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ZAMMSA intensifies distribution of Health Centre kits

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ZAMMSA intensifies distribution of Health Centre kits

The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) has intensified efforts to ensure equitable distribution of Medical Health Centre kits country wide.

Nearly all 43 health facilities in Chongwe district of Lusaka Province have received their supplies.

At Chifwema Mini-Hospital, the number of community members going to receive professional medical healthcare has increased, adding that the situation is the same at Lwimba health center and other health facilities.

At Mulalika health post, facility in charge, Calvin Malasa confirmed that the facility has enough medicine to cover the next three months.

“We received Centre kits from ZAMMSA and we are no longer issuing prescriptions to patients”.

A check at Lwimba health post, Officer in charge Ngangula Given lauded ZAMMSA for the supplies, saying that the arrival of medicine at the facility is long overdue.

“As you know it hurts a lot as a health worker, issuing a prescription to a patient to go buy medicine when you know that this patient has no capacity whatsoever to buy drugs, this is really a good development,” he said.

At Ndapula Mini-Hospial Nurse –Incharge Lisomona Elizabeth said the facility has enough essential drugs it received from ZAMMSA.

And Chongwe District Health Director, Mweene Nseluke, stressed that the district will ensure no single pill is stolen from health facilities.

On 16th May 2023, a team comprising officers from Ministry of Health (MoH) and Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) conducted a pre-shipment inspection of the Missionpharma Logistics India Pvt Ltd kit assembly facility in Kandla, Gujarat, India to fulfil the contractual requirement before shipment of the 42,000 Health Centre kits procured by ZAMMSA on behalf of the Government.

The pre shipment exercise was witnessed by two Members of Parliament who are also members of the Parliamentary Committee on Health, whose presence added impetus to delivery of the much-needed supplies to the nation.

The delivery of the initial 7,000 Health Centre Kits has since been met by Missionpharma who delivered within the last week of June 2023.

ZAMMSA, the government agency, mandated with procurement, storage and distribution of medicines and medical supplies, has immediately kick-started the nationwide distribution of the health center kits to the service delivery point (SDP).

The ZAMMSA team has heightened efforts to ensure equitable distribution of the key supplies which cover over 96% of the national supply chain, making the health center kits the backbone of the supply chain within the shortest possible time.

 So far almost all provinces have since received their supplies.

ZAMMSA working with other government agencies, such as the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) is conducting a media follow up through the distribution of the centre kits to ensure the right people receive the lifesaving medicines.

To this effect a team of pharmaceutical media experts have been engaged to conduct a media destination check within the supply chain.

Kansanshi mine committed to supporting the education sector

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Kansanshi mine committed to supporting the education sector

Kansanshi Mining PLC has reaffirmed its support towards the education sector where over 35 primary and secondary schools in Solwezi district are benefiting from the company’s Education Quality Improvement Programme (KanEquip).

Kansanshi Mine Head of Education Sylvia Mwanza says the mining giant wants to ensure education standards are improved in the community it is operating from.

Dr. Mwanza said the KanEquip programme is aimed at improving the quality of education as it is one of the most beneficial and sustainable investments to foster economic development in the local communities.

“Education is the backbone of socio-economic development and as Kansanshi, our goal is to contribute to the improvement of quality education through resource support and capacity development of key stakeholders”, she said

Dr. Mwanza disclosed  an interview at the just ended North Western Province Agriculture and Commercial Show.

She said education is the greatest equaliser between people within society and the country at large hence the continued support to the sector by the mining company.

Dr. Mwanza said KMP has recorded positive strides in strengthening literacy education such as distribution of 177,000 books to pupils in schools, over 100, 000 text books handed over to 33 schools and 83, 000 reading books distributed to schools and colleges in Solwezi.

Other notable achievements include construction of 10 classrooms with staff houses, two science laboratories, water reticulation and ablution block at Kyafukuma as well as five classroom blocks at mushitala and mbonge.

