Sunday, May 11, 2025
Subscribe
Home Blog Page 216

MUZA Lose CAF Confed Cup Tie

sports
-
0

FC Muza have been beaten 2-1 by visiting Diables Noirs of Congo – Brazzaville in the CAF Confederation Cup match played on Sunday at National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka.

Experienced Noirs put up a convincing display against CAF club competitions debutants Muza in this first leg match of the second round.

The Congolese side showed the intent to win when taking a lead after 14 minutes through Albert Fataki.

It was 1-0 at break with the other two goals in the match coming in the last 12 minutes.

Alves Oko doubled the lead on 78 minutes before forward Andrew Phiri reduced the deficit to 2-1 ten minutes later.

The return match between the two sides will take place in two weeks time in Congo.

Chipepo Confident Power Can Shock Simba In Tanzania

sports
-
0

Power Dynamos coach Mwenya Chipepo is confident that his side was still in the race to reach the CAF Champions League group stage after yesterday’s 2-2 home draw against Simba of Tanzania.

Power gave up a lead twice at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in the first leg match of the pre-group stage as Chipolopolo midfielder Cletus Chama scored twice for Simba.

In a post match comment, Chipepo said Power will work on the mistakes noted in the first leg.

“Like I said, if Simba can score two goals here we can also go and score even more than two goals. It is just a matter of going there and win,” he said.

“We are not that bad. We just made small mistakes in the first leg which will are going to rectify,” Chipepo told reporters.

Simba coach said Roberto Olivier said his team won’t underrate Power in the second leg.

“I think in the first half our opponent played well but second half our change (substitute) was very positive. Football everything is possible. I am satisfied with our second half performance today,” Olivier said.

The two sides meet in the return leg in Dar in two weeks time.

Message For Today:The Blessing

Chief Editor
-
0
Message For Today:The Blessing

Today’s Scripture

“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.”

Numbers 6:24–26, NIV

The Blessing

Friend, today, I declare that you are blessed with wisdom and that you make good choices in life. I declare you are blessed with courage, with strength, with great vision, with an obedient heart, and with a positive outlook. I declare you are blessed with good health, with vitality, and that you will live a long, satisfied life. I declare you are blessed with a good family, good friends, healthy relationships, and that your children will be mighty in the land. I declare you are blessed with protection. I declare you are blessed with promotion, with good success, with ideas, with creativity. I declare that whatever you put your hands to will prosper. You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country. You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out. I declare you will lend and not borrow; you will be above and never beneath. I declare a new sense of freedom from whatever holds you back, a new happiness, and a new fulfillment. If you receive the blessing, say amen.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You for setting me apart with Your distinctive blessing and for shining Your face upon me. Thank You for guiding me, protecting me, favoring me, and giving me an advantage. I believe that I am blessed to be one of Your own special people. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Socialist Party President Fred M’membe Denies Allegations of Supporting LGBTQI and Gay Practices

Chief Editor
-
23
Socialist Party President Fred M’membe Denies Allegations of Supporting LGBTQI and Gay Practices

Fred M’membe, the President of the Socialist Party, has vehemently denied allegations that he and his party support LGBTQI (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex) and gay practices. Dr. M’membe addressed these allegations in a statement, refuting any affiliation with or endorsement of LGBTQI and gay issues.

Critics of Dr. M’membe and the Socialist Party had accused them of being proponents of LGBTQI rights and gay practices. However, in his statement, Dr. M’membe firmly rejected these claims, emphasizing that neither he nor his party has ever supported or promoted LGBTQI or gay practices.

Dr. M’membe questioned the motives behind these allegations, pointing out that some individuals had resorted to spreading false narratives through various channels, including online platforms and a human rights commissioner. He expressed dismay at the use of hate speech and malice to tarnish his reputation and that of his party.

In his statement, he questioned the desperation of those who, in his view, are failing in their political endeavors or governance responsibilities. He singled out certain online platforms such as Koswe and Zambian Watchdog as channels used to propagate these allegations. Dr. M’membe urged those making these claims to focus on addressing pressing issues facing the nation, such as the rising cost of living.

