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Election Observers Arrive in Monrovia to Oversee Liberia’s Polls

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Election Observers Arrive in Monrovia to Oversee Liberia’s Polls

An international team of election observers, led by Dr. Nevers Sekwila Mumba, has arrived in Monrovia to undertake the crucial task of observing Liberia’s Presidential and Senatorial elections, scheduled for October 10th. The observers are part of the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA) Observer Mission and have been nominated to ensure the integrity and transparency of the electoral process.

In a statement, Dr. Mumba acknowledged Liberia’s history of resilience, marked by a challenging past that includes a devastating civil war resulting in the loss of over 200,000 lives. Despite these hardships, the Liberian people have shown remarkable strength and determination, striving for a future marked by peace and prosperity.

Dr.Nevers Mumba meets the Inspector General of Police of the the Liberian Police Force and his Security team

“We are humbled to have been nominated to lead the EISA Observer Mission as Head of Mission,” Dr. Mumba stated, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the democratic process in Liberia. He expressed hope and prayer that the upcoming election will provide an opportunity for the Liberian people to freely exercise their democratic right to vote. Dr. Mumba emphasized the critical importance of a free, fair, and credible election as a fundamental component of achieving sustainable peace in the nation.

As part of their mission, the EISA Observer Team engaged in consultation and collaboration with various stakeholders in Liberia. One such interaction took place with the African Union Observer Mission, led by Her Excellency Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, the former Deputy President of South Africa. These engagements enable the exchange of information and experiences among different observer missions, enhancing the credibility of the election monitoring process.

Additionally, the EISA team met with the Inspector General of Police of the Liberian Police Force and his security team. The police authorities assured the observers of comprehensive security plans in place to ensure a safe environment for the election, which is vital for the peaceful conduct of the polls.

Dr.Nevers Mumba meets the Secretary General of the ruling CDC party, who also doubles as Mayor of Monrovia.

Continuing their consultation with key stakeholders, the EISA team also had the privilege of meeting and interacting with the youthful Secretary-General of the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) party, who also serves as the Mayor of Monrovia.

The presence of international observer missions underscores the global commitment to safeguarding democracy and ensuring that the will of the Liberian people is respected in these pivotal elections.

CIDRZ and DAPP Partner with Zambia Defence Force to Strengthen HIV/AIDS Programs

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CIDRZ and DAPP Partner with Zambia Defence Force to Strengthen HIV/AIDS Programs

The Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), in collaboration with Development Aid from People to People (DAPP), has announced a significant commitment to work alongside the Zambia Defence Force in enhancing HIV/AIDS programs. This collaborative effort marks a crucial step forward in the fight against HIV/AIDS in the country.

Major General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele, the Army Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff, expressed the Zambia Army’s appreciation for this partnership and its dedication to combating HIV/AIDS. He commended the US Department of Diseases for awarding CIDRZ the partnership with DAPP to support the Defence Force in implementing HIV programs.

Maj Gen Zyeele conveyed his sentiments during a meeting on Friday when a delegation from CIDRZ and DAPP paid a visit to Army headquarters in Lusaka. He underscored that CIDRZ has been an active partner of the government, working closely with the Ministry of Health and other ministries.

The Deputy Army Commander emphasized that the Zambia Army places a high priority on the well-being of its personnel. He expressed optimism that the two organizations, CIDRZ and DAPP, will collaborate effectively with the Defence Force to enhance the HIV/AIDS program’s effectiveness and impact.

CIDRZ’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Emmanuel Qua-Enoo, highlighted the organization’s reputation as a trusted partner known for producing reliable and well-documented research. These research findings have led to the development of viable projects and interventions, aligning with the country’s healthcare objectives. Qua-Enoo emphasized CIDRZ’s commitment to ongoing engagement and collaboration with various stakeholders.

Additionally, CIDRZ Project Director, Dr. Mwangelwa Mubiana, explained that CIDRZ and DAPP, in partnership with the Zambia Defence Force, will provide essential support, including technical expertise, supply chain management, and strategic information. The focus will be on improving the quality of care and human resources within HIV/AIDS programs.

The meeting also saw the presence of heads of various branches from Army headquarters, Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Kenion representing the US Embassy, DAPP Managing Director Elise Seorensem, and other key stakeholders.

Police Block Socialist Party Rally in Kitwe, Accusations of Hypocrisy Fly

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Police Block Socialist Party Rally in Kitwe, Accusations of Hypocrisy Fly

The Zambian police prevented the Socialist Party (S.P) from conducting a planned rally at Changanamai Grounds in Kwacha East, Kitwe. The heavy police presence on Saturday morning at the rally venue deterred party supporters from proceeding with their planned gathering.

