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Historic Commissioning of FM Transmitters in Luangwa District

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

3,000 bags of maize looted,suspected link to slain Mumbwa businessman

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Over 3,000 bags of maize were looted from a maize stack believed to be connected to the recently slain Mumbwa businessman, Ernest Sikaonga, also known as Yakaipa. The looting occurred in the Itezhi Tezhi District, with reports indicating that a group of individuals descended on the central business district along the Lusaka road between 8:00 PM and 1:00 AM last night, making off with hundreds of bags of maize valued at thousands of kwachas.

Member of Parliament for Itezhi Tezhi, Twaambo Mutinta, confirmed the incident and revealed that efforts to restore calm were hampered by the delay in bringing in security forces. However, reinforcements from Namwala, Choma, and officers from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife ultimately helped to restore order by midnight.

Mr. Mutinta assured the public that no lives were lost during the incident, and the situation in Itezhi Tezhi is now stable. He also issued a stern warning against those who might attempt to exploit the volatile situation in Mumbwa to engage in criminal activities, emphasizing that the government would not tolerate such behavior.

Speaking on the matter, Mr. Mutinta stated, “What has happened in Itezhi-Tezhi is very unfortunate and should be condemned by all well-meaning Zambians.”

He went on to inform the public that the local police had already recovered 200 bags of stolen maize during house searches in Masemu. Additionally, 27 suspects have been apprehended to aid in ongoing investigations.

In an effort to clarify any misconceptions, Mr. Mutinta emphasized that the looted maize had no connection to the aforementioned individual, Ernest Sikaonga (Yakaipa), but instead belonged to Mr. Chikalala, a local businessman.

Mr. Mutinta issued a plea to the community, urging them to abstain from criminal activities, as the police would continue conducting searches, and those found in possession of stolen maize would face legal consequences.

The lawmaker concluded by appealing to any aggrieved community members to allow the legal process to take its course, reaffirming the importance of upholding the rule of law in the face of adversity.

Deputy Chief Justice Condemns Mumbwa Riots

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Deputy Chief Justice Michael Musonda has strongly condemned the recent riots in Mumbwa district, during which two businessmen lost their lives. Justice Musonda made this statement while addressing the public during a lecture held at the University of Lusaka’s Silverest Campus.

Expressing his concern over the tragic events that unfolded in Mumbwa, Justice Musonda appealed to all Zambians to refrain from taking matters into their own hands and to trust in the country’s law enforcement agencies to carry out their duties effectively.

During his public lecture, Justice Musonda underscored the crucial role of the judiciary in maintaining public faith in the legal system. He emphasized that it is the duty of the judiciary to uphold the law impartially and with unwavering fidelity to justice, ensuring that all citizens have confidence in the legal processes.

Furthermore, Justice Musonda urged the public to have patience and faith in the police and other law enforcement agencies as they work diligently to investigate and address the issues related to the Mumbwa riots. He stressed the importance of allowing the legal processes to run their course to ensure a fair and just outcome.

In conjunction with Justice Musonda’s lecture, University of Lusaka (UNILUS) Vice Chancellor Pinalo Chifwanakeni highlighted the significance of legal education in shaping individuals who will become the guardians of justice. UNILUS recognizes the pivotal role that legal education plays in fostering a deep understanding of the law, ethics, and principles of justice.

Power Dynamos Set for Simba Test on Saturday

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Power Dynamos and Simba Sports of Tanzania gearing up to face off in the CAF Champions League on Saturday at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

The two teams have been declared ready for the first leg match of the pre-group stage battle.

During a pre-match media conference in Ndola on Friday, Power Dynamos Coach Mwenya Chipepo said his team was ready for battle.

Chipepo declared that Simba are beatable.

“We are ready for tomorrow’s game and you will see a different game,” Chipepo said.

“We can beat Simba. We are ready for the match,” he said.

Simba striker Moses Phiri expressed confidence that his side will triumph over Power.

“I think the mood is good in camp and we are looking forward to the match,” Phiri said.

“Coming to play against Power Dynamos is a good feeling whereby you play against the people you know, you understand the language and you know the name of each and every player. It feels good,” he said.

The match will kickoff at 15h00.

Psychiatrist urges govt to devise suicide prevention measures

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A psychiatrist at Ndola Teaching Hospital has attributed the high incidents of suicide and mental disorder in the country to depression, economic hardships, job loss, trauma alcohol abuse, substance dependence, and domestic quarrels.

Dr Hope Namonje said mental illness and physical diseases are some of the other leading factors of suicide.

 Dr Namonje has since called on the government to invest in a comprehensive national strategy to improve suicide prevention and concerted action from all elements of society.

She said Ndola Teaching Hospital receives about 10 cases in a month of people suffering from mental disorders.

She said globally 13.5 in 100,000 deaths are by suicide, making it among the leading causes of death worldwide

Dr Namonje said suicidal death is a public health concern with a profound impact on those around them.

She added that by raising awareness, reducing the stigma around suicide, and encouraging well-informed action, the country can reduce instances of suicide.

Dr Namonje said as the country participates in the World suicide prevention week (WSPD) from 10 to 16th September, NTH has lined up activities to engage health professionals and the general public about suicide prevention and warning signs of suicide.

 “Suicide awareness day which is celebrated every 10th of September each year focuses attention on raising awareness among individuals, communities, organizations, government, and the public, suicide is an urgent public health problem which must be a national priority,” she said.

Dr Namonje said by raising awareness, reducing the stigma around suicide, and encouraging well-informed action, instances of suicide will be reduced.

She added that her department will sensitize on Strategies to Prevent Suicide, Strengthen economic supports by strengthening household financial security as well as Housing stabilization policies, strengthen access and delivery of suicide care by including coverage of mental health conditions in health insurance policies.

Salamano power grid commissioned for Kitwe/Mufulira

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Minister of Energy Peter Kapala has commissioned the K2.1 million Salamano Grid intensification project catering for Kitwe Mufulira district on the Copperbelt Province.

Mr. Kapala who was represented by Copperbelt Province Permanent Secretary Augustine Kasongo says the project is targeted to benefit 203 community members.

He stated that the project will contribute to the accelerated electricity connections and also help in the attainment of the government’s electrification target, as set out in the Eighth National Development Plan and the vision 2030.

The Minister noted that government will continue to invest in the rural electrification programme, in an effort to alleviate poverty and ensure that all Zambians have access to electricity.

He said that the investment in electricity is meant to attain socio-economic development to about 1600 catchment population in Salamano areas.

Kapala stated that the government will ensure that every citizen has access to electricity to attain social economic development.

Rural electrification Authority (REA) Chief Executive Officer Linus Chanda revealed that most rural areas that have been connected to electricity are appreciating the projects as it has positively impacted on their lives.

And Kitwe District Education Secretary Christopher Nyungila said the connection of Salamano primary School to the national grid will contribute to the positive change among the learners and teachers.

Mr. Nyungila noted that teachers will have more time to prepare for the learners to have quality education.

He said parents that failed to access education when it was expensive will now have the opportunity to be having night school classes.