Dr. M’membe concluded by reaffirming his and his party’s stance on LGBTQI and gay issues, stating that it aligns with the beliefs of the majority of the Zambian population, religious teachings, cultural practices, and national laws.

He urged those who are facing political challenges to acknowledge their failures and those in leadership positions to address the country’s pressing issues rather than resorting to tactics that he characterized as malicious and mischievous.

Scheduled Power Interruption in Several Provinces Due to Annual Maintenance Works

Chief Editor
-
2
Scheduled Power Interruption in Several Provinces Due to Annual Maintenance Works

Residents of multiple provinces in Zambia, including Northern, Muchinga, Luapula, Eastern, Northern, and Central, are bracing themselves for a temporary interruption in power supply as ZESCO Limited embarks on crucial annual maintenance activities on the main power system central corridor’s substation in Kabwe.

On September 16, 2023, ZESCO Limited initiated scheduled major annual maintenance works on the primary 330kV transmission line from Kabwe Step Down Substation to Pensulo Substation. These maintenance activities are set to occur on both September 16th and 17th, from 06:00 hours to 16:00 hours each day.

Justin Loongo, Director of Transmission, Operations, and Trade at ZESCO Limited, highlighted the significance of this transmission line, stating, “The 330kV Kabwe Step Down – Pensulo transmission line currently serves as the primary conduit for transporting power from Zambia’s major power generating stations in the southern part of the country to the five provinces in the northern region.” However, Mr. Loongo reassured the public that a long-term solution is in progress, with the construction of a second 330kV Kabwe Step Down-Pensulo transmission line. This project is already well-advanced and is scheduled for commissioning by the end of December 2023.

Once commissioned, the additional transmission line will not only bolster the capacity and security of power supply to the aforementioned provinces but will also offer increased flexibility in maintenance scheduling. This means that future maintenance work will not lead to power interruptions, ensuring uninterrupted service to consumers.

As a precautionary measure, ZESCO has advised all customers to treat all supply lines as live, as power restoration could occur before the stipulated timeframe. While acknowledging the inconvenience this outage may cause to customers, ZESCO Limited emphasized the necessity of these maintenance activities to ensure the reliability and efficiency of the power supply infrastructure.

Residents of the affected provinces are encouraged to make necessary arrangements to mitigate any potential disruptions during the scheduled maintenance period.

Historic Commissioning of FM Transmitters in Luangwa District

Chief Editor
-
3
Historic Commissioning of FM Transmitters in Luangwa District

Friday marked a historic occasion in Luangwa District as the government launched FM transmitters for Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) Radio One and Two. This milestone event signified a significant step towards expanding access to crucial radio services in underserved regions of the country.

Radio has remained a vital medium for public access to information for over a century, thanks to its cost-effectiveness and ease of accessibility. The government recognizes radio’s pivotal role in not only informing but also transforming lives, fostering peace, unity, and development. The commissioning of these transmitters is a testament to the government’s commitment to providing its citizens with access to information and ensuring a well-informed citizenry.

The launch of these transmitters is particularly significant because it brings radio services to Luangwa and Rufunsa for the first time in nearly six decades. This initiative aims to address the longstanding issue of poor radio reception experienced in various parts of the country, including Nyimba, Chiengi, Samfya, Mporokoso, Senga Hill, Isoka, Lukulu, Mwandi, Sinazeze, Maamba, Chirundu, Kalomo, Chisekesi, Kaputa, and Monze.


With the installation of transmitters in these areas, the government achieves 60% coverage of ZNBC Radio 1 and 2. To further extend radio accessibility, the government has set a goal to reach 90% coverage by adding 26 more transmitters in the near future.

This initiative was fully funded by the government, demonstrating its commitment to utilizing public resources for the benefit of the people. It is also a testament to the government’s dedication to combating corruption and transparently using public resources to provide education, care for the elderly, and empower citizens economically.

The newly commissioned radio transmitters will empower the people of Luangwa and Rufunsa to actively participate in local affairs, including agriculture, fishing, education, healthcare, and various developmental activities.

The government expressed its deep appreciation for the partnership and support of local royal highnesses and Members of Parliament (MPs) in delivering development initiatives to the people. This achievement represents a significant milestone in connecting the nation through the power of radio and promoting inclusive development.

