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Zambia Airways Welcomes Historic Addition: Locally Registered Boeing 737-800NG Aircraft

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Zambia Airways Welcomes Historic Addition: Locally Registered Boeing 737-800NG Aircraft

Zambia Airways has marked a historic moment in the country’s aviation history with the acquisition of its first-ever locally registered Boeing 737-800NG Aircraft. The national carrier’s latest addition underscores its commitment to sustainable growth and increased connectivity.

Transport and Logistics Minister Frank Tayali unveiled the milestone during an inspection of the aircraft at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) in Lusaka. The aircraft is expected to pave the way for Zambia Airways to expand its services by introducing scheduled flights to all the capital cities within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. However, this will commence once all the necessary registration processes are completed.

Minister Tayali expressed his admiration for Zambia Airways’ dedication to sustainability and growth in the aviation sector. He lauded the addition of the new Boeing 737-800NG Aircraft as a crucial step in enhancing both domestic and international connectivity.

The unveiling ceremony at KKIA was attended by several dignitaries, including Mrs. Irene Tembo, a ZACL Board Representative, and Zambia Airports Corporation Limited’s Acting Managing Director, Cosam Ngoma.

Zambia Airways Chief Executive Officer Abiy Jiru highlighted that the new aircraft will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the airline continues to uphold stringent quality standards while expanding its flight offerings at competitive prices in the market. This development aligns with Zambia Airways’ vision of delivering top-notch service to passengers.

Cosam Ngoma, Acting Managing Director of Zambia Airports Corporation Limited, affirmed the corporation’s unwavering commitment to collaborate with airlines and support their endeavors to provide efficient and reliable air travel services.

Socialist Party National Youth Secretary Elias Gabriel Banda Arrested and Charged

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Socialist Party National Youth Secretary Elias Gabriel Banda Arrested and Charged

Elias Gabriel Banda, the National Youth Secretary of the Socialist Party, has been apprehended and taken into custody at Chelstone Police Station. The arrest comes in connection to allegations of inciting violence and criminal trespass during the recent riots that unfolded at his former educational institution.

Mr. Banda, a former student at the University of Zambia (UNZA) who also held the position of UNZASU President during the 2021/2022 Academic Year, now faces serious charges related to his alleged involvement in the disturbances.

According to Police Spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, Mr. Banda, aged 33 and residing in Lusaka’s Kalingalinga compound, is accused of instigating the rioting and looting incidents that occurred at the University of Zambia between September 18 and 19, 2023.

Mr. Hamoonga revealed that the suspect has been placed in police custody and will be presented before the court in due course. The charges brought against him carry significant implications, and the legal proceedings are expected to shed light on the allegations made against Mr. Banda.

In a separate incident, Mr. Hamoonga also disclosed that Lusaka police have apprehended and charged a 21-year-old resident of Mtendere East Township named Aaron Chipampe. Mr. Chipampe stands accused of committing seditious practices.

The charge against Mr. Chipampe stems from a seditious post he allegedly published on Facebook between September 1 and 8, 2023. The post reportedly advocated for the overthrow of the government through unlawful means, which has serious legal consequences.

Former First Lady Mama Esther Lungu Set to Appear in Court on September 29, 2023

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Former First Lady Mama Esther Lungu Set to Appear in Court on September 29, 2023

In a case that has captured the nation’s attention, former First Lady, Mama Esther Lungu, is scheduled to appear in court at the Lusaka Magistrate Court Complex on Friday, September 29, 2023, at 09:00hrs. The court appearance stems from a series of events dating back to September 2021, involving allegations of financial impropriety and property disputes.

The incident at the heart of this legal drama revolves around Catherine Banda, the niece of Zambia’s former President. Ms. Banda was entrusted with the safekeeping of $400,000 but later claimed to have given $300,000 of this amount to Elizabeth Phiri and her daughter, Fuhana Patel. This transaction led to a subsequent complaint to the police by Phiri and Patel regarding the alleged theft of their vehicles and property.

Mama Esther Lungu entered the picture in August 2022 when she requested the return of her funds from Catherine Banda. However, investigations revealed that the money had already changed hands, having been surrendered to Elizabeth Phiri and Fuhana Patel. Family meetings aimed at resolving the issue disclosed that the duo had utilized the funds to acquire the same property in question.