Earlier in the week, the police had informed the Socialist Party that the rally could not proceed due to security concerns and insufficient manpower. However, the party’s leadership remained steadfast in their determination to hold the rally.

Reacting to the police intervention, S.P leader Dr. Fred M’membe accused President Hakainde Hichilema of hypocrisy. Dr. M’membe expressed his frustration, stating, “Police, who had no manpower to ensure that our rally in Kitwe goes ahead, all of a sudden have manpower to ensure that our rally does not go ahead! This is the hypocrisy and dishonesty of Mr. Hakainde Hichilema and his neocolonial puppet regime.”

He further remarked, “But how far can this take them? Ubucenjeshi bwa nkoko pungwa tasakamana! We have accordingly directed our members and supporters to stay away from Changanamai grounds and let the Police hold their rally there today. Our day to hold a rally there will come.”

In addition to the party’s stance, Faston Mwale, a Member of the Central Committee (MCC) of the Socialist Party, announced the postponement of the anticipated rally due to the substantial police presence at the venue. He disclosed that the rally had been requested by Kitwe miners and marketeers who expressed frustration with the UPND government.

Mr. Mwale criticized the UPND government for allegedly using the police to suppress political activities, stating, “The UPND has instrumentalized the police to ensure that democracy doesn’t thrive. So the Public Order Act has been abused to ensure that democracy does not thrive in Zambia.”

He continued, “They are having rallies one day after another but they cannot permit other political parties to hold their rallies. So this is what is happening, and it is coming to the fact that we have always stated that the UPND is not fitting into the multiparty political dispensation.”

DR Congo Hold Zambia in 2024 FIFA Womens U20 WC Qualifier

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Zambia on Saturday launched the 2024 Colombia FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign with a home draw against DR Congo in Lusaka.

Zambia and Congo battled to a 2-2 stalemate in the second round, first leg qualifier at Nkoloma Stadium.

The Young Shepolopolo gave up a lead twice to settle for a goalless draw.

Lydia Shamalima and Mary Mbewe were the scorers for Zambia with Ruth Nyamboki and Gloria Nosa netting for the Congolese.

The second leg is set for Kinshasa on October 15.

Nkana Stays Bottom After Loss at Mighty

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Nkana remained stuck at the bottom of the FAZ Super Division table following a 2-1 away loss at Mighty Mufulira Wanderers on Saturday afternoon.

This was Nkana’s fifth loss in seven matches played so far in the season.

Mighty led just after seven minutes when Tresor Ilunga opened the scoring at Shinde Stadium.

Nkana skipper Harrison Chisala gave his side some hopes after equalizing via a 28th minute penalty.

However, Owen Mwamba had the final say on the match with a 40th minute winner.

The win pushes Mighty into fifth place on 11 points as Nkana remained on two points.

Meanwhile, Zesco United edged Green Buffaloes 1-0 at home in Ndola to stay at the top of the table.

Veteran forward John Ching’andu scored the winner at the Trade Fair Grounds just minutes before the break.

Zesco tops the table with 14 points in seven matches.

Buffaloes are in the bottom four of the league with five points in six games.

FAZ SUPER DIVISION – WEEK 7

07-10-2023

Mufulira Wanderers 2-1 Nkana

Zesco United 1-0 Green Buffaloes

Prison Leopards 1-2 Red Arrows

Trident 0-1 FC Muza

08-10-2023

Power Dynamos Vs Kansanshi Dynamos

Green Eagles Vs Forest Rangers

NAPSA Stars Vs Mutondo Stars

Nkwazi Vs ZANACO

Two people buried alive at a mine in Chongwe

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Two people buried alive at a mine in Chongwe

Two people have died after being buried alive as they were illegally mining copper in Mwalusoke village of Chasha area of Senior Chieftaness Nkomeshya Mukamambo II’s Chiefdom in Chongwe district.

Confirming the incident in a statement, Zambia Police spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga, stated that the accident occurred on 6th October 2023 around 10:00 hours.

Mr. Hamoonga identified the deceased as Chris Daka aged 36 and Andrew Chalembwa aged 30 who were both residents of Chimbwete village.

He added that on the material day, Chalimbana Police station received a report around 14:00 hours from Rebecca Banda of Muyobe area of Katoba ward who reported that two male persons were buried alive while mining illegally at Karlite minerals.

Mr. Hamoonga added that the bodies of the deceased have since been deposited at the University Teaching hospital mortuary awaiting postmortem and burial.

