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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.

Govt sells one million tonnes of Mealie Meal to DRC

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Govt sells one million tonnes of Mealie Meal to DRC

President Hakainde Hichilema says government has negotiated a formal order of one million tonnes of mealie meal with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The President said this follows the formalisation of the trade mechanism put in place between Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Me Hichilema said the Congolese government has for the first installment paid in advance through the bank 14. 5 million dollars which was deposited on Thursday July 20th , 2023.

“We are not selling maize but selling mealie meal so that we can keep the commodity ourselves, get a better price and be able to minimise on smuggling,” President Hichilema said.

The President said this in Namwala today shortly after arriving at his Naminwe Farm where he is on a working holiday.

He, however, assured Zambians that government is committed to addressing the issue of smuggling which has continued to affect mealie meal prices.

The President also called on Zambians to support the growth of the agriculture sector through irrigation farming in view of existing crop export opportunities created.

” Let’s give more value to the farmers so that they increase maize production and will provide funds to support farmers to venture into irrigation farming. With farming inputs given early this year and a fair price will increase production,” he said.

President Hichilema also said the debt restructuring has opened investment opportunities in various sectors of the economy.

He said the signing of one billion US dollars solar thermal power project investment into the energy sector with the ACSG Westland Consortium of the United Arab Emirates will enable remote rural communities connected to power supply.

He said the thermal power will invest in a 510megawatts modular thermal solar power with Shangombo District in Western Province being the first targeted community to benefit from the first 10 megawatts solar thermal power initiative.

The other 500 megawatts will be spread to other remote areas in the country to enhance Internet services.

“It is coming in modular form. It means it can be put anywhere so that the people can have e- health, e-education services in rural areas and this will spur economic development,” the President said.

He said the recent signing of trade agreements with the United Arab Emirates on various economic issues which will also see small medium enterprises, mining benefiting from a loan facility amounting to 15 million dollars.

“We add more business opportunities for young people and women. This is another envelope we are opening to give value to the people through investment.

He said the agreement will ensure that the government has 50/ 50 investment opportunities so that the people can do business fairly.

He urged Zambians to work hard and avoid laziness as it is not tolerable even by God stating that people should take advantage of the opportunities that government is creating to improve lives.

 Southern Province Minister Cornelius Mweetwa said the President is in Namwala at his Naminwe farm for a working holiday and also to enable him to reflect on national economic recovery.

Mr Mweetwa said the President needs to work out quietly especially after a hectic schedule of travelling locally and internationally negotiating debt restructuring.

UPND provincial chairperson Billiard Makwembo said the party is happy with the process that government has made since being elected into office.

He said there is light at the end of the tunnel for the country as the President has done more than what the people expected him to do in a short period of time.

“We are not complaining because they are happy with the process that government has made in a short period of time.  This is what the people wanted,” Mr Makwembo said.

BRE mourns Senior Chief Inyambo Yeta III

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BRE mourns Senior Chief Inyambo Yeta III

The Barotse Royal Establishment (BRE) in Western Province has described the death of Senior Chief Inyambo Yeta III of Mwandi, Mulobezi and Sesheke Chiefdom as a great loss to the establishment BRE and the people of Barotseland.

Speaking at a press briefing at Limulunga Royal Palace, Kuta today, BRE Prime Minister and Spokesperson, Mukela Manyando said Senior Chief Inyambo Yeta was a great man with distinguished traditional leadership which he exhibited for 46 years.

“Senior Chief Inyambo Yeta ascended to the throne in 1977 and showed distinguished leadership,” Mr Manyando said.

He said the late senior chief will be remembered for his commitment towards the establishment of the Simahala Wildlife conservancy in Mwandi and Kazungula districts.

Mr Manyando said Senior Chief Inyambo Yeta will also be remembered for the role he played in initiating investment projects aimed at preserving the cultural heritage and the environmental conservation in the chiefdom.

“He was an ardent advocate for the promotion of culture and tradition,” he stated.

The BRE Prime Minister also paid tribute to the late senior chief for his constructive views in the traditional council and the house of chiefs.

Senior Chief Inyambo Yeta III died in Maina Soko hospital in Lusaka yesterday July 20th, 2023 after an illness.