“We have also conducted teacher and administration personnel competency development training, adult literacy and library services, and sports programs including desk rehabilitation”, Dr Mwanza said.

She added that as part of KanEquip, a programme called “Jimuka! stay in school” was introduced with the aim of ensuring girl children are kept in school during their menstruation days.

“This programme gives girls access to feminine hygiene products to improve their hygiene in order to avoid missing classes. The girls are educated on women’s health, sexual health and risks of early marriage and teenage pregnancy”, she said.

Dr. Mwanza said through this programme, girls are provided with menstrual hygiene packs to ensure every girl attains quality education leaving no one behind.

Technology minister Mutati says debt restructuring dividends on the horizon

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Technology minister Mutati says debt restructuring dividends on the horizon

Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati says Zambia has started reaping dividends from the debt restructure deal clinched by the UPND administration from the country’s official creditors.

 Mr Mutati said multilateral agencies such as the World Bank and the IMF have come on board to provide the much needed resources to drive the country’s economy.

He indicated that prior to Zambia clinching the debt restructuring deal multilateral institutions withheld the much needed financing to steer the national economy.

Mr Mutati disclosed that following the successful debt restructuring deal the IMF will this year provide US$188 million to Zambia.

Speaking at an event last evening during a public forum organised by the Blind Tiger Strategies, The minister further revealed that the World Bank will also give Zambia US$75 million .

Mr Mutati said the funds being availed by multilateral agencies are as a result of the debt restructuring deal clinched by government.

He said Zambia stands to immensely benefit from the debt relief as evidenced from the colossal amounts of money that is trickling into the country.

Mr Mutati pointed out that the money which was being kept away by international lending institutions is now being availed.

“Those that were on the fence such as the multilateral, IMF and the World Bank are now saying this year, the IMF will be able to land into Zambia one hundred and eighty-eight point eight million dollars. The World bank will give us seventy-five million dollars, money that they had kept away from us for many years,” He said.

Meanwhile Mr Mutati also revealed at the same public forum that the Ministry of Agriculture has already received US$14 million meant for supporting over 30,000 small scale farmers.

The Minister said the funds received by the government are meant to assist small scale farmers graduate into medium scale farmers.

“My colleague from the Minister of Agriculture was telling me this morning that he has already gotten 14 million dollars to support over 30 thousand small scale farmers who are going to be given five thousand kwacha each,  to elevate them from small to big farmers. So this tells you what debt restructuring can do,” He said.

And Mr Mutati says Zambia has graduated from the exclusive circle of nations that were termed as defaulters.

He said prior to securing the debt restructuring deal Zambia was among nations that were excluded from accessing international capital from the international community.

The Minister said the debt restructuring deal entered by the new dawn government is a landmark achievement that will transform the economic landscape of the country.

Mr Mutati disclosed that the debt restructuring deal is the biggest deal under the G20 common framework of debt adding that this has never happened before.

He recalled that Zambia was among the first countries to default, adding that the country has managed to liberate itself from debt through the strong leadership provided by President Hakainde Hichilema.

Mr Mutati said Zambia’s experience is being shared across the African continent, particular for those countries in debt distress.

He said countries in debt want to learn and adopt the methodology used by Zambia in clinching a debt restructuring deal.

Mr Mutati insisted that Zambia has become a tutor in Africa on what requires to be done for a country to secure a debt restructuring deal from creditors.

He cited strong leadership exhibited by President Hichilema and his team as a key ingredient required for any country desiring to clinch a debt relief deal from creditors.

“Zambia is going to share her experience with other countries in Africa, “said Mr Mutati.

The Minister pointed out that hope has risen once again for a better Zambia with full opportunities for young people and improved service delivery to the communities.

And speaking at the same public forum Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) Researcher – Public Finance Management Martina Mumba, said the body is complimenting government efforts in sensitizing members of the public on the benefits the country will drive from the debt restructuring deal.