The Minister of Information and Media and Chief Government Spokesperson, Hon. Chushi Kasanda, MP, personally commissioned the FM transmitters in Luangwa District, underscoring the government’s commitment to enhancing access to information and communication services across the country.

President Hichilema Returns Home from China

Chief Editor
-
53
President Hichilema Returns Home from China

President Hakainde Hichilema has returned to Zambia alongside his wife, Mutinta, following a fruitful six-day state visit to the People’s Republic of China. The President’s visit was marked by significant diplomatic engagements and discussions aimed at enhancing the relationship between Zambia and China.

The apex of President Hichilema’s trip was the bilateral meetings held with Chinese President Xi Jinping. During these meetings, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to elevating the existing bilateral relations between their nations to new heights.

A pivotal moment during the visit was the signing of more than 15 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering various sectors of the Zambian economy. This signing ceremony, held at the Great Hall of the People in China, underscored the shared vision for cooperation and partnership in areas such as finance, trade, agriculture, media, and tourism.

Among the notable MoUs signed was the formulation of a Cooperation plan on the Belt and Road Initiative, facilitated by the Ministry of Finance and the Reform Commission of China. This initiative holds significant potential for advancing economic development and infrastructure projects in Zambia.

In a move that promises to expand trade, another MoU was signed to allow for the export of blueberries to China. This agreement opens up new opportunities for Zambian agricultural exports, further strengthening economic ties.

While in China, President Hichilema addressed an investment forum, resulting in commitments of approximately $1.4 billion in Chinese investments for Zambia. These investments are expected to contribute to the nation’s economic growth and development.

During his visit, the President and his delegation visited several companies engaged in the manufacturing of electric vehicles and cell phones, showcasing China’s technological advancements. President Hichilema invited these firms to consider expanding their operations to Zambia, emphasizing the country’s peaceful environment and favorable business policies.

Cletus Chama Dims Power Dynamos Group Stage Hopes

sports
-
1

Chipolopolo midfielder Cletus Chama starred as his Tanzanian side Simba SC forced a 2-2 draw against Power Dynamos in Saturday’s away CAF Champions League match at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

Chama scored a brace when Simba came from behind twice to draw against the Zambian champions in the first leg match of the pre-group stage.

Power must thank international keeper Lawrence Mulenga for keeping the scoreline lower with some fine saves in both halves.

Chama frustrated Power with a late equaliser deep in the second half stoppage time to deny the Kitwe giants a win.

Forward Joshua Mutale put Power in front after a solo effort on 28 minutes to guide his side into the break with a 1-0 lead.

Chama leveled via a 58th close range tap in to excite the traveling supporters.

Second half substitute Cephas Mulombwa made it 2-1 in the 74th minute having replaced Fredrick Mulambia few minutes earlier.

Power finished the match with ten players after reliable defender Dominic Chanda saw red for a professional foul.

The two sides meet in the return leg in Dar in two weeks time.

Solwezi records highest maternal deaths in North Western

Support Editor
-
1
Solwezi records highest maternal deaths in North Western

Solwezi District has recorded the highest maternal mortality rate in North-western Province this year, with 14 maternal deaths.

Mushindamo district was second with three deaths, while Kalumbila trailed in third place with two maternal deaths.

Solwezi District Health Director Buumba Bubala who bemoaned the escalating levels of maternal deaths in her district, has revealed that the sad development has compelled First Quantum Minerals Limited to sponsor a seven-day Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) Improvement Plan workshop for health practitioners in the area.

Dr. Bubala says the training is aimed at imparting knowledge and skills to rural health caregivers on how to avert maternal deaths in Solwezi, Mushindamo, and Kalumbila districts respectively.

Dr.Bubala has further revealed that the maternal deaths that occur in the three districts all relate to women bleeding to death after delivery.

She said the unacceptably high maternal mortality rate were all from rural parts of Solwezi district.

Dr. Bubala however revealed that twenty-five rural health caregivers were being trained for the benefit of the community in the three districts especially Solwezi which has the highest maternal mortality prevalence.

