Isoka District has received 45 metric tonnes of relief maize from the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) to assist 300 households affected by prolonged dry spells in Kanyala and Nzoche agricultural camps.

The relief consignment, translating into 900 bags of 50kg mealie meal, is part of the government’s continued efforts to cushion vulnerable families facing food shortages during the period.

Speaking during a distribution budgeting and planning meeting held in his office, Isoka District Commissioner, Jairo Simbeye said the food relief demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring that no family goes hungry due to natural calamities.

“We are grateful that the government, through DMMU, has responded to the food insecurity situation in Kanyala and Nzoche, the 45 metric tonnes of maize will support the affected households as they recover and prepare for the next farming season,” he said.

The District Commissioner, who is also the District Disaster Management Committee (DDMC) Chairperson, explained that only maize has been received so far, while other supporting items such as beans, cooking oil, and kapenta are expected to arrive in the district at the earliest convenience.

Mr Simbeye added that the assessment which informed the relief response was conducted by DMMU in collaboration with the District Administration, the Meteorological Department, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Food Reserve Agency (FRA).

“The government remains proactive in addressing challenges brought about by climate change,” he said, emphasising that his office will continue working closely with other partners to ensure that vulnerable communities are supported through such interventions.

Kenmark Broadcasting Network (KBN) this morning appeared before an ad hoc committee of the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Board to respond to charges of breaching content provisions of the IBA Act.

However, the television station requested for more time to prepare for the hearing, prompting the IBA to reschedule the session to Thursday, 30^th October, 2025.

The broadcaster was summoned to appear before the IBA Board to respond to allegations of continued non-compliance with content provisions and broadcasting standards as prescribed by the IBA Act.

IBA Director General, Webster Malido, said the hearing is being conducted pursuant to Section 29(7) of the IBA (Amendment) Act No. 26 of 2010, and Section 24(1)(e) of the same Act.

The act requires that programming provided by commercial broadcasting stations must meet the highest standards of journalism professionalism.

Mr Malido reiterated IBA’s call for all broadcasting licensees to adhere to professional and ethical standards, warning that failure to comply may lead to sanctions, including the suspension or cancellation of a broadcasting license.

He further emphasised the authority’s commitment to promoting responsible broadcasting and ensuring that all licensees operate within the confines of the law in order to safeguard media integrity and public trust.

The 26th Session of the Zambia -Namibia Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security senior officials meeting has closed with Zambia pledging to implement the resolutions passed during the two days meeting.

The media reports that Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary, Maambo Haamaundu assured Namibia, that Zambia remains committed to working closely with the joint commission of the two countries.

He stressed on the need for the two countries to sustain the existing peace that Zambia and Namibia are enjoying.

Mr Haamaundu said the resolutions passed at the just ended senior officials meeting are in the interest of both countries and the region.

He highlighted that the resolutions passed are focused on advancing economic, social development and eradicating poverty between the peoples of Zambia and Namibia.

Mr Haamaundu has since urged both countries to work towards actualising the resolutions passed as they are in the interest of both nations.

And Speaking earlier, Namibia Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs Executive Director, Annely Haiphene implored Zambia and Namibia to continue upholding the peace and stability the two countries have enjoyed for decades.

Ms Haiphene said Zambia and Namibia must continue cherishing the peace and security that has prevailed over the years along the border lines.

She indicated that the JPC is an important platform that allows countries to collaborate and develop systems that enhance bilateral relations.

Ms Haiphene urged both countries to continue sharing information and conducting joint operations with the view to safeguard the border lines.

She has since wished Zambia a happy 61st Independence as the country celebrates on the 24th of October 2025.

The Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development has donated assorted items to Chilenje Transit Home as part of activities marking Zambia’s 61st Independence Anniversary.

The reports that speaking during the handover, Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development Permanent Secretary Subeta Mutelo commended management at Chilenje Transit Home for their continued dedication to caring for vulnerable children.

“We are here to show our support and appreciation for the incredible work being done to protect and empower children who have faced various challenges such as neglect, abuse, and trafficking,” she said.

Chilenje Transit Home Chairperson Alice Kapilikisha explained that the institution, established by Parliament in 1957, has over the years provided shelter, education, and rehabilitation to children in need.

