash floods, and the looming El Niño, which negatively affect food production opportunities, as witnessed last year.

President Hichilema underscored the importance of addressing the insecurity in Eastern Congo, which remains a top agenda item for the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security. He emphasized that the instability in Eastern Congo has far-reaching implications for the development of neighboring nations in the region. Vulnerable groups, including children, women, and the elderly, are displaced, oppressed, and deprived of their lives and access to food.

In response to the situation, SADC has decided to establish a mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), enabling leaders to meet and collaborate on measures to stabilize the country and provide humanitarian aid to those affected.

While Zambia has sufficient food for domestic consumption, President Hichilema acknowledged the pressure stemming from neighboring countries that face food shortages, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, the East African corridor, Malawi, and others. This increased demand has impacted food prices within Zambia.

President Hichilema affirmed Zambia’s determination to enhance agricultural productivity for both domestic consumption and exports beyond the region. He appealed to the World Food Programme for expertise to develop strategies to mitigate the anticipated El Niño’s impact in the region.

Zambia possesses favorable agronomic conditions suitable for a variety of foods, but the president stressed the need for full exploitation of this potential and the incorporation of technology in agriculture.

Menghestab Haile, the World Food Programme Director, urged leaders in the SADC region, with Zambia currently chairing the SADC Troika on Politics, Defense, and Security, to play a central role in addressing the Eastern Congo crisis. He revealed the dire humanitarian situation, with approximately 800,000 people displaced and about 50 women subjected to sexual violence daily, underlining the urgency for governments to allocate resources to address these issues.

Mr. Haile commended the Zambian government for its governance and leadership, describing Zambia as one of the two SADC member states offering promising change in the region. He stressed the role of Zambia in addressing food insecurity, emphasizing the need for SADC leaders to prepare for the expected El Niño by securing necessary resources.

In addition to discussions on food security and regional challenges, President Hichilema appointed and swore in Kennedy Lishimpe as the Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services and Etambuyu Anamela as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Permanent Secretary for International Relations and Cooperation. The president encouraged the newly sworn-in officials to prioritize public service and urged them to work towards economic diplomacy and overcoming drug availability challenges in health facilities. He noted the importance of public servants upholding ethical standards in their roles.

Newly sworn in Permanent Secretaries Kennedy Lishimpe as the Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services and Etambuyu Anamela as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Permanent Secretary for International Relations and Cooperation, pose for a picture with the President

Cabinet Approves Review of Minimum Wages

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Cabinet Approves Review of Minimum Wages

Cabinet has granted its approval for the issuance of a Statutory Instrument (SI) pertaining to the revision of minimum wages and conditions of service for various categories of workers covered by the Minimum Wages and Conditions of Employment Act. This decision comes in response to the recommendation put forth during the Tripartite Consultative Labour Council meeting, where government representatives, Trade Unions, and employers’ representatives collectively concurred on the necessity of reviewing the existing minimum wage rates.

The announcement of this pivotal development was made following the 18th Cabinet Meeting, which took place on Monday under the chairmanship of President Hakainde Hichilema. This is according to a press statement released to the media by Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa.

Mweetwa explained that the decision to review minimum wages was guided by the desire to ensure that workers earning the minimum wage receive improved conditions of service, acknowledging the rising cost of living that affects their livelihoods.

The issuance of the Statutory Instrument represents a pivotal step in addressing the well-being and economic security of the nation’s workforce, particularly those in lower-paying employment sectors such as domestic workers and shop workers. The revised minimum wage rates aim to align better with the current economic realities faced by workers.

In addition to the review of minimum wages, Cabinet also approved the issuance of the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) Penalty Waiver Regulations for the year 2023. This action is intended to enact the provisions of the National Pension Scheme Amendment Act Number 20 of 2022 concerning penalty waivers.

The NAPSA Penalty Waiver Regulations, 2023 will significantly alleviate the financial burden on businesses and offer relief to employers regarding the settlement of their outstanding NAPSA contributions.

Furthermore, Cabinet has greenlit the introduction of three key bills to the Zambian Parliament. These bills are the Zambia Institute of Procurement and Supply Bill, 2023, the Zambia Institute of Architects Bill, 2023, and the Zambia Institute of Quantity Surveyors Bill, 2023. Each of these proposed legislative measures holds the potential to bring positive changes and enhancements to their respective professional sectors.

