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The Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation is drilling two boreholes in Petauke district of Eastern Province in order to enhance access to quality safe drinking water for surrounding communities.

Speaking when she inspected the drilling of a borehole at Mphanda village, Petauke District Commissioner (DC), Martha Mulenga, said government remains resolute on providing quality safe drinking water closer to the people.

“This borehole is a full package and has been done under the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation. We have two boreholes that have been given to us as Petauke district and both boreholes have been done in Petauke Central constituency in Mbala ward,” she said.

Ms Mulenga said the second borehole will be sunk at a health post in Nseko area.

“As we are all aware, the President is saying where we have a health post, we must have a full package, what does that mean? It means having a proper maternity annex, placenta pit, incinerator, water reticulation and ablution block,” she explained.

Meanwhile, village headman Mphanda, Matthews Mwansa, said his area had only one borehole and was not enough to cater for the population there.

Headman Mphanda said due to lack of enough sources of water in his village, his subjects were prone to suffering from diarrheal diseases.

“I have 145 households, so from the past governments, I have not received the help I needed. So reports of children falling sick was a daily thing. So we asked the government and today we have been given a borehole,” he said.

And Veronica Mwanza, a 72-year-old resident of Mphanda village, said the borehole was a game changer for elderly people as it will enable them access clean and safe drinking water.

Ms Mwanza said people in the area used to cover long distances to fetch water from a source where animals were also drinking from.

“I am 72-years-old, I was not managing to fetch water, so if I don’t find someone to fetch for me water, then it would be a problem. But now, I am happy,” she said.

Meanwhile, Langiwe Banda, who was born and bred in Mphanda village, said this would be her first time to have a water source nearby since she was born.

“Ever since I was born, this is my first time seeing a borehole in our village. We used to fetch water from a stream, we have had a rough upbringing, and diarrheal diseases were never ending because of drinking unsafe water,” she said.

High Court order challenged after PF lawyer cites procedural errors

Headlines

Lusaka Times Editor

November 14, 2025

High Court order challenged after PF lawyer cites procedural errors

The Patriotic Front has questioned the validity of an injunction granted in the matter involving party member Morgan Ngona and acting party official Brenda Nyirenda, with PF legal representative Celestine Mukandila describing the order as defective. The challenge is based on the wording of the court document, which identifies Nyirenda as a male person, a detail that Mukandila argues makes the order inaccurate and misleading. According to him, the misidentification affects the interpretation of the ruling and raises concerns about whether the order was issued with correct reference to the individual it intends to restrain.

The injunction, granted in favour of Ngona, restricts Nyirenda from performing functions associated with the office she has been occupying within the PF. In responding to the development, Mukandila stated that the document refers to the defendant as “himself,” a term he says does not apply to Nyirenda, who is a woman and uses female pronouns. He said the document therefore fails to properly identify the person subject to the restrictions. He added that the misidentification has prompted concerns that the order may have been issued under assumptions that do not reflect the factual identity of the individual associated with the party.

Mukandila explained that the inaccurate description could create the impression that the order is directed at a different individual. He said an injunction must clearly reflect the person it seeks to bind, and inaccuracies of this nature can compromise both the fairness and legal effect of the ruling. He said such an error raises questions about whether the document was properly reviewed before issuance and whether the process leading to the order met the required procedural standard.

In addition to raising concerns about the wording of the injunction, Mukandila pointed to an earlier High Court ruling that recognised Ngona as an expelled member of the PF. He said that ruling remains active and forms part of the background to the present dispute. By referencing this earlier decision, he questioned whether obtaining new relief in the present matter is consistent with the procedural position already established in court. According to him, counsel involved in pursuing the injunction and the applicant himself may be at risk of engaging in actions that conflict with the standing ruling. He said these actions could expose the parties to allegations of contempt of court if they are seen to contradict decisions that have not been set aside.

Mukandila said the dispute highlights a broader issue regarding the use of the courts in internal party disagreements. He warned that conflicting applications and repeated attempts to obtain rulings from different avenues may amount to what is commonly described as forum shopping. He said that such an approach can lead to inconsistent outcomes and undermine established procedures that parties are expected to follow. He added that legal practitioners should maintain professional judgment in situations where political influence or financial inducements may be used to shape legal strategy.

