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Zambia hosts chemical weapons indaba

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Zambia hosts chemical weapons indaba

Zambia is hosting a four-day training course on assistance and protection against Chemical Weapons for Anglophone member states in Africa.

The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) which is the implementing body of Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) says abandoned and old chemical weapons still need to be recovered and destroyed.

Speaking in Lusaka today during the official opening of the training that has attracted participants from different parts of Africa, OPCW Programme Officer- Assistance and Protection Branch Babatunde Olowookere said the use and threat of chemical weapons during the past decade has demonstrated serious violations.

Mr Olowookere admitted that preventing the re-emergence of chemical weapons is a long term undertaking.

He however said while the dangers posed by state chemical arsenals are now receding, other threats are emerging which require countries to remain vigilant.

Meanwhile Mr  Olowookere praised Zambia for being a long term partner of the OPCW.

Speaking at the same event, Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Norman Chipakupaku said the training will help state parties to establish basic capabilities that will directly benefit civilians.

And Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Permanent Secretary Hope Situmbeko said Zambia remains committed to providing assistance and protection in accordance with the Chemical Weapons Convention.

Zambia became a signatory state to the chemical weapons convention in 1993 and subsequently ratified it in 2001.

Kennedy Mweene Hangs Up His Gloves

Lusaka Times Editor
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Kennedy Mweene Hangs Up His Gloves

Mamelodi Sundowns and former Zambian international goalkeeper, Kennedy Mweene’s tale  has come to a close with the footballer announcing his retirement at the age of 38. Mwwene was not just a goalkeeper, he was a legend, a beacon of inspiration for aspiring footballers across the African continent. His journey with Sundowns was one of triumph, perseverance, and unwavering passion.

Throughout his tenure, the iconic goalkeeper had collected an astonishing array of trophies, including eight Premier Soccer League (PSL) titles, two Nedbank Cups, two Telkom Knockout titles, a coveted CAF Champions League crown, and the glorious CAF Super Cup. These achievements were not mere numbers on a page; they were symbols of his dedication, hard work, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

“My ten years at Sundowns as a football player has been emotional. I’ve shared the dressing room with a lot of good players at Sundowns and now it’s time to celebrate. I’ve achieved all these things because of the people around me.” Said Mweene.

“Football has taken me to places which I never dreamt that one day I’d be able to share the same pitch with some of the great players that Africa has ever offered. There’s league trophies we have won. I have won eight PSL titles, two Nedbank Cups, two Telkom, a Champions League as well as the Super Cup.”

Though the decorated and acrobatic keeper marked the end of a beautiful era in his career, his impact and achievements would continue to inspire generations of footballers who dared to dream. For ten glorious years, the Zambian international goalie stood tall as the last line of defense for Bafana ba Style, but now, the time has come for him to hang up his boots and bid farewell to the game he loved.

Kapalaya, known for his agility, bravery, and incredible reflexes, has been a pillar of strength for The Brazilians. Reflecting back on their teammates’ character, Denis Onyango and Reyaad Pieterse spoke highly of Kennedy’s impact on the team as they had shared the dressing room and training ground with him for several years, describing him as a mentor and a true professional.

“He’s a fun individual, an honest guy, a good teammate to have and he’s been a good motivator for myself and the young ones coming in. Kennedy has made tremendous saves and has kept us in many competitions, to learn from someone like that is such an honor and privilege. He’s world class.” Said Pieterse.

“[We have] happy faces when we are training, but of course give a hundred percent when we are given a task. He’s the only goalkeeper in the PSL who has won all the titles in Africa, he’s been an inspiration to me since I joined Sundowns.” Expressed Onyango.

Another voice that joined to bid farewell to the Zambian shot stopper was Downs goalkeeper Coach, Wendell Robinson, he took a moment to reflect on the incredible journey of this remarkable goalkeeper: “He’s professional, hard working but most of all he is one of the most humble and kind human beings you’ll ever find.”

As Kennedy Mweene stepped away from the game that had defined him for so long, the footballing world celebrated his achievements and legacy. His time at Mamelodi Sundowns had been nothing short of extraordinary, leaving an indelible mark on the club’s history. With his graceful exits from the field, Kennedy ensured that his legacy would live on, inspiring generations of goalkeepers to come. The revered goalkeeper expressed his heartfelt gratitude for his time at the home of the Champions.

“I am hanging up my boots and gloves because I think I have played my part at both national level and club level. Thank you so much to everyone who has contributed to my life. Most of the coaches I’ve gone through have made me a better person, a better player as well, it was a successful career and I don’t think it could have happened anywhere else apart from Sundowns.”

Source: Mamelodi Soundowns website

Barbra Banda Cleared for Women’s WC Despite Previous Gender Eligibility Test

Lusaka Times Editor
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Barbra Banda Cleared for Women’s WC Despite Previous Gender Eligibility Test

Barbra Banda, the captain of Zambia’s national team, has received clearance to participate in the upcoming Women’s World Cup held in Australia and New Zealand. This decision comes despite a previous ‘gender eligibility test’ that she did not meet.

