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Chilufya Tayali Demands Suspension of Benefits for Former President Lungu

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Chilufya Tayali Demands Suspension of Benefits for Former President Lungu

Chilufya Tayali, the President of the Economic and Equity Party, has taken legal action to halt the payment of benefits to former President Edgar Lungu until Mr. Lungu officially declares that he is no longer involved in active politics. Tayali’s legal representatives, Joseph Chirwa and Company, have submitted a formal request to the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Secretary to the Cabinet outlining their demands.

Tayali’s demands include not only a declaration from Lungu but also the necessary amendments to the Registrar of Societies’ records to reflect Lungu’s non-involvement in active politics. Additionally, Tayali is seeking an acknowledgment letter from the Patriotic Front (PF) Central Committee confirming that Lungu is no longer the party’s President.

Furthermore, Tayali has called for the immediate repayment of all funds disbursed to Lungu as part of his benefits, starting from August 26, 2021. This date marks Lungu’s purported resignation as PF President and his withdrawal from active politics.

Tayali’s legal action is a response to the ongoing declarations by PF Members of the Central Committee asserting that Lungu remains the Party President and that they rejected his resignation on August 26, 2021.

Tayali has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the government to implement the remedial measures outlined in his demand letter. Should the government fail to comply, Tayali’s lawyers have indicated their intention to initiate legal proceedings.

Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha has confirmed receipt of Tayali’s demand letter. Kabesha stated that he would respond within the stipulated period, pending instructions from the government. He also noted that any subsequent legal action would depend on his response.

Kabesha emphasized that his response would be provided in confidence, respecting client confidentiality and not through the media. The situation surrounding former President Lungu’s political status and associated benefits continues to evolve, and the government’s response will be pivotal in shaping its outcome.

Grant Names Squad For Egypt and Uganda Friendlies

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Zambia coach Avram Grant has unveiled his 25-member squad for this month’s international friendly matches against Egypt and Uganda.

FAZ has lined up friendly matches against Egypt and Uganda on October 12 and 17 respectively.

Injured duo of Lameck Banda (Lecce) and Frankie Musonda (Ayr United) are out of the games.

Grant has welcomed back striker Fashion Sakala, who missed the final Africa Cup qualifier in Comoros last month, due to a suspension.

Zambia is preparing for the FIFA World Cup qualifiers in November where they play Congo Brazzaville and Niger.

Chipolopolo are further building up for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations that will be played in Ivory Coast in January.

FULL SQUAD

(GOALKEEPERS)

Francis Mwansa (Green Buffaloes), Charles Kalumba (Red Arrows), Victor Chabu (Nchanga Rangers)

(DEFENDERS)

Benedict Chepeshi (Red Arrows), Zephaniah Phiri (Prison Leopards), Stoppila Sunzu (Jinan Xingzhou-China), Gift Mphande (Hapoel Lishon Lezion-Israel), Luka Banda (Napsa Stars), Dominic Chanda (Power Dynamos), Roderick Kabwe (Zakho Sports Club-Iraq), John Chishimba (Zesco United),

(MIDFIELDERS)

Kelvin Kapumbu, Kelvin Kampamba (both Zesco United), Golden Mafwenta (MFK Vyskov-Czech), Kings Kangwa (Crzena Zvezda-Serbia), Clatous Chama (Simba SC-Tanzania), Emmanuel Banda (Rijeka-Croatia), Rally Bwalya (Sekhukhune-RSA), Lubambo Musonda (Silkeborg IF-Denamrk), Edward Chilufya (Hacken-Sweden), Fashion Sakala (Club Al Fayha-Saudi Arabia)

(STRIKERS)

Francisco Mwepu (Atletico Sanluqueno-Spain), Evans Kangwa (Quingdao Hainiu-China), Patson Daka (Leicester-England), Moyela Libamba (Forest Rangers)

Contagious Bovine affects over 600 animals

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Contagious Bovine affects over 600 animals

About 661 animals in Kaoma district have tested positive to the deadly Contagious Bovine Plural Pneumonia (CBPP), a disease that affects the lungs of the animals causing them to develop a cough.

Kaoma District Veterinary Officer, Mwiinga Lilanda who is also acting Coordinator confirmed the development  in an interview.