In an effort to reach an agreement, the involved parties decided that Elizabeth Phiri and Fuhana Patel would relinquish the certificate of title for the disputed property (stand number S/Lusaka/SLN 0003/2977, located in Libala South Water Works Area) and three motor vehicles—a Mitsubishi Canter bearing registration number BAV 5282, a Toyota Allex with registration number BAV 3986, and a Toyota Runx, also registered as BAV 3986—to compensate for the money.

In accordance with the agreement, Phiri and Patel voluntarily handed over the property and vehicles to the former President’s residence.

However, events took an unexpected turn in May 2023, when Mama Esther Lungu expressed surprise and dismay that a matter she believed had been resolved through civil means was now under police investigation. Reports surfaced of heavily armed police officers accompanied by anti-riot vehicles storming the former President’s residence, demanding to conduct a search of the premises.

The incident involving Mama Esther Lungu, the disputed $400,000, and the subsequent developments have generated widespread interest and intrigue throughout Zambia. As investigations continue, the nation watches with bated breath, awaiting the resolution of this complex and high-profile case.

The charges against those involved include allegations of theft of a motor vehicle, theft of a property certificate in Lusaka, and possession of property suspected to be linked to criminal activities. The upcoming court appearance promises to shed further light on this compelling legal saga that has gripped the nation’s attention.

Pre-Budget statement issued by patriotic front Vice President, Hon Given Lubinda

Lusaka Times Editor
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Pre-Budget statement issued by patriotic front Vice President, Hon Given Lubinda

As Zambia anticipates the presentation of the 2024 National Budget on Friday, September 29, 2023, Hon. Given Lubinda, the Vice President of the PATRIOTIC FRONT, has voiced his views on the country’s economic situation. The budget, to be delivered by Minister of Finance and National Planning, Hon. Situmbeko Musokotwane, marks his third since the New Dawn Government came to power.

In his critique, Vice President Lubinda highlights several key concerns. He notes a decline in domestic revenue, a sharp increase in local and foreign borrowing, a decrease in fiscal discipline, and the failure of austerity measures. These challenges have coincided with pressing national issues such as food security crises, economic growth stagnation, high unemployment rates, and escalating poverty levels.

During the TOWNHALL FORUM held on August 22, 2023, Minister Musokotwane disclosed a downgrade in economic growth prospects from 4.7% to 2.7%. Lubinda emphasizes that previous budgets have not effectively addressed these issues.

The Vice President attributes some of these challenges to President Hakainde Hichilema’s preference for foreign solutions over domestic policies. Hichilema’s reliance on international bodies like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and foreign investments has, in Lubinda’s view, diverted attention away from mobilizing domestic resources. Concerns also extend to the exportation of national maize grain reserves and electricity, contributing to severe challenges such as load shedding in 2022.

In addition, the government’s handling of the agriculture sector, which is vital for food security, has faced criticism for corruption, negligence, and incompetence, exemplified by scandals like Sugelite and Gold.

Lubinda refers to the International Monetary Fund’s 2022 Country Report, which predicts social unrest in Zambia due to rising prices, inequality, inadequate healthcare, and political instability. The report recommends measures such as strengthening governance, fiscal adjustment, and improving fuel procurement efficiency, which Lubinda claims have been largely ignored by the government.

Furthermore, proposals to reform or abandon the Farmer-Input Support Programme (FISP), as directed by the IMF, are a source of concern, with fears of increased food insecurity and high food prices.

The recent eighth Living Conditions and Monitoring Survey (LCMS) conducted by the Zambia Statistics Agency (ZamStats) reveals worsening poverty levels, with 60% of the population living in poverty. Rural and urban poverty rates have also increased, with some provinces, such as Muchinga, experiencing significant poverty.

The cost of living remains high, with the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) reporting a cost of K9,267.34 for a family of five in Lusaka for August 2023. This places a burden on families with low and unreliable incomes.

Despite a budget of K167 billion for 2023 and a recent supplementary appropriation of K11 billion, critics argue that little progress has been made in addressing unemployment, poverty, disease burden, and the cost of living. The tax burden has shifted towards small and medium enterprises, workers, and ordinary citizens, while tax incentives favor multi-national corporations and mining companies.

