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Law enforcement agencies urged to learn new technologies- DPP

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Law enforcement agencies urged to learn new technologies- DPP

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Gilbert Phiri says there is need for law enforcement agencies to be equipped with the capacity to handle financial and economic crimes.

Mr Phiri says financial and economic crimes are complex in nature and should therefore be met with equally intricate methods of countering them.

Remotely addressing participants at the Attorney General Alliance – Africa Programme (AGA-Africa) and Inter-Agency Cooperation Framework training of trainers in Lusaka today, the DPP observed that criminals have taken advantage of technology by using it to advance illegal activities.

“Illicit financial flows pose a complex global challenge. They are extraordinary and complex nature necessitates an extraordinary and multifaceted approach to combating them. Criminals have taken advantage of technology by utilizing it to advance their nefarious activities. Unfortunately, most law enforcement officers and prosecutors have lagged behind criminals in their sophisticated schemes especially since the advent of technological advancement,” the DPP said.

Speaking at the same event, AGA-Africa Programme Director, Chukukere Oparah said recovery of proceeds of crime is critical in disrupting illicit financial flows.

Mr Oparah said actively pursuing recovery of proceeds of crime sends a deterrent to would-be offenders.

He said commitment towards disrupting financial life lines of criminal enterprises is crucial towards upholding justice.

Mr Oparah said his institution has prioritized building capacity with institutions such the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) and National Prosecution Authority (NPA).

“I am happy to note that AGA Africa Programme’s work is in the area of asset recovery. We have consistently prioritized conducting training sessions and workshops on this topic with criminal justice actors and other stakeholders within Zambia,” he said.

The two-week programme which has started today is in line with the fight against organized crime with participants being drawn from law enforcement agencies.

ZCSA Quarantines Assorted Products Valued at K490,000 in Multiple Provinces

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ZCSA Quarantines Assorted Products Valued at K490,000 in Multiple Provinces

The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has taken action against various products falling under Compulsory Standards in the Copperbelt, North-Western, and Luapula Provinces, resulting in the quarantine of items valued at approximately K490,000. These products were supplied to the market without proper authorization from the Agency, as mandated by the Compulsory Standards Act No.3 of 2017.

During market surveillance inspections last week, the ZCSA identified a range of products, including fruit-flavored drinks, opaque beer, potable spirits, mealie meal, and bottled drinking water, among others, valued at K489,050.62. The quarantine measures were implemented to ensure ongoing compliance with the Compulsory Standards regulations.

In Ndola, the ZCSA seized 9,984 bottles of bottled drinking water, 1,751 bottles of potable spirits, 146 bottles of fruit-flavored drinks, and 267 crates of opaque beer from various locations.

In Solwezi, the Agency quarantined 2,285 bottles of potable spirits, which included Gilberts Gin, Kremlin Vodka, Vintage Gold Superior, Three Growns, and Sundowner.

In Kitwe, 556 bags of mealie meal were quarantined, while in Mansa, 105 bottles of Gilberts Gin, Kremlin Vodka, Vintage Gold Superior, Three Growns, and Sundowner were seized.

In addition to the above actions, the ZCSA also encountered a separate incident in Lusaka Province on July 19, 2023. During their routine inspections in Makeni and Chawama Townships, ZCSA officers discovered a light truck offloading bales of used textile products. Upon inspection, six out of 13 bales were found to contain used undergarments, which are prohibited under the Compulsory Standard Zambian Standard (ZS) 559. This standard restricts the importation and sale of used textile products containing items such as pyjamas, nightgowns, pants, brassieres, camisoles, and vests, due to potential health hazards.

The ZCSA warned importers and traders against supplying products within the scope of compulsory standards without proper authorization, as doing so poses risks to consumers’ health and safety. The Agency encourages the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products on the market.

As a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, and Industry (MCTI), the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency is committed to ensuring public safety, health, consumer protection, and environmental preservation through the enforcement and education of compulsory standards across the country.

Eastern Water Losing Half Of Its Water

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Eastern Water Losing Half Of Its Water

Eastern Water and Sanitation Company is grappling with a major challenge as it loses nearly half of the water it generates before reaching its intended customers. The alarming water loss has been attributed to the state of dilapidated infrastructure, as reported by the company’s Public Relations Officer, Moses Nsunge.