The comments from Mukandila are taking place in a context where the PF is preparing for its leadership processes. The PF constitution establishes that the party president is elected by delegates at the General Conference. The constitution also states that all organs of the party are elective, meaning that leadership positions are attained through voting, not by appointment or confirmation through administrative decisions. Mukandila referred to these provisions to argue that the leadership of the party must emerge from its internal democratic structures rather than through disputes driven by separate factions.

According to the PF constitution, candidates for the presidency must meet requirements set by the National Council and the Central Committee. These bodies determine eligibility, call for the General Conference and set the conditions under which the election is held. Mukandila said these structures provide a framework that ensures order during transitions. He added that the PF’s intention to proceed with a convention is consistent with the party’s constitutional requirement for elective leadership. He said the PF’s internal procedures are designed to maintain a level playing field for all aspirants and should not be displaced by contested legal maneuvers.

Mukandila also referred to the role of the Registrar of Societies, noting that the Registrar’s responsibility is limited to maintaining records of office bearers based on documentation submitted by organisations. He said the Registrar does not determine who leads a political party and cannot resolve internal disputes or appoint individuals to specific roles. He said that misunderstandings about the scope of the Registrar’s authority may result in misplaced expectations about what administrative records can influence. He added that disputes over leadership must be settled through party constitutions and decisions of competent courts.

As discussion around the injunction continues, the matter illustrates the interaction between internal party governance and judicial oversight. The misidentification in the court order and the reference to earlier rulings are central to concerns raised by PF officials. The party’s legal team has stated that correcting procedural inaccuracies and following established constitutional rules remain critical to ensuring stability within the organisation. The party maintains that its leadership processes will proceed in accordance with its constitution, including the requirement to hold a General Conference to elect the president and other office bearers.

The injunction remains a subject of legal and procedural debate, with Mukandila asserting that the errors identified in the order are significant enough to call its validity into question. The ongoing discussions reflect the broader environment in which the PF is managing competing claims to authority and preparing for a leadership transition. The matter is expected to continue attracting attention as the party moves toward its internal election processes.

Kalumbila expectant mothers urged to use newly commissioned maternity wing

General News

Guest Editor

November 14, 2025

Kalumbila expectant mothers urged to use newly commissioned maternity wing

Kalumbila Town Council Chairperson, Shadrick Munjunga, has called on expectant mothers in Mukumbi Ward to make use of the newly commissioned Lubinga maternity annex and avoid delivering in homes.

Speaking during the commissioning and hand over of the maternity annex and a 1×2 classroom block at Lubinga Primary School in Kalumbila District today Mr Munjunga said it is the wish of the government that no woman should die while giving life.

The media reports that Mr Munjunga said the government has prioritised maternity annexes in all constructions in order to address the plight of expectant mothers who used to deliver in homes because of lack of maternity annexes in nearby places.

“Our expectant mothers please let’s not deliver in homes, you now have a maternity annex come and deliver here where it is safer. Health services have been brought within your community where you reside.

” This maternity annex together with this one by two classroom block is valued at over K1.5 Million Kwacha,” he said.

The maternity annex has been constructed adjacent to Lubinga Primary School.

Meanwhile, Mr Munjunga urged parents and guardians in Mukumbi Ward not to marry off their children at the expense of their education.

“Let’s take our children to school, let’s not turn them into farmers, let’s take advantage of the free education,” he stressed.

Kalumbila Town Council has embarked on a massive commissioning of developmental projects which are funded under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and locally.

Chipata College of Education launches a two year strategic plan

General News

Guest Editor

November 14, 2025

Chipata College of Education launches a two year strategic plan

The Chipata College of Education has launched an ambitious two years strategic plan that aims at improving its education delivery to prospective students and beyond.

The strategy will further unlock the institution’s capacities to augment education planning and skills development in line with Zambia’s newly developed education pedagogy.