Ms Mumba said there is need for the community to be informed on the benefits that the country is expected to derive from the debt relief programme.

Meanwhile University of Zambia Students Union (UNZASU) President Chandra Choongo hoped that the debt restructuring deal will translate into increased allocation of funds to the education sector.

Mr Choongo said students in higher learning institutions are anxious to see benefits such as job opportunities and recruitment of teachers.

He further said government should consider expanding infrastructure in public learning institutions so as to accommodate the country’s increasing population.

The organisers of the public forum, Blind Tiger Strategies Executive Director Sikazwa Luyando said the forum was organised with a view to give a better understanding of the benefits that the country will derive from the debt restructuring deal.

Mr Luyando expressed happiness with the information shared during the forum adding that it will help members of the public appreciate the importance of Zambia acquiring debt relief.

Govt. launches fish harvesting on Lake Tanganyika

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Govt. launches fish harvesting on Lake Tanganyika

Government has launched the inaugural harvesting of fish by small scale fish farmers on Lake Tanganyika in Mpulungu District.

The fish cage farming for smallholder farmers on the lake was piloted by the Lake Tanganyika Development Project.

Northern Province Permanent Secretary Bernard Mpundu who flagged off the harvesting of fish from the cages has commended the Lake Tanganyika Development Project for supporting the project.

Mr Mpundu said the successful implementation of the project has killed the notion that fish farming on the lake can only be done with huge capital injection.

Mr Mpundu said this at the inaugural harvesting of fish from the small scale fish farming cages in Chipwa Village in Mpulungu District.
He said local communities and the villages spearheaded and managed the project on the lake successfully.

“You, the local communities in this village and other villages conducting fish farming on Lake Tanganyika were in the forefront in managing the demonstration fish cages and therefore demystified the belief that fish farming can only be conducted by wealthy business people. I would like to congratulate you for the success,” he said

Mr Mpundu indicated that government has also put in place measures to improve access to investment funds through the enhanced Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission.

He encouraged cooperatives, business entities and individuals to exploit the avenues and access funding to invest in fish farming.

He said the fish harvesting has also come at the right time when government is implementing the first ever fish ban on the lake.

He said the ban was not targeted at punishing the community but will in the long run help to increase fish stocks on the lake.

And Lake Tanganyika Development Project Coordinator Dora Kamweneshe explained that her institution supported the pilot fish farming on the lake to promote the venture.

Ms Kamweneshe said the pilot project has provided lessons for people to take up fish cage farming on the lake.

She said the community has learnt how to fabricate fish cages and install the cages on the lake.

Ms Kamweneshe explained that the successful implementation of the project will also help to improve income and nutrition for members.

She also commended the ministry of fisheries and livestock for capacity building and helping to implement the project on the lake.

Meanwhile, Chipwa Village Headman Isaac Sichilima has thanked government and the Lake Tanganyika Development Project for supporting people in the area.

He said the project has supported people to implement alternative livelihood projects.

Mr Sichilima said the project has not only supported the community with the fish cages but also given them goats.

Commerce Minister Chipoka Mulenga attends African Business Summit

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Commerce Minister Chipoka Mulenga attends African Business Summit

Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry Chipoka Mulenga is in Gaborone, Botswana to participate at the United States Africa Business Summit being held from July 11th to 14, 2023.

In a press statement  by First Secretary Press at the Zambian High Commission in Gaborone Botswana, Julia Malunga , the Africa Business Summit is being held under the theme “Enhancing Africa’s Value in Global Value Chains.”

Ms Malunga stated that on the margins of the summit Mr Mulenga will hold meetings with various investors and other stakeholders and also attend the plenary sessions and sector focused panel discussions on agri-business, finance, energy, health, infrastructure, and ICT, among other sessions.

She said the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) will also exhibit at the Summit to promote Zambia as an ideal destination for investment and tourism in Africa.

Ms Malunga further added that the Zambian private sector is encouraged to take advantage of this Summit to network with various stakeholders and consolidate business partnerships with their African and American business counterparts.