In a recent interview with ZNBC News in Chipata, Mr. Nsunge shed light on the concerning situation. He revealed that the company is experiencing substantial water losses due to the deteriorating condition of its water infrastructure, leading to a direct impact on the hours of water supply to customers.

“The loss of water is a serious issue for us,” said Mr. Nsunge. “Approximately half of the water we generate is being lost before it reaches our customers, and this is primarily because of the dilapidated state of our infrastructure.”

The implications of such significant water loss are far-reaching, affecting not only the company’s operational efficiency but also the quality and reliability of water supply to the communities it serves. The reduction in the hours of supply has resulted in hardships for the customers, who are experiencing interruptions in their access to clean water.

Mr. Nsunge emphasized the urgent need for action to address the infrastructure challenges faced by the Eastern Water and Sanitation Company. Repairing and upgrading the water distribution network is vital to ensure efficient and sustainable water supply to the region.

“We are aware of the impact this is having on our customers, and we are working diligently to rectify the situation,” Mr. Nsunge assured. “Our top priority is to improve our infrastructure, reduce water losses, and enhance the hours of supply for our valued customers.”

Efforts to address the water loss issue are crucial not only for the well-being of the communities but also for the overall water resource management and conservation in the region. Reducing water losses will contribute to efficient water utilization and preserve this vital resource for future generations.

As Eastern Water and Sanitation Company grapples with these challenges, it is imperative for the relevant authorities to provide the necessary support and resources to address the dilapidated infrastructure promptly. Collaborative efforts between the company and government bodies will be essential to finding viable solutions and ensuring sustainable water supply in the region.

The issue of water loss serves as a pressing reminder of the importance of investing in and maintaining water infrastructure to safeguard water resources and meet the growing demand for clean water. As the company works towards overcoming these obstacles, the public remains hopeful for improvements that will restore reliable water supply to the communities in Eastern Zambia.

With continued efforts and proactive measures, Eastern Water and Sanitation Company can overcome its infrastructure challenges and reaffirm its commitment to providing reliable and accessible water services to the people it serves. The well-being and prosperity of the region depend on securing this precious resource for a sustainable and water-secure future.

Gary Nkombo Accuses PF of Worsening Street Vending, Advocates for CBD Sanity

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Gary Nkombo Accuses PF of Worsening Street Vending, Advocates for CBD Sanity

Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Gary Nkombo, has accused the previous Patriotic Front (PF) regime of exacerbating street vending during its time in office.

In his recent Ministry Statement made in Parliament, Mr. Nkombo stated that the PF initiated the allocation of land in the Central Business District (CBD) for clutter containers to be erected by vendors. Additionally, the PF allocated and charged for illegal trading spaces along the streets of the CBD.

Mr. Nkombo emphasized that the actions of the PF were in contradiction to the Market and Bus Station Act of 2007 of the laws of Zambia, which deems street vending as an illegal activity.

Defending his Ministry’s action to remove vendors from the Lusaka CBD last week, Mr. Nkombo said, “The problem of street vending was worsened by our colleagues in the previous government, who started allocating land in the CBD for the erection of clutter containers and further allocated and charged for illegal trading spaces along the streets of the CBD. This resulted in unsustainable levels of waste generation with no sanitary facilities to accommodate the increasing number of vendors. In a continued effort to address the growing problem of street vending, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, in the last quarter of 2022, directed the Lusaka City Council to undertake an audit of available market spaces (stands) in Lusaka as well as to conduct a head count of street vendors in the Central Business District.”

The Mazabuka MP stressed the importance of restoring sanity to the Central Business District, which has witnessed a proliferation of undesirable activities, including the illegal sale of alcohol in the streets.

“Engagements were undertaken with vendors through their respective Associations to build consensus and find a solution to street vending. The findings indicated that as of May 2023, the total number of trading spaces stood at 11,039, of which 6,624 are occupied. This means that we have 4,992 unoccupied trading spaces against 4,415 street vendors. This is a demonstration that we have sufficient trading spaces to accommodate those trading from the streets,” Mr. Nkombo explained.