The media reports that officiating at the launch of the strategic plan, Eastern Province Education Officer, Brainley Malambo, says the document will also revive strategic goals that were initially abandoned to ensure a more responsive approach to education needs for the Zambian teacher and child.

“It will shape skills for learning and teaching,” Mr Malambo said.

Mr Malambo also pointed out that the strategic plan has set some objectives that need to be met proactively.

And, Mr Malambo also commended the college management for making 212 one seater desks to promote a better learning environment at the college.

He said initiatives like the one by the college, supplement government’s efforts in the delivery of quality education in tertiary institutions which is a priority for the government.

And College Principal, Malizani Tembo, says the college currently has over 1,060 students learning at the facility.

Mr Tembo says with the current capacity, the need to have desks to meet the demands is growing.

“We currently have 500 chairs and now 212 single desk seaters are meant to help our learners with spaces to write from,” he mentioned.

Mr Tembo says the institution is currently moving away from procurement of chairs due to the loss of chairs over time, hence, the change to single desks.

And the College Board Chairperson, Thomas Mtonga, has urged the students to take good care of the desks for them to last long.

High Court order exposes escalating PF leadership crisis

Columns
General News

Lusaka Times Editor

November 14, 2025

High Court order exposes escalating PF leadership crisis

Dr Charles Sinkala

The injunction issued in Ng’ona v. Nyirenda illustrates how the Patriotic Front’s internal contestations have reached a point where judicial oversight is essential to preserve organisational order.

The ex parte injunction granted by the High Court in the matter between Morgan Ng’ona and Brenda Nyirenda offers a clear demonstration of how internal political conflict can compel judicial intervention. The decision underscores the need to maintain institutional coherence at a time when the Patriotic Front faces competing claims to authority. The court’s reasoning reflects both the procedural demands of Zambian law and the broader necessity to stabilise a political organisation navigating a period of internal uncertainty.

The injunction, issued on 12 November 2025, restrains Nyirenda from accessing the party secretariat, using party materials or presenting herself as part of the organisation’s leadership. The order was granted ex parte in recognition of the urgency attached to the matter. Under Order 39 Rule 1 and Rule 2 of the Civil Procedure Rules, a court may issue such an order without notifying the defendant if doing so would risk undermining the purpose of the relief sought. The allegations before the court suggested a likelihood of disruption significant enough to justify immediate intervention.

The supporting affidavit alleged that Nyirenda’s continued activities at the secretariat posed a risk to the organisation’s administrative operations. After reviewing the evidence, the court concluded that temporary protective measures were necessary to preserve order within the party. Section 13(1) of the High Court Act provides the authority for such intervention when there is a demonstrated risk of harm or disorder that warrants urgent judicial action. In these circumstances, restoring a stable environment becomes a priority while the dispute awaits full argument.

A key aspect of the court’s reasoning lies in the established principles governing interim relief. Precedents such as Hubbard v Vospers have long recognised that providing notice may, in certain cases, compromise the effectiveness of an injunction where the risk of injustice is immediate. Additionally, the approach drawn from American Cyanamid Co. v Ethicon Ltd continues to guide courts when assessing whether an application raises a serious question requiring preservation of the status quo. These principles require an evaluation of the strength of the underlying issue and the balance of convenience. In this instance, maintaining order within the Patriotic Front pending a hearing outweighed any inconvenience to the restrained party, making temporary judicial protection appropriate.

The practical implications of the injunction are substantial. By restricting Nyirenda from holding herself out as Acting Secretary General, the order creates clarity regarding who may access party property and issue communications on behalf of the organisation. Clarity of this nature is particularly important at a time when the Patriotic Front is grappling with internal contestation. The court’s intervention reduces the risk of conflicting instructions, parallel correspondence and disputed authority, all of which could aggravate an already unsettled environment.

Attention now shifts to the inter partes hearing scheduled for 3 December 2025, where both parties will present their arguments. This stage allows the defendant—who was absent during the ex parte phase—to respond to the allegations and provide her version of events. The High Court will then determine whether the injunction should remain in force or be discharged. This balanced process ensures that the rights of all parties are upheld while the court determines the most appropriate interim arrangement.