“Between January and August 2023, Solwezi has recorded 14 maternal deaths, Mushindamo recorded three deaths and Kalumbila district recorded two maternal mortalities” Dr. Bubala said.

And Solwezi General Hospital Nurse in charge of the maternity wing Levy Muna disclosed that there was also a high number of babies dying before or after being born in North-western province.

Mr. Muna said the key focus would be to monitor the areas that were affected to save the mothers in communities.

“The major causes of maternal deaths is bleeding and hypertensive disorder after pregnancy” Mr. Muna said.

Meanwhile, Solwezi Urban Clinic Midwifery Nurse Audrey Nkhata who was also one of the facilitators at the workshop urged expectant mothers not to risk their lives and of their unborn children by delaying to go for antenatal checkups.

“Please expectant mothers don’t delay going for antenatal clinics to save your lives and that of your unborn babies” Ms. Nkhata said.

Lufuma speaks peace ahead of DRC elections

Support Editor
-
4
Lufuma speaks peace ahead of DRC elections

Lubumbashi, September 16, 2023, ZANIS—Minister of Defence, Ambrose Lufuma, has commended the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for its commitment towards ensuring smooth flow of goods, through the Kasumbalesa border.

And Zambia has wished DRC peace before, during and after the general elections scheduled for the end of this year.

Mr. Lufuma who co-chaired the just ended 12th Session of the DRC/Zambia Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) meeting on Defence and Security in the mineral-rich Lubumbashi town in Katanga province, said this in his opening remarks.

Mr. Lufuma told the delegates that the commitment shown by DRC towards ensuring smooth flow of merchandise, especially through the Kasumbalesa border, is highly commendable.

 Mr. Lufuma also cited some undertakings that need to be sustained or realised with the support of the defense and security apparatus.

He said that these include the landmark value chain electric car battery industry, the Kolwezi- Solwezi Road and the Lobito corridor railway infrastructure.

Mr. Lufuma however, said that notwithstanding these prospects, cross border crimes, including smuggling, illegal migration and other violations, as well as the threat of terrorism, remain a great concern to the Zambian government.

“These crimes have been compounded by the vastness of our common border, which has remained unmanned in some places,” said Mr. Lufuma.

He said that Zambia remains committed to the border re-affirmation exercise under the auspices of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Speaking earlier, DRC/Zambia JPC meeting Chairperson, Peter Kazadi, who is DRC Minister of Home Affairs and Security, called for more collaboration between Zambia and his country.

Mr. Kazadi said the two countries must be meeting regularly in order to assess the level of execution of the commitments made in the past with regards to common interests.

Mr. Kazadi said his desire for the 12th Session of the DRC/Zambia JPC meeting, was to see the dynamic that have always characterised previous sessions to continue with regards to the implementation of the various resolutions.

“I therefore, remain convinced for my part that the high sense of responsibility which motivates our experts, is a major asset for a successful outcome with a view to promoting security and peace along our common border, in the best interests of both peoples,” said Mr. Kazadi.

And Katanga Governor, Jacques Kyabula-Katwe said he was happy with the interest and full participation of the delegates who took part in the high level meeting.

Mr. Kyabula-Katwe said he is happy with the commitment of the delegates who took an active part in the meetings saying this will enable the two states to resolve a number of issues that arise both along the common border and in the respective cities.

“I do not doubt for a moment your determination to give priority to cohesion and to the higher interests of our peoples, which I am sure count for great deal,” said Mr. Kyabula-Katwe.

He also called for improved fraternal relations, as desired by the two respective heads of states, Felix Tshisekedi and Hakainde Hichilema.

Meanwhile, Zambia has wished the DRC peace before, during and after the general elections.

Minister of Defence, Ambrose Lufuma said this in his closing remarks at the just ended 12th Session of the DRC/Zambia JPC meeting, in Lubumbashi.

The general elections in the DRC are expected to be held on December 20, 2023 according to the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI).

Simultaneous elections will be held for the President, the 500 members of the National Assembly, the elected members of the 26 provincial assemblies, and, for the first time under the new constitution, members of around 300 commune (municipal) councils.