In January 2023, measures were announced to mitigate the Covid-19 pandemic and the potential outbreak of Cholera and other diarrheal diseases due to unsanitary conditions in trading places. Consequently, Mr. Nkombo directed the Lusaka City Council and all Local Authorities across the country to remove street vendors from undesignated trading places in accordance with the provisions of SI No.12 of 2018.

Following consultations and building consensus among stakeholders to address street vending and restore sanity in the CBD, the Ministry moved to clear street vendors in compliance with the Market and Bus Station Act of 2007.

Mr. Nkombo concluded, “The street vendors have been urged to go back to the markets that have empty spaces. I am sure members can bear witness to the beauty of Lusaka that the removal of street vendors has exposed. Not the beauty but the sanity that has been restored.”

Mansa District receives livestock empowerment package

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Mansa District receives livestock empowerment package

Government has handed over a small livestock empowerment package of 400 improved village chickens and 80 bags of feed, to two Community Welfare Assistance Committees to cater for 80 identified beneficiaries in Mansa District, under the department of Community Developments’ Food Security Pack Programme.

During the handover, Mansa District Commissioner Ireen Chivweta advised the beneficiaries of the 400 improved village chickens and feedstock hamper, to be committed in realizing the objectives of the programme that is meant to benefit more underprivileged beneficiaries, once successful.

Ms. Chivweta explained that the small livestock initiative’s alternative to livelihoods component is a programme under the Food Security Pack (FSP) programme being implemented by the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services in Mansa.

Ms. Chivweta added that the programmes are aimed at empowering viable farming households to be self-sustained, through improved productivity and household food security with a view to reduce poverty in communities.

She explained that the small livestock empowerment component also caters for goats depending on identified beneficiary assessments and subsequent allocation.

She said that aside consumption and income generation, the small livestock program is a pass- on initiative where beneficiaries increase production of their acquired livestock and give out a small share to other would-be beneficiaries as upstarts of a similar cycle of livestock empowerment.

Ms. Chivweta has since urged beneficiaries not to rush in the consumption or selling of the chickens but to focus on multiplying their livestock so that they can give other vulnerable households, a chance to start from their proceeds and later have a share for consumption or sell without depleting or dwindling their livestock numbers.

And Senior Community Development Officer, Susan Kamanga who represented Provincial Community Development Officer, Noah Mwisa said the small livestock handover component initiative to Mutende CWAC and Fibale CWAC respectively, is among the three FSP components the department is implementing.

Ms. Kamanga clarified that the other include rainfed cropping where farming inputs are provided in form of fertilizers, cereal and legumes to the targeted households as well as wetland cropping where farming inputs are provided in form of fertilisers, cereal seed and gardening seed.

She has since cautioned against misuse of the facility by those targeted to be recipient beneficiaries because they have a responsibility to make implementation of the programme goals a reality and be a model to others who they in turn would assist in upstarting the livestock cycle.

Chilanga council demolish illegal trading structures

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Chilanga council demolish illegal trading structures

Chilanga Town Council through the District Planning Department has demolished illegal trading structures along Kafue Road and in other parts of Chilanga.

Chilanga Town Council Public Relations Officer, Chimuka Mbewe, said the exercise was being done in an effort to move traders to designated trading places in the District.

Ms. Mbewe explained that the demolition exercise came into effect following the increase in the number of people trading and street vending along Road Reserves.

“Zambia’s Street Vending and Nuisance Act passed the Statutory Instrument (SI) No. 12 of 2018 on Street Vending and Public Nuisance, of which it prohibits street vending and classified it as a public nuisance, making it an offence for anyone trading in undesignated places,” she stated.

The Public Relations Officer stated that the Local Authority has 56 tables at Sangalala Market and 40 tables at Katandabale Market which remain unoccupied.

She said there are sufficient trading spaces to accommodate those trading from the Road Reserves.

Ms. Mbewe added that Chilanga Town Council would have henceforth warned all those in the habit of selling along the road reserves to desist and return to the designated trading places.

This was contained in a press statement .

Police round up 39 junkies in various parts of Lusaka

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Police round up 39 junkies in various parts of Lusaka

39 junkies aged between 17 and 40 years, have been arrested in an operation conducted in Kanyama west, Makeni villa, Kanono Ligoms, Petroda area, and part of watchtower area in Lusaka.