Beyond the limits of the immediate order, the case highlights important questions about internal governance within political organisations. Leadership disputes carry significant organisational risk, particularly in parties already managing sensitive transitions. When internal mechanisms fail to provide clarity, judicial oversight becomes necessary to maintain stability. The goal is not to replace internal leadership structures but to ensure that they function within a predictable and lawful framework while substantive issues are resolved.

The upcoming hearing will be central to shaping the Patriotic Front’s short-term administrative direction. It will provide an opportunity for the court to assess competing claims to authority and determine whether continued restrictions remain justified. Whatever the outcome, the matter reflects a broader reality: political parties must maintain disciplined internal structures capable of resolving leadership disputes without exposing themselves to prolonged periods of organisational uncertainty.

For now, the injunction remains in effect, offering temporary order in a contested environment. It limits disputed access and restricts communications that could deepen internal confusion. The case demonstrates that when political disagreements escalate to a level that threatens organisational coherence, legal processes provide a structured path toward restoring order. Judicial intervention serves as a stabilising force, ensuring that institutional functions continue while disputes are addressed according to established, transparent procedures.

Kazungula receive inputs for 2025- 2026 farming season

Economy

Guest Editor

November 14, 2025

Kazungula receive inputs for 2025- 2026 farming season

Kazungula District has received farming inputs for 2025 – 2026 farming season to cater for 1,517 beneficiaries under the Food Security Pack (FSP) programme spearheaded by the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services.

The beneficiaries for this season have slightly increased as compared to the 2024- 2025 farming season, which saw 1,116 beneficiaries getting the FSP.

The media reports that District Community Development Officer, Nalukui Lubasi, disclosed that each beneficiary will receive a pack consisting of 2 by 50-kilogram compound D fertiliser, 2 by 50-kilogram urea fertiliser, groundnuts or cowpeas as well as maize and sorghum seed.

Ms Lubasi said this during a Kazungula District committee members meeting on Food Security at the District Community Development Office yesterday.

She mentioned that the old beneficiaries graduated, adding that the department has recruited new beneficiaries for this season drawn from Mukuni, Chooma, Musokotwane, Nyawa Central, Ngwezi, Nguba, Kanchele and Kauwe Wards respectively.

“The district is earmarked to start the distribution exercise next week. We are still expecting the 3,034 by 50 kilograms bags of urea fertiliser yet to be delivered so that the transportation of the FSP to the beneficiaries can be done at once to avoid unnecessary costs,” Ms Lubasi said.

She disclosed that the district is in receipt of 1, 000 bags by 10 kilograms and 517 by 5 kilograms of maize seed as well as 3, 000 by 50 kilograms bags of D-compound fertiliser, with a remainder of 34 bags still to be delivered.

Procurement and stores management vital -Kangwa

General News

Guest Editor

November 14, 2025

Procurement and stores management vital -Kangwa

Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa, says procurement and stores management remain central to effective public service delivery.

The media reports that Mr Kangwa, in a speech read on his behalf by Cabinet Office Permanent Secretary, Professor Lackson Kasonka, during a Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply (ZIPS) Workshop in Siavonga, said efficient procurement systems determine whether medicines reach clinics, desks reach classrooms, and whether infrastructure is completed on time and at the right cost.

He stressed the need for Zambia to build people-centered procurement systems that translate public resources into tangible improvements in citizens’ lives.

“Every kwacha must deliver improved service and better livelihoods,” he said.

Mr Kangwa noted that stalled projects, waste and inefficiencies can be reduced significantly when procurement and stores management are handled professionally and transparently.

He added that President Hakainde Hichilema has been clear on his desire to eliminate inefficiencies, waste and corruption within procurement processes, urging professionals to uphold ethical standards and act as responsible custodians of public resources.

“We must take this directive seriously. The public relies on procurement officers to ensure that systems are transparent, efficient and people-centered,” he said.

