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West UCZ preps for 100 years celebration

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West UCZ preps for 100 years celebration

The United Church of Zambia (UCZ) Western Presbytery has launched its one hundred (100) year’s celebration of the Butoya Conference slated for October 18th to 22nd, 2023 in Sefula area in Mongu district.

The launch started with the flagging-off of marchers by Western Province Minister, Kapelwa Mbangweta at Barotse Shopping Mall in Mongu who later graced the event at Mukoko UCZ Congregation.
Mr Mbangweta commended the church for having been a faithful partner in the development of Western Province and also expressed hope for the gesture to continue.

He urged the UCZ to become proactive and also start participating in the developmental projects of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in order to improve some various health and education infrastructure as well as other activities.

“Speaking on behalf of the government we would like the UCZ also to be participating in developmental projects in CDF so that it can improve some of the various infrastructure in the health and education sectors as well as other activities,” Mr Mbangweta said.

He assured the church of full government support for holding the Butoya conference.
And in his homily, Western Presbytery Bishop Roy Kanchele praised the missionaries for the great job they did to the church in the past and challenged the congregants over what they could do to the church today.

“I am challenging each and every one of us if the church is to be in safe hands to be careful with decisions we make for its existence tomorrow, let us be attentive to the decisions we make for the sake of our children,” Bishop Kanchele said.

He further challenged everyone to rise on, keep moving and serve the lord.

Meanwhile, Reverend George Kachiza explained that the Butoya Conference started with bringing youths across the presbyterian around September and October for a week’s bible studies and recreation activities such as tug of war, beach volleyball and wrestling among others.

Rev. Kachiza said that the birth of Butoya Conference was at a missionary conference held in Sefula in 1923 where a decision was made that all church members be meeting annually at the area and hence now to celebrate its 100 years of being in existence.

He said that the conference later changed to become a bi-annually engagement and now every after four years adding that prior to the conference, the presbytery council meets to elect the bishop at a colourful Sunday church service to lead the church for the next four years.

UPND will not tolerate cadres- Kasanda

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UPND will not tolerate cadres- Kasanda

The Information and Media Minister, Chushi Kasanda, has assured the nation that the United Party for National Development (UPND) administration, under President Hakainde Hichilema, has successfully eliminated political cadreism from the political landscape.

Speaking at an event in Lusaka, Minister Kasanda emphasized that the UPND administration is resolutely committed to eradicating political cadreism, as it poses a threat to the liberty and economic development of the Zambian people. She firmly stated that the government will not tolerate any form of political cadreism, and measures are in place to ensure it does not resurface.

Furthermore, Minister Kasanda reiterated the government’s commitment to the fight against corruption, emphasizing that there will be no “sacred cows” in this endeavor. She underlined that the UPND administration is determined to investigate and prosecute corruption cases without bias, regardless of the political affiliations of the suspects involved.

Minister Kasanda’s remarks came during her participation in the third-anniversary celebration of the Grace Methodist Church-Bethel Congregation in Lusaka.

Alberto Mwansa, the General Overseer of Grace Methodist Church, used the occasion to call on the government to maintain its stance against political cadreism. He expressed concern that elements of cadreism were still emerging in certain areas of Lusaka, and urged the government to remain vigilant in addressing the issue.

Meanwhile, Malenga Lungu, the General Secretary of Grace Methodist Church, delivered a sermon during the event, encouraging all Zambians never to give up on their dreams and aspirations.

President Hichilema’s Visit to China: Will Ordinary Zambians Benefit? An Expert Analysis

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President Hichilema’s Visit to China: Will Ordinary Zambians Benefit? An Expert Analysis

By Mwansa Chalwe Snr


Zambians must be curious to know what was achieved by President Hichilema’s most important, and potentially consequential trip that he has undertaken in his two years reign. The joint communique that was released may be too technical and difficult to interpret by many ordinary citizens in terms of how beneficial the trip will be in their lives. They, therefore, deserve a sober, objective, non-partisan evaluation and analysis of the visit.