African leaders challenged to bridge the technology gap

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African leaders challenged to bridge the technology gap

Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati reiterated the need for African Governments to collaborate in realizing Digital Transformation on the African continent.

Mr Mutati noted the shared ideas between African leaders can be realized through unity and collaboration among African leaders.

Speaking during the close of the 2023 Digital Government Africa Summit today in Lusaka, he encouraged the delegates who attended the summit to   build a monitoring mechanism that will remind the countries of the journey of Digital Transformation in their respective countries.

“We truly think this is Africa’s time and Digital opportunity, let us cease the opportunity to deal with the digital divide and transform the continent,” he said.

And Smart Zambia Institute National Coordinator Percy Chinyama encouraged the delegates to implement the ideas and solutions that have been discussed from the summit in order to ensure Digital Transformation in Africa.

Mr Chinyama urged African leaders to take advantage of the huge population in Africa of over one point three billion to bring Digital change on the continent.

” I encourage you all to come up with a statement that will define how we want to engage with each other as African countries on how we are going to implement the development of digital transformation in Africa. I would like to state that the Digital Government Africa Summit will be held again in 2024 here in Lusaka from 2nd to 4th October,” he said.

Meanwhile, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu said the summit has increased understanding on how Digital development can be attained in Africa.

In a speech read on his behalf by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary Dickson Mutembo, Mr Mwiimbu said that the summit has shown solutions to Digital inclusivity to all citizens which is a tool for transparency between the government and the citizens.

He added that the summit has helped to offer practical solutions on innovations that will provide connectivity to all citizens, especially those in remote areas.

” Let us make the hope that we have heard from speakers to be a reality and bring change in our countries and build the Africa we want,” he said.

The Digital Government Africa Summit which attracted participants from over 30 African countries and beyond was held under the theme: “Transforming Government for the Digital Age”

Government to build walkways, cycling tracks

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Government to build walkways, cycling tracks

Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Nicholas Phiri says cities  in Zambia are grappling with lack of facilities  such as pedestrian walks and cycling tracks to enable walking and cycling easy for citizens.

Mr Phiri said this is why there is an urgent need to improve the road infrastructure to incorporate these facilities.

He said walking and cycling is not only important to facilitate the mobility of people but is critical for creating linkages between settlement and markets for both urban and rural areas.

Mr Phiri stated that despite its health benefits, walking and cycling provides easy mobility, affordable transport and a convenient way of accessing public services.

Mr Phiri was speaking during the official launch of the Walking the Un-walkable publication by Charter Cities Institute.

He added that the government’s goal is to facilitate convenience and safety for pedestrians while reducing demand for travel by motor vehicles.

 Mr Phiri said the Ministry will work with other stakeholders in the built environment, including planners, architects, engineers and the private sector to shape the walking experience of pedestrians.

He commended the effort by Charter Cities Institute in bringing to light more urban challenges and making recommendations for better cities.

And Charter Cities Institute Africa Lead Mwanda Phiri said Walking the Un-Walkable in urban October is a month dedicated to raising awareness, promoting participation, generating knowledge and engaging the community in creating and promoting a better urban future.

Ms Phiri said that pedestrians account for 60 percent of road traffic accidents which emphasizes the need for better infrastructure.

“The publication we present today on walking the Un-Walkable is far more than a compilation of data, it is a key step towards enhancing pedestrian experiences in Lusaka.”] She stated that this initiative aligns with her intuition’s objective of building inclusive cities that are well planned, financed, built and effectively governed.

 “Our work focuses on providing Technical Assistance to new city projects, advising and convening key stakeholders and influencing the global agenda through research, engagements, and strategic partnerships,” said Ms Phiri.

President Hichilema makes changes at Permanent Secretary level

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President Hichilema makes changes at Permanent Secretary level

President Hakainde Hichilema has with immediate effect appointed Peter Mumba as Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Energy pursuant to article 184 (1) of the constitution of Zambia.

The President has since transferred the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Energy Himba Cheelo to the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries in the same capacity.

The Head of State has also in exercise of the powers vested in him transferred the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Isabelle Lemba to Cabinet office.

This was contained in a press release issued to ZANIS by State House Chief Communications specialist Clayson Hamasaka.

ZCCM-IH Seeks Stay of High Court Order in License Dispute

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ZCCM-IH Seeks Stay of High Court Order in License Dispute

Three prominent mining entities, ZCCM-IH Investment Holdings, Zambia Gold Company, and KASENSELI Gold Mine, have taken legal action to request a stay of a recent High Court Order in a dispute over the small-scale mining license of KASENSELI Gold Limited. These companies have also sought leave to appeal against the High Court’s decision in this ongoing legal battle.