In conclusion, Vice President Lubinda expresses doubt about the upcoming 2024 budget, citing previous budgets’ failure to deliver tangible economic improvements. He calls for a reevaluation of the government’s foreign-centric approach to national development and urges the convening of a National Economic Indaba to explore alternative solutions to the nation’s challenges.

Haalubono Names Team For 2024 FIFA Women’s U20 WC Qualifiers

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Under-20 Women Team coach Charles Haalubono has unveiled his 35-member provisional squad for next month’s 2024 FIFA Women World Cup qualifier against DR Congo.

Zambia will host Congo on October 7 in the first round, first leg tie at Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka.

Haalubono has promoted several under-17 girls that featured at the Region Five Games in Malawi last December.

The team has since entered a residential camp in Lusaka to prepare for the match against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The reverse fixture is on October 14 in Kinshasa.

FULL PROVISIONAL SQUAD

GOALKEEPERS: Mirriam Sikaduli (Choma Warriors), Mufunte Chishala (Police Doves Queens), Chitete Munsaka (Elite Ladies), Shanice Kolala (Luyando Foundation), Christine Hosolo (Indeni Roses)

DEFENDERS:Martha Banda, Monica Mutisa (both Green Buffaloes), Eunice Bwalya Luty Kamanga (both Yasa), Suwilanji Lukundo, Mutinta Hatembo (both Police Doves), Miriam Mwape (ZISD), Melissa Mataba, Evelyn Mwamba (both Yasa), Patricia Mumba (Green Eagles), Lydia Shamalima (ZISD)

MIDFIELDERS: Tisilile Lungu, Tionge Sambo (both Zanaco Ladies), Shelly Masumo (Trident Queens), Roydah Ng’andu (Zesco Ndola Girls), Gracious Tailoshi (Nchanga Rangers), Harriet Matipa (Yasa), Josephine Phiri (Green Eagles), Zangose Zulu (Pataaki Girls), Barbra Chewe (Football Chance)

STRIKERS: Eunice Mutonyi (Police Doves Queens), Lucy Kajiya, Chileshe Namute (both Green Buffaloes), Cindy Banda (Green Eagles), Elizabeth Mwale (ZISD), Mercy Chipasula (Kamfinsa Police Blue Eagles), Florence Munsaka (Choma Warriors), Shuko Mukube (Red Arrows), Mary Mbewe (Zesco Ndola Girls)

Tragic Head-On Collision Claims Two Lives in Fiery Blaze

Chief Editor
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Tragic Head-On Collision Claims Two Lives in Fiery Blaze

A head-on collision between two heavy trucks resulted in a fiery inferno that claimed the lives of two individuals in Katuba, Mkushi District, Central Province. The incident, which occurred recently, has sent shockwaves through the local community.

Provincial Police Commissioner Roy Kanshimba confirmed the gruesome accident and provided details on the harrowing incident. According to Mr. Kanshimba, the two victims were trapped in their respective vehicles as they were engulfed by flames.

The catastrophic event unfolded when a Scania truck, laden with Sulphur, collided head-on with a Howo truck transporting copper concentrate. The force of the impact was so severe that both vehicles burst into flames almost instantaneously.

Tragically, the driver of the Scania truck, whose identity has yet to be established, was accompanied by a female passenger who lost her life in the blaze, burning beyond recognition. The passenger, identified as Precious Nyanga, miraculously survived the initial collision but sustained multiple injuries. She is currently receiving medical care at Mkushi district hospital.

The Howo truck, registered under T548 ECT and coupled with trailer 826 Eb, was helmed by a 40-year-old Tanzanian national named Peter Mukwaba. His passenger met a similarly horrific fate, succumbing to the intense flames. The identity of the deceased passenger remains undisclosed at this time.

Mkushi District Commissioner Jonathan Kapungwe paid a visit to the accident scene and expressed deep concern over the surge in road accidents within the district. The incident has prompted renewed calls for enhanced road safety measures and awareness campaigns to prevent further tragedies on the local roads.

The collision and subsequent blaze not only claim lives but serve as a grim reminder of the importance of road safety and the devastating consequences of accidents on our highways. As the community mourns the loss of two lives, there is an urgent need for all road users to exercise caution and adhere to safety regulations to prevent such heart-wrenching incidents in the future.