Zambia Police Service Spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga,  confirmed the development and said that Kanyama Police conducted the operation starting from last evening around 19:00 hours  and ended in the morning of Sunday July 23, 2023  in a routine junkies operation.

He said that the operation was mainly conducted by use of motorized and foot patrols with the support of the Zambia Police Reserve wing and members of the crime prevention unit in the area.

He said 39 junkies and idlers were apprehended during the operation.

Mr Hamoonga said the operation was  intelligence information led covering Kanyama west, Makeni villa, Kanono Ligoms, Petroda area and part of the watchtower area leading to the apprehension of 35 males and four females aged between  17 and  40.

Mr. Hamoonga added that those arrested have been charged with different offences which include Robbery, Assault as well as idle and disorderly.

“Amongst the suspects, six males are already facing charges of robbery and assault,” he said.

Mr Hamoonga said all the suspects have been remanded in custody as further screening and charging for various offences in readiness for court proceedings.

Malawian arrested for allegedly raping 18-year-old sister in law

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Malawian arrested for allegedly raping 18-year-old sister in law

Police in Vubwi District of Eastern Province have arrested a 24-year-old man for allegedly raping his 18-year old pregnant sister in-law.

Lukas Joakim, 24-year old a Malawian, was arrested after allegedly raping his sister in-law, who is 2 months pregnant, near Mthunzi village in Chief pembamoyo’s area.

Eastern Province police Commanding Officer Limpo Liwyalii confirmed the incident  and explained that It is alleged that days before the incident on Thursday last week, the victim, who is Mozambican, escorted her sister in-law to Malawi where there was a family feud.

Mr Liwyali said that on Thursday, July 20 upon bidding farewell to the family in Malawi, the victim was offered an escort by the perpetrator despite her having secured a motorcycle to take her back to Mozambique.

He said on their way, in the morning, the motorcycle on which the two men and the victim were riding sustained a flat tire four kilometers away from Mthunzi village in Chithumba area of Vubwi district.

He explained further that while the rider proceeded to fix the tyre in the neighboring Mthunzi village, the accused seized the opportunity to force himself on his pregnant sister in-law seeing that they were unaccompanied.

He added that while the accused was in the act of having unlawful carnal knowledge with the victim, community members heard screams of distress coming from the bush and managed to rescue the victim.

The accused remains in police custody after medical examinations at Vubwi District hospital on the victim proved conclusive with the unlawful act.

Police have since charged Lukas Joakim with the offense of rape, contrary to section 132 and 133 of the penal code, chapter 87 of the laws of Zambia.

 

Road Development Agency Nears Contractor Selection for Lusaka-Mongu Road Repair

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Road Development Agency Nears Contractor Selection for Lusaka-Mongu Road Repair

The Road Development Agency (RDA) has announced that the procurement process to identify a contractor for the rehabilitation of the damaged portion of the Lusaka-Mongu road has reached an advanced stage. Anthony Mulowa, Acting Director of Communication and Corporate Affairs at RDA, disclosed this development to ZNBC news during an inspection of the recently rehabilitated Kafue River Hook Bridge on the same road.

Mr. Mulowa assured motorists that the RDA will continue carrying out intervention works on the deplorable section of the road while they await the full rehabilitation by the selected contractor. This interim measure aims to ensure that motorists have safer and smoother passage on the troubled stretch of the road.

The Western Province Regional Manager of the Road Development Agency, Paul Habasimbi, shared information about the recently rehabilitated Kafue River Hook Bridge, which is expected to serve the region for over 50 years. Mr. Habasimbi expressed confidence that with regular maintenance, the bridge’s life span could extend even further, making it a durable and reliable structure for many years to come.

“The quality of the rehabilitation works on the Kafue River Hook Bridge ensures its resilience and longevity,” Mr. Habasimbi stated. “With routine maintenance, we expect the bridge to last for at least 50 years before full-scale rehabilitation would be required again.”

Mr. Habasimbi revealed that the components from the temporary structure of the Kafue River Hook Bridge, which has been decommissioned, will be repurposed to construct crossing points in Kaoma and Mongu. This sustainable approach aims to maximize resources and benefit other areas in need of improved infrastructure.