Therapeutic phlebotomy available at UTH for sickle cell patients

Chief Editor
-
4
Therapeutic phlebotomy available at UTH for sickle cell patients

Blood exchange, also known as therapeutic erythrocytapheresis or therapeutic phlebotomy, is a procedure used in the management of sickle cell disease (SCD). In this procedure, a patient’s blood is partially or completely removed and replaced with healthy donor blood or red blood cell concentrates. Here are some potential benefits of blood exchange in sickle cell patients:

1. Reducing the percentage of sickle hemoglobin (HbS): In SCD, the red blood cells become rigid and take on a sickle shape due to the presence of abnormal hemoglobin (HbS). Blood exchange helps reduce the overall percentage of HbS in the patient’s blood by replacing it with healthy red blood cells. This can alleviate the symptoms associated with sickling, such as pain crises, organ damage, and anemia.

2. Diluting concentrated sickle cells: Sickle cells tend to clump together, leading to the formation of blood clots and obstruction of blood vessels. By removing a portion of the patient’s blood and replacing it with healthy donor blood, blood exchange dilutes the concentration of sickle cells. This reduces the likelihood of clumping and improves blood flow, reducing the risk of complications like stroke or acute chest syndrome.

3. Increasing the number of healthy red blood cells: Sickle cell patients often experience chronic anemia due to the destruction of their sickle-shaped red blood cells. Blood exchange increases the number of healthy red blood cells in circulation, improving oxygen-carrying capacity and reducing anemia-related symptoms, such as fatigue and shortness of breath.

4. Lowering the risk of iron overload: Sickle cell patients frequently require blood transfusions to manage their condition. However, repeated transfusions can lead to iron overload in the body, which can cause organ damage. Blood exchange helps remove excess iron along with the patient’s own blood, reducing the risk of iron overload complications.

5. Providing a temporary reprieve from symptoms: Blood exchange is not a permanent cure for SCD, but it can provide temporary relief from symptoms and complications associated with the disease. By improving blood circulation and oxygenation, the procedure may reduce pain, prevent organ damage, and enhance overall well-being in sickle cell patients.

It’s important to note that blood exchange is typically used as a therapeutic option in specific situations, such as acute complications or when other treatment approaches have been ineffective. The suitability and frequency of blood exchange depend on the individual patient’s condition and the recommendations of their healthcare team.
Blood exchange maybe suggested in patients
With
1. Hemoglobin Hbss levels of greater than 80%
2. A patient with frequent vassocculusive crisis and hydroxyurea has not helped
3. Patients who have suffered stroke
4 pregnant sickle cell patients
5.patients with persistent priaprism
6.patients with multiple sickle cell complications

Ask your doctor if you as a patient are eligible for blood exchange . Now this procedure is present in Zambia at UTH

By Dr.Musonda Mwilwa (Facebook post)

Book Review-Chronicles of Inspiring Lives: James Muma Mwape

Chief Editor
-
1
Book Review-Chronicles of Inspiring Lives: James Muma Mwape

By Mwizenge S. Tembo, Ph. D

Emeritus Professor of Sociology

Isabella Mukanda, Unveiling Greatness: Chronicles of Inspiring Lives: James Muma Mwape – A Zambian’s Global Odyssey, Foreword by Dr. Mwizenge S. Tembo, 66 pages, Paperback, K168.00 ($7.99)

When any more of the 7 billion human beings or 19 million Zambians are born today, we belong to a specific gender, family, society, country, and numerous other circumstances that define our identity. But wherever we live, our life experiences are either long or sometimes short. What happened during the short or long-life span of one man is the subject of this book. It describes the life of a Zambian James Muma Mwape. Why is this book important? James Mwape was never a prominent famous politician, or someone who was the President of a country, leader of a major organization like the United Nations, political party, a major bank or a university, or a Minister in the Zambian government. But he overcame incredible challenges and obstacles in his 60 years of life and became successful. If his experiences are very common, what made him unique? What was compelling about his life?

James Muma Mwape was born in Luapula. A single mother struggled to raise him in Zambia while fighting poverty. He grew up in Mufulira. When James Mwape suddenly passed away peacefully in his sleep in his New Jersey home in the United States on April 27 2023, this sent shock waves particularly in the Zambian African community. This man known for his humility had touched so many lives and played such a prominent role in the Zambian and other communities. Many people including Zambians, his acquaintances, including this book reviewer assumed they knew James Mwape. But this was not the case.

