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Ibenga Girls Secondary School celebrates 60th Diamond Jubilee Aniversary

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Ibenga Girls Secondary School celebrates 60th Diamond Jubilee Aniversary

The Catholic Diocese of Ndola’s Bishop, Benjamin Phiri, delivered an insightful message during the Diamond Jubilee celebration of Ibenga Girls Secondary School in Mpongwe. Bishop Phiri underscored the profound role of formal education, emphasizing that it should empower individuals to provide meritorious service to one another, ultimately making them better citizens.

In his sermon during the Mass held to commemorate the school’s 60th anniversary, Bishop Phiri expressed his admiration for Ibenga Girls Secondary School for its significant impact on the lives of its former students.

“Now we celebrate what is termed the Diamond Jubilee, a moment of grace, a moment to thank God. We are looking back and thanking God for the many graces he has given us in this place of learning. We thank God for the achievements. Many people have been educated. Many women are great today because they have passed through this place, Ibenga Secondary School, to receive an education and are now able to contribute positively to the community,” preached Bishop Phiri.

He continued by emphasizing the transformative power of education in bringing individuals closer to God and enabling them to serve their fellow human beings meritoriously.

“Your learning must always help you to come closer to God. Education must help you to give meritorious service to your fellow human beings. It is in our fellow human beings that we see God,” Bishop Phiri proclaimed.

He drew inspiration from the Gospel reading of the day, where Jesus emphasized the importance of serving others. Bishop Phiri noted that education should lead individuals to follow Jesus’ example by proclaiming freedom to the imprisoned, bringing sight to the blind, and providing relief to the oppressed. He linked these principles to the concept of a Jubilee Year, a year of favor and grace.

Concluding his sermon, Bishop Phiri emphasized that if education does not guide individuals toward serving others and promoting the well-being of their communities, it loses its purpose and meaning, rendering it vain.

Ibenga Girls Secondary School, which has been an educational institution for 60 years, celebrated its Diamond Jubilee with a strong message of the transformative power of education and its role in shaping responsible and compassionate citizens.

Canadian Government Boosts Adolescent Health Project with $3 Million Increase

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Canadian Government Boosts Adolescent Health Project with $3 Million Increase

The Canadian Government has pledged an additional $3 million USD in funding for an adolescent health project known as ‘Her Future Her Choice,’ currently being implemented in various regions of Zambia. The announcement was made by Canadian Minister of International Development, Ahmed Hussen, during his visit to Liteta District Hospital in Chisamba District, Central Province, where the project is in progress.

The ‘Her Future Her Choice’ project, which commenced in 2019, has garnered commendation from international cooperating partners for its positive impact on target communities. Minister Hussen expressed his government’s awareness of the challenges faced by developing nations like Zambia in providing comprehensive adolescent health services. In response, Global Affairs Canada (GAC) has decided to increase its support for this vital initiative.

Yvonne Chibiya, Country Representative for Oxfam Zambia, expressed gratitude to the Canadian Government for collaborating with their organization to enhance adolescent health in Zambia. Chibiya highlighted the growing awareness among youths in beneficiary communities regarding their sexual rights, attributing this positive change to the project’s efforts.

“Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) are at the core of Oxfam’s mission. In areas where ‘Her Future Her Choice’ is implemented, the prevalence of HIV, early and unplanned pregnancies has significantly decreased,” Chibiya noted.

Chisamba District Health Director, Moono Shankanga, affirmed that the project has empowered adolescents with crucial information on Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR), enabling them to make informed decisions about their sexual health. Adolescents now have easier access to Sexual Reproductive Services (SRS) from healthcare facilities without facing stigma.

Dr. Shankanga reported an increase in the uptake of SRS at three health facilities: Malombe Rural Health Centre, Chikonkomene Rural Health Post, and Liteta District Hospital. These facilities now offer youth-friendly spaces where adolescents can comfortably seek SRS, including contraceptives and comprehensive abortion care.

Through Peer-to-Peer sensitization, adolescents have been encouraged to access SRS and have open discussions about their sexual health. Additionally, the health department has partnered with traditional leaders to promote positive social and cultural practices.