The Author of this article is an expert on China – Zambia economic relations having written a credible book on it, which is catalogued in United Nations Library in New York and United States Government Library of Congress in Washington. READ MORE: https://www.amazon.com/CHINA-WEST-BATTLEGROUND-AFRICA-Geo-Economic Competition/dp/9982913174 


Sino-Zambia ties not yet win-win

The current relationship between Zambia and China – like many other African countries-has not been the purported win-win by China. The benefits have not yet sufficiently trickled down to ordinary citizens, in terms of reducing poverty and creating sufficient jobs. China has benefited more than Zambia. President Xi Jinping is on record as having admitted the same, ten years ago while addressing a crowd in Dar- es Salaam as quoted by the New York Times. President Xi Jinping promised that his government would take corrective action regarding the African continent’s complaints about the lop-sided economic relationship.


“China frankly faces up to the new circumstances and new problems in Sino-African relations, China have and will continue to work alongside African countries to take practical measures to appropriately solve problems in trade and economic cooperation so that African countries gain more from that cooperation. We will strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation with African countries in agricultural, manufacturing and other spheres, helping these countries convert their resource advantages into developmental advantages,” President Xi Jinping said.

The lack of sufficient benefits for Zambia from its relationship with China was confirmed in a study by Chinese Scholars from Hebei University of Economics and Business, Cheng Jian and Comfort Lubinda.

“Even though the Sino-Zambia relation is based on win-win cooperation, the current pattern favours China more and that China‘s impetus in engaging with Zambia and Africa as a whole is driven by the need to access markets and raw materials as well as on diplomatic basis. A new strategic partnership in the interest of the Zambian peoples, at least, the majority of local Zambians is needed,” The Scholars wrote in the International Journal of Economics, Commerce and Management, United Kingdom.

It is on the basis of this lop sided relationship that there has been a clarion call by Zambian patriots including this Author, that the New Dawn administration ought to reset and recalibrate the relationship so that it truly becomes a win-win situation as President Xi Jinping promised. READ MORE: https://www.lusakatimes.com/2021/07/27/zambia-china-economic-ties-need-recalibration/. 

Presidents Xi Jinping and Hichilema joint Collaboration Communique

The Chinese and Zambian Presidents released an impressive and comprehensive communique of collaboration at the end of the Zambian President’s visit, as a deliverable. It covered a wide range of issues from security to geopolitics. But our focus is on economic issues, which citizens are primarily concerned about. The economic issues that the two countries undertook to collaborate on were: the promotion of clean energy, mining and exploration, agriculture and agro – processing, trade and investment, tourism promotion, manufacturing as well as supporting the upgrade and renovation of the TAZARA Railway and reviving Mulungushi Textiles in Kabwe.

It may be useful to focus and elaborate more on four economic sectors that the two countries committed to work together on, which could be transformational to the Zambian economy by accelerating its growth and diversification. These are the sectors that are underperforming and provide the greatest opportunity.

In agriculture and agro-processing, the two Presidents committed themselves to the following: “The two sides will implement the Joint Statement on Deepening Agricultural Cooperation and Ensuring Food Security. The Zambian side will provide necessary support for Chinese investment in Zambia’s agriculture sector. The Chinese side encourages Chinese businesses to participate in cooperation throughout the industrial chains of agricultural products and invest in production of fertilizers, pesticides and agricultural machinery in Zambia,” the Communique stated. “The two sides recognized that a redeveloped Mulungushi Textiles factory with modern efficient technology will align with the Zambian Government’s development strategy of industrialization and promotion of agro-processing and value-added exports to China, which also creates jobs and alleviates poverty, especially among the rural communities engaged in cotton growing.”