Dr. Lilanda has disclosed that a total of 9,718 samples were collected for testing, out of which 661 were found positive, an indication that the disease is still  prevalent in the district.

He said the team from the Veterinary department is on the ground, collecting blood samples before vaccinations to ascertain the extent of the disease.

Blood samples collected are from Chitwa, Kalumwange and part of Mangango areas but the disease is more prevalent in Winda area.

Dr. Lilanda lamented that some farmers in Winda area were however hesitant to have their animals tested, saying they do not want them slaughtered once they test positive.

“We are facing resistance from farmers in Winda area because they just want their animals vaccinated, they fear having them slaughtered once they test positive to the disease, it is not right for us to vaccinate the animal without testing it for CBPP,” he said.

Dr. Lilanda further said by law nobody is supposed to refuse to have their animals tested and vaccinated due to the nature of the disease.

He appealed to farmers to cooperate with officers on the ground in order to ensure that the disease is contained.

Dr. Lilanda nevertheless, commended farmers that understand the importance of having their animals tested and vaccinated and urged them to continue doing so.

Over 8,000 animals have died, since the disease broke out in the district in 2019.

According to latest statistics, Kaoma district has a population of about 15,000 cattle, out of which 5,000 have not been tested and vaccinated due to farmer resistance.

Happy World Teachers’ Day, bakafundisha, Bamayi – HH

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Happy World Teachers’ Day, bakafundisha, Bamayi – HH

Government Commits to Addressing Teacher Shortage on World Teachers’ Day

On the occasion of World Teachers’ Day, President Hakainde Hichilema extended his heartfelt greetings to the nation’s educators, affirming the government’s unwavering commitment to improving their working conditions and increasing their numbers across all sectors. He emphasized the critical role of education as an equalizer and an inheritance, encouraging teachers to take pride in their noble profession.

In line with this commitment, the government continues to address the issue of teacher shortages in the country. Shangombo District Commissioner, Mubita Siyamana, expressed this commitment during the Teachers’ Day commemorations held at Shangombo Secondary School.

Mr. Siyamana pointed out that the New Dawn Government has taken significant steps to address teacher shortages, as evidenced by the recent employment of 30,000 teachers. Furthermore, he announced that the government is actively addressing the ongoing shortage by employing an additional 4,500 teachers this year alone, as indicated in the 2024 national budget presented on Friday.

“This is an indication of the government’s commitment to address workforce shortages and deployment in the district as well as the country at large,” he stated.

The District Commissioner also highlighted the positive impact of the government’s increase in the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). This initiative has led to the construction of permanent school infrastructure, the provision of water points, and the supply of school desks, ultimately transforming the educational landscape in the district.

Mr. Siyamana called on teachers to maintain professionalism and uphold ethical standards in their field, emphasizing the importance of quality education in every part of Zambia.

Joy Hakabwandi, the District Education Board Secretary, expressed joy on this year’s Teachers’ Day, emphasizing that the government has fulfilled its promise to employ more teachers. He stressed that this commitment would enhance the delivery of quality education, even in rural areas.

Hakabwandi commended the teachers in Shangombo District, acknowledging their dedication in a region where resources are limited. Despite the challenges, these teachers have chosen to remain and provide quality education to every learner.

He emphasized the government’s goal to provide the same quality of education to every Zambian learner and expressed gratitude for the employment of additional teachers.

This year’s Teachers’ Day is celebrated under the theme: ‘The Teachers We Need for the Education We Want: The Global Imperative to Reverse the Teacher Shortage.’ It serves as a reminder of the invaluable role that teachers play in shaping the future of the nation and the importance of addressing teacher shortages to ensure quality education for all.

President Hichilema challenges Africa to invest in digital transformation

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President Hichilema challenges Africa to invest in digital transformation

President Hakainde Hichilema has called on African leaders to invest in digital transformation.

The head of state said African countries should not just invest in digital transformation but also accelerate the digitalization agenda.

Mr Hichilema observed that investing and accelerating digital transformation has potential to propel economic development not only to the African continent but beyond.

He noted that if African leaders can acknowledge the importance and the value that digital transformation has to an economy, it will allow people to work longer hours thereby improving economic growth.

President Hichilema said this when he officially opened the 2023 Digital Government Africa Summit in Lusaka which is being held under the theme: Transforming governments for the digital age.

