Wednesday, June 11, 2025
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Government to repeal Mines and Minerals Development Act

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The Government had announced plans to repeal the Mines and Minerals Development Act No. 11 of 2015, in order to establish the Minerals Regulation Commission and put in place a legal framework to guide geological mapping and mineral resource exploration.

Cabinet has since approved in principle the introduction of a Bill in Parliament to repeal the Mines and Minerals Development Act No. 11 of 2015.

According to acting Chief Government spokesperson Mike Mposha, the current Legislation is inadequate in dealing with many issues related to increase in illegal mining activities, environmental degradation, poor occupational health and safety standards.

“Cabinet approved in principle, to the introduction of a Bill in Parliament to repeal the Mines and Minerals Development Act No. 11 of 2015, in order to establish the Minerals Regulation Commission and put in place a legal framework to guide geological mapping and mineral resource exploration as well as investment by Government in the mining sector,” Mr. Mposha said.

“It is in the interest of the Government to establish an effective and responsive institution to regulate the mining sector, as well as put in place a legal framework that will stimulate investment in geological mapping and mineral exploration as well as enhance Government’s participation in mineral resource development to leverage from the opportunities in the mining sector.”

Mr. Mposha added that the proposed legislation will make the mining industry responsive to modern day demands.

“The current Legislation is inadequate in dealing with many issues related to increase in illegal mining activities, environmental degradation, poor occupational health and safety standards, unsustainable exploration and mining methods, as well as loss of Government revenue including low investment in geological mapping and mineral resource exploration to stimulate capital inflows in the mining sector,” he said.

Kambwili condemns frequent detentions of Fred Mmembe

Chishimba Kambwili has condemned the frequent summoning and detention of Socialist Party leader Fred M’membe by the police.

Dr. M’membe on Tuesday appeared before Police at Ibex Police Station in Lusaka in connection with a case that allegedly occurred during a by-election in Serenje last April.

There was heavy police presence at Ibex Police Station as Dr. M’membe appeared before the Police for questioning.

Dr. Kambwili, who went to give solidarity to Dr. M’membe, said the Government is orchestrating the arrests of opposition leaders to divert citizen’s attention from key issues affecting the nation such as the high cost of living.

The former Minister of Information and Roan Member of Parliament charged that President Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND Government should focus on reducing the cost of mealie meal instead of harassing political rivals.

“When you detain one opposition leader then you have detained all of us. Particularly I want to repeat when you are doing it on flimsy ground. This government has now started misbehaving and I want to say that arrogance is the beginning of the fall of leaders, “Dr. Kambwili said.

“The Church has spoken against these arrests, OSIDA went to State House and spoke about these arrests, the American ambassador spoke to this but the man in State House doesn’t want to stop. He thinks he is the Alpha and the Omega of this country but ndemybe abaice mu Lusaka beba ati wina azalila,” he said.

Zambia’s former ambassador to Ethiopia and PF Presidential aspirant Emmanuel Mwamba urged the Government to address economic problems facing the nation such as the high cost of living.

High Cost of Living will oust UPND – Ng’ambi

Patriotic Front (PF) Chairperson for Industries Frank Ng’ambi has said the prevailing high cost of living will force the people of Zambia to vote out the UPND Government in 2026.

Mr. Ng’ambi, the immediate past Chifubu Member of Parliament, said hunger will unite the people and compel them to change Government in 2026.

Commenting on the UPND’s first two years in office, the former lawmaker described the first two years of the UPND regime in office as failure.

He said the people changed Government in 2021 with the hope that the New Dawn Government would improve their welfare.

The cost of living for a family of five as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) for the month of July 2023 in Lusaka, stood at K9, 301.18 in comparison to the recorded figure of K9, 239.45 in June 2023, signifying an increase of K61.73.

The average cost of living across all towns monitored stood at K6, 752.91, reflecting an increase of K236.64 in comparison to June 2023.