As regard to the promotion of the Green economy they said: “The two sides will establish a green development strategic partnership and enhance cooperation on environmental protection, combating climate change green economy, and emergency risk response mechanism, among others. The two sides will deepen mutually beneficial cooperation on renewable energy such as photovoltaic power, and electric vehicle industries to promote energy transition and ensure energy security.”

The Tourism sector was also an important area of focus for collaboration between China and Zambia, as it is underutilized at the moment with very few Chinese tourists. Zambia has started providing Chinese tourists free visas. China, on the other hand, has listed and included Zambia in the second batch of pilot countries for outbound group tours by Chinese travel agencies. They also agreed to explore the introduction of direct flights between Zambia and China so as to promote tourism between the two countries.

The promotion of diversified trade between two countries is vital. At the moment, Zambia’s main export to China is copper, which runs in billions of dollars. But this is a mirage in terms of benefiting the Zambian economy, as most of the money does come to Zambia. There is a need for the aggressive promotion of Zambian’s non-traditional exports, especially agricultural products, to the massive Chinese market in order earn foreign exchange. The communique said: “The Chinese side will actively explore the possibility of providing market access to more Zambian products and provide facilitation for holding trade promotion events in China. The two sides encourage greater use of national currencies in trade and investment, and help businesses of both countries reduce costs of currency
exchange and lower exchange rate risks. The two sides will also create a favourable
policy environment for promoting settlements in local currencies and support a greater role of the Chinese Renminbi (RMB) settlement bank in Zambia”. There was, therefore, a call for an effective De-dollarization of trade between the two countries by the communique.

How beneficial to Zambians was the China Trip?

The contents of the joint communique was very comprehensive, wide ranging and impressive. The contents leaves one with no doubt that China is making serious attempts at addressing the complaints about the lack of sufficient benefits for ordinary Zambians in the current economic relationship. The communique did not just focused on infrastructure development, as it was in the past. It is, therefore, vitally important that the joint communique’s implication and potential impact on the economy and on ordinary folk, is explained.

President Hichilema’s trip was undoubtedly beneficial in so many ways. The immediate overarching benefit of the trip is the reinvigoration of Zambia’s relationship with its most important diplomatic and economic partner by far. The resulting upgrade of the relationship from all “Weather Friendship” to “Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership”, amounts to the recalibration of the relationship that this Author has always been calling for. The relationship upgrade is likely to come with immense benefits and potential opportunities for Zambia. Prior to President Hichilema’s visit, many World leaders had visited China. The number of 2023 Head of State visits to China is unprecedented. This is due to the fact that it is an important driver of various countries’ economies. READ MORE: https://www.lusakatimes.com/2023/04/26/world-leaders-rush-to-beijing-how-china-can-facilitate-zambias-fast-economic-recovery/

In the event that the government immediately starts implementing most of the undertakings in the joint communique, the potential benefits to Zambia are immense. They include the following: reduction in cost of living including mealie meal, as the increased non-traditional exports will increase foreign exchange inflows and strengthen the kwacha; thousands of jobs will be created through mass employment creation sectors like agriculture and tourism as a result of access to the huge Chinese market; there is likely be an acceleration in transitioning to the green economy through renewable energy and EV technology; better and favourable bilateral  debt restructuring deal  with China due to the upgraded relationship, and in general, China will facilitate fast tracking the diversification of Zambian economy so that the over dependency on mining can be put to bed and we start getting better deals.

One should also expected some investment flows following the President’s meetings with some big Chinese Private Sector players like of internet giant Tencent, automaker BYD and telecom majors Huawei and ZTE. At ZTE, an MOU with the company to set up a smartphone assembly plant in Zambia. At BYD (Build Your Dream), a global leader in electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, the company was invited consider investing in Zambia because it has the right mineral resources necessary for producing their components.Already, ZDA announced some pledged investments of about $1.4 billion. In Solar power.