Mr Hichilema, however, disputed statements that embracing digitalization will bring about job losses.

He acknowledged that some jobs will be affected but that this will spur economic growth where people will be working from 08 hours to 24 hours as opposed to the old way of working hours from 08: 00hours  to 17: 00hours.

“ Dear delegates, I have a number of examples that I can give on how Zambia has transformed by using technology. We have one Open Border Post here in Zambia which had difficulties in clearing some trucks. I must mention that after installing and embracing new technology there, we clear more trucks than we expected. President Hichilema stated.

Mr Hichilema said embracing technology will help reduce inefficiencies that come with digital challenges.

President Hichilema also urged African leaders to also find ways and means of embracing technology especially on road blocks unlike doing it manually where police officers physically inspect vehicles.

He said physical checkups of the vehicles on road blocks delays traffic thereby slows productivity hence the need for technology to be developed for road blocks.

And Tony Blair Institute for Global Change Executive Chairperson, Tony Blair has urged African leaders to be innovative, focused and determined if a digital transformed Africa is to be achieved.

Mr Blair who is also United Kingdom former prime minister said Africa should also draw and come up with a workable implementation plan for the digital agenda.

He said a strong digital infrastructure and identity is paramount in the effective implementation of digitalization.

Mr Blair urged African leaders to take advantage of the youths and involve them to help offer different innovation ideas in line with digital transformation.

“Africa has vibrant youths who are innovative. Please give them a chance and utilize them. Am telling you they will offer and share ideas that will help develop a digitally advanced Africa,” Mr Blair stated.

Speaking at the same event, Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati announced that Zambia has effective October 5 gone live on Starlink, a license that will offer improved internet services in the country.

Mr Mutati said Starlink will help close the digital gap that exists between the urban and the rural areas in the country.

Meanwhile, Home Affairs Minister Jack Mwiimbu said from the time the summit commenced yesterday, many agreements were derived pertaining to digital governance.

Mr Mwiimbu said the delegates agreed that collaboration and partnerships with different private sectors should be embraced if Africa is to be digitally transformed.

He said delegates also agreed that digital literacy programs should also be implemented for the citizens to be well informed of the importance of technology especially for those in the rural areas.

And Smart Zambia National Coordinator Percy Chinyama said over 40 countries have been represented at the summit.

Mr Chinyama said going forward delegates discussed that more bilateral and multilateral meetings in line with digital transformation should be held in order to foster digital transformation in Africa.

NETBALL: Kansanshi Wins Copperbelt League Title

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Solwezi outfits Kansanshi Foundation have scooped the 2023 Copperbelt Netball League with 20 points.

Kansanshi beat Ndola Stars 38-13 in their final match at Arthur Davies Stadium in Kitwe.

Community Queens finished runners up with 16 points following a 24-20 win over Kitwe Rifles.

Kitwe Rifle emerged third in the league followed by Chiwenzi and Ndola Stars in that order.

Kopala Queen finished bottom of the league.

COSAFA Womens Cup Champions Zambia Face Mozambique in Group B Opener

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COSAFA Womens Cup Champions Zambia Face Mozambique in Group B Opener

Shepolopolo Zambia starts the defence of their maiden COSAFA Women Cup title with a tricky match against Mozambique on Thursday afternoon at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville.

Zambia and Mozambique faceoff in the 15h30 kick off Group B encounter.

Shepolopolo defender Lushomo Mweemba is confident ahead of the match against Mozambique.

“This game is a must win because we are defending champions and everyone expects to win,” Mweemba said.

Zambia’s second Group B match will be against Angola on October 8.

Coach Bruce Mwape’s side will conclude Group B action on 10 October against Comoros.

Illegal Sugilite Mining: 20 Arrested and Vehicles Impounded in Mansa

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Illegal Sugilite Mining: 20 Arrested and Vehicles Impounded in Mansa

In a crackdown on illegal mining activities, the Mansa District Police have apprehended 20 individuals and impounded several motor vehicles and motorcycles suspected to be involved in the illicit extraction of Sugilite, a valuable mineral.

The arrests were carried out on the Chembe-Mansa road between the hours of 17:00 and 22:00, as the suspects were accompanying a tipper truck loaded with approximately 60 tonnes of material believed to be Sugilite.

