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Zambia Opposition Warns Reform Panel of Personal Liability for “Illegal” Funds

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Zambia Opposition Warns Reform Panel of Personal Liability for “Illegal” Funds

LUSAKA – Acting president of the opposition Patriotic Front, Given Lubinda, has issued a stark warning to members of President Hakainde Hichilema’s constitutional reform team, stating they will be held personally accountable for public funds spent on a process he labels unlawful.

Lubinda alleges the recently appointed 25-member technical committee, tasked with gathering public input on constitutional changes, was established outside the law. He warned that its members would ultimately be forced to refund their allowances and could face prosecution.

Speaking in Lusaka on Sunday, Lubinda accused the government of sidestepping established legal procedure by forming the committee without invoking the Inquiries Act, the traditional legal framework used for constitutional review bodies.

“You cannot run a nation on shortcuts,” Lubinda stated. “Every individual on that committee must understand that an illegality does not cease to be one simply because it is sanctioned by the state. The day will come when they will be required to account for every penny drawn from the treasury.”

He stated that bypassing parliamentary or statutory backing undermines the rule of law and could render the entire reform process invalid.

“This committee includes former judges, lawyers, clergy, and civil society leaders who know better,” Lubinda said. “Their duty was to advise the President to correct this error, not to legitimize it with their participation. It is profoundly disappointing.”

The technical committee, appointed last month, was mandated to consult the public on potential amendments. However, critics point to Articles 92(2)(f) and (j) of the Constitution, which they say grant the President general administrative powers, not the authority to create a body with such a significant lawmaking mandate.

Lubinda contended that using executive powers for this purpose “directly violates the very Constitution it seeks to amend.” He further warned that the Ministry of Finance would be complicit if it continued to fund what he termed an “illegal structure.”

“The Ministry of Finance is failing the nation by releasing public funds for a process with no legal footing,” he said. “Those authorizing these payments will also be held responsible and face prosecution for abuse of office.”

As acting chairperson of the opposition Tonse Alliance, Lubinda declared the Patriotic Front would boycott what he called a “fraudulent constitutional process.”

He cited the country’s legal fraternity, including former Law Association of Zambia president Linda Kasonde, who has previously stated that establishing the committee under Article 92 is unconstitutional.

The opposition leader emphasized that every previous constitutional review,under Presidents Mwanawasa, Banda, Sata, and Lungu—was conducted under the Inquiries Act, which ensures public accountability, clear terms of reference, and defined reporting obligations.

“This administration is not above the law,” Lubinda asserted.

His position was supported by All People’s Congress Party leader Nason Msoni, who called for accountability to start from the President’s office.

“The committee members themselves should have been the first to advise the President to withdraw and correct the process,” Msoni said. “By choosing to participate, they are complicit.”

Lubinda vowed his party would pursue every available avenue, including legal action, to halt the process unless the government rectifies what he calls a fundamental flaw.

“Zambia cannot afford another botched constitutional reform,” he said. “We have seen the consequences of rushed and mishandled processes. The President must withdraw this committee and restart under the proper legal framework.”

The government has yet to respond to these allegations.

Meanwhile, a group of lawyers has written to the Attorney General’s office seeking clarification on the legal basis for the committee’s mandate and questioning why the Inquiries Act was not used.

The committee has held its first internal meeting but has not yet made its terms of reference public, fueling the opposition’s criticism that the process lacks transparency. Lubinda remains adamant that if it continues, all involved will be held to account for the misuse of public funds.

Chikondi Foundation praises President Hichilema for unprecedented development gains Zambia has never seen

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The Chikondi Foundation has hailed President Hakainde Hichilema for his resolve to revive the mining and many other sectors in the country, in a bid to ensure that wealth benefits all citizens.

The Foundation has since called on stakeholders that include Zambian citizens, the private sector among others, to join hands in building a country that is not only united but prosperous and inclusive.

In a statement issued to the media in Lusaka, Foundation President, Bishop John Mambo, further reiterated his organisation’s call to a journey towards national transformation, which he said has also been stated by President Hichilema on several occasions.

Bishop Mambo expressed that his organisation’s call is in line with the President’s vision and requires collective effort of social economic partners as well as every citizen.