“The Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) in partnership with the government of Botswana are hosting the Summit which will bring together African Heads of State, more than 1,000 U.S and African private sector executives, international investors, senior government and multilateral stakeholders,’’ said Ms Malunga.

FIFA Approves Copper Queens

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FIFA Approves Copper Queens

Zambia Womens National Soccer Team Skipper and Shanghai Sheng lei striker Barbra Banda will lead the Copper Queen’s 23-member squad for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand after world football governing body FIFA confirmed the squad lists for the tournament.

World Football governing body, FIFA has confirmed Banda and 22 other Copper Queens players as part of 736 players to represent their nations in Australia and New Zealand.

Zambia will begin her World Cup campaign on the 22nd July against Japan before facing Spain on 26th July and battle it out with Costa Rica on 1st August to conclude their group stage.

FIFA has also announced that 736 players from 32 countries will converge in the southern hemisphere for the ninth edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, each with the dream of lifting the iconic trophy at Stadium Australia.

The FIFA Women’s World Cup kicks off on Thursday, 20 July with New Zealand taking on Norway at Eden Park in Auckland.

The action will continue in Australia on the same day, with Australia facing Women’s World Cup debutantes Republic of Ireland at Stadium Australia.

In goal, the Copper Queens have Catherine Musonda (Tomiris-Turan-Kazakhstan), Eunice Sakala (Nkwazi Queens), and Hazel Nali (Fatih Vatan Sport-Turkey).

The Copper Queens defense has Margaret Belemu (Shanghai Shengli-China), Martha Tembo (BIIK Kazygurt Shymkent-Kazakhstan), Lushomo Mweemba, Agness Musesa, (both Green Buffaloes), Esther Banda (BUSA), Judith Soko (YASA), Mary Mulenga (Red Arrows), Vast Phiri (ZESCO Ndola Girls)

Zambia’s midfield will be marshalled by Ireen Lungu, Hellen Chanda (both BIIK Kazygurt Shymkent-Kazakhstan), Evarine Susan Katongo (ZISD Women), Mary Wilombe, Susan Banda (both Red Arrows), Avell Chitundu (ZESCO Ndola Girls)

Talismanic striker Barbara Banda will be joined by Xiomara Mapepa (Elite Ladies), Ochumba Oseke Lubanji (Red Arrows), Hellen Mubanga (Zaragoza CFF-Spain), Grace Chanda, and Rachael Kundananji (both Madrid CFF-Spain).

ZANIS/ENDS/AK/CB…………………………………………DRY

Bloggers Zambia praises Zambia Army for going digital

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Bloggers Zambia praises Zambia Army for going digital

Bloggers of Zambia has commended the Zambia Army for embracing digital tools on social media aimed at enhancing access to information and engagement with the general public.

In a press statement made available to ZANIS today, Bloggers of Zambia Chief Executive Officer Richard Mulonga said as an organization that promotes the use of technology for access to information, public participation and building the broader democracy, it is happy to see the effective use of social media by the Zambia Army.

Mr Mulonga stated that this is commendable owing to the fact that in the past it was difficult for citizens to have access to permissible activities of the Zambia Army adding that citizens were not adequately informed and educated about the role of the army in democracy.

He said the adaptation to technology by the Zambia Army will enable citizens to stay informed and educated about the defense wing’s activities such as their missions locally and abroad in addition to challenges and opportunities they face in these activities.

“The Zambia Army has exhibited a sense of transparency and accountability within their operations by actively engaging on their website and Facebook platforms, where they have been providing updates on their operations, recruitment processes, recent Maina Soko Medical Center achievements, partnerships, and their commitment to protecting the nation from external forces,” said Mr Mulonga.

Mr Mulonga further said that this open and transparent approach builds trust between the army and the public, dispelling misconceptions and fostering a better understanding of their vital role in ensuring national security and contribution to economic development.