The rehabilitation of the Kafue River Hook Bridge, completed at a total cost of K167 Million, was commissioned on May 24, 2023, exactly 50 years from the date it was first officially opened by Zambia’s First Republican President, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda. This bridge holds significant historical and infrastructural importance and is expected to facilitate smoother travel and trade in the region.

Copper Queens Captain Barbara Banda Optimistic Despite World Cup Loss, Focused on Spain Clash

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Copper Queens Captain Barbara Banda Optimistic Despite World Cup Loss, Focused on Spain Clash

Barbara Banda, the captain of Zambia’s national women’s football team, the Copper Queens, has expressed her team’s determination to move forward after a tough 5-0 defeat against Japan in the ongoing World Cup in New Zealand. Despite the setback, Banda remains hopeful and believes the team has a fighting chance to redeem themselves in their upcoming match against Spain.

In a recent interview, Banda acknowledged the disappointment of the loss against Japan but made it clear that the team is resilient and will learn from their mistakes. The Copper Queens are determined to put the past behind them and focus on their next challenge against Spain.

“We have put the 5-0 loss against Japan behind us,” Banda said, displaying her leadership and optimism. “We know we made some mistakes during that game, and we are working hard to rectify them.”

The Zambia women’s team captain highlighted the areas of concern that need improvement. “We will be focusing on strengthening our defence, midfield, and attacking force,” Banda stated. The team recognizes that a balanced performance across all aspects of the game will be crucial for success in the upcoming match.

The Copper Queens are set to face Spain in their next fixture on Wednesday, and Banda emphasized the importance of approaching the game with a strong mentality. The team aims to secure maximum points against Spain and is eager to showcase their potential on the global stage.

Banda’s leadership and determination have been vital in rallying her team amidst the challenges faced during the World Cup campaign. The Copper Queens, as the representatives of Zambia on the international stage, are determined to make their nation proud.

As the football community eagerly awaits the encounter between Zambia and Spain, fans and supporters have rallied behind Barbara Banda and the Copper Queens, expressing confidence in their ability to bounce back from the previous defeat.

The upcoming match against Spain presents an opportunity for the Copper Queens to showcase their skills, determination, and fighting spirit. With the team’s captain leading by example, Zambia’s national women’s football team is ready to face the challenges that lie ahead.

Zambian football enthusiasts and supporters worldwide are eagerly anticipating a thrilling encounter between the Copper Queens and Spain, hoping for a remarkable performance that will bring pride to their nation.

As the team gears up for their next match, the nation stands united in support of Barbara Banda and the Copper Queens, cheering them on to victory and a memorable World Cup journey.

May the Copper Queens play with passion and determination, carrying the hopes and dreams of Zambia with them on the field.

Former Permanent Secretary Mr. Malama, Mourned by the Ministry of Information and Media

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Former Permanent Secretary Mr. Malama, Mourned by the Ministry of Information and Media

Zambia’s media community and the Ministry of Information and Media are mourning the loss of Mr. Malama, a respected journalist and former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information. Mr. Malama passed away yesterday in Lusaka after battling an illness, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and dedication to journalism.

Kennedy Kalunga, the current Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Media, expressed heartfelt condolences to the Malama family during this time of immense loss. Speaking of Mr. Malama’s impact on the ministry and the media landscape, Kalunga highlighted his vast experience and dedication to the profession.

“Mr. Malama was not only a highly respected figure within the Ministry of Information but also one of the most experienced journalists in Zambia,” Mr. Kalunga remarked. “His illustrious career in journalism began in the early 1970s when he served as a reporter at the Zambia Daily Mail Newspaper.”

Over the years, Mr. Malama’s dedication and passion for journalism propelled him through the ranks, and he eventually became the Deputy Managing Director at the Zambia Daily Mail. His journey in the media industry continued as he joined the Times of Zambia, where he served with great distinction as the Managing Director, leaving an indelible mark on the media landscape.

As Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Services from 2015 to 2018, Mr. Malama exhibited exceptional leadership and vision. He made significant contributions to the journalism profession, both at the practical and policy levels. Understanding the pivotal role of the media in fostering a well-informed society, Mr. Malama consistently championed the principles of press freedom and independence.