What happened is that author Isabella Mukanda had conducted a very candid personal interview with James Mwape ten years before his sudden and untimely death. Unbeknownst to Mukanda, that interview revealed so many personal deeper aspects of James Mwape’s life after his death; details that were not previously known. The details of his life make him an inspirational figure after his death. He lived in several countries including China and Poland during his hard and difficult quest for a better life. He overcame obstacle after obstacle such that the reader is left wondering how he survived to be such a strong kind person that was full of passion and kindness. Where did the motivation come from to do all the things he did in life?

He raised a family with his partner Ruth, worked as a science teacher, he helped so many people including creating and hosting the prominent annual Mwape Peer Awards. He always strove to gain a better education in spite of his difficult circumstances. He personally experienced so much suffering, struggle, pain, and anguish. He wanted to help people, humanity and especially his native country of Zambia so much. The reader might wonder where he drew his inspiration from.

Some would say the inspiration was from his deep religious faith in Christianity. His life was both a mystery and had uncomfortable complexity. The reader is left asking and wondering how James Mwape drew so much good from his pain and suffering? He was never a bitter person.

What makes the book a compelling read is that it is short and the interview was very short and as James gave to the point responses. The reader is left making their own conclusions about how he overcame so many challenging and difficult circumstances. Was it his mother, the country of Zambia he grew up in, the random people that he met and helped him in his life? To the author’s credit, Isabella Mukanda never editorialized James Mwape’s life. Mukanda has two other unrelated short stories at the end of the book: “Tabernacles of Evil,” and “Breaking the spell: A True story about one family’s struggle with mental illness”.

I would strongly recommend this inspirational short book, as I do in the foreword, to all readers from all backgrounds; circumstances, social classes, race, age, gender, history, and countries of origin. This is not a book about the suffering and triumph of just a poor Zambian, or African. He could have been an Asian, European, or person from numerous origins and identities, It is a book of life and how one James Mwape overcame the existential problems of obstacles, pain, and suffering in life. One can see the suffering in the eyes and images of millions of migrants to day on the American Southern border with Mexico, poor migrants floating on rickety boats trying to cross the Mediterranean Sea to Europe in North Africa, and migrants in many parts of Africa, South America, Europe, Australia and many parts of the world. This book will both expose you to suffering and how some humans overcome some of that suffering to achieve a form of triumph in life.

President Hichilema Concludes Visit to China, Acknowledges Bilateral Success

Chief Editor
-
16
President Hichilema Concludes Visit to China, Acknowledges Bilateral Success

President Hakainde Hichilema continued a series of high-level interactions with the People’s Republic of China during his visit. One of the highlights of his visit was a meeting with His Excellency Mr. Li Qiang, the Prime Minister of the People’s Republic of China, during which they engaged in crucial bilateral discussions.

President Hichilema expressed his profound appreciation to Prime Minister Li for his advocacy in advocating for the reform of the global financial order. This advocacy was notably evident during their previous meeting in Paris, where Prime Minister Li called upon the international community to work towards reshaping global financial governance. The overarching goal of these reforms is to create a stable and equitable financial environment, especially for developing countries. President Hichilema reiterated Zambia’s alignment with these views, emphasizing the urgent need to address the high cost of capital for African nations.

Furthermore, President Hichilema conveyed Zambia’s gratitude to Prime Minister Li for his leadership in the intricate negotiations regarding debt restructuring. These negotiations have provided Zambia with an opportunity to reschedule its debt, offering the nation a pathway towards improved financial stability and sustainability.

In his statement, President Hakainde Hichilema extended heartfelt thanks to the People’s Republic of China for their unwavering support and warm hospitality throughout his visit. He announced his departure from Beijing, as he and his delegation prepared to return to Lusaka, Zambia.

The President concluded by expressing his gratitude to the Zambian people for their continued prayers and support.