She further revealed that during Zambia’s struggle for independence, the home also accommodated children from neighboring countries involved in liberation movements, making it part of the region’s history.

“Freedom is not just about independence but also about helping others live better lives,” she said.

Currently, the transit home is caring for 30 children and has successfully reintegrated several others with their families after their cases were resolved through the courts.

And Assistant Director Human Resource Administration Joel Kazongo is pleased with the works done by the caregivers at Transit Home.

“I’m very happy we are not alone at this, the directors are also here just to ensure that we give support in terms of these donations,” he said.

Kanchibiya Member of Parliament Sunday Chanda opened discussions with  the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) over the future of Zampalm Limited operations in Kanchibiya district..
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‎In a statement made available to the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS), Mr Chanda said he has also brought the matter to the attention of President Hakainde Hichilema.
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The Kanchibiya Member of Parliament had  his  engagements with IDC and drew the President’s attention to the Zampalm case, following concerns raised by Senior Chief Kopa, Zampalm workers and stakeholders over the operations of the company.
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‎He said the engagement was aimed at safeguarding the future of the anchor industry in which the government retained a 90 percent shareholding through IDC.
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‎Mr Chanda said the meeting held with IDC  Chief Executive Officer, Cornwell Muleya was forward looking as it discussed the past, present and future of Zampalm Limited in Kanchibiya District.
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‎Mr Chanda disclosed that IDC had so far received expressions of interest from three foreign investors from Nigeria, Malaysia and Turkey regarding the plantation.
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‎He said comprehensive technical and scientific studies were currently underway to assess soil suitability, the extent of seasonal flooding and the yield potential of existing trees.
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‎”An evaluation of the overall viability of the palm crop is also being conducted. As we move forward, our approach with the respective stakeholders should be anchored in science-based and evidence-driven solutions,” he said.
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‎Mr Chanda said the IDC is also exploring diversification options beyond palm oil to ensure the Zampalm investment becomes both resilient and sustainable in the long term.
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‎Mr Chanda said IDC remained firmly committed to working with all stakeholders to secure a viable and prosperous future for Zampalm and the people of Kanchibiya.
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‎He added that the engagement demonstrated the government’s commitment to protecting local industries and ensuring sustainable development in the district.
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‎The MP said the technical studies would provide crucial data to inform future investment decisions regarding the plantation

Government is eager to link Eastern and Muchinga Provinces through a reliable road in its quest to improve trade and commerce between the two regions.

Eastern Province Minister, Peter Phiri, disclosed that the government has funded works for the Chipata-Lundazi-Chama road to link the Eastern region to Muchinga Province with a good road.

The Chipata-Lundazi stretch is tarmac while the Lundazi–Chama stretch is gravel.

Speaking when he addressed scores of Lundazi residents, Mr Phiri said the government is in the process of identifying a contractor to work on the already funded road under the 2026 national budget.

He stated that once the Chipata- Lundazi-Chama road is completed, it would bring about development to Lundazi.

And the Provincial Minister has cautioned farmers who are on the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) to ensure that they use the K8,400 worth of inputs to produce food.

Mr Phiri said any FISP supported farmer who will be found entering into dubious arrangements with an agro-dealer to redeem cash instead of farming inputs would be removed from the programme.

He added that the FISP is aimed at improving food security at household level.

And Chief Mphamba of the Tumbuka people of Lundazi district is happy that the government is prioritising food production through FISP.

Minister of Education, Douglas Syakalima, has called on graduates to use their knowledge, creativity, and technological innovation to drive national development and help eradicate poverty.

The media reports that speaking during the University of Lusaka (UNILUS) 18th Graduation Ceremony, Mr Syakalima said education must not end at academic achievement but must translate into practical solutions that transform communities and improve livelihoods.

“Technology must remain our servant, not our master. Let us harness technology to empower and uplift communities not to divide them. Our mission as a nation is clear,” he emphasised.

Mr Syakalima added that the country’s sustainable progress depends on citizens who think critically, innovate responsibly, and collaborate across disciplines.

 “If young people like you turn potential into enterprise, Zambia’s dream of prosperity will become reality,” the Minister noted.