Lastly, Cabinet has endorsed the Amendment Protocol on the Agreement for the Establishment of the Intergovernmental Standing Committee on Shipping of goods in international trade. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to streamlining and enhancing international trade procedures.

The series of approvals and legislative measures demonstrates the government’s dedication to fostering improved conditions for workers, supporting businesses, and facilitating streamlined governance across various professional sectors.

Germany Grants Zambia €10 Million for Water Management and Economic Collaboration

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Germany Grants Zambia €10 Million for Water Management and Economic Collaboration

In a significant gesture of support and cooperation, the German government has allocated €10 million to Zambia for the improvement of water supply management. Germany’s President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, made this announcement during a joint press conference with President Hakainde Hichilema at State House, underscoring the importance of ensuring quality water access for the people of Zambia.

President Steinmeier highlighted the primary objective behind this financial aid, stating, “This funding is intended to assist Zambia in guaranteeing that its citizens have access to clean and reliable water.”

Furthermore, President Steinmeier disclosed that he was accompanied by a business delegation, eager to explore investment opportunities in Zambia. This delegation will engage with the Zambian government and the local business community to foster potential investment partnerships that can contribute to economic growth and collaboration between the two nations.

In response to this generous offer, President Hichilema expressed his gratitude during the same press conference, following a closed-door bilateral meeting with President Steinmeier. President Hichilema conveyed Zambia’s commitment to working alongside Germany to ensure the effective management of water resources, both for domestic use and economic purposes.

“Zambia appreciates Germany’s support in improving water management,” President Hichilema affirmed. “We are determined to collaborate closely to ensure the responsible and efficient utilization of this precious resource, benefiting our people and our economy.”

President Hichilema also emphasized the significance of water harvesting for agriculture, aiming to bolster food production in the region where food scarcity is increasingly becoming a concern. By harnessing and channeling water for agricultural purposes, Zambia intends to enhance food availability and promote food security.

Additionally, President Hichilema expressed the desire to collaborate with Germany on adding value to critical minerals, particularly Lithium and Copper, which play a pivotal role in the electric vehicle battery industry. This partnership not only seeks to advance Zambia’s economic development but also create employment opportunities for its citizens while contributing to the use of clean energy.

“Working together to add value to these critical minerals is essential, as it will generate jobs for Zambians and support the adoption of clean energy practices,” President Hichilema emphasized.

The collaboration between Germany and Zambia in water management and economic development signifies a promising step towards addressing crucial issues such as water access, food security, and sustainable energy solutions.

President Hichilema Welcomes German President Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier for Bilateral Talks

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President Hichilema Welcomes German President Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier for Bilateral Talks

In a historic moment of diplomatic cooperation, His Excellency Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, President of the Federal Republic of Germany, arrived in Zambia for a high-level official visit. The warm welcome extended by President Hakainde Hichilema and the people of Zambia sets the stage for significant discussions and collaborations between the two nations.

The official visit commenced with a joint press briefing held at State House, where President Hakainde Hichilema expressed his delight at hosting President Steinmeier and his delegation. President Hichilema warmly welcomed his esteemed guest and emphasized the strong historical ties and shared values between Zambia and Germany.

“Germany and Zambia share common values, in democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights,” President Hichilema remarked. “Our relationship dates back to our independence in 1964, and we greatly appreciate that it has strengthened over the years.”

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier welcomed to Zambia

President Hichilema also took the opportunity to express Zambia’s gratitude to the Federal Republic of Germany and the European Union for their invaluable support in the debt restructuring process, which has been crucial for Zambia’s economic stability. Furthermore, he acknowledged their assistance in the Lobito Corridor project, a transformative initiative that connects three neighboring countries – Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Angola.

“The Lobito Corridor project will facilitate the easy movement of goods and passengers between our nations, enhancing trade and connectivity in the region,” President Hichilema explained. “This is a testament to the collaborative spirit that underlines our bilateral relations.”

Aligned with Zambia’s Foreign Policy, which is built on two pillars – Economic Diplomacy and Peace, Stability, and Security, President Hichilema reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with the Federal Republic of Germany on various economic initiatives. These initiatives aim to create job opportunities and foster economic growth, with a particular focus on sectors such as Energy, Agriculture, Water and Sanitation, and related technologies.