Zambian Foreign Affairs Minister Addresses United Nations General Assembly on Global Challenges

Chief Editor
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Zambian Foreign Affairs Minister Addresses United Nations General Assembly on Global Challenges

On Tuesday, September 26th, 2023, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr. Stanley Kakubo, took the floor at the United Nations General Assembly to shed light on the concerning interplay of war, economic uncertainty, climate change, and food insecurity. Mr. Kakubo voiced his concern that, while these issues have global ramifications, they disproportionately affect nations in the Global South.

“In Africa, we are grappling with the severe consequences of instability in global food prices, with over 150 million people on the continent suffering from hunger,” stated Mr. Kakubo. He attributed this crisis to a convergence of factors, including inflation, climate change, and conflict, all contributing to the rising costs of food and fertilizers. Furthermore, the Russian invasion of Ukraine disrupted global supply chains, causing shortages as agricultural produce could no longer reach international markets.

Mr. Kakubo emphasized that these challenges have had a direct impact on food prices within Zambia. Import-dependent countries have turned to Zambia to secure their own food stocks, leading to domestic price increases. He stressed the delicate balance Zambia faces in meeting its own needs while recognizing its responsibility to assist neighboring nations, as their stability is closely linked to Zambia’s prosperity.

Addressing these global challenges, Mr. Kakubo underscored the importance of international cooperation. He urged all parties to engage in thoughtful decision-making, taking into account the concerns of Africa and the Global South. As an initial step, Zambia called upon the Russian Federation to rejoin the Black Sea Grain Initiative, a UN-led effort facilitating the transfer of Ukrainian agricultural produce to global markets and helping stabilize food markets worldwide.

Mr. Kakubo reiterated Zambia’s unwavering commitment to advancing peace, security, and stability globally. He highlighted President Hakainde Hichilema’s visits to Kyiv and St. Petersburg in June, where he advocated for negotiations. The President continues to collaborate with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to restore peace in the region. Mr. Kakubo concluded by affirming Zambia’s dedication to playing a vital role in securing peaceful coexistence for all.

European Investment Bank Pledges €20 Million for Agricultural Investment in Zambia

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European Investment Bank Pledges €20 Million for Agricultural Investment in Zambia

The State House yesterday played host to a distinguished delegation from the European Investment Bank (EIB) today, led by its Vice President, Mr. Thomas Östros. The meeting reaffirmed Zambia’s pivotal role as the EIB’s largest partner in Southern Africa, showcasing the strength of the enduring partnership between Zambia and the European Union.

A highlight of the meeting was the launch of a €20 million investment aimed at driving agricultural growth in Zambia. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the EIB and First Capital Bank, and it forms part of the EIB’s Pan-African Green Agriculture Value Chain. It promises to make farming more accessible and appealing, sending a clear message to citizens to view agriculture as a viable business opportunity.

President Hakainde Hichilema expressed his appreciation for the EIB’s commitment to partnering with the private sector to enhance productivity and production in Zambia. This aligns with Zambia’s government strategy to elevate the agriculture sector as a cornerstone of the nation’s economy.

Looking ahead, both parties are optimistic about further collaborations between the EIB and the private sector. These partnerships will extend to high-impact areas such as water harvesting, agricultural mechanization, and more accessible financing options. These efforts are expected to generate employment opportunities and secure livelihoods for the people of Zambia.

The joint endeavors between the European Investment Bank and Zambia are poised to usher in a new era of sustainable growth and development for the nation.

European Investment Bank (EIB) Expresses Interest in Funding Zambia-Lobito Railway Project

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European Investment Bank (EIB) Expresses Interest in Funding Zambia-Lobito Railway Project

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has expressed a keen interest in providing funding for the proposed Zambia-Lobito railway line. EIB Vice President Thomas Ostros recently confirmed the bank’s interest, stating that their involvement in the project would be contingent on the completion of feasibility studies by the African Development Bank (AfDB).

Mr. Ostros made these remarks during an interview with journalists at State House, where he held closed-door discussions with President Hakainde Hichilema. The EIB Vice President conveyed the bank’s belief in the viability of the Zambia-Lobito railway project and their willingness to consider financial support once the AfDB completes its feasibility studies.