The High Court Order in question was issued by Justice Edward Musona of the Lusaka High Court. Justice Musona ruled that PCB Mining Limited had successfully established its claim beyond reasonable doubt, leading to the issuance of the order.

The core of the dispute revolves around allegations that ZCCM-IH, Zambia Gold Company, and KASENSELI Gold Mine had violated the terms of a Memorandum of Agreement made in 2020, which mandated them to surrender the small-scale mining license to PCB Mining Limited.

In light of the High Court’s ruling, the aforementioned companies have taken legal action by applying for a stay of the judgment. A “stay” in this context refers to a temporary suspension of the court’s decision, effectively allowing the status quo to be maintained while legal proceedings continue.

In addition to seeking a stay, the companies have also applied for leave to appeal the High Court’s decision to the Court of Appeal. This legal maneuver is part of their ongoing effort to challenge the ruling and assert their position in the complex legal dispute.

Government Confirms Former President Lungu’s Immunity Intact, Calls for Responsible Opposition Critique

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Government Confirms Former President Lungu’s Immunity Intact, Calls for Responsible Opposition Critique

In a press briefing held in Lusaka, Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa reaffirmed that former President Edgar Lungu’s legal immunity remains intact, and the government has no intention of revoking it. Mr. Mweetwa clarified, however, that Mr. Lungu’s immunity does not extend to his family members, and he emphasized that law enforcement agencies are not prohibited from investigating them.

Speaking on behalf of the Zambian government, Mr. Mweetwa, who also serves as the Information and Media Minister, underscored President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to ushering in a new era of politics centered on peace and reconciliation.

Mr. Mweetwa expressed concern over what the government views as a deliberate campaign by the opposition Patriotic Front (PF) to misinform the nation and the international community regarding Mr. Lungu’s legal status. He stated that claims of victimization are unfounded and urged for a more responsible approach to political discourse.

Addressing the recent call by the Consortium of Opposition Political Parties for a national dialogue, Mr. Mweetwa welcomed the initiative, emphasizing President Hichilema’s willingness to engage in candid discussions on matters of national importance.

However, Mr. Mweetwa raised questions about the moral credibility of Citizens First Leader Harry Kalaba and Socialist Party President Fred M’Membe for forming an alliance with a political party they previously labeled as the most violent during the lead-up to the last General Elections. He called for a consistent and principled approach to political alliances and cooperation.

Turning to other matters, Mr. Mweetwa clarified that the newly acquired Zambia Airways plane has no connection to President Hichilema’s name, dismissing allegations made by some opposition leaders. He stressed that the government welcomes constructive critique from the opposition on substantive matters and encourages them to provide credible checks and balances.

Mr.Mweetwa reaffirmed the governments committment to fostering an environment of open dialogue, transparency, and accountability while upholding the rule of law and respecting the legal rights of all citizens, including former officials.

Chitanda Lumamba Hospital Commissioned in Central Province to Enhance Healthcare

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Chitanda Lumamba Hospital Commissioned in Central Province to Enhance Healthcare

President Hakainde Hichilema yesterday commissioned the Chitanda Lumamba Hospital in Chiyuni, Chibombo District, Central Province.This achievement was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Fountain of Hope Africa, the Seventh Day Adventist Church, and local leadership.

President Hichilema said the governments committment to ensuring the delivery of quality healthcare services remains unwavering. He said the government has been actively recruiting additional healthcare professionals to bridge the gap between service providers and patients, demonstrating its dedication to enhancing healthcare access and quality across the nation.

During the inauguration ceremony, a resounding commitment to promoting development and inclusivity echoed through the words of the speakers. They emphasized the importance of engaging citizens from both the private and public sectors to work together harmoniously towards achieving the best possible outcomes for the nation.

The leaders present called upon traditional leaders across the country to unite and foster national unity in the pursuit of development. Recognizing the hospital’s origin as an initiative of the local community and cooperating partners, they urged those with the means to contribute to their places of origin and support such vital projects.

Foreign National Sentenced to Five Years for Illegal Lion Skin Possession in Sesheke

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Foreign National Sentenced to Five Years for Illegal Lion Skin Possession in Sesheke

In a recent development in Sesheke, the Subordinate Court has handed down a five-year prison sentence to a foreign national, Edward Mushanana, aged 50, hailing from Botswana. Mr. Mushanana was found guilty of illegally possessing a lion skin weighing 12.7 kilograms.