“We will continue to engage and collaborate with the Federal Republic of Germany on various economic initiatives that will create jobs and business opportunities for our people,” President Hichilema affirmed. “This partnership holds the promise of shared prosperity and a brighter future for both our nations.”

The official visit of President Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier to Zambia marks a significant step in the strengthening of diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries.

President Hichilema introduces the defence chiefs to German President Dr.Frank-Walter Steinmeier upon arrival to Zambia
Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, President of the Federal Republic of Germany

Did Edgar Lungu defraud the Zambian Government?

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Did Edgar Lungu defraud the Zambian Government?

By Michael Chishala

Former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu recently announced his return into active politics, to the surprise of no one. According to information in the public domain, it strongly suggests that he resigned as PF President in August 2021 and he then wrote to Cabinet Office informing them he was no longer party President and therefore entitled to his benefits as per Benefits of Former Presidents (Amendment) Act of 1998.

Cabinet Office obliged and have been paying him taxpayer money for his benefits as a former president, presumably because they did their due diligence and were satisfied that he was no longer in active politics. The Act states in Section 5(1) as follows:

5(1) The pension and other benefits conferred by this Act shall not be paid, assigned or provided to a former President who is—

(a) in receipt of a salary from the Government; or
(b) engaged in active politics

“Active politics” is defined in the Act to mean either “the doing of any act indicating a person’s intention to hold elective or appointive office” or “the holding of elective or appointive office” in a political party or in an organization whose main aim is the furtherance of political objectives.

All this raises a number of pertinent issues. Mr Lungu on 28th October 2023 declared out of his own mouth the following as quoted by News Diggers:

“I have decided to return to active politics and continue as president of PF…. I am back to active politics as PF president elected in 2021 with a mandate up to 2026. The PF will hold a general conference at the right time to choose a leader before the next elections in 2026. After this conference, I will hand over to whoever will be elected to lead the PF in the 2026 general elections.”

He was thus clearly admitting that he has been the PF president all along since 2021, hence the use of the word “continue” and referencing his “mandate” up to 2026. Three big issues immediately arise:

1. If Mr Lungu is still PF president from his election in 2021 by his own public admission, does it mean he is guilty of obtaining money under false pretences which is an offence under Zambian law? Why would he claim his benefits from the government if he was still PF president at the time? Does it mean he deliberately misled the government of Zambia that he was no longer in active politics (as defined by the Act) when in fact, he was?

2. Mr Lungu receiving his generous benefits on the basis of a misleading letter he wrote to Cabinet Office suggests he uttered a false document to the government of Zambia. The law frowns upon such, and he may be liable to being prosecuted for this.

3. If Mr Lungu is still the PF president and this was already known to Cabinet Office, why have they been spending hundreds of thousands of Kwacha on him, including spending possibly millions to build him a retirement home?

Mr Lungu might be at risk of being dragged to court for fraud, obtaining money under false pretences and uttering a false document to the government. Provided he did in fact resign as PF President and there is documentary proof of this, he will have to answer some very difficult questions on the witness stand to square his latest public statements with the letters on file.

If he ends up in court and faced with fines and possible jail time he retreats to the previous default position of retirement, his zombie party dies even faster. And it means his foot soldiers have to go fight Mr Miles Sampa without him and that fight will be very ugly and protracted with no prisoners taken.

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Michael Chishala is a Zambian analyst, blogger, and ICT Specialist. He has interests in Philosophy, Economics, Politics and Art. Email: michael [at] zambia [dot] co [dot] zm.

REFERENCES
1.Lusaka Times

Is former President Edgar Lungu engaged in “active politics”?

2.Zambia Daily Mail

Lungu’s resignation not yet in effect – Chilangwa

3.News Diggers

I won’t allow PF to die, vows Lungu as he announces political comeback

Zambian potato chips hit East Africa, SADC markets

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Zambian potato chips hit East Africa, SADC markets

By Benedict Tembo

The demand for Zambian potato chips has continued to grow in East Africa, with Uganda being the latest to make orders.

The Zambia Potato Company has literally reversed the importation of chilled potato chips from South Africa, and saved the country foreign currency, thereby helping to replenish the treasury with the greenbuck.

Zambia Potato Company Country Sales and Business Development Manager Mathews Kaubo is happy with the progress his potato processing company has made in the few years it has been on the international market.From the 27 metric tonnes it first exported to the Democratic Republic of Congo, the company is slowly gaining a lion’s share in the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) markets.
Mr Kaubo said following successful exports to Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda has made orders.
In the SADC, the company has apart from the DRC, been exporting to Malawi, Namibia and South Africa.
“South Africa is our biggest market.