The Secretary to the Cabinet also commended ZIPS for its continued engagement with government, including proposals aimed at strengthening procurement and stores management to promote efficiency and transparency.

Earlier, ZIPS President, Daniel Kabamba, said persistent challenges such as delayed procurement, weak contract management and poor stock accountability continue to hinder effective service delivery.

He said transforming procurement from a procedural exercise into a strategic driver of efficiency, cost-saving and quality outcomes, is key to closing current performance gaps.

Procurement and stores management vital -Kangwa

Economy

Chief Editor

November 14, 2025

Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa, says procurement and stores management remain central to effective public service delivery.

Mr Kangwa, in a speech read on his behalf by Cabinet Office Permanent Secretary, Professor Lackson Kasonka, during a Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply (ZIPS) Workshop in Siavonga, said efficient procurement systems determine whether medicines reach clinics, desks reach classrooms, and whether infrastructure is completed on time and at the right cost.

He stressed the need for Zambia to build people-centered procurement systems that translate public resources into tangible improvements in citizens’ lives.

“Every kwacha must deliver improved service and better livelihoods,” he said.

Mr Kangwa noted that stalled projects, waste and inefficiencies can be reduced significantly when procurement and stores management are handled professionally and transparently.

“We must take this directive seriously. The public relies on procurement officers to ensure that systems are transparent, efficient and people-centered,” he said.

Earlier, ZIPS President, Daniel Kabamba, said persistent challenges such as delayed procurement, weak contract management and poor stock accountability continue to hinder effective service delivery.

He said transforming procurement from a procedural exercise into a strategic driver of efficiency, cost-saving and quality outcomes, is key to closing current performance gaps.

Zambia, Zimbabwe agree on import of electricity

Headlines

Chief Editor

November 14, 2025

Zambia, Zimbabwe agree on import of electricity

President Hakainde Hichilema and his Zimbabwean counterpart, Emmerson Mnangagwa, have welcomed an arrangement that will enable Zambia to import electricity from the region through Zimbabwe.

Under the agreement, Zimbabwe will progressively increase the limit on power transfer capacity.

In a related development, the Cabinet of Zimbabwe has approved the removal of transit duties on petroleum products, effective 27th November 2025.

The decision is part of broader measures aimed at eliminating barriers that hinder trade between the two countries.

This is according to a joint communiqué issued at the conclusion of President Hichilema’s working visit to Zimbabwe and the Inaugural Bi-National Commission between the two countries.

The communiqué states that Zambia and Zimbabwe will continue holding technical high-level discussions on the matter on a quarterly basis, with finalisation expected by 31st March 2026.

The two nations have also agreed to implement 24-hour operations at the Chirundu and Victoria Falls One-Stop Border Posts by 31st December 2025.

Zambia further reaffirmed its commitment to advocate for the removal of illegal and unilateral sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe, stating that the sanctions continue to hamper development efforts.

Both parties reiterated their dedication to promoting and maintaining peace and security between the two countries, as well as within the region and the continent.

Meanwhile, the two nations signed a series of Memoranda of Understanding covering Diplomatic Training, Immigration and Technical Cooperation, Labour and Employment, Agriculture, and Youth Development.

The Zambian delegation was led by President Hakainde Hichilema, accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mulambo Haimbe, alongside other Ministers and senior government officials.

The Zimbabwean delegation was led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Amon Murwira, as well as other Ministers and senior officials.

Kanchibiya parents praise government for youth empowerment

General News

Guest Editor

November 14, 2025

Kanchibiya parents praise government for youth empowerment

Parents of youths who have benefited from the latest empowerment programme in Kanchibiya District of Muchinga Province have expressed gratitude for the government’s continued commitment to uplifting young people.

One of the parents, Ruth Kabanda, said the government has remained focused on creating an enabling environment for youths to thrive.

Ms Kabanda noted that many young people in the district often fall into bad habits such as excessive beer drinking and drug abuse due to lack of opportunities.

“Our children engage in bad acts because they don’t have jobs or capital to start any business,” she said.

She added that the empowerment of over 200 youths in the district is a game changer that will transform their lives.