Martha Phiri, an Adolescent Peer Educator at Liteta District Hospital, shared her personal experience, stating that being part of the project has equipped her with knowledge about sexual health. She emphasized that being a Christian does not mean she should be ignorant about sexual matters and that she now feels better prepared to make informed decisions regarding her sexual health.

Government to Construct Modern Teacher Housing in Mulobezi District

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Government to Construct Modern Teacher Housing in Mulobezi District

Raphael Mabenga, the Member of Parliament for Mulobezi, has announced that the government is taking steps to construct modern houses for teachers in the district. This initiative aims to improve the living conditions of teachers working in rural areas and enhance education infrastructure through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

MP Mabenga emphasized that teachers should not have reservations about working in rural areas, as the government is committed to uplifting their quality of life. He pledged that schools in the district would be connected to power and water reticulation systems, providing essential utilities to support teaching and learning.

The announcement came during MP Mabenga’s inspection visit to Chibwe Primary School in Salumbwe Ward, where he examined a newly constructed teacher’s house and a block of three classrooms. The classroom block was built at a cost of 600,000 Kwacha, while the teacher’s house cost 410,000 Kwacha.

Acting Chibwe Primary School Deputy Head Teacher, Chuma Kangumu, expressed her excitement about the positive changes these infrastructure developments would bring. Pupils who were previously learning in grass-thatched classrooms will now have access to modern and conducive learning environments. Ms. Kangumu also pointed out that the improvements in infrastructure would likely lead to an enhancement in the quality of education provided at the school.

United States and European Union Back Lobito Corridor for Trade Advancement

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United States and European Union Back Lobito Corridor for Trade Advancement

The United States and the European Union have officially expressed their support for the Lobito Corridor, a significant trade initiative spearheaded by Zambia, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In a joint statement issued during the ongoing G20 Summit in India, both the USA and the EU applauded the recent commitment made by these African nations to advance the project.

This partnership declaration, available on the White House website, underscores the collaborative efforts of the European Union and the United States to contribute to the development of the Lobito Corridor. One of the key initiatives mentioned is the launch of feasibility studies for a new Greenfield rail line expansion between Zambia and Angola.

The USA and the EU have joined forces with the three African countries involved in the Lobito Corridor project, leveraging financial resources and technical expertise to expedite its development. The collaborative effort also encompasses investments in digital access and agricultural value chains, which are expected to enhance regional competitiveness.

The primary objective of the Zambia-Lobito railway line is to reduce transport times, lower logistics costs, and reduce the carbon footprint associated with the export of metals, agricultural commodities, and other products. This initiative is poised to streamline trade routes and bolster economic connectivity between Zambia, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Lobito Corridor project is seen as a critical catalyst for economic growth and trade facilitation in the region, and the backing of the United States and the European Union is expected to further accelerate its progress.

Power Dynamos Finally Get First League Win of the Season

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Defending champions Power Dynamos posted their first win of the 2023/24 FAZ Super Division season when edging Nkwazi 2-1 at home in Kitwe on Saturday.

Forward Joshua Mutale and midfielder Owen Tembo were the scorers for Power in this delayed round two match at Arthur Davies Stadium in Ndeke.

Wezzy Kumwenda netted Nkwazi’s goal.

Mutale put Power in front via a 22nd minute goal with Tembo doubling the lead two minutes later.

Power took a 2-0 lead into the half time break.

Kumwenda created an anxious end to the fixture when reducing Nkwazi’s deficit to 2-1 with a 61st minute goal to scare the home side.

Meanwhile, unbeaten Power moves to five points from three matches played as Nkwazi stay put on six points.

In the other delayed fixture on Saturday, FC Muza held Red Arrows to a 1-1 stalemate away at Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka.

Arrows conceded six minutes away from time to give away a 14th minute lead.

Striker Ricky Banda scored for Arrows and Muza’s equaliser was inked by Rickson Ng’ambi.