He said in this digital age where technology has revolutionized societies, the Zambia Army must be encouraged to strengthen their digital platforms and enhance their visibility in a bid to bridge the gap on public knowledge about the military without compromising security standards in the country.

Mr Mulonga noted that the presence of the Zambia Army on social media also serves as a motivator and career guidance to citizens who are able to be inspired by modern military capabilities, training programs, and other career opportunities.

He further encouraged the Zambia Army to continue investing in digital tools, safety and literacy to ensure effective use of technology as a platform for citizen engagement.

Mining a major contributor to job creation – Kabuswe

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Mining a major contributor to job creation – Kabuswe

Minister of Mines and Minerals Development Paul Kabuswe says mining in Zambia spans over 100 years and contributes to job creation and over 80 percent of export earnings for the country.

In a speech read on his behalf by Copperbelt Province Permanent Secretary Augustine Kasongo at the Africa Gemstone and Jewelry Exhibition Conference held in Ndola, Mr Kabuswe noted that the country boasts of an abundance of base metals which include copper, cobalt and manganese, precious and semi-precious minerals among them gold, gemstone and emerald.

He added that government is encouraging the production and processing of the minerals.

He further said government is facilitating local ownership of mines to increase participation of Zambians in the sector.

The Minister stated that mining has been identified as a key sector to drive the agenda of economic transformation and job creation.

“For this reason the government is focused on diversifying the mining sector through the promotion and exploitation of other minerals such as gemstone, gold, nickel, manganese and iron mainly characterized by small-scale miners,” he said.

African Minerals Development Center Interim Director Marit Kitaw said Africa’s vast mineral wealth remains an important driver of structural transformation enshrined in the Africa Union’s Agenda 2063, as it represents about 30 percent of the mineral deposits of the world.

Dr. Kitaw added that Africa’s exports of oil, gas, and minerals account for 70 percent of exports and 50 percent revenue.

She noted that despite the enormous potential of the mineral industry, most African countries have historically been unable to benefit from their natural wealth, because of disproportionate dependence on minerals exports which is a major vulnerability as it exposes the region to the fluctuations of commodity prices.

“The Africa Mining Vision (AMV) was adopted by African Union Heads of State and Government in 2009 and aims to ensure minerals play a greater transformative role in the development of the continent.

The African Union Heads of State and Governments adopted the AMV to serve as Africa’s road map for strategically harnessing its mineral resources for broad-based sustainable development,” she said.

Dr Kitaw said Africa is home to different and unquantifiable deposits of gemstones, and is a key producer of a variety of colored gemstones including Ethiopia’s Opal, Kenya’s Tsavorite, Madagascar’s Sapphires, Mozambique’s Rubies, Tanzania’s Tanzanite, and Zambia’s Emeralds.

She added that African gemstones and metals contribute to a growing multi billion jewelry industry with global sales estimated at US$279 billion in 2018 and expected to rise over 70 percent to US$480.5 billion by 2025.

“The jewelry retail industry ranges from high-end luxury products, such as earrings, watches, and necklaces made of precious stones like diamond, ruby, and gold to fashion jewelry made of non-precious metals, stones, and other materials.” She noted.

Dancing Around Declarations: The Elusive Assets of President HH.