Ms Kabanda explained that youths who received loaned motorbikes will venture into transport services to raise income, while those who received grants will be able to start businesses.

She further commended the government, noting that young people are the future leaders of the country and must be given opportunities to succeed.

And another parent, Catherine Chibesa, whose child with a disability also benefited from a grant, said the government continues to support persons with disabilities who face various challenges.

She said she will use the grant to start a business and help meet her child’s needs.

“My child, who is disabled, has benefited from these empowerment programs, and I will use the money to start a business to meet her needs,” she said.

The parents spoke during a handover ceremony of grants, motorbikes under the loan component, and sports kits held at the Kanchibiya District Administration.

Meanwhile, Minister of Youth, Sports and Arts Elvis Nkandu thanked the people of Kanchibiya for working with the government to foster development.

Mr. Nkandu said the development projects taking place in the district show strong collaboration between residents especially the youths and the government of the day.

He expressed confidence that the empowerment initiative will help reduce poverty among young people and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving their living standards through various programmes.

He also urged the youths to continue having faith in government as it delivers on its promises.

And Kanchibiya Member of Parliament Sunday Chanda appealed to the government to consider constructing a modern stadium in the district, saying it would help in identifying and nurturing sports talent among the youth.

Minister Nkandu is currently touring districts in Muchinga Province, empowering youths with grants, loaned motorbikes, and sports kits.

Government Committed to transforming Agriculture into a viable economic sector

General News

Guest Editor

November 14, 2025

Government Committed to transforming Agriculture into a viable economic sector

Minister of Agriculture Reuben Mtolo has reiterated Government’s commitment to transforming Agriculture into an economically viable undertaking.

Mr. Mtolo emphasized that achieving this goal requires the country to integrate emerging issues within both the agricultural sector and the broader economy.

He made these remarks in a speech delivered on his behalf by Muchinga Province Permanent Secretary, Reverend Mathews Chilekwa, during the 43rd graduation ceremony at the Zambia College of Agriculture (ZCA) in Mpika.

Mr Mtolo further said that the Ministry of Agriculture will continue rendering support to the Zambia College in Agriculture so as to continue producing quality and development oriented human resources as part of the transformation agenda.

“I would like to urge the graduating students to make use of the skills and knowledge you have acquired from the College and explore entrepreneur opportunities,” Mr Mtolo said.

And ZCA Principal Alice Tembo says the students who have graduated in the three disciplines are efficiently equipped to transform traditional practices into modern, efficient and competitive systems.

Dr Tembo said a total of 275 have graduated with 228 having graduated with certificates in General Agriculture while 47 students have graduated with Diplomas in Sustainable Agriculture and Agricultural Education in conjunction with the Copperbelt University.

“The Zambia College of Agriculture in Mpika district is well positioned in delivering its core mandate and contributing to Zambia’s economic growth through training and production of quality human capital,” Dr Tembo said.

Meanwhile, Copperbelt University (CBU) Vice Chancellor Imasiku Nyambe, in a speech delivered by CBU Dean of the School of Natural Resources, Benjamin Mubemba, urged the government to fill key vacant positions, such as in quality assurance at ZCA, to improve the efficiency of the college’s operations and fulfill its mandate.

Dr Mubemba said that in order to uphold high quality training standards there is need to have in place qualified and motivated staff equivalent to the student population.

Dr Mubemba has further appealed to the Ministry of Agriculture to improve infrastructure at the institution as a way to motivate the Students and the Institution Staff.

Speaking in a vote of thanks former ZCA Student Union President Laison Chabu who was one of the graduates said the granduants have expressed appreciation to ZCA management for the skills and knowledge they have gained.

Mr Chabu said that with the many opportunities that the Government has put across, they will utilize the many opportunities and ensure that they utilize the skills and knowledge they have attained.

Over 2,000 Households in Serenje receive farming Inputs under Food Security Pack

Feature Economy

Guest Editor

November 14, 2025

Over 2,000 Households in Serenje receive farming Inputs under Food Security Pack

The government has provided farming inputs to 2,199 households in Serenje District under the Food Security Pack (FSP) programme, aimed at enhancing household food security and promoting sustainable livelihoods.