From the pilot export of 27 tonnes to the DRC in January, 2022, the company now exports to eight countries in the EAC and SADC markets,” he said.Mr Kaubo has paid glowing tribute to Government through its quasi institutions for guidance.He said the Zambia Development Agency has been pivotal in helping the company to enter the export market after having been brought on board for the business expo in Lubumbashi, DRC in late 2021.
He also commended the Zambia Revenue Authority and the Zambia Bureau of Standards that ensured the company was compliant to the country’s tax regime and phytosanitary standards for the export market respectively .
Since then, the company has been growing its footprints in the EAC and SADC markets.
The company has so far cruised the 1,850 metric tonnes from the 750 tonnes exported in 2022 and is still aiming to surpass going to the year end.

Mr Kaubo said the company strikes a delicate balance by ensuring that both the local and export markets are satisfied.Locally, the company supplies to chain stores countrywide while local entrepreneurs are serviced by the Buya Bamba outlet on the outskirts of Lusaka City Market.Buya Bamba is both an outgrower agent and distributor for raw potatoes.

“Our focus was mainly to satisfy the local demand. But the processing equipment was projected to be producing more than the country’s needs,” Mr Kaubo said.With local demand estimated to be around 700 tonnes monthly, the company needed to offload the surplus on the foreign market.

“We started our exports in 2022 with 27 tonnes to the DRC. It has since increased to 780 tonnes. We are happy we are exporting the surplus after meeting the local demand,” Mr Kaubo said.

He said the Zambia Potato Company has been exporting 50 tonnes to Botswana, Malawi and Namibia.
“South Africa is our biggest market. Kenya and the DRC are our second biggest markets in terms of demand,” Mr Kaubo said.

The company, which established in 2018 but started production in 2019, has employed 150 full time staff members, mostly women at its Ngwerere factory in Chongwe District.
Mr Kaubo said the company has created hundreds of jobs through its outgrower schemes in Northern and Southern provinces.

“Farmers employ about eight people per hectare. We are growing above 2,000 hectares,” “he said.
Hundreds of marketeers benefit from loose raw potatoes at Buya Bamba.
“We are happy to keep our farmers growing. The more they increase the hectarage, the more jobs they create. We have to continue growing the export market,” Mr Kaubo said

National Assembly holds Valedictory service for late speaker Mwanamwambwa

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National Assembly holds Valedictory service for late speaker Mwanamwambwa

A valedictory ceremony was held in the chamber of the National Assembly in honour of the late former Speaker of the National Assembly Amusaa Mwanamwambwa.

The casket, draped in the Zambian flag, arrived at the National Assembly buildings and made its way into the chamber at about 10:08 hours.

The ceremony which was attended by Members of Parliament was also attended by dignitaries that included former Speaker of the National Assembly Patrick Matibini.

The sombre ceremony was characterized by tributes which were delivered by Vice President Mutale Nalumango, Government Whip, Stafford Mulusa and Leader of opposition Brian Mundubile , which was followed by a valedictory speech by Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti.

Thereafter, body viewing was then conducted.

And in an emotional speech, the Speaker, Ms Mutti disclosed that when she took up her position, she regularly consulted the late Amusaa Mwanamwambwa on Parliamentary matters.

“Immediately I was elected Speaker, I paid a courtesy call on him and continued to consult him from time to time on matters of the house,” she said.

Ms Mutti said even during her tenure as Speaker, she regularly reached out to the late former Speaker of the National Assembly.

She paid tribute to the late former Speaker on Parliamentary reforms instituted during his tenure.
Ms Mutti said even after retiring, the late Mwanamwambwa rendered guidance whenever called upon by the National Assembly.
She also revealed that she used her discretion to hold a valedictory service for the late former Speaker in honour of his distinguished service to the country.

“Although the National Assembly of Zambia Standing Orders 2021, do not expressly provide for the holding of a valedictory service for a former Speaker or indeed a former Member of Parliament , I invoked the provisions of Standing Order 239 of the National Assembly of Zambia, Standing Orders 2021 to enable the house conduct a valedictory service for the late Hon.Amusaa Mwanamwambwa, former Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia in recognition of his distinguished and patriotic service rendered to this August house and the nation at large,” said Ms Mutti.