Police Spokesperson Rae Hamoonga confirmed the arrests and provided further details regarding the operation. Among the detained individuals are several motorcycle riders who were escorting the tipper truck, allegedly transporting Sugilite that was illegally mined in the Butete area.

Hamoonga reported that the police operation successfully impounded various vehicles and equipment, including the tipper truck loaded with suspected Sugilite mineral ore, a Toyota Hilux motor vehicle, six motorcycles, a low bed loader truck, and an excavator. These confiscated items have been secured at the Luapula Division Police Headquarters in Mansa.

The police action unfolded when law enforcement authorities intercepted the convoy of vehicles and motorcycles along the Chembe-Mansa road. It was during this interception that the occupants of the Toyota Hilux managed to escape, leaving the vehicle behind.

Among those currently in police custody are the owner of the Howo Low Bed truck, the truck’s driver, the owner of the excavator, and the excavator machine operator identified as Matthew Miti. Additionally, 16 motorcycle riders and their passengers have also been detained in connection with the illegal Sugilite mining operation.

The Mansa District Police have intensified their efforts to combat illegal mining activities, sending a strong message that such practices will not be tolerated. Investigations are ongoing, and further legal action is anticipated as authorities work to curtail illegal mining operations and protect valuable mineral resources in the region.

Barrick Gold Announces $2 Billion Investment to Double Copper Production at Lumwana Mine

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Barrick Gold Announces $2 Billion Investment to Double Copper Production at Lumwana Mine

Barrick Gold Corporation, the owners of Lumwana Mine located in Kalumbila District, North Western Province, have revealed their ambitious plans for a significant investment of two billion dollars into the mine. The primary aim of this substantial capital infusion is to double the mine’s annual copper production while extending the plant’s operational lifespan.

This momentous investment aligns with the government’s strategic vision of increasing the annual copper production capacity to an impressive three million tonnes per annum.

Mark Bristow, President of Barrick Gold Corporation, has shared his excitement about this substantial commitment. He has emphasized that the two billion dollar investment in Lumwana Mine is a dedicated effort to elevate the annual copper production to an estimated 240 thousand tonnes per annum.

Bristow envisions this investment as a game-changer that will transform Lumwana Mine into a globally competitive and highly profitable copper producer. With this level of funding, the mine is poised to reach new heights and reinforce its position on the world stage.

In a statement issued to ZNBC News by Barrick Gold Corporation, Mr. Bristow expressed confidence in the accelerated work program’s ability to complete the full feasibility study by the end of 2024. Furthermore, the investment is expected to extend plant production all the way to 2028, solidifying Lumwana Mine’s role as a cornerstone of Zambia’s copper industry.

CTPD’s Roadmap for Zambia’s Prosperity: Unpacking the 2024 National Budget

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CTPD’s Roadmap for Zambia’s Prosperity: Unpacking the 2024 National Budget

The Center for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) held a press conference yesterday to present its in-depth analysis and recommendations regarding the 2024 National Budget, which was presented on September 29, 2023, by the Minister of Finance and National Planning, Honourable Situmbeko Musokotwane. The theme for the budget is “Unlocking Economic Potential.”

Below is a summary of the speech made available to the media by Mrs Natalie Kaunda, CTPD Acting Executive Director.

The 2024 National Budget marks a significant milestone as it represents the third budget under the UPND administration, following Zambia’s debt restructuring agreement with bilateral creditors under the G20 Common Framework.

Budget Overview

The proposed 2024 National Budget is projected to be K177.9 billion, a K12.6 billion increase compared to the previous year’s budget of K167.3 billion. It reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining macroeconomic stability, with targets such as real GDP growth of at least 4.8 percent, inflation within 6-8 percent, and domestic revenue accounting for at least 22 percent of GDP.

Expenditure

The 2024 National Budget is expansionary, with an overall budget increase of 6.3 percent compared to the previous year. Significant increases in budget allocations are observed in sectors such as economic affairs, education, and health. The economic affairs sector has received increased funding to revive key sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and mining.

Revenue

Efforts have been made to shift sources of financing for the national budget, with foreign financing reducing by 55.3 percent and a minimal increase in planned domestic borrowing. A significant portion of domestic revenue will come from taxes, projected to account for 64 percent of the total budget.