Beneficiaries from 19 communities each received four 50-kilogram bags of fertilizer, 10 kilograms of maize seed, and 10 kilograms of legume seed for the 2025/2026 farming season.

Speaking when he flagged-off the distribution of the inputs at Chintankwa Primary School, Serenje District Commissioner Paul Masuwa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth and sustainable livelihoods.

Mr Masuwa said the FSP is designed to empower vulnerable but viable households with skills, knowledge, and resources to boost productivity and resilience against challenges such as climate change and limited financial access.

“Serenje has great potential, and the Food Security Pack is helping our communities rise above economic challenges through smart agriculture and timely support,” he said.

He also commended community development officers for their dedication to uplifting vulnerable families.

Lukusashi Ward Councillor, Eddy Mwandu, praised the government for ensuring early delivery of inputs, saying this would enable farmers to prepare adequately for planting.

And one of the beneficiaries, Boyd Ngosa, expressed gratitude, saying the support would help him provide food and meet other family needs.

Govt. launches K3.4 million beekeepers project in North Western Province

General News

Guest Editor

November 14, 2025

Govt. launches K3.4 million beekeepers project in North Western Province

The Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, through the Department of Foreign Trade and the Lobito Corridor Trade Facilitation Project, has launched a K3.4 million capacity-building programme to empower beekeepers and honey producers in North Western Province.

The initiative, supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB), is aimed at strengthening the apiculture sector and unlocking its full economic potential.

Speaking during the launch in Solwezi today, North Western Province Permanent Secretary Colonel Grandson Katambi (Rtd) said the programme marks a major milestone in efforts to improve productivity, enhance product quality, and boost profitability among local honey producers.

Col. Katambi noted that North Western Province accounts for over 50 percent of Zambia’s total honey production, largely through traditional methods. He said the province’s vast forests and favourable climate create ideal conditions for honey production and export.

However, he highlighted several challenges facing the sector, including weak cooperative governance, limited access to finance, outdated production methods, and failure to meet international quality standards.

“Much of the honey produced in the Province fails to access lucrative international markets because it does not meet the required quality standards,” he said.

Col. Katambi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship as a key driver of poverty reduction and improved livelihoods.

“The Provincial administration will fully support this programme to ensure that we achieve the desired outcomes of improved productivity, enhanced quality and increased profitability among honey producers,” he said.

He also outlined broader government plans to strengthen trade and transport infrastructure in the region.

The Permanent Secretary revealed that an agreement is being finalised for the construction of a railway line from Chingola in Copperbelt Province through North Western Province to Luacano in Angola, where it will connect to the Benguela Railway leading to the Port of Lobito on the Atlantic Ocean.

Additionally, the government plans to construct an all-weather road from Mwinilunga to the Jimbe border and establish a One Stop Border Post at Jimbe to facilitate smoother cross-border trade.

“Once completed, this infrastructure will greatly enhance regional integration and trade among the three corridor states,” Col. Katambi said.

Meanwhile, Lobito Corridor Trade Facilitation Project Coordinator Michael Nsunka said North Western Province was chosen for the launch because it produces the majority of Zambia’s honey.

He explained that the new programme will address sector challenges through training, strengthened cooperative governance, and certification support for beekeeping groups. With AfDB support, the programme aims to boost domestic and cross-border trade among Lobito Corridor countries—Zambia, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Mr Nsunka added that the initiative will also promote the participation of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in value chains across the agriculture, mining, and construction sectors.

And Mr Trackson Chikonko of Mutanda Agro Product Cooperative commended the government for the initiative, saying it will help local beekeepers build both financial and technical capacity.

Musokotwane calls for lower cost of capital to promote investment growth

Economy

Guest Editor

November 13, 2025

Musokotwane calls for lower cost of capital to promote investment growth

Minister of Finance and National Planning, Situmbeko Musokotwane, says there is need to lower the cost of capital so as to allow economic growth through investments.

The cost of capital means the expenses that companies incur in order to be able to finance or fund their operations.