“People change governments to better their living standards. Any government that fails to improve the living standards of its people is a failed Government and the people would want that Government replaced. Fundamentally as a member of the community I want to support something that will improve my quality of life. As long as growth and prosperity does not fall within the benchmark of any government for me it means it is a failed Government,” Mr. Ng’ambi said.

“Let’s look at the survival of our majority Zambians, the first thing that we want to look at is pa mala (stomach). We left the bag of mealie meal at K120; it is now over K300, cooking oil, fuel, bus fares and so on. All these have had their prices increased to the extent of some of them being doubled. Yes, the prices of goods and services have gone up, do we have a corresponding salary structure that has responded to the increased cost of goods and services. The answer is no. Do we have a business environment that has provided growth for small and medium scale businesses? The answer is no. So when these fundamentals are not addressed, no matter what English you are going to use, no matter what grammar you are going to use, people’s homes will speak to them,” he said.

Mr. Ng’ambi cautioned UPND praise singers against misleading the Government with praises

“I am a very happy leader that this UPND Government will be booted out of office in 2026. Why do I say that? I know that hunger will unite the people of Zambia to vote out the UPND. For me the two years of UPND in government is a failure, this is a failed Government and urging the Zambian people especially those praise singers to stop praising this government because we go to the same shops, we board the same buses. My description of UPND under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema is that it is a failed leadership,” he said.

We Stand With Simon; We Can’t Do Business Amidst Grime & Filthy!

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Yesterday, we agonized in anguish and pain as we witnessed one of our foremost patriotic citizens break down on social media.
He’s obviously had enough……watching criminals hiding in the name of politics engaging in all manner of criminality to encroach on private property or literally defacing the beauty of our cities.

As one senior diplomat, Anthony Bwalya, rightly writes, “Mr. Simon Mwewa Lane Television is not only working to upholding and promoting law and order, as intended by the President and government at large, he is also an outstanding citizens’ champion in keeping our cities and country clean.”

What Simon Mwewa Lane Television was shedding weren’t crocodile tears. He was simply demonstrating his genuine love for his country. Like most of us, what Simon would like to see are organised cities – a clean and serene environment, ample space to walk about, paved corridors, painted shops and sufficient parking slots unlike the anarchy and chaos we are used to.

We are even shocked that some of those claiming to be politicians can choose to mock and make fun of Mwewa. We can’t find any better words to describe them than dismiss them as DIMWITS!

Government must in fact be proud that we have citizens such as Mwewa with a passion to improve the image of our cities without expecting any remuneration at all.

What this government needs to do is build consesus on street vending. This can be achieved by organizing Town Hall kind of meetings whereby citizens from all walks of life will be provided opportunities to congregate under one roof and interrogate the merits and demerits of street vending.

We stand with Simon!

Prince Bill M Kaping’a

Political/Social Analyst

President Hichilema invited for Saudi -African Summit

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Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed Bin Salman has invited President Hakahinde Hichilema to the Saudi-African summit slated for November this year.

The  Saudi Royal Court Adviser, delivered the invitation message when he called on President Hichilema at State House.

Mr Kattan said the summit which will run from 10th to 11th November,2023, is expected to see about 50 world leaders in attendance.

Mr Kattan also delivered greetings from King Salman bin Abdul Aziz and the Crown Prince.

And President Hichilema called for quick implementation of bilateral agreements between Zambia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

President Hichilema also requested   for deepening cooperation between the two countries.

He further called for the speedy completion of the multi million specialist hospital for women and children in Lusaka.

The Head of State noted that the completion of the project will positively impact Zambia’s health sector.

President Hichilema also wants Zambia to explore areas of cooperation that include mechanical agriculture, green energy and petroleum production.

Limulunga fire victims receive relief

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Fire victims in Limulunga District of Western Province have received building materials to construct their houses which were destroyed by incidents of infernos.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Luena Member of Parliament, Mubita Anakoka said the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) disaster and contingency component has enabled five households to receive relief after they applied for assistance.