“We all need to work hard and leverage on the unprecedented development gains our country has never seen before. Significant progress has been made in the rehabilitation and expansion of our road network,” he stated.

He also observed that the government is focused on nurturing a generation of skilled citizens that are equipped to compete in a dynamic, technology-driven world, with efforts being intensified to improve access to inputs, irrigation systems, and modern farming techniques among others.

Bishop Mambo, added that the government has continued to strengthen community health systems, promote preventive care, and address maternal and child health challenges across the country.

“It is clear the President and our government are committed to a healthy and productive nation,” he stated.

The Bishop also highlighted that Zambia’s economy is on a steady path to recovery and growth, driven by prudent fiscal management and investment in productive sectors with policies being refined to attract local and foreign investment.

The Chikondi Foundation is an organisation aimed at helping out the needy, orphaned and vulnerable in society.

President Hichilema implores the church to help prisoners repent

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President Hakainde Hichilema has called on the church to help offenders of the law repent and become better citizens in society.

The President has urged that offenders should undergo rehabilitation and show genuine remorse towards offences.

The media reports that the Head of State said this in a speech read for him by Minister of Justice Princess Kasune, at the Baptist Convention of Zambia’s 50th Golden Jubilee celebration in Lusaka today.

President Hichilema further noted the church’s impactful work in strengthening families through biblical teachings, its contribution to education, promoting good health through outreach programmes, and advocating for justice and peace.

He also highlighted the Baptist church’s evolution into a major spiritual force in Zambia, having over 200,000 members and over 1,500 local churches across the country.

“The Baptist Convention of Zambia has been a beacon of hope, nurturing communities and transforming lives through the powerful message of the Gospel,” President Hichilema noted.

And, the President emphasised that the celebration was not just a marking of time, but a recognition of the deep and lasting impact the Baptist has made in the lives of many Zambians.

Baptist Convention of Zambia President, Reverend Misheck Mumba, reaffirmed the church’s commitment to continuing its partnership with the government.

He highlighted that the church has been making a positive economic impact, notably through supporting skills development initiatives.

Reverend Mumba further indicated that the church intends to enhance its investments in youth focused programmes, underscoring the importance of empowering young people.

Guest Preacher, Evangelist Craig Hobbs, urged the congregation to maintain peace and unity within the church and the broader community.

He stressed the importance of harmony and cooperation in fostering a strong and vibrant faith community that can effectively serve as a beacon of hope.

Evangelist Hobbs encouraged the Baptists to be agents of positive change, promoting reconciliation and understanding in Zambia.

And Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia Executive Director, Paul Msusu, commended the Baptist church for celebrating 50 years of service to God.

Chief Mumena celebrates 25 years of leadership

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The Mumena Royal Establishment yesterday celebrated a major milestone as Chief Mumena XI, marking 25 years of leadership, demonstrating the perfect blend of traditional wisdom and modern development.

Speaking during the event, Guest of Honour, Chief Munokalya Mukuni, applauded Chief Mumena’s dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of the Kaonde people, while embracing progress.

“Your reign has shown us that tradition and development can walk hand in hand,” Chief Mukuni said.

The media reports that Chief Mukuni indicated that he celebrated Chief Mumena’s contribution not only to the Kaonde people, but to the nation as well.

He urged traditional leaders to stand together in solidarity across tribal lines to uphold cultural identity and strengthen community voice in national development.

Ministry of Tourism Permanent Secretary, Evans Muhanga, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with traditional leaders and highlighted initiatives such as infrastructure development through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), free education, school feeding programmes, cash for work, social cash transfer among others.

He applauded chiefs for spearheading development and urged them to continue changing the livelihoods of people.

In his speech, Chief Mumena reflected on his royal journey and the transformation of the Mumena Chiefdom since he ascended to the throne in 2000.

As the 11th chief in the Mumena lineage, he traced the historical migration of the Kaonde people from the Ikola region of present-day Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to their settlement in Kalumbila.

Chief Mumena further highlighted the chiefdom’s achievements, including improved security and various developmental projects.

The traditional leader also acknowledged the contributions of past leaders and individuals who have shaped the chiefdom.

He also emphasised the importance of unity and preserving the land for future generations.

“We do not own the land, the land owns us,” he remarked.