And Vice President Mutale Nalumango said she learnt a lot when she served under the late former Speaker as Deputy Speaker.
Mrs Nalumango described the late former Speaker as a man of integrity who was a great professional.
“To me and probably many others, Hon. Mwanamwambwa was a gentleman with personal, professional and exceptional qualities which enabled him to execute his role as presiding officer exceptionally well,” she said.
And Government Whip, Stafford Mulusa said the UPND will never forget Mr Mwanamwambwa for dealing with the party, then in opposition, with fairness.

Meanwhile leader of the Opposition, Brian Mundubile paid tribute to the late former Speaker saying he made a positive impact both locally and at international level.

ERB maintains pump prices

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ERB maintains pump prices

The Energy Regulations Board ERB has maintained the pump prices for Petrol, Diesel and Kerosene for the month of November 2023.

Petrol will continue selling at K29.98 per litre , K29.96 per litre for diesel and K20.44 for kerosene.

ERB Board Chairperson, Reynolds Bowa said the pump prices for petrol and diesel have been maintained because the movements in the international oil prices and exchange rate of the kwacha against the United States Dollar were minimal and below the set threshold of 2.5 percent.

Mr. Bowa however, explained that the pump price for kerosene has also been maintained because the country has sufficient national stock.

Speaking during a press briefing in Lusaka today, Mr. Bowa assured the nation that the prices will be more stable as the country transitions to transporting fuel through the pipeline as opposed to the road transportation, which is more expensive.

He further disclosed that 80 percent of diesel is coming to the country through the pipeline while 20 percent is through road transportation.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier Embarks on Two-Day State Visit to Zambia

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German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier Embarks on Two-Day State Visit to Zambia

Germany’s Federal President, His Excellency Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, is set to undertake a significant two-day State Visit to Zambia from November 1st to 2nd, 2023. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia announced this highly anticipated visit, highlighting its importance for the strengthening of bilateral ties and the pursuit of shared developmental goals.

During the visit, President Steinmeier and President Hakainde Hichilema, are expected to engage in bilateral discussions that will center on a range of critical areas of mutual interest for both nations. These key issues include cooperation in water and sanitation, agriculture, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) development, energy, trade, and investment, among other significant sectors.

Furthermore, President Steinmeier is slated to visit projects in Zambia that have received support from the German Government. These projects exemplify the ongoing collaboration between the two nations in various sectors, and President Steinmeier will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the positive impact of this cooperation. One notable event on the agenda is the signing of an agreement between the Zambian Department of Water and KfW Development Bank, which is set to take place in Livingstone.

Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Hon. Stanley K. Kakubo, M.P, stressed the importance of President Steinmeier’s visit in reinforcing the longstanding and excellent bilateral ties that exist between Zambia and Germany. These ties are rooted in shared values and mutual aspirations for prosperity, making the visit a pivotal occasion for Zambia to further its partnership with Germany, a global economic powerhouse and a prominent member of the European Union.

Minister Kakubo emphasized that the visit holds great significance for the Zambian Government, providing an opportunity to foster sustainable development for the mutual benefit of both nations. The high-level engagements and discussions are expected to make significant contributions to Zambia’s Economic Transformation Agenda and deliver tangible benefits to the Zambian people.

President Steinmeier is set to conclude his visit and depart from Zambia on November 2nd, 2023.

President Hichilema Pays Tribute to the Late Former Speaker Amusa Mwanamwambwa

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President Hichilema Pays Tribute to the Late Former Speaker Amusa Mwanamwambwa

President Hakainde Hichilema has called on all Zambians to draw inspiration from the life and achievements of the late former Speaker of the National Assembly, Amusa Mwanamwambwa. In a moving tribute, President Hichilema lauded Mr. Mwanamwambwa’s distinguished service to the country, which spanned from his early days as a cabinet minister to his tenure as the Speaker of the National Assembly.

The President conveyed his heartfelt message during the official funeral service for Mr. Mwanamwambwa at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka. Due to his official duties, President Hichilema’s speech was delivered by Vice-President Mutale Nalumango, who stood in his place to honor the late Speaker.

President Hichilema remarked that Amusa Mwanamwambwa had achieved the pinnacle of public service during his tenure as the Speaker of the National Assembly, particularly under the leadership of President Frederick Chiluba. The President highlighted Mr. Mwanamwambwa’s incredible journey, noting that he had risen from humble beginnings as a journalist to occupy the esteemed position of Speaker of the National Assembly.