CONCLUSION

President Hichilema should be congratulated for this very successful trip by all Zambians of goodwill. In the meeting with President Xi Jinping, he undertook to learn from the Chinese experience. The lowest lying fruit for the President to start the learning process, is reforms in the governance and management of State Owned Enterprises (SOEs), as I recommended in my latest article. China’s success is partly attributed to how it carried out reforms of SOEs when it introduced its new system of Socialist Market Economy from 1978.The Private Sector was allowed to thrive alongside SOEs, with some of the latter companies, even being listed on Stock Markets in order to introduce market discipline in the way they conducted their businesses. This resulted in great transformation in the performance of SOEs. READ MORE: https://www.lusakatimes.com/2023/09/13/how-idc-reforms-can-grow-economy-boost-job-creation-and-tax-revenue/

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In 2024, Zambia and China will celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations and the two countries have designated the year as: The Year of Business Cooperation. It is important for the USA and the West to understand that Zambia’s relationship with China is too deep to decouple. And if they dig just a bit deeper, the numbers and physical structures in Zambia, associated with China, will tell them the full story. READ MORE:https://www.lusakatimes.com/2023/03/27/usa-seems-to-undervalue-chinas-role-in-zambian-economy-here-is-how-deep-the-ties-are/

It must be realized that Zambia’s relationship with the West and China is not a zero sum game. What China provides, the West have failed to provide due to their economic and political system. And China cannot provide Zambia with what the West can provide. Zambia needs both of them.

The writer is a Chartered Accountant and Author. He is an independent financial commentator, Analyst and a Semi-retired MSME Consultant. He is also an Op-Ed Contributor to the Hong Kong based, Alibaba owned, and South China Morning Post (SCMP). Contact: [email protected]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tourism is no longer Victoria Falls, it’s beauty of towns, as you saw in China

Chief Editor
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Tourism is no longer Victoria Falls, it’s beauty of towns, as you saw in China

By Edward Chisanga

Just as The Great Wall of China is no longer the basis of Chinese tourism, Zambia too much adapt and create new tourist products or make amendments to existing ones. We must study the behavior of international tourists and find out exactly what motivates them. Often, the perception of African and Zambian leaders, is that they will come to see our Victoria Falls, one of the wonders of the world and game or wild animals. In the product life cycle, Victoria falls, like other God-given natural things is a declining product.

We can no longer base the planning and development of tourism on the Victoria falls. God-created resources like Victoria falls are of course important and can earn us wealth. But they’re not sustainable. After some years, they lose their meaning and may even become relics and obsolete. Just like human beings, products like Victoria falls eventually reach the declining stage and need rebirth or improvement.
Let’s stop celebrating winning small economic wars. Victoria falls and what the country earns from it is what I consider small economic wars. We don’t earn much because the product is incomplete. To win big economic war means making Victoria falls, including where it sits more beautiful than it is today.
China no longer uses the Great Wall as its main tourism products. What you saw and impressed you most from the visit to China was not the Great Wall or other God-given resources. It was the cities of Beijing, Shenzhen, Jinggangshan, etc that captured your complete attention. You saw many more visitors to these cities than you would have seen if you had visited the Great Wall.

White people like visiting nice-looking and safe cities. Many Americans and Europeans visit Chinese cities perhaps much more than they do their own cities because of beauty and what they offer. Look at their flowers and trees in the streets, parks, playgrounds, and gardens. In these cities, dust was last seen by builders of the cities. Children born thereafter have never seen dust in their lives.
They visit these cities because they’ve all the necessary facilities that any civilized country provides. As they walk on the streets, drink, and enjoy themselves, they will need to go to the toilets. They easily have access to clean and affordable public toilets in the streets. They find abundant and quality food, drinks, and things. Hotels are abundant and affordable, clean and their attendants friendly. Pickpockets and other thieves are kept under strict control.

These cities offer limitless and continuous energy and electricity to their tourists. They know nothing about load shedding and electricity going off. Tourists visiting them know nothing about it either. You never experienced it too, did you?