President Hichilema Announces Credit Window to Boost Agriculture

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President Hichilema Announces Credit Window to Boost Agriculture

President Hakainde Hichilema has unveiled a significant initiative aimed at bolstering food security and reducing mealie meal prices in Zambia. In his address during the official opening of the third session of the 13th National Assembly in Lusaka, President Hichilema announced that the government would establish a credit window for the public sector to enhance the production of maize and other crops.

This credit window will offer public sector participants access to funding at concessional rates, facilitating their engagement in agriculture and contributing to the nation’s agricultural output. President Hichilema emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting the planting of crops twice a year, a move intended to increase crop yields and drive down the price of essential food items.

In his address, President Hichilema also touched upon another pressing national issue—the ownership and future plans for Mopani Copper Mines. He assured the nation that talks regarding the mining company’s fate have advanced significantly and that an announcement is imminent. The President underscored his administration’s determination to revitalize the mining sector, a key contributor to the national treasury.

Furthermore, President Hichilema revealed plans to conduct a national geological mapping exercise to assess Zambia’s mineral resources comprehensively and devise strategies for their sustainable exploitation.

In the realm of governance and decentralization, the President provided an update on the devolution of power from the Central Government. He stated that 34,000 civil servants have been attached to local authorities, facilitating the transfer of responsibilities to local levels of government. Local authorities have already begun executing some of the functions delegated by the Central Government, marking a significant step towards the effective implementation of the decentralization policy.

Shadrick Kasanda denied bail

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Shadrick Kasanda denied bail

Shadrick Kasanda, one of the key suspects involved in the airport gold scam, has been denied bail in another case where he faces charges related to the disposal of property believed to be proceeds of a crime. The decision to deny bail was handed down by the Lusaka High Court on the grounds that his release from detention could potentially prejudice the ongoing case.

In addition to the denial of bail based on the risk of prejudicing the case, the court also cited Mr. Kasanda’s involvement in an espionage case where the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) issued a Certificate of Denial of Bail.

The verdict to deny bail was delivered by a panel of three High Court Judges: Pixxie Yangailo, Ian Mabbolobbolo, and Vincent Siloka.

Mr. Kasanda had sought bail through his legal representatives, arguing that he was entitled to it because the charges against him in the proceeds of crime case were bailable. However, the state countered this argument by asserting that his bail application for the proceeds of crime matter was invalidated by the Certificate of Denial of Bail issued in connection with his espionage case.

This development adds to the legal complications surrounding Mr. Kasanda, who has been embroiled in high-profile cases related to alleged criminal activities, including the notorious airport gold scam. The denial of bail underscores the seriousness of the charges he faces and the concerns of the judiciary regarding the potential impact of his release on the ongoing legal proceedings.

Justice Minister Addresses Compensation for UPND Members Arrested in 2017

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Justice Minister Addresses Compensation for UPND Members Arrested in 2017

Justice Minister Mulambo Haimbe has dismissed any insinuations of impropriety concerning the compensation awarded to five members of the United Party for National Development (UPND) who were arrested and prosecuted on charges of treason in 2017.

Minister Haimbe asserted that there is nothing sinister about the compensation provided to the individuals in question, emphasizing that their case was unique and warranted special consideration due to the gravity of the charges and the unusual circumstances surrounding it.

Speaking during a press briefing held in Livingstone, Minister Haimbe addressed concerns raised in the media regarding the compensation. He emphasized that the government’s actions are entirely consistent with the legal provisions of the country.

“The compensation of individuals who have been wrongfully detained and unlawfully prosecuted, even when it may appear to be substantial, is a necessary measure to discourage similar miscarriages of justice in the future,” stated Minister Haimbe.

The Justice Minister’s remarks come amid public discussions and media coverage of the compensation awarded to the five UPND members. The case had drawn attention due to the seriousness of the charges against them and the subsequent legal processes.

Compensating individuals who have been falsely imprisoned and subjected to unjust prosecution is a means of rectifying past injustices and upholding the principles of justice and fairness within the legal system.