Over 100 Isoka residents enrolled for TEVETA Skills Bursary Programme

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Over 100 residents of Isoka District have been enrolled under the Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training Authority (TEVETA) Skills Bursary Programme at Isoka Trades Training Institute.

Speaking in an interview with Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS), Isoka Trades Training Institute Principal, Cephas Kangwa, said the development is part of the government’s efforts to equip citizens with vocational skills for improved livelihoods.

Mr Kangwa added that more than 50 beneficiaries have already reported for the three-month training.

“We are offering training in general agriculture, electrical, mechanics, bricklaying, and design and tailoring,” Mr Kangwa said.

He further stated that the programme is open to everyone, including youths, women, and persons with disabilities.

Mr Kangwa explained that the bursary covers full tuition and is aimed at reducing unemployment by providing practical skills that can lead to self-employment and job creation.

Linda Sinkala, a lecturer at Isoka Trades, urged more women and persons with disabilities to take advantage of the bursary opportunity.

“Skills training is for everyone. We want to see more participation from women and those differently abled,” she said.

She noted the importance of inclusive education, stating that the institution is making efforts to accommodate diverse learners.

And a beneficiary, Grace Mulenga, said the bursary has allowed her to pursue tailoring and design despite her age.

“This chance has given me purpose. At 60 years old, I can now afford becoming a tailor,” she said.

Another trainee in bricklaying and plastering, Fred Sinkala, said he plans to use the skills to start a small business.

“These skills will help me build and earn,” he said, thanking the government through the TEVETA programme for granting him such an opportunity.

South Golf Team beats North in Vivo Energy Tourney

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The Zambian Golf Team from the Southern region has emerged victorious in the Vivo Energy, North vs South Golf Tournament in Lusaka, sponsored to a tune of K1.2 Million.

‎The South, who inflicted revenge on the North that won last year, scored 26 points to their counterparts’ 14.

The North vs South Tournament, which pits the best golfers from both regions against each other, was for the second year running after a 28 year absence.

Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Elvis Nkandu, has urged the golfing fraternity to work closely with local authorities in identifying young talent.

The media reports that, Nkandu, in a speech read on his behalf by Director Sports, Gibson Muyaule at the prize giving ceremony in Lusaka, further explained that local authorities have been given the mandate to handle grass root sports.

The Minister observed that young golfers are the future of the sport, hence, the need to place importance on identifying and nurturing the talents.

Nkandu also described sport as a vital part of national development.

He added that golf is a career path, business and national asset which is no longer just a mere pastime which must be taken seriously.

Speaking at the same event, Zambia Golf Union (ZGU) President, Greg Lubesha, thanked Vivo Energy for reviving the tournament.

Lubesha also called for more investment in the sport.

Meanwhile, Vivo Energy Managing Director, Edward Walugembe, pledged the firm’s continued sponsorship in next year’s edition.

Walugembe also paid tribute to Zambia Golf Union for hosting a successful event.

Some of the worst habits of Zambians!

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A couple of years ago, we opined about some of our worst habits as Zambians. We’ve observed that nothing much has changed since then! We hereby revisit some of these bad habits hoping that people would learn……

1. Lack of queue etiquette – after the Covid 19 scare, one would have expected our citizens to appreciate social distancing by now. People still stand shoulder to shoulder in the queues. Learn to give your friends breathing space, imwe!

2. Picking nostrils in public – it’s common to see folks poking their nose deep inside and want to shake hands with you afterwards. Excuse Sir……you’ve been ‘mining’ mucus all the while and you want to deposit the same on our palms? Try next door!

3. Talking on the phone in minibuses – those who use public transport regularly would attest to the anguish and trauma they’ve to endure listening in to private conversations. The other day, this slay Queen was openly complaining about this “chi faza” that failed to reward her handsomely, despite giving him a nice time throughout the night, as fellow passengers winced…..

4. Indiscriminate littering – how many times do we see trash flying out of fast moving vehicles or indeed litter strewn around tables in restaurants? Can we stop these bad manners of throwing trash through the windows? And in case you didn’t realise, it’s uncouth of you to leave your tables dirty after a meal!

5. Failure to give tips- our people working in the restaurants or indeed those cleaning toilets in the malls are obviously subjected to slave wages. How many of us take the trouble of giving them tips? Shame on you!