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Dancing Around Declarations: The Elusive Assets of President HH.
Once upon a time in the land of Zambia, a champion of democracy and good governance emerged defeating President Lungu who has been in the spotlight lately. His name was President Hakainde Hichilema, and he vowed to fight against corruption wherever it reared its ugly head. Hasn’t he done wonders already exposing the ECL Family riches.
But as the people began to wonder about President Hichilema’s worth and assets, they discovered a peculiar silence. It seemed that he was avoiding the very thing he championed – declaring his assets. The whispers started, and the people couldn’t help but wonder why.
Could it be that President Hichilema, in his intelligence, was avoiding the revealing of his assets? After all, his private residence, Community House, had suddenly become his official residence. Rumors circulated that state funds were used to make it suitable and habitable for a sitting President.
The citizens raised their eyebrows in suspicion. Was the President shunning accountability questions by withholding his assets? They knew that once the declarations were made public, the murmurs would turn into a deafening roar. The citizens couldn’t help but wonder if their hard-earned money was being used to increase the value of his private residence.
You see, the requirement for leaders to declare their assets and liabilities is not just a bureaucratic exercise. It serves a higher purpose – promoting transparency and accountability in governance. But here, it seemed, was a President who danced around the very principles he claimed to uphold.
First and foremost, asset declarations are meant to prevent corruption. By laying bare their financial standing before assuming office, leaders are discouraged from seeking illicit enrichment or using public resources for personal gain. It’s a way to keep them in check, to ensure they are held accountable for their financial decisions and actions.
But what about conflicts of interest? Asset declaration helps identify any potential conflicts between a leader’s wealth and their official duties. It’s a handy tool to see if decisions are influenced by personal financial interests, making sure that favoritism and biased decision-making are kept at bay.
Beyond that, asset declarations help build trust with the public. When leaders disclose their assets, it demonstrates a commitment to transparency and integrity. It shows that they are willing to be held accountable for their financial actions, instilling confidence among the citizenry.
Regular declarations also allow the verification of wealth accumulation. By comparing successive disclosures, any suspicious or unexplained wealth can be flagged. This helps in the fight against illicit enrichment and corruption, making sure that no one gets away with ill-gotten gains.
Lastly, asset declaration strengthens democracy. It empowers citizens to assess leaders’ compliance with the law, their ethical standards, and their ability to manage public funds responsibly. In knowing their leaders’ financial information, voters can make informed choices during elections, ensuring that only those fit for the job are entrusted with power.
So, dear citizens of Zambia, the tale of President Hakainde Hichilema and his elusive assets continues. Will he step forward and embrace the transparency he so passionately advocates for? Only time will tell. But one thing is for certain – the fight for accountability and good governance goes on, regardless of who tries to dodge it.

President Hakainde Hichilema a selfless Leader – AUC

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President Hakainde Hichilema a selfless Leader – AUC

Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema Praised for Commitment to Africa’s Development by African Union Commission Chairperson

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – In a recent press statement, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), H.E Moussa Faki Mahamat, commended President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia for his selfless dedication to uplifting not only Zambia’s economic standards but also those of the entire African continent. The remarks were made during the reception of the Letters of Credence from Zambia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Her Excellency Rose Sakala.

Chairperson Mahamat specifically lauded President Hichilema’s speech at the Summit for a New Global Financing Pact held in Paris, where the Zambian leader offered hope to many African countries grappling with debt challenges. The AUC Chairperson expressed satisfaction with the regular communication between himself and President Hichilema, particularly on key continental priorities such as the integration of Africa.

Additionally, Chairperson Mahamat extended his gratitude to President Hichilema for hosting the fourth Mid-Year Coordinating Meeting in July of the previous year at the Kenneth Kaunda Wing of Mulungushi Conference Center in Lusaka. The AUC Chairperson emphasized that Zambia’s historical contributions to Africa’s liberation struggle must not be overlooked.

Ambassador Rose Sakala, in turn, reiterated Zambia’s commitment to actively participate in programs and projects aimed at propelling Africa’s development for the benefit of its citizens. She highlighted President Hichilema’s firm belief in continental integration initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the country’s efforts to forge bilateral partnerships to capitalize on regional value chains. Notably, Ambassador Sakala mentioned the joint venture between Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo in the manufacturing of electric car batteries as a prime example of this approach.

Furthermore, Ambassador Sakala reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to playing an active role in the work of the African Union. The country is set to host several AU agencies, including the Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSSOC) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) Southern Regional Coordination Centre. She also emphasized that Zambia’s state-of-the-art conference facilities and supporting infrastructure make it an ideal host for AU conferences and meetings.