CDF is transforming the country – Nkombo

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CDF is transforming the country – Nkombo

The Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Garry Nkombo, has emphasized the positive impact of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) on communities across the country. Minister Nkombo made these remarks during a visit to Chilanga District, where he presided over the handover of eight community projects and disbursed CDF loans and grants for 2022 and 2023.

The handover ceremony took place at Tubalange Mini-Hospital in Kasupe ward and witnessed the transfer of key community projects aimed at enhancing the living standards of local residents.

Mr.Nkombo highlighted the significance of these developments, stating that they align with the government’s commitment to improving access to essential services such as healthcare, education, water, and sanitation.

“Government’s policy and directive is to improve access by the people to basic services such as health, education, water and sanitation, and such a development is first of its kind in the country,” he explained.

The community projects handed over included a mothers’ shelter at Tubalange Mini-Hospital, two ablution blocks at Musamba Primary and Lusaka West Day Schools, a water scheme at Lusaka West Day School, a health post at Kacheta Primary School, two water boreholes in Namalombwe, a classroom block at ZNS Sopelo, and a staff house at Maano Primary School.

Additionally, Mr. Nkombo disbursed loans totaling over three million kwacha to 17 cooperatives, enterprises, and companies, along with grants amounting to K2.1 million to 55 women and youth clubs from the 2023 CDF.

Champion Tembo, Chairperson of Chilanga Town Council, underscored that the selection of these projects and the allocation of loans and grants were carried out based on the priorities identified by local communities.

“The New Dawn Government of President Hakainde Hichilema believes in local solutions, and the empowerment of loans and grants is a significant milestone in the government’s promise of offering financial support and empowering the grassroots to venture into small and medium enterprises,” Mr. Tembo affirmed.

Chilanga Member of Parliament, Sipho Hlazo, encouraged loan beneficiaries to work diligently to repay the funds, enabling more individuals to benefit from the program. He also urged youths, women, and men to form groups, register companies, and cooperatives to maximize the potential of CDF loans.

Joy Lubinda, representing other beneficiaries, expressed their commitment to utilizing the funds for their intended purposes and contributing to the progress and development of their communities.

High number of school dropouts worrying in Luangwa

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High number of school dropouts worrying in Luangwa

Luangwa District Commissioner, Luke Chikani says government is concerned with the high number of girls that have dropped out of school due to various reasons.

Mr. Chikani said it is in this vein that the government, through the Keeping Girls in School (KGS) project, has come up with the case management system.

He explained that the case management system which is under the KGS bursary initiative is a collaborative disciplined and standardized system that will help bring back girls to school.

The District Commissioner said this when he handed over 17 bicycles to 17 schools implementing the Keeping Girls in School project in the district.

Mr. Chikani said the system is designed to detect, prevent and deter factors that have the potential to derail girls’ progression in school.

“This approach provides holistic services to girls identified to be in need,” he said.

The district commissioner further said the case management system under the Keeping Girls in School also strengthens the capacity of school guidance and counselling teachers on how to identify and respond to the needs of girls on the project.

He added that the provision of bicycles as means of transport will help follow up drop out cases at all levels in schools in the district.

Meanwhile Luangwa District Education Board Secretary, Benjamin Chisulo, noted that a girl child is vulnerable where education is concerned.

Father Chisulo added that a girl child drops out of school due to various reasons such as early marriages, pregnancies and death and 43 girls dropped out of school in the district in the year 2022.

And Kapoche Secondary School Head Teacher, Mwangi Haninga thanked the government for the intervention on the girl child school dropouts.

Mr. Mwangi said the intervention by the government will create an impact of reality in the case management system.

The head teacher assured the government that the responsible school managers will ensure that they utilize the bicycles to reach out to the girls that had dropped out of school.

“With these bicycles we shall ensure that the girls that need intervention and support will be reached as well as possible efforts will be made to bring them back to school”.