6. Stealing gazes on someone’s phones – it’s quite irritating to find eyes straying on your handsets in public! Don’t you understand the meaning of privacy?

7. Farting in public – the other day, we almost suffocated when this madala kept farting in a vehicle we were riding in. He wouldn’t stop despite several warnings! Effects of consuming too much beans and boiled eggs!

9. Crowding the counters at Hungry Lion …
Whenever folks place their orders at the tills, they get crowded at the counters as they await their orders. Ndipo mukonda Hungry Lion ma Zambians!

This list is of course not exhaustive. You can equally add your observations…..

With much love…..

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst
Zambezi

China’s export surge strengthens Xi’s hand as Trump raises trade war stakes

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China’s booming exports have handed Beijing critical leverage as President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump lock into the fiercest trade confrontation in years, warns global financial advisory giant deVere Group.

China’s exports jumped 8.3% in September from a year earlier, smashing forecasts and outpacing August’s growth.

Imports climbed 7.4%, a signal that the country’s industrial engine remains formidable despite Washington’s efforts to apply pressure through tariffs and technology restrictions.

The surge lands as US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hints that the current three-month pause on import duties could be extended — but only if China abandons its plan to impose strict new export controls on rare-earth elements.

These materials are indispensable for global manufacturing, from electric vehicles to advanced chips and weapons systems.

Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, says: “Scott Bessent is trying to use tariff relief as leverage, but Beijing’s export rebound means the pressure is flowing both ways.

“Xi Jinping now has proof that China’s trade engine is resilient and that his government can absorb external shocks while the US is still searching for negotiating traction.”

The standoff has escalated since Beijing announced sweeping export licences for rare-earth and magnet technologies, effectively tightening its grip over supply chains that the West cannot yet replace.

Washington’s reaction was immediate: threats of 100% tariffs, new curbs on Chinese software, and talk of allied coordination through the G7 to deter further Chinese restrictions.

“The trade war has evolved into a power contest over who controls the materials and technologies that drive the modern economy,” says Nigel Green.

“China’s message is that it can dictate the pace of global production. Washington’s message is that it’s willing to risk economic pain to prevent that dominance.

“Neither side looks ready to blink.”

Despite the stand-off, China’s export growth is being driven by markets far beyond the US. Shipments to the European Union, Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America are all rising at double-digit rates, showing how effectively Beijing has diversified its trade routes.

Exports to the US, by contrast, continue to shrink sharply, down more than a quarter year on year, yet China’s overall export growth remains robust.

Nigel Green says: “Beijing’s ability to expand into new markets while withstanding US tariffs is one of the defining shifts of the decade.

“It shows how global manufacturing still relies on China’s capacity, logistics, and pricing power. Even in a period of confrontation, the rest of the world cannot easily step away.”

Markets are already feeling the tension. Currency volatility has increased, commodity prices have jumped, and equity investors are recalibrating exposure to sectors tied to global manufacturing.

“The next phase of this trade battle will shape monetary policy and investor sentiment worldwide,” says the deVere CEO.

“If tariffs rise and supply chains fracture, inflationary pressures could return just as central banks are preparing to loosen policy. The combination could create both disruption and opportunity across portfolios.”

He adds: “Periods of geopolitical stress often produce outsized gains for those positioned ahead of the cycle.

“Countries and companies able to fill the production gaps left by restricted trade will emerge as major winners.

“Investors who maintain diversified exposure across regions and asset classes will be best placed to benefit.”

For now, Beijing appears emboldened. The export data bolster its claim that China can weather any tariff escalation and sustain global demand. Washington, meanwhile, faces the dilemma of tightening further without triggering inflation or alienating allies who depend on Chinese supply chains.

Nigel Green concludes: “The numbers out of Beijing change the tone of the talks. China goes into the next round stronger, not weaker.

“The US may hold the world’s largest consumer market, but China is proving it still controls the world’s factory floor.”

World Food Day : A Hungry World Knows No Borders

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Opinion piece by Dr Himanshu Pathak Director General, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)

 

When crops fail, people move not by choice, but by necessity. As families are displaced by droughts and failed harvests, the pressures do not always stop at national boundaries. In short, hunger has become one of the most powerful forces shaping our century.