Limulunga Town Council procured 150 poles, 50 planks and 70 roofing sheets to help the fire victims stand on their feet as they start constructions.

Beneficiaries are from Mabili, Limulunga east and Limulunga west wards with each beneficiary getting 14 iron sheets, 30 poles and 10 planks.

Meanwhile, Mr. Anakoka has appealed to members of the community to create sufficient firebreaks around their homes to minimize fire disasters.

“Most of these fires occur when people prepare their fields around this time of the year as they light up. They should minimize carelessness when they light up fires,” he said.

Mr Anakoka thanked the government for providing the disaster components under the CDF as it has enabled the council to respond to the challenges people encounter.

He said that it was not possible for the CDF disaster component to cover everybody thus they access the extent of vulnerability of the fire victims and encouraged those who are able to seek help through other means to do so.

District Administrative Officer, Fine Chibilika urged beneficiaries to be good stewards of the building materials.

“We need to take care of the things we have. We try to clean our surroundings so that fire does not destroy our properties,” he said.

 Meanwhile, a beneficiary, Saviour Kakoma from Limulunga thanked the government for the assistance, stating that she did not expect this relief.

“I am thankful to government for helping me. My house and properties were destroyed by the fire.  I was left with problems.

“I appealed for help and government has come to my aid, may God bless you. I have received assistance with 14 iron sheets, 30 poles and 10 planks,” Mr Kakoma said.

Also in attendance was Limulunga East Councilor, Lubinda Muyunda who thanked the government on behalf of the beneficiaries, stating fire disasters were harsh and left people helpless.

“Government has responded under disaster and contingency funds. We urge our people to understand the nature of fire outbreaks.

“They should be doing their homework too by creating fire breaks to avoid these disasters,” Mr Muyunda said.

Resignation of ward councillor in Dundumwezi welcomed by UPND

The United Party for National Development (UPND) in Kalomo District has welcomed the resignation of Katanda ward councilor, Maxley Kasusuli of Dundumwezi constituency and has since set its campaign strategy to  re- contest the seat.

District party chairperson, Mweemba Mwavwa says the party is ready for the forthcoming by-elections slated for October 12, 2023.

He, however, notes that the resignation of the former councilor was typical personal as he is still a committed member of the ruling party.

And district party secretary, Vincent Siambango confirmed the resignation of Mr. Kasusuli as Katanda ward councilor.

Mr. Kasusuli resigned as Katanda ward councilor on June 18, 2023  citing reasons beyond his control to continue as a civic leader for the area.

“I wish to inform you that with effect from the date of this letter, I have resigned as ward councilor for Katanda ward in Dundumwezi constituency of Kalomo district due to circumstances beyond my control. I however, vow to continue supporting my UPND party which sponsored my candidature as a councilor for Katanda ward in the 2021 general elections,” read part of Mr. Kasusuli’s resignation letter addressed to Kalomo council secretary, Lisa Mpasela dated June, 18, 2023.

But when asked for a comment over his resignation, Mr. Kasusuli says he does not want to implicate anyone for his decision but says he lacked protection from the constituency, district, and ward level for the circumstances he did not  mention.

“I just want to serve the party as an ordinary member and I thank the party and my electorate for having given me time to serve them from the August 2021 elections. I will continue to be a party member and I wish well to the one who will take over from me,” Mr. Kasusuli says.

But in a dramatic turn of events, on August 5, 2023 Mr. Kasusuli rescinded his resignation decision after wider consultations with party structures and his family.

However, the electoral commission of Zambia (ECZ) has already set October 12, 2023 as the date for the Katanda ward by elections with the campaign period to start on September 8 to October 11 while the nomination day shall be on September 7, 2023.

The district has 20 wards all dominated by UPND civic leaders with Kalomo central constituency having 12 and Dundumwezi with Eight.