Public Debt Management

The 2024 National Budget reflects the government’s continued effort to resolve Zambia’s public debt. There is a notable reduction in external debt service allocation, representing a 33 percent reduction compared to 2023. However, discussions on restructuring the country’s private debt, including Eurobonds, need to be accelerated, and strict adherence to the annual borrowing plan is essential. Operationalizing the sinking fund, as provided for in the Public Debt Management Act, remains unclear.

Mining Sector

The budget allocates a substantial increase in funds for geological mapping, which aligns with recommendations for the mining sector’s revival. The operationalization of the Mineral Regulation Commission is welcomed, provided it receives sufficient funding and resources for effective regulation. Declaring all minerals as strategic is forward-thinking, but clear strategies for sustainable development and utilization are necessary.

Agriculture Sector

While the agriculture budget has increased, specific production targets for key agricultural commodities are lacking. The government should set production goals to drive the sector’s development. Addressing rising food costs requires comprehensive measures targeting improved agricultural productivity and reduced production costs.

Energy Sector

The budget maintains that fuel subsidies will not be reintroduced, but strategies to mitigate the impact on the cost of living are not outlined. Diversifying energy sources beyond hydro-energy is essential to reduce dependency and fluctuations in rainfall patterns.

Constituency Development Fund (CDF)

Increased CDF allocation is positive, but effective utilization needs to be ensured through electronic monitoring and addressing human resource constraints.

Legal Reforms

While the budget mentions several legal reforms, comprehensive tobacco control legislation is notably absent. Enacting such legislation would improve public health and contribute to budgetary stability. An access to information law is also urgently needed for enhanced transparency in governance.

In conclusion, while the 2024 National Budget has positive aspects, it needs a clear roadmap to address the cost of living and challenges in key sectors earmarked for socioeconomic development. CTPD highlights areas of concern, including private debt resolution, operationalizing the sinking fund, setting agricultural production goals, energy source diversification, and the enactment of critical legislation.

The CTPD emphasizes the importance of a strengthened legal system, the urgency of comprehensive tobacco control legislation, and the need for an access to information law to enhance transparency and good governance in Zambia.

Government Urges Dialogue Over Planned Demonstrations Amid Rising Fuel and Mealie Meal Prices

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Government Urges Dialogue Over Planned Demonstrations Amid Rising Fuel and Mealie Meal Prices

Zambia’s Minister of Information and Media, as well as Chief Government Spokesperson, Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa, MP, addressed a press briefing , addressing several pressing national issues, including the planned demonstration against the high cost of fuel and mealie meal.

Expressing his disappointment, Minister Mweetwa noted that the demonstration, scheduled for October 18, coincided with Zambia’s day of prayer, a day designated to unite the nation in prayer for continued peace, reconciliation, and forgiveness. He urged those planning the demonstration to reconsider their actions and instead join the nation in prayer.

Regarding the rising fuel prices, Minister Mweetwa acknowledged that Zambia, like many other non-oil-producing countries, is influenced by international oil market decisions. He emphasized the government’s commitment to mitigate the impact of these international decisions on citizens by involving the private sector in bulk buying and fuel storage, aiming to stabilize fuel prices. The government is actively addressing a significant debt of over US$700 million owed to international and local Oil Marketing Companies, a legacy from the previous administration, to ensure a steady fuel supply.

In addressing the escalating cost of mealie meal, the Minister reassured the public that this situation is not permanent and will improve as the government’s measures take effect. The solution lies in increasing maize production to exceed demand and reduce production costs.

Minister Mweetwa acknowledged the challenging economic situation, emphasizing that it is not the result of the current government’s actions. However, the government remains committed to finding lasting solutions, as outlined in the 2024 national budget.

Regarding the police and the rule of law, Minister Mweetwa advised opposition political parties to respect the existing legal framework, including the Public Order Act, until any potential amendments or replacements occur. He encouraged opposition parties to collaborate with the police in maintaining law and order, emphasizing that taking the law into one’s own hands creates a false impression of police involvement in suppressing opposition.

Government Applauds Auditor General’s Report on Improved Financial Prudence

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Government Applauds Auditor General’s Report on Improved Financial Prudence

The government has welcomed the report by the Auditor General for the financial year 2022, which highlights a reduction in misappropriation, misapplication, and abuse of public funds. This development underscores the government’s commitment to prudent financial management and accountability.

Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa expressed satisfaction with the report during the weekly press briefing held at the New Government Complex in Lusaka. Mweetwa noted that the report reflects the public service’s responsiveness to President Hakainde Hichilema’s call for the responsible and efficient use of public funds.

Mweetwa highlighted the significance of this achievement, especially considering that instances of misappropriation, misapplication, and abuse of public funds had been a recurring concern in the past. The improved financial discipline indicated in the report represents a positive step toward responsible governance.

Furthermore, Chief Government Spokesperson Mweetwa emphasized the government’s commitment to upholding the editorial independence of public broadcasters. He assured the media fraternity that there would be no interference from the Ministry of Information and Media in the daily operations of public media outlets.

First Lady Opens International Workshop on HIV and Adolescence 2023 in Lusaka

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First Lady Opens International Workshop on HIV and Adolescence 2023 in Lusaka

The First Lady of Zambia, Mutinta Hichilema, inaugurated the International Workshop on HIV and Adolescence 2023 in Lusaka, emphasizing the need to address the unique challenges faced by adolescents in the fight against HIV.

During her opening remarks at the workshop, Mrs. Hichilema underscored the fact that today’s children are exposed to rapid technological advancements, which can influence their decision-making processes regarding health-related issues, including HIV prevention and treatment. She expressed her concern that many young people lack sufficient knowledge about HIV prevention and treatment, contributing to the ongoing challenge of curbing infections.

First Lady Mutinta Hichilema arrives at the International Workshop on HIV and Adolescence 2023 in Lusaka

Mrs. Hichilema’s presence at the event symbolized the government’s commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of Zambia’s youth, recognizing the critical role they play in the country’s future.

In her absence, Health Minister Sylvia Masebo, represented by Permanent Secretary Administration Christopher Simoonga, delivered a speech highlighting the current status of HIV awareness and testing in Zambia. Ms. Masebo revealed that Zambia has yet to achieve the goal of having 95 percent of people living with HIV aware of their status. The Ministry of Health has been intensifying its efforts to prevent HIV transmission by actively raising awareness and promoting testing and counseling services.

Joshua Banda, the Global Fund Coordinating Council Representative, announced that the Global Fund is providing full financial support for incentives aimed at curbing the spread of HIV. This support demonstrates the global commitment to addressing the HIV epidemic and the importance of investing in innovative strategies to reach and engage adolescents in HIV prevention and treatment programs.

The International Workshop on HIV and Adolescence 2023 provides a platform for experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to exchange knowledge and experiences, ultimately shaping strategies that will better serve the adolescent population in the fight against HIV. The event aims to develop comprehensive approaches that take into account the unique challenges and opportunities presented by adolescence in the context of HIV prevention, treatment, and care.

Enhanced CDF Allocation Must Address Implementation Challenges, Urges JCTR

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Enhanced CDF Allocation Must Address Implementation Challenges, Urges JCTR

As Zambia witnesses a consistent increase in the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocation, the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has voiced concerns regarding the effective implementation of these increased funds. While acknowledging the potential for significant economic transformation at the community level, the JCTR highlights various challenges that need urgent attention to ensure the enhanced CDF achieves its intended goals.

The CDF allocation, which is set to rise to K30,600 million per constituency in the 2024 National Budget, holds the promise of bringing about meaningful change and development at the grassroots level. However, the JCTR emphasizes that several issues must be addressed to maximize the impact of these funds.

The challenges identified in the implementation of the enhanced CDF include:

Lack of Transparency: Transparency in the allocation and utilization of CDF funds has been lacking, with minimal community participation in the public bid opening for contractors.

Accountability Issues: Information sharing and monitoring reports related to CDF have been limited, resulting in low accountability in its implementation.

Community Participation: Many community members have not been actively involved in selecting community projects under the CDF.

Low Utilization Rates: A significant portion of allocated CDF funds remains in the accounts of the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, indicating low utilization.

Weak Implementation Structure: The existing CDF architecture lacks the necessary strength to ensure that the funds reach the intended beneficiaries effectively.

Executive Directives: Numerous executive directives on CDF resource utilization have compromised community participation in decision-making.

Beneficiary Database Monitoring: Weak mechanisms exist to monitor beneficiaries who may be double-dipping from CDF by belonging to multiple cooperatives or applying to various constituencies.