Energy Regulation Board Pushes for Urgent Expansion of TAZAMA Pipeline

Chief Editor
-
5
Energy Regulation Board Pushes for Urgent Expansion of TAZAMA Pipeline

The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has underscored the pressing need for the expansion of the TAZAMA pipeline, emphasizing that it is a matter of utmost urgency. This vital initiative was discussed during a meeting between ERB Board Chairperson Reynolds Bowa and the Chairperson of the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) in Tanzania, Mark Mwandosya, held in Dar-es-Salaam.

Mr. Bowa confirmed that ERB has initiated discussions with its Tanzanian counterpart to strategize and plan for the much-needed expansion of the TAZAMA pipeline. He expressed optimism that by April next year, a comprehensive plan comprising budget estimates, project timelines, and an official project name will be finalized, facilitating the commencement of the expansion works.

Furthermore, Mr. Bowa unveiled Zambia’s aspiration to establish a natural gas pipeline connecting Tanzania to Zambia. Such a project holds significant potential for enhancing energy access and promoting economic growth in the region.

During the same meeting, Professor Mwandosya, Chairperson of EWURA, affirmed his institution’s unwavering support for the expansion of the TAZAMA pipeline. He expressed a commitment to ensuring that the pipeline is modernized with advanced features that will significantly enhance efficiency and security in the transportation of finished petroleum products to Zambia. The planned upgrades aim to streamline the movement of vital energy resources and boost energy security for the nation.

In addition to the discussions surrounding the TAZAMA pipeline expansion, Professor Mwandosya expressed EWURA’s keen interest in learning from Zambia’s experiences in managing its hydroelectric power plants. The exchange of knowledge and best practices between the two countries is expected to promote mutual growth and collaboration in the energy sector.

CTPD calls for amendment to the Constituency Development Fund Act for efffective decentralizaion and utilization

Chief Editor
-
6
CTPD calls for amendment to the Constituency Development Fund Act for efffective decentralizaion and utilization

In a bid to foster equitable development and empower local communities, the Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) calls upon Government to prioritize the amendment of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Act of 2018. This is a crucial step in enhancing the fund’s effectiveness and ensuring that it truly serves as a catalyst for grassroots development.

To achieve effective utilization of the CDF and promote decentralization, a comprehensive approach is needed. This approach includes streamlining approval processes,empowering local communities, and enhancing transparency and accountability mechanisms.

Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of effective governance. Despite the CDF Act attempting to provide for accountability and transparency mechanisms by requiring the maintenance of a separate book of accounts for the constituency account, prohibiting the use of the fund for non-fund purposes, and requiring annual audits by the Auditor-General,the Act neither provides safeguards to prevent arbitrary use of discretionary powers given to the relevant authorities, nor provides for sufficient oversight mechanisms to ensure that these provisions are effectively implemented.

To effectively implement these proposed provisions,there will be a need for Government to allocate resources for the creation of an easily accessible online portal that provides real-time information on CDF budgets, expenditures,and project status updates. This will enable citizens to monitor the allocation and utilization of funds, fostering transparency, accountability and greater trust in the system.

Furthermore, to fully realize the core objective of CDF to finance projects that address the needs and preferences of the community and that promote local development and welfare,there is a need for the CDF Act to empower local communities with more decision-making authority in the allocation and utilization of these funds. While the Act provides for local community representation through membership in the CDF Committee, over half of all CDF committee members are appointed directly by Members of Parliament or local Councilors,and therefore the Committee’s ability to adequately represent and advocate for the
preferences of local communities is likely to be diminished.

Best practice in Kenya suggests that the CDF Committee members should be democratically elected by the community and not appointed to prevent any political inference and ensure that projects align closely with the unique needs and priorities of each constituency.

In addition, streamlining the approval processes for CDF projects will be imperative to expedite development and decentralization. While the CDF Act attempts to decentralize the fund, the Act nonetheless gives power to the Minister to approve funds for each constituency thereby centralizing decision-making processes and leaving room for abuse. Despite the Government's commitment to this process in the 2023 National Budget Address, little progress has been made to ensure the fulfilment of this commitment.

Issued by:
Luyando Muloshi (Ms.)
Legal Researcher – CTPD

1...215216217...5,627Page 216 of 5,627

Company

Trending

Categories

© Lusaka Times