From the Sahel, the vast semi-arid belt stretching across Africa from Senegal to Sudan and the Horn of Africa to South Asia’s dry zones and Southeast Asia’s coastal farmlands, climate shocks are undermining food production and disrupting communities across the Global South. ​

In the Sahel, prolonged drought and poor harvests, among other factors, are driving migration north through Niger and Mali toward North Africa and, for some, across the Mediterranean.

Across South Asia, recurrent floods and heat stress have displaced millions in India and Bangladesh, while in Southeast Asia, rising seas are forcing coastal farmers and fishers inland.

These pressures are magnified by rapid population growth, especially in the Sahel, where the population is projected to more than double by 2050, placing immense strain on already limited arable land.

The same story is unfolding across the globe. In Central America’s drought-stricken Dry Corridor, years of crop failure are pushing families to leave their farms and migrate north in search of food and safety.

Safeguarding the right of people to remain where their families have lived for generations, now depends on enabling communities to produce more food from every hectare, even as conditions grow harsher.

History shows that when people cannot feed their families, societies fracture and conflicts occur. The world’s most strategic investment today is in the hands that grow our food and not in walls or weapons.

By investing in climate resilient crops such as the drought and heat tolerant varieties developed by the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) and expanding access to scientific innovation and improved seeds, we enable communities to withstand climate shocks, secure their livelihoods, and remain in their traditional lands instead of being forced to migrate by a crisis not of their making.

These positive impacts are already visible, but they must now be scaled up dramatically to match the magnitude of the challenge.

The World Bank estimates that up to 216 million people could be forced to migrate within their own countries by 2050 as climate impacts intensify most of them in Africa and South Asia.

Investing in resilient food systems in the Global South is one of the most effective and humane strategies for ensuring regional and ultimately global stability.

The UNDP estimates that every dollar invested in sustainable agriculture today saves seven to ten dollars in humanitarian aid and migration management later.

At ICRISAT we witness this every day. Across Africa and Asia, we work with governments and communities to turn drylands, some of the harshest farming environments on Earth, into zones of opportunity.

In India’s Bundelkhand region, stretching across southern Uttar Pradesh and northern Madhya Pradesh our science-led watershed interventions have turned what were once parched and deserted wastelands into thriving, water-abundant croplands.

In Niger, climate-resilient seed systems are now transforming uncertainty into productivity. From drought-tolerant sorghum and pearl millet to digital tools that guide farmers on planting and water management, science is helping people stay and thrive where they are.

These few examples show that solutions exist. What is missing is scale and that requires more sustained investment.

Developed nations have both the capacity and the self-interest to act. Supporting food systems in the Global South should also be seen as insurance against instability.

FAO’s 2025 World Food Day theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future”, captures what this moment demands, a deeper investment in science that make a real difference, and genuine partnership.

Across the Global South, collaboration is already strengthening through the ICRISAT Center of Excellence for South-South Cooperation in Agriculture as nations share knowledge, seeds, and strategies to build resilience together.

Yet the North, too, has a vital role to play in recognition that hunger and instability anywhere can threaten prosperity everywhere.

The future of food security, peace, and climate resilience must be built together.

As the climate crisis tightens its hold, the world must choose, act now to strengthen the foundations of food and farming, or face the growing cost of displacement and unrest.

This World Food Day let us remember that peace, like harvests, depends on what we sow today.

Dr Himanshu Pathak Director General, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)

Stakeholders welcome establishment of MFEZ in Monze

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Stakeholders in Southern Province have welcomed President Hakainde Hichilema’s announcement on the establishment of a Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ) in Monze District, describing it as a major milestone towards boosting economic growth in the province.

President Hichilema made the announcement during the official opening of the Southern Province Trade Exposition 2025 in Livingstone recently, where he revealed that Cabinet had approved the creation of the MFEZ to attract investment and promote industrialisation in the region.

The media reports that the Livingstone Chamber of Commerce and the Pemba District Administration are among the stakeholders that have expressed support for the initiative.

Livingstone Chamber of Commerce President, Banwell Mwila, says the Chamber of Commerce has for a long time wished for an economic zone in the province.