The Zambia-Lobito railway line has gained attention as a significant infrastructure project with the potential to enhance transportation and trade links between Zambia and the coastal town of Lobito in Angola. This railway promises to provide an efficient and cost-effective means of transporting goods, fostering regional integration, and boosting economic development in the region.

President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration has been actively seeking funding and partnerships to advance key infrastructure projects aimed at driving economic growth and development in Zambia. The potential involvement of the European Investment Bank represents a positive step towards realizing the Zambia-Lobito railway project’s objectives.

The decision to engage in the project is expected to be based on the outcome of the feasibility studies conducted by the AfDB, which will provide crucial insights into the project’s technical, economic, and environmental aspects. The involvement of international financial institutions like the EIB underscores the project’s significance and potential positive impact on regional trade and connectivity.

As the Zambia-Lobito railway project progresses, it holds the promise of becoming a transformative development for Zambia’s transportation infrastructure, opening up new avenues for trade, economic growth, and collaboration between nations in the Southern African region. The continued support and interest of institutions like the European Investment Bank serve as a testament to the project’s importance and potential to advance regional development goals.

Goliath Must Fall:-Overcoming Formidable Challenges with Resilience and Faith

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Goliath Must Fall:-Overcoming Formidable Challenges with Resilience and Faith

In our contemporary world, we are confronted with countless challenges and trials that demand the construction of robust support systems. These systems not only ensure our social wellbeing but also nourish our mental stability. To understand how to navigate these challenges, we find wisdom in the biblical story of David and Goliath.

David, the underdog, small in size and doubted by many, faced the colossal Goliath, a giant backed by an army of formidable soldiers. Despite the odds, David emerged victorious, a testament to the power of faith and resilience. This ancient story symbolizes the triumph of the human spirit, inspiring us to confront and overcome our own Goliaths.

In today’s context, our Goliaths take various forms, each depicting a significant challenge in our lives. Here are a few examples:

1. Financial Goliath:Economic instability and rising costs of living have made financial stability increasingly elusive. Many people struggle to make ends meet, burdened by debts and unable to achieve financial independence. We need to strategize, plan, and work diligently to defeat this financial Goliath. In this battle, financial literacy, prudent spending, and wise investment are our metaphorical slingshots.

2. Unemployment Goliath:The escalating global population coupled with an unpredictable economy has led to an unemployment crisis. This Goliath affects not only job seekers but also employers and governments. It’s a challenge that calls for collective action—improving education and skills training, fostering entrepreneurship, and implementing inclusive economic policies—to ensure that the Goliath of unemployment falls.

3. Marital Disputes Goliath: Modern society has witnessed a surge in marital conflicts, leading to an increasing rate of divorce. The advent of social media, changing societal norms, and the decline in moral fiber contribute to these disputes. It’s crucial to nurture communication, understanding, and mutual respect in relationships to ensure that the Goliath of marital discord falls. Marriage counseling, open dialogues, and mutual understanding are our stones and slingshots in this battle.

4. Disease Goliath: Disease, whether physical or mental, is a Goliath that many people grapple with daily. The rise in chronic illnesses and mental health issues presents a significant challenge to individuals and health institutions. Embracing healthy lifestyles, promoting mental health awareness, and enhancing medical research and healthcare services are vital in toppling this Goliath.

Just like David, we may seem small and ill-equipped against these colossal challenges. However, we must remember that, despite his size, David was not powerless. He had his faith, his courage, and his sling. Today, our slings may be our education, our skills, our networks, our resilience, or our faith.

In the face of these Goliaths, we must remember that victory is not just about physical might or size. It’s about the strength of our spirit, the resilience of our will, and the depth of our faith. We must rise, stand firm, and declare, “Goliath must fall”. For, with determination, courage, and faith, no Goliath is invincible.

Chaliafya Katungula
Advocate General
Commentry on justice for improved Livelihoods

World Renowned Cardiovascular Specialist, Dr. John Webb, Facilitates Skill Transfer for Mitral Valvuloplasty in Zambia

Chief Editor
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World Renowned Cardiovascular Specialist, Dr. John Webb, Facilitates Skill Transfer for Mitral Valvuloplasty in Zambia

In a landmark medical collaboration, Morningstar Clinic and the National Heart Hospital have welcomed a team of clinicians from the United States and Canada to facilitate skill transfer in the field of cardiovascular medicine, with a specific focus on Mitral valvuloplasty procedures. This specialized medical technique involves using a balloon catheter to open narrowed mitral valves, offering new hope to patients suffering from mitral stenosis, a heart condition that restricts blood flow into the left ventricle and can lead to severe health complications.