And President of the Association of African Universities (AAU), Professor Kenneth Matengu, has challenged university graduates across Africa to use their education and God given talents as tools to reduce poverty and drive the continent’s transformation.

Professor Matengu said Africa’s abundant natural resources have not translated into prosperity because the continent lacks adequate capability to convert its raw materials into finished products.

 “Africa is rich but not wealthy. We have minerals, fertile lands, and vibrant people, but we lack the skills and technology to turn our copper, diamonds, and other resources into valuable products,” he stated.

He urged the graduating class of 2025 to embrace innovation, entrepreneurship, and problem solving rather than waiting for employment.

“Do not go out there looking for jobs, go out and look for work opportunities to solve problems. A job gives you a salary, but meaningful work gives you purpose and transforms lives,” he said.

Meanwhile, UNILUS Chancellor Caleb Fundanga stated that qualified education must not only prepare students for local challenges but also equip them to compete on the global stage.

Mr Fundanga said education should be a catalyst for solving real national problems while aligning with global priorities such as technological advancement, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development.

“Education is no longer just about personal achievement, It is about finding solutions to national challenges and contributing meaningfully to global progress,” he said.

One of the graduating students, Stanley Mumba has expressed gratitude to the government, lecturers, peers, and loved ones for their unwavering support throughout her academic journey.

The 18th Graduation ceremony is being held under the theme “ optimisation of technology relevant education and natural resources use for sustainable development”.

Parliamentary Caucus on Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) Secretary General Sunday Chanda, says various line Ministries are being engaged to review the age of consent to a much bigger age from 16 years as provided for in the law.

Mr Chanda who is also Kanchibiya Member of Parliament said the Parliamentary Caucus on SRHR is working towards harmonising what is provided for in the panel code and the constitution regarding the right age to consent for sexual reproductive services and rights.

Mr Chanda said the gaps existing on the definition of a child in the laws provided conflict each and must be amended for a better generation.

The media reports that the Children Code and the Constitution defines a child as any person who has not reached the age of 18 while the Penal Code 87 section 138 (1) defines a child as a person under the age of 16.

Mr Chanda was speaking during the three-day orientation workshop for media professionals in Lusaka.

He also stressed that Parliamentarians have the responsibility to design interventions on Sexual Reproductive Health and mental health issues from the perspective of the youths.

“We want to amend what is defined as a child in the Children’s Code Act and the penal code, because these issues have brought a lot of problems and if we dont resolve the problem, we are failing this society,” he said.

He noted that the law provides that a child aged 16 can consent to sex while at the same time, the same child cannot access SRHR services because they are deemed as children.

The three-day workshop is in preparation for the 8th Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Forum set to be held from October 25 to 29 under the theme ‘See us’-Amplfying the voices of the African Child and young people.

Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthen bilateral relations between Zambia and Egypt.

Mr Sikumba says bilateral relations between the two countries will deepen further especially with the opening of the Grand Museum in Egypt, which he said will support regional tourism cooperation.

He has since commended the Egyptian Government for its milestone achievement and reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment towards the project.

The media reports that the Minister said this today when Egyptian Ambassador to Zambia Mayada Rahman paid a courtesy call on him at his office.

Mr Sikumba noted that the Grand Museum’s opening provides an opportunity for African countries to celebrate shared heritage and promote intra-African travel.

“The Grand Egyptian Museum stands as a symbol of Africa’s cultural pride and innovation. Zambia looks forward to strengthening ties with Egypt, particularly in areas of tourism promotion, training and heritage preservation,” he said.

Mr Sikumba expressed gratitude towards the invitation and readiness to explore future partnerships that will enhance tourism exchanges, cultural diplomacy, and investment opportunities between Zambia and Egypt.

Ms Rahman said the Grand Museum represents Egypt’s dedication to preserving African and global heritage.

She adds that the project aims to foster cultural exchange and tourism partnerships across the continent.

Ms Rahman emphasised that Egypt values Zambia’s growing tourism sector and expressed optimism that collaboration between the two nations will enhance mutual promotion of cultural heritage and tourism development.

“We believe Zambia has a rich history and vibrant culture that deserves global attention. Through partnerships like these, we can showcase Africa’s collective identity and attract more international visitors,” she said.