“Mr. Malama’s legacy in the field of journalism shall be remembered, and his commitment to truth, accuracy, and impartiality will serve as an inspiration for generations of journalists to come,” Mr. Kalunga said in a statement to ZNBC News.

His exemplary service and dedication to the Ministry of Information and Media have left a profound impact on the sector and will be cherished by all who had the privilege to work with him. As the news of his passing spreads, the Ministry stands in solidarity with the Malama family, offering thoughts and prayers during this time of bereavement.

Mr. Kalunga further emphasized that the Ministry of Information and Media is forever indebted to Mr. Malama’s contributions to the growth and development of journalism in Zambia. His commitment to promoting ethical journalism and ensuring access to accurate information has helped shape the media landscape in the country.

Align with FIC with the constitution , Hichilema urged

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Align with FIC with the constitution , Hichilema urged

Governance activist Isaac Mwanza has commended Republican President, Hakainde Hichilema for appointing Board Members of the Financial Intelligence Center (FIC) but says the President must complete the job by realigning the FIC with the Constitution as amended.

“I was of the view that the delay by President Hichilema to appoint Board Members at FIC was based on good reason and consideration, that is, transformation and alignment of FIC with the Constitution as amended,” he said

Mr Mwanza said the 2016 constitutional amendments resulted in the creation of only three investigative wings namely, the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Drug Enforcement Commission, and the Anti-Financial and Economic Crimes Commission.

He said those who had been involved in constitutional-making process will recall that the Anti-Financial and Economic Crimes Commission created by Article 235 of the Constitution was to be the successor of the Financial Intelligence Center.

Section 10(1) of the Constitution of Zambia Act No. 1 of 2016, states:

“10. (1) Where a provision of the Constitution as amended has altered the name of an office or institution existing immediately before the effective date, the office or institution as known by the new name shall be the legal successor of the first named office or institution”

Mr Mwanza argued that the FIC business is one that involves conducting investigations into financial matters and it is only appropriate that the Center is aligned with the Constitution as amended.

Mr Mwanza has since charged that President Hichilema should arrayed fears and accusations that he was plotting to decapitate the Center by simply explaining delays in his decision to appoint the FIC Board in consideration of measures to realign FIC to the Constitution.

President Hakainde Hichilema Calls for Increased Farming to Attain Food Security

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President Hakainde Hichilema Calls for Increased Farming to Attain Food Security

President Hakainde Hichilema, while at the Naminwe ranch in Namwala, urged fellow citizens to actively engage in farming activities to achieve food security and bolster the nation’s economy. The President’s call comes as he recognizes the significance of individual and household level farming in ensuring a prosperous and self-sufficient Zambia.

During his visit to the Naminwe ranch, President Hichilema personally inspected the herd and participated in various farming tasks. Expressing his views on the matter, he underscored the critical role that farming plays in achieving food security and fostering economic growth.

“As citizens of this great country, we must prioritize farming activities at an individual or household level,” President Hichilema stated. “This is the surest way of attaining food security and enhancing economic stability.”

The President emphasized the need for public officials, including himself, to dedicate more time to productive economic activities. He expressed his optimism that, while in office, the government would lead by example and devote increased attention to agricultural practices.

“Farming has always been more than just a hobby for me; it is a serious business and a source of self-employment,” President Hichilema remarked, reflecting on his personal commitment to agriculture. “I encourage all citizens to embrace farming and participate actively in securing our nation’s future.”

The call from the President highlights the government’s commitment to address food security challenges in the country. By promoting farming activities, citizens can contribute to the nation’s economic growth and reduce reliance on food imports.

President Hichilema’s vision for a self-sustaining Zambia aligns with his promise to foster inclusive economic policies and prioritize the welfare of the nation’s people. Encouraging citizens to engage in farming not only boosts food production but also provides opportunities for income generation and job creation in rural areas.

“Let’s all get involved and work together to solve the challenges facing our nation. By embracing farming, we can ensure a prosperous and food-secure future for Zambia,”President Hichilema said.