If you signed a memorandum of understanding on tourism, we know what product you’re focusing on. There’s nothing else other than Victoria falls. Oh, sorry, you’ve got wildlife or game. That’s another declining product. You cannot keep on promoting God-given things which have no value-addition and expect to create big wealth. Game too is a simple economic war that you are fighting. Learn to fight big economic wars.

In Zambia’s Livingstone, these tourists you saw in China and yourselves will have no access to good city facilities. Livingston is not a tourist city. Perhaps to you, not to me. We are simply lucky we have Victoria falls in it which attracts few tourists. It runs out of energy and electricity like other cities in the country. And tourists are not exempted from this mess.
We ask them to come, and they come only to be subjected to things we used to hear about the dark continent when we were children, and sixty years on, after independence, we are about to die leaving them. Where do tourists go to empty their bladders and …when they’re in Livingston streets outside their hotels?

When they want to phone their relatives abroad, they’re confronted with network challenges they never experience in their towns. They can’t buy this and that because our shops have network challenges.
Beggars are everywhere encircling them. Street kids have their own plans to get to tourists to beg. The hired tourist driver collecting them from the airport and taking them back has his own agenda to ensure they give him something. Hotel workers attending to them give them the “I’m hungry look.” If they carelessly leave important articles, items, money, etc in their rooms, in other places, they may not find them.

To win large economic wars means that we must address all these problems which we don’t tell them. We only tell them sweetness. The basis of good tourism that can create big wealth for our people, is to ensure that we eradicate all these challenges. Don’t simply pick on me as a bad Zambian who lists bad things about our country as if I’m not Zambian. Do self-soul-searching. Look in the mirror with me. And, I have sympathy for the new dawn government becaeuse you’re new and did not create this mess. But take advantage and create more exciting things than the Victoria falls and game.

Make Livingston a real tourist town. Let tourists come to Livingston not only to see the Victoria falls but the town and its good things. It’s understandable that a poor country like ours cannot build good towns because we have no money. But perhaps the next budget should focus on ensuring that Livingston is beautiful and competitive in the region.

According to Zambian economists and government, debt restructuring will give us enough funds to spend on development. Upgrading Livingston to international standards may bring a multiplier effect on economic development. It’s a pity, when you were in China, you could have asked to visit some small town which you could use, ask China to help you expand Livingston into that model.

As I conclude, here’s a piece of advice. When you borrow, next time, perhaps borrow big to upgrade Livingston. It might sound reckless, but that borrowing might have a multiplier effect of benefits in the long-term. Another advice. Don’t ask tourists to come only to face these challenges. When they go back home, they’ll campaign against us, that we are liars who talk sweet and deceitful ‘stories. Another advice: Don’t give tourists what you perceive as a good product. Instead, adopt their perception.

MUZA Lose CAF Confed Cup Tie

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chipepo Confident Power Can Shock Simba In Tanzania

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Message For Today:The Blessing

Chief Editor
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Message For Today:The Blessing

Today’s Scripture

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

Numbers 6:24–26, NIV

The Blessing

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

A Prayer for Today

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scheduled Power Interruption in Several Provinces Due to Annual Maintenance Works

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Historic Commissioning of FM Transmitters in Luangwa District

Chief Editor
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Historic Commissioning of FM Transmitters in Luangwa District

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

President Hichilema Returns Home from China

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Returns Home from China

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cletus Chama Dims Power Dynamos Group Stage Hopes

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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

Support Editor
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Solwezi records highest maternal deaths in North Western

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lufuma speaks peace ahead of DRC elections

Support Editor
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Lufuma speaks peace ahead of DRC elections

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Therapeutic phlebotomy available at UTH for sickle cell patients

Chief Editor
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Therapeutic phlebotomy available at UTH for sickle cell patients

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Dr.Musonda Mwilwa (Facebook post)

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