The government, President Hichilema stated, salutes Mr. Mwanamwambwa for his contributions, such as the establishment of parliamentary offices in every constituency to facilitate citizens’ access to their Members of Parliament. Additionally, he acknowledged Mr. Mwanamwambwa’s initiative in launching Parliament TV and Radio to connect the Parliament with the people. His efforts also extended to the establishment and equipping of a media center, which enabled the media to have direct access to parliamentary proceedings.

Nelly Mutti, the current Speaker of the National Assembly, paid her respects during a valedictory service at Parliament Buildings. She emphasized the pivotal role that Mr. Mwanamwambwa played in bringing Parliament closer to the people with honor and dignity. His counsel and guidance will forever be remembered by those who worked alongside him.

Vice-President Mutale Nalumango also paid tribute to the late Mr. Mwanamwambwa, describing his life as one that had a positive impact on many, particularly those who were fortunate enough to know him closely.

Mr. Mavin Mwanamwambwa, a retired judge and the late Speaker’s brother, shared insights into his brother’s remarkable political career. Mr. Mavin Mwanamwambwa outlined his sibling’s early involvement in politics, dating back to 1961 when he was a member of the Youth Brigade under the United National Independence Party (UNIP) while still at Munali Secondary School. He later joined the Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD) as a Committee Member on October 31, 1991, and was elected as a Member of Parliament for the Liuwa Parliamentary Constituency on an MMD ticket.

Amusa Mwanamwambwa’s political journey included serving as Deputy Minister of Tourism in 1993, followed by appointments as Cabinet Minister in the Ministry of Sport, Youth and Child Development in 1994, Minister of Legal Affairs in 1995, Minister of Information and Broadcasting Services in 1996, and Minister of Tourism in the same year. He later took on the role of Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Fisheries. In November 1998, he resigned from his Cabinet Portfolio and Parliamentary seat shortly before his election as Speaker, a position he held until 2011.

Amusa Mwanamwambwa, who was 83 years old at the time of his passing on October 21, 2023, was married to Catherine Nwadinafor Mwanamwambwa and had three daughters. His life and contributions to Zambia will be remembered as a source of inspiration and a call to service for all Zambians. President Hichilema’s words echoed the sentiment that Amusa Mwanamwambwa’s legacy will continue to shine as a beacon of dedication and integrity for the nation.

The family of the late former speaker Amusa Mwanamwabwa pay their respects during the burial service
Minister of Finance Situmbeko Musokotwane and his wife pay their respects during the burial of the Late Amusa Mwanamwambwa
Former Vice PREsident Enock Kavindele and Dr.Nevers Mumba and his wife pay their respects to the late former speaker of the National Assembly Amusa Mwanamwambwa
Speaker of the National Assembly Nellie Mutti pays her respects to the late former speaker of the National Assembly Amusa Mwanamwambwa

Ex-Nchanga Rangers Goalie Chewe Put to Rest

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Ex-Nchanga Rangers goalkeeper Evans Chewe Nkalamu has been buried at Chingola Central Cemetery.

Chewe, 51, was buried after requiem Mass at Nchanga Catholic Church on Tuesday.

Chingola Mayor Johnson Kang’ombe was among mourners that paid their last respects to Nchanga’s 1998 FAZ Super Division title winner.

Former Nchanga coach Fordson Kabole, Wedson Nyirenda, Moses Sichone, Israel Mwanza, Beston Chambeshi and Patrick Nkhata were among notables.

Kabole described Chewe as a magnificent goalkeeper.

“When I came to Nchanga Rangers I found Evans Chewe as a young goalkeeper. All his performances were better than those who were older than him,” Kabole said.

“I promoted Chewe from the junior team to the senior squad and he didn’t disappoint me. From 1995 to 2008 I used Evans Chewe as a goalkeeper because he was magnificent even though he was short in height. He was a good goalkeeper,”

The legendary goalie had stints at Caps United in Zimbabwe and Konkola Mine Police before venturing into coaching.

Ex-Rugby International Says Zambia Must Be Inspired by Springboks Win

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Ex-Rugby International Says Zambia Must Be Inspired by Springboks Win

Former international rugby player Dean Zulu says Zambia should pick lessons from South Africa’s victory at the ended World Cup in France.