A Tanzanian with 21 others arrested for various drug related offenses

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A Tanzanian with 21 others arrested for various drug related offenses

The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) in Lusaka has arrested 21 people for various drug offences contrary to the laws of Zambia.

DEC Deputy Public Relations Officer, Delight Haangala, says the commission has arrested Jacob Mzinga, a Tanzanian national aged 49, for trafficking in cocaine which he had concealed in his body through swallowing.

Mzinga was apprehended at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport on arrival from Brazil.

He discharged 104 pellets of cocaine weighing 2.312 kilograms and the process is still ongoing.

And in a separate incident, the commission has arrested Evans Mbulo 32, for trafficking in 36 sachets of Cocaine weighing 2.7 grams.

Mbulo was arrested in Lusaka where the commission is getting a lot of  drug related activities reports.

In another occurrence, the commission has jointly charged and arrested Sharon Kamangila a Zimbabwean national aged 38, Jackeline Lungu aged 39 and Alice Nyoni aged 41 for trafficking in 432 bottles of Benylin with Codeine.

Meanwhile the commission in Eastern Province has jointly charged and arrested Patrick Banda aged 37 and Christopher Banda aged 38 for trafficking in 830 kilograms of loose cannabis.

The contraband was intercepted in   Nyimba  enroute to Lusaka from Lundazi which was  loaded on a truck together with bags of maize

Ms Haangala stated that the seizure is a clear demonstration that the commission has heightened its surveillance measures in a bid to curb the transportation of cannabis from Malawi and Mozambique to Lusaka and Copperbelt.

Further the Commission in Eastern Province has found three abandoned motor bikes in Renamo area in Nyimba District near Mozambique border that had three bags of compressed cannabis weighing 305.5 Kilograms.

Ms. Hangala said the riders of the motor bikes attempted to transport the contraband from Mozambique to the Great East Road in Nyimba for onward transportation to Lusaka adding that the Commission has since seized the three motor bikes.

Ms Haangala told the media at a press briefing that after receiving reports of drug related activities in Chapata’s Navutika Compound, the Drug Enforcement Commission in collaboration with the Zambia Police Service conducted a clean-up activity in the area and 25 persons were arrested of which 14 had committed various drug related offences.

The joint operation was necessitated by reports from members of the public who were allegedly claiming that Navutika Compound was a no-go area for Law Enforcement Agencies.

Ms. Hangaala also disclosed that a Toyota Land cruiser used in the last General Elections has been forfeited to the state following investigations that revealed that the said motor vehicle was actually government property but was fraudulently registered as belonging to a non-existent company and no one has claimed it up to date.

Ms Hangaaala stated that DEC remains resolute in its mission to root out drug trafficking and abuse, irrespective of location or terrain.

The suspects are detained in the lawful custody and will appear in court soon.

Kariba Fisheries Association bemoan increased fish theft on Lake Kariba

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Kariba Fisheries Association bemoan increased fish theft on Lake Kariba

Kariba Fisheries Association has appealed to government to help the association and fish farmers operating on Lake Kariba to intensify patrols to address increased fish thefts in Siavonga district.

KFA Chairperson Fined Mutempa says the fish industry in Siavonga is a strategic source of employment in the district which has created over 75 percent of jobs for the residents.

He explained that if the industry is not protected against fish thefts on Lake Kariba, many fishing companies risk being closed due to business losses.

“Please, help us as a fishing industry operating on Lake Kariba from fish theft, as many Siavonga residents are employed in this industry,” he said.

He has also called on government to intervene in retrieving the fishing vessels that were impounded in Zimbabwe as a result of  illegal fishing on the Zimbabwean side of the lake.

He has, therefore, called on the fishermen to desist from fishing on the Zimbabwean side of Lake Kariba and consider fishing on the Zambian side where it is safe for business.

Meanwhile, Siavonga District Commissioner, Geoffrey Jakopo said his office is aware of fish theft experienced by KFA and fish farmers on Lake Kariba.

Mr Jakopo disclosed that government has intensified patrols on Lake Kariba as the marine Police are on guard.

“Siavonga residents stop stealing fish from Kapenta Fisheries Association and fish farmers, as they provide employment to our local people, should you be found stealing fish, the law will be tough on you, stop fishing from Zimbabwean side, you have to fish in Zambia,” he said.

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