Ambassador Sakala concluded by applauding the African Union’s efforts in promoting peace and security on the continent, emphasizing the importance of upholding the values established by the founding fathers of the African Union.

For further information, contact:

Mrs. Inutu Mupango Mwanza First Secretary-Press/Tourism Zambia Embassy, Addis Ababa Ethiopia

Issued on behalf of the Zambia Embassy, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Matambo directs to pay contractors handling CDF

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Matambo directs to pay contractors handling CDF

Copperbelt Province Minister Elisha Matambo has directed local authorities in the province to pay contractors handling Constituency Development Fund (CDF) projects on time.

Mr. Matambo noted that once the contractors are paid on time they will be able to complete the projects within the stipulated period.

The Minster said this when he toured a number of CDF funded projects in Chifubu constituency.

He said the central government has already released the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) and that all the local authority management need to ensure that the money is paid to contractors who are available to deliver quality works.

Mr Matambo was impressed with all the projects being undertaken in Chifubu constituency adding that the contractors were constructing projects that will stand the taste of time.

He has called on other constituencies to emulate what Chifubu Constituency.

The Minister explained that President Hakainde Hichilema thought it wise to increase (CDF) to cater for various projects in all the 156 constituencies.

He has urged the people of Chifubu to safeguard the new facilities that are being put up and not allow vandalism.

And Chifubu Constituency Member of Parliament Lloyd Lubosha said most of the projects that started early February this year using the 2022 CDF and will soon be commissioned.

Mr. Lubosha said all the projects such as the health Posts, Police post and the construction of a Court were all done based on the people’s request.

He has thanked President Hichilema for increasing the CDF as most of the people are now able to benefit from empowerment loan, skills and development projects.

Forest Rangers’ ExCo Reshuffled

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Forest Rangers Football Club chairperson Ray Mumba has been dropped by club owners Zambia Forestry and Forest Industries Corporation (ZAFFICO) ahead of the 2023/24 FAZ Super Division season.

Forest last season won the ABSA Cup and finished eighth in the league, 17 points behind champions Power Dynamos.

ZAFFICO has since appointed Mulawo Mwaba as Chairman of Forest Rangers Football Club.

“The Corporation has appointed Mulawo Mwaba as Chairman of the Club. Mr. Mwaba who is the Corporation Secretary served as Vice Chairman of the Club during the last season,” ZAFFICO spokesperson Irene Lungu Chipili announced.

“Other appointed members of the Club include: Treasurer – Manyani MwandilaSecretary – Wisdom MusondaVice Secretary – Nixon Mwansa Adamson Sakala, Lwimba Mulombwa, Ruth Chipasha, Kondwani Kanyika and Nawa Kaka have also been appointed to the Executive Committee.”

She added:”They will serve for a period of four years. ZAFFICO Managing Director Mr. Mundia Mundia has thanked members of the previous Executive led by Mr. Ray Mumba for the service rendered to the Club. He has urged the new Executive to remain committed and resolute to improving the performance of the Club.”

HIV infection escalate in Kafue Adolescents

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HIV infection escalate in Kafue Adolescents

Kafue District Adolescent Coordinator Charity Bwalya has expressed concern with the escalating HIV infections among the Adolescents in the District.

Speaking at the Adolescent quarterly stakeholders meeting in Kafue District Ms. Bwalya said it is worrying that HIV infections and teen-age pregnancies continue to rise among young people despite numerous interventions.

Ms. Bwalya noted that there is a need to establish why HIV infection keeps rising and to come up with strategies that will help to address the scourge.

“HIV infections have continued to increase despite the intervention that is being done by government and other stakeholders, where is the problem?,” said Ms. Bwalya.

She said a number of girls in schools are taking advantage of the re-entry policy which allows young girls who fall pregnant to go back to school once they give birth.

Ms. Bwalya emphasized the need to educate young girls on the dangers of engaging in illicit sex, drug, and alcohol abuse.