Mr Mwila noted that the MFEZ will bring about economic growth as jobs will be created.

“District economic performance will increase, and local authorities will be able to get levy, so we are so excited,” Mr Mwila stated.

Pemba District Commissioner, Obey Habeenzu, noted that Pemba, being a neighbouring district to Monze, stands a good chance of benefiting from the MFEZ.

“We join Monze in celebrating the incoming MFEZ, which as Pemba District we believe is going to benefit our district,” Mr Habeenzu said.

Mr Habeenzu added that the MFEZ will also open up markets for the people in a number of ways including agriculture.

And, Pemba Town Council Secretary, Samuel Chilombo, is also optimistic that the economic benefits which will be accrued in Monze will spill over to Pemba.

“We feel as a sister council which is near Monze, the economic benefits that will be accrued in Monze will extend to Pemba which is about 35 Kilometers from Monze,” Mr Chilombo said.

Govt. praised for Mufulira-Mokambo-Mansa Road Project

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Chief Kasomalwela of the Ushi people in Chembe District has commended government for allocating funds in the 2026 National Budget for the Mufulira-Mokambo-Mansa Road Project.

The media reports that the traditional leader observes that the road, connecting Zambia through the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), holds a significant economic value for the country, making its improvement overdue.

Chief Kasomalwe said this when Luapula Province Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary, Evans Sikabubba, paid a courtesy call on him at his palace.

And, Mr Sikabubba highlighted government’s commitment to supporting all sectors with resources in order to grow the economy at all levels across the country.

He, therefore, assured farmers in Chembe that supplied maize to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) during the just ended crop marketing exercise of their payment.

Mr Sikabubba further disclosed that government has committed to a weekly payment schedule to clear all outstanding dues.

55 escape unhurt, one injured in bus infernal

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About 55 passengers have escaped unhurt while a 56-year-old woman has sustained a leg injury after a Samfya-bound bus belonging to P-Mwansa caught fire.

The Media reports that Luapula Province Police Commanding Officer, Mwala Yuyi, has disclosed the accident which occurred around 14:50 Hours at Lukola area on the Chembe-Mansa Road.

Mr Yuyi said the driver of the Zhongtong Bus, Registration Number ASB 2276, Peter Mwansa, suspected the fire to have been ignited by an electrical fault.

“Police officers accompanied by fire officers from Chembe Town Council rushed to the scene and found a Zhongtong Bus belonging to P. Mwansa Company of Samfya District, which was coming from Kitwe in route to Samfya, still on fire,” Mr Yuyi stated.

He regretted that the bus was completely engulfed in flames and all passengers’ luggage was destroyed in the inferno as efforts to extinguish the fire proved futile.

“Efforts by the fire officers to extinguish the fire proved futile, as the flames were too intense to be contained with the available fire extinguishers. Consequently, the bus was extensively damaged,” Mr Yuyi added.

He, however, indicated that the total value of the damaged property has not yet been established.

Mr Yuyi stated that an inquiry file has been opened to establish the actual cause of the fire.

Govt. seeks more partnerships in addressing mental health issues

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Copperbelt Province Minister, Elisha Matambo, has urged the church to supplement government’s efforts in addressing mental health issues in communities.

And, Mr Matambo has emphasised that the church is a key partner in national development.

The media reports that Mr Matambo was speaking during the 13th Anniversary Celebration of the Light Embassy Ministry in Kitwe.

He praised the role of the church in fostering good values, peace, and unity.

During the event, Mr Matambo made a donation of K40, 000 towards the construction of a new church building for the Light Embassy Ministry.

He further reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting faith-based organisations.

Light Embassy Ministry, Apostle Mupesa Mwenya, thanked the government for its continued support to religious institutions.

He also expresses gratitude to Mr Matambo for the generous contribution to the church’s construction project.

KBF Condemns Eviction from Catholic Fundraising Event, Accuses State Institutions of Political Intimidation and Abuse of Power

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Zambia Must Prosper (ZMP) President Kelvin Fube Bwalya (KBF) has condemned what he described as political discrimination and the abuse of state institutions after he and his wife were ordered to leave a Catholic fundraising event at the Zambia National Service (ZNS) Chamba Valley without explanation.