South Africa on Sunday won their fourth Rugby World Cup after beating New Zealand in the tightly contested final.

Zulu, who represented Zambia between 2018 and 2021, said South Africa is excelling at international level because of investing in junior rugby.

The ex-Diggers and Mufulira fullback said the current Zambia Rugby Union leadership should facilitate the revival of the game in schools, colleges and universities.

‘I think South Africa deserve that victory. They played well. Look at their defence, it was on point. Defence at the end of the day is what wins you games. South Africa showed the intent to win the tournament throughout the World Cup,” Zulu told Radio Icengelo’s Monday Sports Show.

“In South Africa, generally rugby is well funded and well structured. Not only South Africa but Kenya and Zimbabwe as well have invested heavily in grassroots rugby. Investing in grassroots rugby is the only way of developing our game,” he said.

Zulu is currently coaching Ndeke Falcons in Kitwe after retiring from active rugby.

Zambians never go backwards – Tayali

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Zambians never go backwards – Tayali

Minister of Transport and Logistics Frank Tayali has charged that the people of Zambia never go backwards.

Sixth President Edgar Lungu has returned to active politics with the aim of preserving the Patriotic Front from extinction.

Mr. Lungu left active politics after losing the 2021 presidential race to President Hakainde Hichilema.

During a community engagement in Ndola Central Constituency, Mr. Tayali declared that individuals cheating themselves that they would bounce back to power won’t succeed.

“People of Zambia do not go backwards. When Dr Kaunda left office, Dr Chiluba came into office. Followed by Mr. Mwanawasa then we had Mr. Rupiah Banda and Mr. Sata, have we ever gone backwards? Don’t cheat yourself so that you will bounce back. When I am on the seat I can’t allow you to displace me,” Mr. Tayali remarked.

He further assured that the UPND Government won’t fail the people of Zambia.

Mr. Tayali recently visited his constituency to commission CDF funded Twapia Market after checking on the water project that has seen over 300 households connected to the water network in Mapalo and Nkwazi areas.

In a vibrant and colorful ceremony, Hon. Museba Frank Tayali ,fulfilled his promise to the people of Twapia by officially handing over the newly refurbished Old Market. The market was constructed using Constituency Development Fund(CDF) for 2022.

refurbished Old market inTwapia Ward in Ndola
Ndola Central Constituency MP Museba Frank Tayali during the hand over of revamped Old Market in Twapia Ward

US firm Landlock signs deal with Ministry of Defence to build 5,000 kilometers of road

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US firm Landlock signs deal with Ministry of Defence to build 5,000 kilometers of road

U.S. company LANDLOCK Natural Paving, Inc. signed a five-year Joint Venture agreement with the Zambia National Service under the Ministry of Defence to build 5,000 kilometers of road in Zambia that will run through all 10 provinces of the country.

The construction is scheduled to begin in March or April of 2024 contingent on weather conditions.

Defence Minister Ambrose Lufuma and U.S. Ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzales attended the signing ceremony where LANDLOCK CEO Mike Kostorowski said, “We are incredibly humbled by the warm reception of our Zambian partners and their enthusiasm for our road building technology. We anticipate an aggressive development plan with significant investment into supply chain management, training, and certification. “

“The socio-economic impact will extend far beyond the Zambian jobs that are created in road construction – this program will accelerate growth and prosperity for all sectors.”

This project will provide major benefits to the Zambian people under President Hichilema’s Rural Connectivity Project which focuses on rehabilitating old roads and constructing new ones, greatly improving valuable transportation routes.

The Rural Connectivity Project, in collaboration with the Constituency Development Fund, will provide safe and efficient road systems that promote regional travel.

The agricultural sector will particularly benefit through the enhanced ability to transport produce, greater accessibility for workers, and the opening of new markets.

This project is another example of harnessing U.S. private sector technology and ingenuity in partnership with the Zambian people to drive economic growth.

LANDLOCK provides infrastructure solutions that reduce the waste of time, money, and the environment commonly associated with traditional road construction methods.

The U.S. government is committed to working closely with Zambia to attract U.S. private sector investment, recognizing that businesses and local communities – much more than governments – drive investment, job creation, and economic growth.

Accountable American companies create quality jobs, provide professional development for their staff, and improve the overall business environment by promoting legal compliance and transparency, while combating corruption.

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