Zambia Mourns Legendary Filmmaker Jeff Sitali Lost in Tragic Fire Incident

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Zambia Mourns Legendary Filmmaker Jeff Sitali Lost in Tragic Fire Incident

A somber atmosphere enveloped Ndola on Friday morning as mourners from diverse backgrounds gathered to pay their respects to the late legendary local filmmaker, Jeff Sitali, who tragically lost his life in a fire incident last Tuesday.

Mr. Sitali, a revered figure in the Zambian film industry, passed away at the age of 75. The family spokesperson, Tonge Sitali, has announced that the late filmmaker is expected to be cremated in Ndola by Saturday.

The funeral service, held at the Bread of Life Church in Ndola, saw a notable turnout of mourners, including government representatives and prominent figures from the arts and entertainment industry. Former Arts Council Chairperson Mumba Kapumpa, former Information Permanent Secretary Amos Malupenga, renowned comedian Bob Nkosha, and musician Saga were among those who paid their respects.

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Addressing the gathering on behalf of the government, Ndola District Education Board Secretary Chanda Chewe expressed profound condolences and described Mr. Sitali as a national icon. She urged others to follow in his footsteps and continue his legacy of excellence.

“We need to emulate the good works that were done by our gallant man Mr. Jeff Sitali. I was still young at Fatima School when we used to see him on TV as he was representing Colgate Palmolive by that time,” Ms. Chewe said. “We used to look at him as an icon of the country, and even now he is an icon because he has done so much work not just for the family but for the country.”

Ambassador Kapumpa, in his tribute, remembered Mr. Sitali as a perfectionist and a true believer in God, highlighting his remarkable accomplishments dating back to the 1970s.

The late filmmaker’s widow, Diana, and daughter, Naleli, shared their memories of Mr. Sitali, describing him as a loving and forgiving individual.

Mr. Sitali leaves behind seven children and several grandchildren. His tragic demise occurred when he was reportedly overcome by smoke while disposing of burnt waste in his Northrise studio in Ndola. He was discovered in a sitting position by passersby.

As Ndola bids farewell to this cinematic icon, Jeff Sitali’s enduring contributions to Zambia’s film industry and his impact as a national figure will be cherished and remembered by many.

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Chipolopolo Jet Into Comoros For 2023 AFCON Qualifier Bow

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The Chipolopolo are in Moroni ahead of Saturday’s concluding away 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Comoros.

Zambia landed at 15:30 hours (local time) aboard a chartered Air Seychelles flight and proceeded to their base at the Golden Tulip.

Chipolopolo, who have already qualified for AFCON sits on 12 points, two better than Ivory Coast who are the tournament hosts.

Captain Lubambo Musonda said Zambia is going for a win against Comoros.

“Preparations have been very good. Everyone is focused,” he told FAZ media in a pre-match interview.

“We are not taking this match as a formality. All we need is the three points,” Musonda said.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 21h00.

Zambia won the first leg 2-1 at National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka.

Use condoms correctly, don’t use them to clean computers – Kabwe Council

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Use condoms correctly, don’t use them to clean computers – Kabwe Council

Kabwe Municipal Council has called for sensitization on the correct use of condoms because people are reported to be using the rubbers intended for prevention of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, to clean computers and mobile phones.

Assistant Public Relations Officer, Nancy Chenga has charged that some people are in the habit of collecting condoms to clean their mobile phones, television sets, computers and other electronic devices.

Ms Chenga says the growing trend should stop immediately as it goes against the desires and aspirations of the National Aids Council, whose purpose for distribution of the condoms is prevention of HIV/AIDS, and other sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.

“It is unfair that people have taken to misusing the condoms instead of encouraging an AIDS free disease environment that corresponds with the country’s goal of eradicating HIV/AIDS by 2030,” she said.

Ms Chenga said the local authority, through its District AIDS Task Force (DATF) is doing its level best in ensuring that the condoms are distributed to the people, but that it is disappointing to note that they are being misused.

“As Kabwe Municipal Council, we are saddened to hear that the condoms which we are distributing to hotels, lodges, schools, government institutions and other public places are being used for unintended purposes, despite the frantic efforts we are making in safeguarding the good health of the people,” she stated.