One of the distinguished cardiac interventionists leading this initiative is none other than the world-renowned expert, Dr. John Webb from Canada. Dr. Webb’s groundbreaking contributions to the field of cardiovascular medicine include pioneering various valve interventions, such as conducting the world’s first transfemoral and transapical transcatheter aortic valve implantations in 2005. He also achieved another significant milestone by performing the world’s first transcatheter mitral valve replacement in humans in 2014.

Dr. Sula Mazimba, a cardiovascular expert based in the United States, expressed immense enthusiasm for Dr. Webb’s involvement in the project, stating, “We are extremely delighted that Dr. Webb, an exceptionally gifted and world-renowned interventional cardiologist who has pioneered cutting-edge procedures, is able to come to Zambia. His visit not only involves the treatment of patients with severe mitral valve disease but also includes the invaluable aspect of facilitating skill transfer to our colleagues in Zambia.”

Over the past few months, patients have undergone rigorous screening at Morningstar Clinic and the National Heart Hospital to identify candidates for the Mitral valvuloplasty procedures. Mitral stenosis, a condition marked by the narrowing of the mitral valve, severely hampers blood flow into the left ventricle, resulting in substantial limitations in cardiac function. Left untreated, it can lead to heart failure and potentially life-threatening complications. Historically, patients with mitral stenosis in Zambia were forced to seek treatment abroad due to the lack of specialized expertise.

The collaboration with Dr. John Webb and the visiting medical team represents a significant stride in local healthcare. By transferring essential skills and knowledge to Zambian medical professionals, these life-saving procedures can now be performed locally, offering newfound hope and improved access to treatment for patients grappling with mitral stenosis.

The groundbreaking collaboration between international and local medical experts showcases the dedication of healthcare providers to enhance the country’s medical capabilities, ultimately providing better care and outcomes for patients in Zambia.

President Hakainde Hichilema’s China Trip Attracted $3bn Investment

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President Hakainde Hichilema’s China Trip Attracted $3bn Investment

About three billion dollars worth of investment was signed between Zambia and Chinese Businesses during President Hichilema’s State Visit to China.

Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, Du Xiaohui said the Commercial Cooperation Documents cover digitization, green energy, infrastructure and environmental protection.

Mr. Du said this demonstrates the commitment of the Zambian side to forge even closer business ties with China.

He says Zambia and China have dedicated 2024 as a year of investment and business.

Mr. Du was speaking during the 74th Anniversary of the Founding of The People’s Republic of China, the 5th Anniversary of Zambia’s joining the Belt and Road Initiative and the Successful State Visit by President Hichilema to China.

Meanwhile, Government has called on the Chinese and Zambian Business community to forge joint ventures that guarantee a win -win situation.

Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister, Chipoka Mulenga said this will ensure that both the Zambian Business Community and China equally benefit from the joint ventures.

Mr. Mulenga said China continues to be Zambia’s largest trading partner, with increased bilateral trade from Copper and other Minerals.

He said Zambia is gratified with the elevation of the bilateral relations with China to a comprehensive strategic partnership as it will deliver greater increased opportunities for both parties.
[ZNBC]

Over 700 New Beneficiaries to benefit from social cash transfer in Ngabwe

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Over 700 New Beneficiaries to benefit from social cash transfer in Ngabwe

The government has taken a significant step to expand its Social Cash Transfer Scheme, adding over 700 vulnerable individuals to the program in Ngabwe district, Central Province. The move was announced by Provincial Permanent Secretary Milner Mwanakampwe during the official launch of the expansion in Ngabwe.

Mr. Mwanakampwe revealed that 727 vulnerable individuals have been included in the Social Cash Transfer Scheme, which was designed to provide crucial financial assistance to those in need. This expansion brings the total number of beneficiaries in Ngabwe district to 3,561.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Mwanakampwe emphasized that the Social Cash Transfer program is a vital component of the government’s social protection efforts, specifically targeting vulnerable segments of the population. Central Province, which includes Ngabwe district, currently supports 83,380 beneficiaries through this program. The government’s goal is to further expand the program, enrolling an additional 21,701 new beneficiaries by the end of the year, aiming to reach a total of 105,081 beneficiaries in the province.