 Kafue District Adolescent Health Champion Jomo Banda attributed the rise in HIV infections and teenage pregnancies to poor parenting.

Mr. Banda said many parents today are preoccupied with their work at the expense of grooming their children.

“We have a lot of absentee parents, and many children are growing up without guidance from their parents.

Mr. Banda said some parents do not have time to talk about sexual matters with their children which has led to the escalating number of infections among the adolescents

He called upon parents to take responsibility and educate their children on the dangers of indulging in unlawful sex.

Meanwhile, Kafue Development Aid from People to People (DAPP) Programme Officer Conrad Habasune said peer pressure and access to social media platforms have contributed to the high levels of HIV infections among the youth.

Mr. Habasune said young girls are indulging in illegal sex so that they can have money to buy smartphones which can enable them to access social media platforms.

“Peer pressure and technology are forcing a number of girls to get involved in sex so that they can buy these expensive phones, hence the rise in HIV infections,” said Mr. Habasune.

Kafue district recorded over 200 teenage pregnancies in the third quarter of 2022.

Fans upbeat over Chipolopolo qualification to COSAFA Semis

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Fans upbeat over Chipolopolo qualification to COSAFA Semis

Football fans have expressed confidence that  Zambia will qualify to the next round of the COSAFA Cup after bouncing back to winning ways  at the ongoing COSAFA Cup tournament  in South Africa.

Zambia beat Comoros 2 goals to 1 to return back to winning ways and record their first win after losing to Malawi in the opening fixture of the tournament

A great  51st minute strike from Power Dynamos midfielder Frederick Mulambia and a 73rd minute goal scored by Red Arrows striker Albert Kangwanda was enough to claim the victory despite a  67th minute consolation scored by Affane Djambae after a defensive mishap.

The match was not short of drama with Bakri Youssouf being sent off for a second bookable offence after 77 minutes.

Zambia Sports Fans Association is pleased with the result and expectant of victory when Zambia faces Seychelles tomorrow July 11, 2023.

Association Patron Peter Makembo has tipped Zambia to defend their title.

Makembo praised the team for showing character saying the way Zambia played is an indication that they can go far in the tournament.

Zambia needs to beat Seychelles in their next game on Tuesday to guarantee qualification to the next round.

FRA buys over 500 metric tonnes of maize in North-Western

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FRA buys over 500 metric tonnes of maize in North-Western

North Western Province Minister, Robert Lihefu says 67,973 farmers will benefit under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) for 2023/2024 farming season

Mr Lihefu said government is working towards ensuring that inputs are delivered to the farmers in the province on time.

He said about 100 metric tonnes of Compound D fertilizer has already been delivered to Solwezi and Kalumbila districts.

 “This year’s farming season will be one of its kind as government is determined to deliver farming inputs early to our farmers,” he said.

Speaking at the 2023 Provincial Agricultural and Commercial show in Solwezi district, Mr  Lihefu said the Food Reserve Agency(FRA) is also expected to purchase 40,000 metric tonnes  of white maize during the 2023 crop marketing season.

Mr Lihefu said FRA is operating 117 satellite depots in North-Western Province and so far the Agency has purchased 1,000 metric tonnes of white maize.

 “Let me also assure the soya beans farmers that arrangements to purchase soya beans are underway. Payments to our able farmers who supplied maize to the FRA is expected to commence soon,” he said.

Meanwhile,   FRA Public Relations Coordinator, John Chipandwe said 468 people have been employed to work in the 117 satellite depots in North-Western Province.

He added that the Agency is already buying white maize and paddy rice from farmers in Solwezi District and the entire country.

“As at July 6, 2023, the Agency had purchased over 500 metric tonnes of Grade A white maize from farmers in North-Western Province,” he said.

Mr Chipandwe has further encouraged farmers to clean their crops from their homes before they deliver to the depots to shorten the receiving and screening process at the depot.

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