Ms Chenga disclosed that the local authority distributes over a thousand condoms.

She announced that the council will intensify sensitizations to ensure that the condoms do not go to waste.

“We intend to re-strategize and go flat out in creating awareness and changing the mindsets so that we earn the support of the intended audiences in our condom distribution exercise,” she said.

Nakonde mobile money agent hacked, shot, robbed

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Nakonde mobile money agent hacked, shot, robbed

A 27-year- old mobile money agent of Nakonde District in Muchinga Province has been attacked and robbed by five unknown people.

Muchinga Province Police Deputy Commanding officer, Ronald Zambo, said Pethias Mwansa was robbed of assorted gadgets and cash money all valued at K21, 880.

Mr Zambo, who confirmed the incident to ZANIS, stated that the robbery happened on Wednesday around 19.00 hours in Ntindi Village.

“He was attacked by five unknown male persons, and robbed him of 4 itel phones, valued at K680, a Samsung Galaxy phone grey in colour valued at K1200 and cash money amounting to K20, 000,” Mr Zambo said.

The Commissioner of Police said that Mwanza went to check on the progress of a project at his plot after knocking off from his usual operating place at 17.00 hours and later proceeded home on foot.

He added that before Mwanza could reach his place, two unknown people armed with firearms followed him behind and shot at him.

Mr Zambo said they also hacked him on the head and subsequently sustained a gunshot wound on the thigh and a cut on the head while the robbers went away with his belongings.

“When people in the neighborhood heard a gunshot, they went to check what was happening and found the victim lying on the ground,” he said.

The victim later reported the matter to the police and indicated that he cannot identify the penetrators if seen considering that it was dark.

Mr Zambo further stated that investigations are currently underway to bring the culprits to book while the victim is seeking medical treatment.

UPND wins Dundumwezi’s Katanda ward by election unopposed

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UPND wins Dundumwezi’s Katanda ward by election unopposed

The United Party for National Development (UPND) candidate, Nkuyanda Malawo has gone unopposed in the Katanda ward local government nominations of Dundumwezi constituency in Kalomo.

The nominations held at Bongo primary school yesterday also had the Patriot Front (PF) and Leadership movement fielding their candidates but did not meet the required nine members to support their candidature which resulted in the UPND emerging victorious after going un-opposed.

“I, Nelson  Sichali being the returning officer for Katanda ward have received only a one valid enlisted nomination paper for being a member of the Kalomo council, I therefore, declare that Nkuyanda Malawo under his full names is returned as a member of the Kalomo town council,” returning officer Sichali declared yesterday late afternoon.

However, the PF had a lengthy debate with the Electoral commission staff over their supporters’ alleged intimidation by the UPND while the Leadership movement also claimed that they had the required numbers of supporters but were whisked away by some unknown people so that they did not meet the required number to file in their candidate.

The two opposition parties have vowed to lodge in a petition against the un-opposed declaration of the UPND candidate claiming that they had the required numbers of nine supporters each for their respective candidates but claim that their supporters were intimidated and hijacked in the filing process.

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) delegation at the nomination centre led by commissioner, Ndiyoyi Mutiti however said the two aggrieved parties are at liberty to lodge in their petition within Seven days.

The Patriotic Front was fielding Rodwell Manyando Sikasenke while the Leadership movement had Paul Buumba against the UPNDs’ Nkunyanda Malawo.

And Mr. Malawo said he would concentrate on working hard to improve the road network in the area and look into the education sector and the inadequate water situation in Katanda ward.

UPND spokesperson, Cornelius Mweetwa who is also Southern province minister was among the top party officials who witnessed the nominations and congratulated Mr. Malawo for his victory.

Others present were Kalomo town council chairperson, Coy Makaya, UPND chairperson, Mweemba Mwavwa and Dundumwezi parliamentarian, Edgar Sing’ombe.

The Katanda ward by-elections which were scheduled to take place on October 12, came after the resignation of its then UPND councilor, Maxley Kasusuli on July 18, 2023 who cited reasons beyond his control to continue as a civic leader for the area.

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