Kasanda Highlights Media’s Crucial Role in Fostering Collaboration Among Nations

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Chushi Kasanda, the Minister of Information and Media, has underscored the pivotal role played by the media in promoting collaboration among nations, bridging information gaps, and shaping perceptions. Speaking at the 6th BRICS Media Forum in Johannesburg, South Africa, Minister Kasanda emphasized the importance of leveraging diverse media platforms and Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) to enhance unity and foster socio-economic growth across Africa.

the Minister highlighted the significance of embracing diverse voices, irrespective of one’s status, in the media landscape. Inclusivity, she noted, is a fundamental element in promoting unity and understanding among nations. She further stressed the need for investments in media infrastructure and technology, recognizing their essential role in driving socio-economic development.

The expansion of media coverage, Ms Kasanda pointed out, has opened avenues for dialogue and collaboration. She called upon the media to empower citizens with accurate and correct information to combat misinformation, emphasizing that informed citizens are more likely to engage in meaningful dialogue.

Ms Kasanda also emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration and partnerships with BRICS nations as a means to stimulate Africa’s growth. She advocated for joint ventures, content sharing, and collaborative projects that highlight Africa’s potential and beauty. These collaborations, she noted, can create job opportunities for storytellers, filmmakers, musicians, and journalists.

Local content development emerged as a key focus for Ms Kasanda. She highlighted its potential in creating platforms for Africa to share its unique narrative and vision with the world. Developing local content, she stressed, not only enriches African culture but also promotes economic growth within the media and creative industries.

In a related context, Ms Kasanda emphasized the media’s role in promoting peace, stability, and social cohesion through the dissemination of accurate and unbiased information. She called for responsible journalism and urged the media to serve as a tool to address Africa’s challenges.

Coach Chinama Hails Mighty’s Winning Return The ZPL

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Mighty Mufulira Wanderers coach Justin Chinama has hailed his side for starting the FAZ Super Division season with victory.

Newly promoted Mighty beat Green Buffaloes 1-0 at Shinde Stadium on Sunday in their Week One tie.

In a post match comment, Chinama said the win will boost his players’ confidence.

“It is a sweet victory, especially that it is the first game in the season,” Chinama remarked.

“We needed this win for confidence’s sake. With this win the players will be confident going into the coming fixtures,” he said.

Buffaloes coach Masauso Tembo lamented the loss.

Tembo said the Army side will bounce back after the loss to Mighty.

Government praised for distributing farming inputs early

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The Department of Agriculture in Zambezi district in North-western Province, is happy with government’s decision to deliver farming inputs on schedule nationwide before the start of the 2023/2024 farming season.

Speaking in an interview with Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS), Zambezi District Agriculture Coordinator (DACO), Anos Luvuwa, said government’s initiative to provide small-scale farmers with farm inputs for the 2023/2024 season early is not only commendable but also demonstrates its commitment to addressing food security.

Mr Luvuwa disclosed that Zambezi district, which has an allocation of 10,800 bags of D-compound and Urea fertilisers has already received 95 percent of the inputs for the 2023/2024 farming season

He also revealed that the early delivery of inputs has generated excitement among many farmers.

He noted that the decision to deliver farm inputs early before the farming season begins is a clear indication that food security is a top priority for the government.

The DACO further thanked government for the gesture, while noting that the early delivery of farm inputs will enable farmers to plan effectively and ensure timely receipt of inputs, ultimately leading to increased productivity.

Mr Luvuwa also emphasised that due to the unpredictable climate changes experienced by Zambia over the years, early distribution of inputs to farmers will not only provide them with sufficient time to plan for the farming season and avoid poor yields, but also allow for proper crop management.

“It is evident that the government can support farmers by ensuring timely delivery of farming inputs. Given our lack of control over rainfall patterns, having farming inputs early before the season begins will assist our farmers in effective planning and better crop management,” he explained.

Mr Luvuwa also disclosed that over 3,600 farmers are set to benefit from this year Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP).

However, Mr Luvuwa has urged farmers to commence field preparations in order to avoid late planting.

He said late planting will negate the purpose of early distribution of farming inputs and result in negative yields.

He also implored farmers to use the inputs for their intended purpose and refrain from selling or sharing them.