KBF said that “barely five minutes into the event,” senior ZNS officials instructed them to leave the venue, a move he described as “humiliating and politically motivated.” He added that “no legal reason was provided for our eviction — only the heavy hand of political fear and intimidation.”

He said the incident occurred during a Dinner Fundraising Event for the Catholic Sisters’ “Sister to Sister” initiative, which he attended with senior party officials and his wife, “a devout Catholic and long-time supporter of Church initiatives.” The ZMP leader described the act as “unlawful” and “an example of state institutions being weaponized for political purposes under the UPND government.”

“A government that fears its people is a failed state,” he said, stressing that Zambia is not a one-party state and that the Constitution guarantees freedom of assembly, association, and religion. “No government — however powerful it imagines itself — has the right to violate these constitutional freedoms,” he added.

KBF stated that the Catholic Church has always been a place of “truth, unity, and compassion” and should remain a “neutral and safe space.” He said the Church “must remain independent and inclusive — not a place where citizens are profiled or expelled for political reasons.”

“The ‘Sister to Sister’ initiative represents the spirit of Christ — love, service, and inclusion,” he said. “Turning such an event into a stage for political discrimination is both shameful and unchristian.”

KBF called upon the Zambia National Service Command “to explain the basis of this misconduct,” and urged the Ministry of Defence “to immediately investigate the abuse of authority by ZNS officials.” He also appealed to the Catholic Secretariat to “reaffirm its position as a non-partisan and welcoming institution for all believers.”

He said Zambia Must Prosper “stands firm in defense of every Zambian’s right to freedom and dignity,” and that the party rejects “intimidation, exclusion, and fear politics.” He warned that “the misuse of public institutions to silence opponents is unconstitutional, immoral, and politically dangerous.”

Meanwhile, in a separate reflection made earlier on the National Day of Prayer, Fasting, and Reconciliation, KBF spoke about the importance of humility, unity, and renewed cooperation among the country’s political leaders. He said that members of the TONSE Alliance, both past and present, “came together in a spirit of reflection and reconciliation.”

“We sat across from one another not as rivals or aggrieved partners but as leaders who once dared to unite for the sake of Zambia,” he said. “We acknowledged our differences, admitted our collective mistakes, and agreed that the spirit of unity must not die because of past political fractures.”

He explained that the meeting “was not about reviving a political pact for convenience,” but about “reigniting a shared commitment to national purpose.” According to KBF, “the TONSE Alliance may have faltered along the way, but the ideals that birthed it — unity, inclusiveness, and a people-driven agenda — still matter.”

Reflecting on the moment, KBF said, “as we bowed our heads in prayer and opened our hearts to reconciliation, we were reminded that Zambia can only prosper when her leaders are humble enough to make peace, and wise enough to work together again.”

He concluded by emphasizing that the day should mark the beginning of renewed collaboration among national leaders. “May this not be a moment that ends with the day but the beginning of a renewed spirit of collaboration. The nation is bigger than any single political camp. Only when we unite, Zambia will prosper.”

Mwabashike urges the church to pray for national leaders

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Central Province Minister Mwabashike Nkulukusa has called on the church to remain steadfast in praying for national leaders as they navigate the country through various developmental challenges.

The media reports that speaking during the National Day of Prayer, Fasting, and Reconciliation at the United Church of Zambia (UCZ) St. Paul’s Congregation in Mkushi, Mr Nkulukusa underscored the importance of unity within the body of Christ, regardless of denominational or ideological differences.

He acknowledged that leaders, being human, are prone to making mistakes, and therefore, require ongoing spiritual guidance and intercession from the church.

Mr Nkulukusa emphasised that the church plays a critical role in promoting peace and unity which are key pillars for sustainable national development.

“Peace is fundamental to any nation’s social and economic prosperity. Where there is peace, citizens can freely participate in productive and economic activities,” he said.

He added that a peaceful environment allows communities to thrive and build a lasting legacy for future generations.

The Provincial Minister also urged political leaders to consistently uphold peace and unity, not only during the commemoration of the National Day of Prayer, Fasting, and Reconciliation, but in their daily conduct.

He further commended the church and the people of Mkushi for their dedication to prayer and encouraged continued collaboration between the Church and government in promoting good morals and national unity.