Political Influence: CDF has been used as a campaign tool by politicians, raising concerns about political interference in its implementation.

Capacity Issues: Limited staff at the Local Authority level has affected the management of CDF projects.

Cooperative Management: Poor management of cooperatives after receiving grants has resulted in their disbandment.

Comprehensive Audit: There has been a lack of a comprehensive audit to evaluate the value for money on all CDF resources.

The JCTR emphasizes that increasing CDF allocation without addressing these challenges could lead to political hijacking of the funds, diverting them from their primary purpose of poverty alleviation and improving living standards.

To address these issues and ensure the enhanced CDF meets its intended goals, the JCTR recommends the following actions:

Relocate Scope Management: Transfer the management and implementation of skills development and bursaries to the Ministry of Education at the district level.This is because the
ministry has more capacities to implement this scope than the Local Authorities.

Empowerment Management: Transfer the management and implementation of empowerment (loans and grants) to the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises Development at the district level.This is because the ministry has more capacities to manage loans and grants as witnessed
with other initiatives like the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission loans

Community Project Management: Leave the Local Authorities responsible for managing the community project scope.This is because they have more capacities and knowledge on the Integrated District Plans (IDPs). This will boost implementation of CDF in contributing to the 8th NDP

Monitoring and Evaluation System: Invest in developing an integrated monitoring and evaluation system to capture data on all CDF-related projects across constituencies.

Inter-constituency Collaboration: Create a platform for inter-constituency collaboration, encouraging joint projects and sharing of best practices.

Comprehensive Audit: Conduct a comprehensive audit to assess the value for money of all CDF resources allocated thus far.

The JCTR’s recommendations aim to ensure that the enhanced CDF allocation fulfills its potential in driving community development and improving the lives of Zambian citizens.

For further inquiries, the Faith and Justice (F&J) Programme at the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) can be contacted at 0955295881 and 0954755319, or via email at [email protected] and [email protected].

Ghana to construct Africa’s largest data centre at US$3 million

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Ghana to construct Africa’s largest data centre at US$3 million

 Ghanaian Minister of Communication and Digitalisation ,  Ursula Owusu Ekuful says plans are under way to construct the largest data centre in Africa costing Three hundred million dollars to be housed in Ghana.

Ms. Ekuful says the Ghanaian government is working in collaboration with Africa Data Centre Limited and says it is important to localise African data and keep it on the continent in order to promote African data sovereignty and have better governance on how data is used.

She said that proper digital infrastructure remains key in the digitisation process in Africa and governments working with the private sector, is the way to go to provide the services to the masses.

Ms. Ekuful was speaking during the Digital Government infrastructure situation analysis session during the ongoing Digital Government Africa 2023 Africa’s first Ministerial E- government Summit being held at Ciela in Chongwe.

She explained that in Ghana, the government plans on putting up 2016 cell sites to connect over four million people across the country who do not have access to digital services especially in rural areas.

Ms. Ekuful explained that “The country has mandatory  national roaming meaning despite the network, one is using a client is able to connect using any cell sites picking the strongest signal to enable their device to operate.  We are also moving towards connecting all government institutions across the country which include selected court houses, local government institutions, police stations and hospitals among others to enable them to receive information quickly’’.

Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati, explained that the Zambian government has this year put in tax incentives and concessions around digital infrastructure including the guidelines.

He said the incentives are contributing positively to digital infrastructure enhancement by the private sector in the country as can be seen through more connectivity towers in rural areas.

Mr. Mutati stated that the private sector has been connecting internet fiber across the 10 provinces in the country and seven out of the 8 neighbouring countries, as well,  which has been made possible due to incentives made by the government.

“This year alone we have seen the private sector planting the development of new data centers to drive the delivery of service. The power of incentives to drive investment is crucial beyond the incentives we have worked with the private sector to remove the bureaucracy and compliance costs that were holding back the implantation of direct investments as well as provided the support for policy framework for the private sector which the government called co-location ,’’ he explained.

The Digital Government Africa 2023 Africa’s first Ministerial E- government summit is running under the theme “Transforming Governments through the digital age”.

The Summit brings together over 40 countries within the African Continent.

President Hakainde Hichilema is expected to officially open the Summit tomorrow.

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