Mr Luvuwa said such actions do not only divert the inputs but also undermine the overall objectives of the programme.

“I appeal to our farmers to utilise the inputs for their intended purpose. The temptation to sell the inputs for immediate personal needs, at the expense of our national food security must be avoided at all costs,” added Mr Luvuwa.

President Hichilema Announces Commencement of Ndola-Lusaka Dual Carriageway Roadworks

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In an announcement on his official Facebook page, President Hakainde Hichilema revealed the eagerly anticipated commencement of roadworks on the Ndola-Lusaka dual carriageway. President Hichilema described this project as a flagship initiative under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) financing model.

In his brief Facebook post, President Hichilema stated, “The works on the much-awaited Ndola-Lusaka dual carriageway project have commenced. This is one of our flagship projects under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) financing model.” The announcement marks a significant milestone in the development of Zambia’s infrastructure.

President Hichilema expressed his optimism for the successful completion of the project, highlighting the government’s unwavering commitment to transforming Zambia into a pivotal transport hub for Southern and Central Africa. He stated, “We look forward to the smooth completion of this project and lay the foundation for other similar arrangements as we make Zambia the transport hub for Southern and Central Africa.”

The Ndola-Lusaka dual carriageway project has been eagerly awaited and is seen as a crucial infrastructure development that will improve connectivity and transportation efficiency between these two major cities. The modernization of this key transportation route is expected to facilitate economic growth, enhance trade, and improve overall accessibility for residents and businesses.

This major undertaking follows the signing of a groundbreaking 25-year Public Private Partnership (PPP) Concession Agreement on February 28, 2023, between the Zambian government and the Macro Oceans Investment Consortium (MOIC). Under the terms of the agreement, MOIC has committed to constructing a 327-kilometer dual carriageway, connecting Lusaka and Ndola, at a total cost of 650 million United States dollars.

Fatal Road Accident Claims Four Lives on Mufulira-Sabina Road

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Tragedy struck on Monday morning near Kansuswa Bridge on the Mufulira-Sabina Road when a horrific road accident involving three vehicles claimed the lives of at least four people, leaving two others seriously injured.

According to Copperbelt Commanding Officer Peacewell Mweemba the accident occurred at approximately 07:40 hours and involved three vehicles: a Volvo truck with trailer, a Mitsubishi Canter, and a Nissan Hiace Minibus.

The sequence of events leading to the tragedy began when the Volvo truck, driven by F. Banda Mellissa, aged 34, was headed from the south towards the northern direction on the Sabina-Mufulira road. Unfortunately, the driver appeared to have misjudged the clearance distance or the speed of the second motor vehicle, the Mitsubishi Canter, which it subsequently collided with. The impact caused the Volvo truck to lose control and collide with the third vehicle, a Nissan Hiace Minibus driven by Mathews Mwape, aged 32, from Mufulira’s Mulundu compound.

The accident resulted in the tragic loss of four lives, with Philemon Mwanza, Nkandu, Priscilla Bwanga, and an unidentified female passenger all succumbing to their injuries at the scene. Two additional passengers suffered serious injuries and were admitted to Kamuchanga Hospital. These included Peggy Musonda, aged between 20 and 25, who sustained multiple head injuries, and Edina Mwansa, aged 59, who also suffered head injuries.

Seven other passengers on the Nissan Hiace Minibus sustained minor injuries and were treated at Kamuchanga Hospital before being discharged.

The accident has raised concerns about road safety and the need for increased vigilance on the roads.

Spanish Football Federation President Apologizes for Unwanted Kiss to Player Jennifer Hermoso After World Cup Victory

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The President of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Luis Rubiales, has publicly apologized for an incident in which he gave Spain’s star player, Jennifer Hermoso, an unwanted kiss on the lips following the team’s victory in the Women’s World Cup final against England.

The incident, which occurred during FIFA’s awards ceremony after the final match, has sparked widespread criticism and condemnation from politicians and journalists alike, with many labeling Rubiales’ behavior as “unacceptable” and “disgusting.”