“As one of the deliverables of leaving no one behind, the government will endeavor to prioritize the needs of vulnerable people in various communities through initiatives such as these,” Mr. Mwanakampwe stated.

Yvonne Tomali, Provincial Social Welfare Officer, highlighted the department’s commitment to providing and promoting quality social welfare services aimed at alleviating poverty, reducing destitution, and fostering family values. She expressed confidence that the government’s dedication to the Social Cash Transfer scheme would yield more success stories in poverty reduction as the program continues to expand and make a positive impact on vulnerable communities.

The expansion of the Social Cash Transfer Scheme in Ngabwe is a significant development in government’s ongoing efforts to provide financial support to vulnerable citizens, improve their quality of life, and reduce poverty across the nation.

Sishuwa Appeals to HH For Civil Discourse Amidst Personal Attacks

Chief Editor
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Sishuwa Appeals to HH For Civil Discourse Amidst Personal Attacks

Letter to the President

Greetings Mr President . I hope you are well.

I imagine you have read this malice, published by Koswe, a Facebook page run by State House individuals who are known to you. This malice is aimed at scandalising me over my criticism of some of your leadership actions. I request that you prevail on your officials to avoid taking this path of character assassination or personal attack. I have never turned personal in any of my public criticism of our leaders, both you and those who came before. I am always respectful and civil and I always stick to the issues that matter most.

You and your supporters have the right to criticise my opinions on any topic. What you don’t have is the right to maliciously scandalise me especially on rogue pages that are linked to State House.

Attacking my person does not address the content of the criticism, risks undermining your administration’s democratic credentials and puts me in harm’s way including by way of political violence, especially in a society where many have been encouraged to believe that criticism of the government is not only wrong but should also attract punishment.

No democracy is without critics and no government anywhere in the world believes itself to be perfect. If your officials believe l am mistaken on any issue, they should argue the merit of their case rather than attacking my person and my apparent motives. A more helpful response to my writings would be to pay attention to the content of my criticism and address the identified flaws, or to employ competent people who can respond or explain your or the government’s actions. Political speech and debate should be respected and protected as you yourself promised you would do once you ascended to leadership.

Successive ruling parties and their supporters fail to realise my simple approach to public commentaries: to hold to account elected public leaders in office, whoever these may be. Once they exit, my attention shifts to the failings of the new leaders. This often makes me appear like I am working with the opposition. As a result, successive sitting presidents tend to mistake me for an opposition supporter when all I do is to share my opinions on matters of governance.

When I pointed out critical failings of the state under president Rupiah Banda, I was accused of supporting the opposition PF led by Michael Sata. When I pointed out critical failings of the state under president Sata, I was accused of supporting the opposition UPND led by you. When I pointed out critical failings of the state under president Lungu, I was again accused of supporting the opposition UPND led by you. Today, whenever I point out critical failings of the state under your leadership Mr President, I am accused of supporting the opposition.

In all these instances, my supposed support for any of the presidential candidates are a matter of public record, making this characterisation entirely false. I regard my writings as an indispensable part of our democracy and l will continue playing my role the same way I have been doing in the past and present.

I would like to believe that I have been consistent in my criticism of the failings of our leaders, starting from Banda, to Sata and Lungu, and now you. And I am never personal in my criticism of our leaders. I focus on the issues that matter most and use respectful and civil language.

I am not there to change regimes. I only share my opinions on governance issues. I am a requited lover of Zambia, a defender of democracy, and a critic of all politicians and their political parties, in and outside government, when I think they are straying from the path of democracy and the promotion of the common or public good. That is all. You, our leaders and your supporters, will do well to engage the substance of what I say as opposed to attacking my person. As I said, a more fruitful relationship is to exploit my independent criticism and opinions while protecting my independence.

I implore you and your team, Mr President, to learn to appreciate the importance of feedback on government performance by citizens. Contributing to national affairs through public commentary and discourse is not a partisan affair; it is civic or patriotic duty.