The arrest occurred when Mr. Mushanana was apprehended along with three others: Kennedy Mbanga, a 33-year-old Namibian national, and two Zambians, George Itwi (57) and Chris Mukena (42). The four individuals were taken into custody in Sesheke as they attempted to sell the lion skin without the requisite certificate of ownership issued by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW).

The charges brought against the group include one count of illegal possession of a prescribed trophy, namely one lion skin. In a court appearance at the Sesheke Subordinate Court, Edward Mushanana pleaded guilty to the charge. Consequently, he received a five-year prison sentence for his involvement in the illegal possession of the lion skin.

On the other hand, the remaining three individuals, Kennedy Mbanga, George Itwi, and Chris Mukena, entered pleas of not guilty. The trial for these defendants is ongoing as the legal proceedings continue.

In a separate incident, tragedy struck in the Eastern Province of Zambia when a 17-year-old boy from Kankomba village, identified as Aaron Nguni, lost his life to a hippopotamus attack on the Luangwa River. Aaron, a pupil at Kanga Community School in Chief Chikwa’s area, was bathing in the river along with his brother when the incident occurred.

Sakabilo Kalemwe, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Tourism, confirmed the heartbreaking incident. The Department of Wildlife swiftly responded to the incident by eliminating the aggressive hippo to ensure the safety of the local community.

Zambia Face DR Congo in 2024 Fifa Women’s U20 World Cup Qualifier

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Zambia on Saturday begins the 2024 Colombia FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign with a home match against DR Congo in Lusaka.

Zambia and Congo clash in the second round, first leg qualifier at Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka.

Young Shepolopolo coach Charles Haalubono has named his final 18-member squad for this match.

Haalubono believes in his squad to deliver victory against the Congolese.

“We have prepared well and as usual, we train to win so we are prepared for the game. We have a good pool of players; it’s just up to them to prove themselves. The players are good and are ready,” Haalubono said in a pre-match comment.

He added: “I like the pressure because it motivates me and it also motivates our players because that is what everyone is thinking of. If our seniors can do it, we can also do it and we are taking that as a positive.

The second leg is set for Kinshasa next weekend.

ZAMBI FINAL SQUAD

GOALKEEPERS

Chitete Munsaka (Elite Ladies), Christine Hosolo (Indeni Roses)

DEFENDERS

Luty Kamanga, Melissa Mataba (both YASA), Roydah Ng’andu (ZESCO Ndola Girls), Jane Mulenga (Indeni Roses), Martha Banda, Monica Mutisa (both Green Buffaloes), Tionge Sambo (ZANACO Ladies)

MIDFIELDERS

Tisilile Lungu (ZANACO Ladies), Shelly Masumo (Trident Queens), Lucy Kajiya, Lubasi Pumulo (both Green Buffaloes)

STRIKERS

Mercy Chipasula (Kamfinsa Police Blue Eagles), Esnart Mukubwe (Red Arrows), Mary Mbewe (Zesco Ndola Girls), Lydia Shamalima, Elizabeth Mwale (both ZISD)

Government Dispels Claims of Partisan Allocation of Constituency Development Fund

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Government Dispels Claims of Partisan Allocation of Constituency Development Fund

Vice President Mutale Nalumango Addresses Concerns in National Assembly

In a recent session of the National Assembly, Vice President Mutale Nalumango addressed concerns surrounding the allocation of the 2023 Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and dismissed allegations of partisan distribution. The Vice President emphasized that the government’s allocation of CDF funds was not based on political affiliations but rather on the utilization rates within constituencies.

Responding to a question posed by Bwacha Member of Parliament Sydney Mushanga, who inquired about the perceived preferential treatment of constituencies held by United Party for National Development (UPND) MPs, Vice President Nalumango clarified the government’s stance.

Mrs. Nalumango asserted that the speed at which CDF funds are released is directly linked to the utilization rates within individual constituencies. CDF money, she explained, is disbursed in accordance with how efficiently and effectively the funds allocated for various projects are being utilized.

Expressing her concern, the Vice President noted that constituencies failing to efficiently use the money allocated to them have a detrimental impact on others that are diligently implementing projects in a timely manner. This approach, she emphasized, was designed to promote transparency and accountability in the allocation and utilization of public funds.

Furthermore, Vice President Nalumango urged Members of Parliament to work collaboratively and ensure that allocated funds are utilized promptly. By doing so, she explained, the government could release the next round of CDF funds to all constituencies simultaneously, regardless of their political affiliation.

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