Balancing Vedanta’s Return with Responsible Practices and Economic Development

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Balancing Vedanta’s Return with Responsible Practices and Economic Development

By: Alexander Vomo

The recent decision by the New Dawn government to settle court cases with Vedanta and allow them to resume operations at the Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has sparked significant debate and public scrutiny. Vedanta’s past operations at KCM have been marred by allegations of poor conditions of service for local employees and non-payment of contractors, raising concerns about their return. Furthermore, there are accusations that Vedanta funded the UPND party during the 2021 elections, leading some to question the motives behind the government’s decision.

The Decision and Its Implications

The government’s choice to allow Vedanta back into the mining sector was likely influenced by several factors. Firstly, Vedanta’s expertise and experience in the mining industry could be seen as beneficial for the stability and continuity of KCM’s operations. Secondly, the decision may have been expedited to avoid prolonged legal disputes, which could have further destabilized the mining sector.

However, the public’s concerns about Vedanta’s past conduct cannot be ignored. Reports of poor labor conditions and non-payment to contractors raise ethical questions about the company’s operations. The alleged funding of a political party during the elections also raises concerns about conflicts of interest and transparency in decision-making.

Ensuring Responsible Mining Practices

To address the concerns surrounding Vedanta’s return, it is essential for the government to establish strict contractual agreements. These agreements should include specific conditions that prioritize responsible mining practices, environmental sustainability, and fair treatment of local employees and communities.

Additionally, robust monitoring mechanisms must be implemented to ensure Vedanta’s compliance with the agreed-upon conditions and local regulations. Regular audits and inspections can help verify their adherence to ethical and environmental standards.

Transparency is paramount in the mining sector. The government must ensure that relevant information is accessible to the public, allowing for independent verification of the company’s activities and promoting accountability.

Economic Development and Social Welfare

Vedanta’s return to KCM has the potential to contribute to the country’s economic development. It can create employment opportunities and generate revenue for the government, fostering economic growth in the region.

However, the government should prioritize the welfare and rights of local employees and communities affected by mining activities. Engaging with local communities and investing in infrastructure, education, and healthcare can lead to positive socio-economic impacts and improve relations between the company and its stakeholders.

Proposals for Improvement

While some opposition parties, such as Dr. Fred M’membe from the Socialist Party and Emmanuel Mwamba from the Patriotic Front party, have criticized the decision, their role should not be limited to criticism alone. They can play a significant role in shaping policies by presenting well-researched and detailed proposals for the government’s consideration.

Advocating for greater transparency, accountability, and local participation in decision-making processes is essential. By engaging in constructive dialogue with the government and other stakeholders, they can work towards finding solutions that address the concerns in the mining sector effectively.

Public’s Role in Accountability

The public plays a crucial role in ensuring accountability in the mining sector. Informed and vigilant citizens can demand transparency and responsible practices from both Vedanta and the government.

Engaging in discussions and staying informed about the developments in the mining sector empowers the public to hold all stakeholders accountable for their actions and decisions.

In conclusion, the decision to allow Vedanta to return to KCM presents both challenges and opportunities for Zambia’s mining sector. To ensure responsible practices and economic development, the government must establish stringent contractual agreements, monitor compliance, and prioritize the welfare of local communities.

Opposition parties have a role to play in presenting alternative solutions and advocating for transparency and accountability. The public’s engagement and vigilance are instrumental in holding all stakeholders accountable for the country’s mining activities. By striking a balance between Vedanta’s return and responsible practices, Zambia can pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous mining sector.

Mwape Admits Tactical Shortcomings in Loss to Japan

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Shepolopolo Zambia coach Bruce Mwape says his side lacked tactical discipline in the disappointing 5-0 loss to Japan at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in New Zealand.

Debutants Zambia on Saturday morning started the FIFA Women’s World Cup with a 5-0 loss to Japan in their Group C match.

Zambia finished the game with ten players after goalkeeper Catherine Musonda was shown a red card for getting a second yellow card.

Mwape’s girls allowed goals in the 43rd, 61st, 55th, 71st and 90th minutes.

“As technical bench we are very disappointed with today’s result. We expected to do better than we have done,” Mwape said.

“We made a lot of mistakes because of panicking. Even tactical discipline wasn’t there,” he said.

Mwape said Zambia will fight hard in their next Group C match against leaders Spain on 26 July.

Zambia will later confront Costa Rica in their final Group C match on 31st July.

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