The effectiveness of any government is amplified when it has the support and guidance of its academics, political economists, policy analysts, and other data-driven stakeholders. These professionals and academics play an important and critical role in steering discourse and promoting accountability towards enhancing government functions and delivery. They help bridge the gap between politicians and citizens by providing crucial feedback about the effectiveness of government actions, programs and policies. This kind of feedback is crucial.

I conclude by repeating that contributing to meaningful discourse is not partisan, but essential in promoting accountability and transparency towards enhancing government peformance. I hope my communication to you will align your actions to protecting this critical role of citizen speech as you promised during your campaigns.

Best wishes
Sishuwa

Thanks For Cracking The Whip; Now Shake-Up The Secretariat!

Chief Editor
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Thanks For Cracking The Whip; Now Shake-Up The Secretariat!

Mid this year, I published an article in The Mast Newspapers and of course, several Social Media outlets entitled, “UPND Government Not Communicating Effectively.” Here’s an excerpt of part of the gist of my argument:

“With due respect, Information Minister Chushi Kasanda and her PS, my good friend Kennedy Kalunga have lamentably failed to weather the storm from the rabble-rousers masquerading as opposition political parties! Clearly, they can’t withstand mounting pressure from the likes of Antonio Mwanza, Chilufya Tayali, Emmanuel Mwamba, Raphael Nakachinda or Nixon Chilangwa. They can do better at the Ministry of Religious Affairs if at all such a ministry was to be resurrected or better still in the diplomatic service.”

In what would be seen as my prophecy coming to pass, I made the following suggestions, “Given the cantankerous and highly charged political atmosphere currently prevailing in the nation, government deserves indefatigable and fearlessness fellows ready to shoot from the hips such as a combined lethal team of Cornelius Mweetwa as Minister and Thabo Kawana as PS!”

Although it has frustratingly taken long to come; at least finally, the President has cracked the whip! Madam Kasanda and her Permanent Secretary, the soft spoken Kalunga have been given marching orders albeit long overdue. While the nation grappled with a few challenges here and there such as the offensive prices of mealie meal and fuel coupled with the energy crisis earlier in the year, madam Kasanda and Kalunga seemed lost at sea.

As narcissists and naysayers went on rampage trotting to each and every Radio and TV station as well as putting the Social Media to effective use to spew out anti-government propaganda, the duo carried on as if there weren’t burning issues begging their immediate attention. The only moment they would bother doing any damage control was when a lot of damage had already been done and the masses would have already jumped to wrong conclusions.

We expect nothing less of proactivity and vigilance from the new entrants in these critical positions. We’ve little doubt Cornelius and Thabo are equal to the tasks; they obviously possess the necessary attributes and credentials to put off or prevent any raging infernos from spreading and getting out of control to the extent of bringing the entire government into contempt and ridicule.

Now that the president has heed to our cries and taken the necessary steps to reinvigorate and revitalise the communication wing of his government, we would equally encourage him to shake-up the UPND Secretariat in Rhodespark which would in turn revive the inept UPND media team which is undoubtedly in comatose. Mr. Batuke Imenda is obviously a decent and honourable man; we have nothing against him. We understand he’s a good administrator; he can actually make a brilliant diplomat in one of the Western capitals. Unfortunately, the role of Secretary General isn’t a good fit for him…..he doesn’t strike us as someone willing to get his hands dirty by frequently making forays into the shanty compounds to whip up support for his party.

Let us not pretend, the 2026 general elections will be quite crucial as the financially well lubricated Socialist Party and the Patriotic Front, former ruling party, flex their muscles to try and unseat UPND from power. The ruling party is currently disconnected from the grassroots; the leadership must urgently identify someone with the caliber of Obvious Mwaliteta, the current UPND Lusaka provincial chairman to bring new energy and excitement to the Secretariat.

Mwaliteta is definitely a charismatic and down to earth fellow; he has no qualms palling around with the masses in the shanty compounds, and drinking or at least pretending to enjoy Chibuku or Chibwantu with them as he converses with them in Bemba or Nyanja. More over, he has got the youthful age to his advantage making it easier for him to relentlessly traverse the width and breadth of the nation mobilising support or interacting with the party structures as way of encouraging them and listening to some of their challenges.

Salute!

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

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