Dr Musokotwane, who was speaking during a panel discussion at the three-day European Union (EU)-Zambia Lobito Corridor Business Forum today, urged African countries to borrow responsibly saying this will also help reduce the cost of capital.

He said Zambia’s management of its debt restructuring under a good leadership is an additional contribution to the country being a credible partner.

He added that hosting the EU-Zambia Lobito Corridor Business Forum is part of the solution to lowering the cost of capital, particularly for external capital.

Dr Musokotwane explained that part of the problem is the risk profile for the continent, noting that it gets overly exaggerated thus lenders want more out of African borrowers in order to cover themselves.

He further stated that the forum gives lenders and businesses firsthand experience to assess the situation instead of just hearsay.

The minister explained that the Lobito Corridor is a framework for encouraging investments.

Dr Musokotwane noted that it also allows for demonstration that investments in Zambia and the continent as a whole can actually deliver better rates of return and subsequently helps to lower the cost of capital.

And European Investment Bank (EIB), Head of the Sub-Saharan Africa Division, Public Sector, Diederick Zambon, noted that lack of set standards bring about institutional gaps especially in processes that delay decision making.

Meanwhile, Bank of Zambia Governor, Denny Kalyalya, disclosed that the Central Bank has issued guidelines which financial institutions should take into consideration when lending.

Dr Kalyalya said central banks in the region and beyond, are working together to see how best to address the matter through various forums they sit on.

And Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP) Head of Multilateral Institutions and Public Development Banks Financing, Davide Petrangeli, noted that about 250 million Euros was released to the Africa-France Corporation towards infrastructure development in the Lobito corridor.

Speaking at the same event, ABSA Bank Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mizinga Melu reiterated that the Lobito Corridor is bringing about massive opportunities for the country.

Ms Melu said Zambia on the other hand is currently in a much better situation economically compared to previous years.

She noted the importance of responsible lending in the banking sector with a particular focus on green renewable energy for the Lobito Corridor project.

Ms Melu further said there is however need for financial inclusion to make borrowing for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) easy.

And Trade and Development Fund Group (TDG) and Group Executive, Corporate Affairs and Investor Relations Executive Director, Mary Kamari said all the there is a huge opportunity for more growth in the corridor.

Meanwhile, the Finish Undersecretary of State for Development Policy, Pasi Hellman, called for strengthened collaboration in financing.

Another vital component that was discussed in unlocking private sector finance is compliance with standards and sustainable financing regulations, which is often a challenge for investors in emerging markets and developing economies.

CSO Coalition on School Health Strategic Plan launched

General News

Guest Editor

November 13, 2025

CSO Coalition on School Health Strategic Plan launched

A National Civil Society Organisation Coalition on School Health Strategic Plan, which is aimed at providing a roadmap for increased access of health services for learners in Zambia, has been launched.

Speaking at the launch, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Caucus on School Health, Twaambo Mutinta, said the strategic plan also recognises the need for increased domestic financing and effective utilisation of local resources such as Constituency Development Funds (CDF).

“It places emphasis on key areas such as mental health, nutrition, hygiene, reproductive health and prevention of gender-based violence, each of which is a critical determinant of education success,” Mr Mutinta said.

He reiterated that his caucus remains committed to working with the civil society organisations and other stakeholders in order to ensure that school health becomes an integral part of national policy and budget framework.

And Head of Presidential Delivery Unit (PDU), Kusobile Kamwambi, who was represented by PDU Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist, Tobias Michelo, commended the CSOs for their initiative to supplement the government’s efforts towards social economic development.

Ms Kamwambi added that PDU will continue to support such initiatives and expressed hope that the strategic framework will help strengthen similar projects across the country.

Meanwhile, Healthy Learners Head of Policy and Government Engagement, Muleta Kapatiso, said there is a need to measure the impact of the framework at provincial level in order to put up procedures for improvement within local resources.

Mr Kapatiso added that his institution will support the CSOs to deepen community engagement and create more awareness on how the communities can mobilise themselves and ensure every school in their area has a health room.