In a video statement, Rubiales expressed his regret for the incident, acknowledging that he had made a mistake. He clarified that there was no ill intent behind the kiss and that it happened spontaneously in a moment of elation. He emphasized that there was a good relationship between him and the players, including Jennifer Hermoso.

Rubiales went on to express his sincere apologies to anyone who felt offended by the incident, and he acknowledged that the situation had garnered attention beyond their initial understanding within the team.

Jennifer Hermoso, in an Instagram live video, shared her perspective on the incident, stating that she didn’t expect the kiss but believed it was a result of the emotion of the moment. She downplayed its significance, considering it an anecdote of the time.

Despite the controversy surrounding the incident, Rubiales defended the team’s victory, urging people to celebrate the remarkable achievement of the Spanish women’s football team. He expressed his pride in their success and stressed the need to respect and acknowledge their achievements.

The incident has led to calls for Rubiales’ resignation by some political figures, while Spain’s Minister of Culture and Sport, Miquel Iceta, described the kiss as “unacceptable” and called for an explanation from Rubiales.

In the aftermath of Spain’s historic victory in the Women’s World Cup, this incident has drawn attention to issues of personal boundaries and respect in the world of sports, prompting a broader discussion about appropriate behavior in such contexts.

House of Chiefs Chairperson Condemns Harassment of Former President Edgar Lungu in Mfuwe

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The Chairperson of the House of Chiefs, Chief Chisunka, has strongly condemned the reported harassment of former President Edgar Lungu by suspected UPND (United Party for National Development) cadres during the Malaila Ceremony in Mfuwe. The incident has sparked concerns about the intrusion of politics into traditional gatherings.

Chief Chisunka asserted that traditional leaders are committed to maintaining a non-partisan stance, and traditional ceremonies should not be marred by political affiliations or disputes. He emphasized that these cultural events are meant to celebrate heritage and promote unity among diverse communities.

In a statement addressing the disturbing incident, Chief Chisunka expressed his disappointment, stating that the actions of suspected UPND cadres at the Malaila Ceremony demonstrated a lack of respect for elders and the cherished values upheld by traditional leaders.

The Malaila Ceremony, like many other traditional gatherings, is considered a time-honored occasion for people from all walks of life to come together, irrespective of their political beliefs. Chief Chisunka urged Zambians to respect the sanctity of such events and refrain from using them as platforms for political confrontation.

In response to the incident, Cornelius Mweetwa, the spokesperson for the ruling UPND party, issued a stern statement emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law. He emphasized that anyone who violates the law must be held accountable, regardless of their political affiliation.

Mweetwa asserted the UPND administration’s commitment to the rule of law and stated that political affiliation should not be used as a shield to engage in criminal activities. He highlighted that the party’s leadership is dedicated to ensuring that Zambia’s democratic principles are upheld, and that law and order are maintained.

Works on Ndola-Lusaka dual carriage- way commence

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President Hakainde Hichilema has announced on his official Facebook page the commencement of road works on the Ndola-Lusaka dual carriage way.

In a brief Facebook post, President Hichilema revealed that the long-awaited works on the Ndola-Lusaka dual carriage- way have since commenced.

 President Hichilema described the road project as a flagship under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) financing model.

 “The works on the much-awaited Ndola-Lusaka dual carriage way project have commenced. This is one of our flagship projects under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) financing model,” He said in a Facebook post.

Mr Hichilema said he was looking forward to the successful completion of the project.

The Head of State said the government remains committed to making Zambia the transport hub for Southern and Central Africa.

“We look forward to the smooth completion of this project and lay the foundation for other similar arrangements as we make Zambia the transport hub for Southern and Central Africa.”

On February 28, 2023 signed a 650 million United States dollars, 25 years Public Private Partnership (PPP) Concession Agreement with Macro Oceans Investment Consortium (MOIC) to construct a 327Km dual carriageway between Lusaka and Ndola.