During a friendly match last week, Banda led her team to a remarkable 3-2 victory over Germany, scoring two goals and showcasing her exceptional talent. However, she was unable to compete in the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations due to elevated levels of testosterone detected in the gender eligibility test conducted before the tournament.

Testosterone, the primary male hormone, influences various aspects of male development during adolescence, including increased bone density and muscle strength.

Getty Images

Nevertheless, FIFA has granted Banda permission to participate in the Women’s World Cup this month, as teams are now allowed to conduct their own internal investigations to determine gender eligibility. In a statement to German publication BILD, FIFA stated, “The World Cup participants have assured us that they will conduct thorough investigations to provide clear evidence of their players’ female gender.”

In the past, prior to the 2011 Women’s World Cup in Germany, female players were required to undergo genital examinations conducted by FIFA-appointed doctors. These gender eligibility procedures have faced significant criticism from former players, including Nilla Fischer of Sweden, who wrote in her biography, “We were instructed not to shave ‘down there’ in the days leading up to the examination and to expose our genitals to the doctor.”

Currently, DNA and blood tests are conducted on a case-by-case basis, with physical tests reserved for exceptional circumstances. As a result, the majority of players are not subjected to these examinations.

At the age of 23, Banda plays as a forward for Shanghai Shengli, a Chinese club, and has scored an impressive 30 goals for Zambia since her debut in 2016. Last Friday, she delivered an outstanding performance against Germany, netting a remarkable brace, including the winning goal during injury time through a blistering counter-attack.

Despite being unable to participate in the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations, Banda made history at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, where she scored two hat-tricks. Prior to pursuing a career in football, Banda was an avid boxer, starting at the age of 14 and winning five professional bouts before shifting her focus to football.

Born in Lusaka, the capital of Zambia, Banda played football with boys during her early years as the academy she attended did not have a girls’ team.

In the upcoming Women’s World Cup, Zambia will be competing against Spain, Costa Rica, and Japan in the group stage. Their first match of the tournament is scheduled against Japan on July 22nd.

President’s Omission Raises Questions of Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

Lusaka Times Editor
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President’s Omission Raises Questions of Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

By Alexander Vomo

In the ongoing battle against corruption in Zambia, recent developments have brought to light critical concerns regarding the commitment of the government, particularly the president, to transparency and accountability. The dismissal of a minister amidst speculation of involvement in an illegal sugilite mining scandal has shed light on the extent of corruption within the administration. At the same time, the absence of asset declaration by the president has raised questions about the consistency and determination of the government in its anti-corruption endeavors.

The abrupt dismissal of the Luapula Province Minister has left the public puzzled and seeking answers. While the reason behind the dismissal remains undisclosed, speculations have surfaced linking the minister to an illegal Sugilite mining scandal. This scandal, which has implicated numerous individuals, including police officers and officials from the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), underscores the urgent need to address corruption within the government’s ranks.

Amidst the allegations and dismissals, a significant inconsistency emerges. The president, who has emphasized the fight against corruption, has not declared his assets since assuming office. This omission raises doubts about the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. Asset declaration by the president would serve as a crucial demonstration of leadership, ensuring that the highest office in the land is held to the same standards as others and fostering a culture of openness and integrity.

The symbolic importance of the president declaring his assets cannot be overstated. It would send a powerful message to the public, stakeholders, and international partners that Zambia is serious about fighting corruption. By leading by example and voluntarily disclosing his assets, the president would enhance credibility, rebuild public trust, and create a foundation of transparency upon which the government’s anti-corruption efforts can stand.

Addressing the contradictions and addressing the concerns surrounding corruption requires consistent action. While the dismissal of officials allegedly involved in corrupt practices is a step forward, it is equally vital for the president to complement such actions with asset declaration. This move would not only align with the government’s anti-corruption rhetoric but also demonstrate a genuine commitment to transparency, ensuring that the fight against corruption begins at the top.

The recent dismissal of the Luapula Province Minister without a disclosed reason, combined with speculations of their involvement in an illegal Sugilite mining scandal, highlights the seriousness of corruption allegations within the government. The involvement of multiple individuals, including police officers and party officials, suggests a wider network of corruption that needs to be addressed.

Lack of Asset Declaration by the President since assuming office, while simultaneously emphasizing the fight against corruption, raises questions about consistency and commitment. Asset declaration by the president would

demonstrate a proactive approach to transparency, reinforcing the government’s commitment to accountability and providing a benchmark for others to follow.

The president’s declaration of assets would send a powerful symbolic message to the public and stakeholders that he is genuinely dedicated to combating corruption. It would reinforce the notion that leaders should be held to the same standards as others and that the fight against corruption begins at the top.

Failure to declare assets can create skepticism and erode public trust. It may lead to perceptions that the government’s anti-corruption rhetoric is not being fully backed by actions. In contrast, asset declaration would enhance the president’s credibility and demonstrate a genuine commitment to transparency, thereby strengthening public trust in the government’s anti-corruption efforts.

In the face of corruption allegations and ongoing efforts to combat this pervasive issue, the importance of asset declaration by the president cannot be understated. The call for the president to declare his assets grows louder, with citizens and stakeholders seeking reassurance of the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. Only through consistent action and leading by example can Zambia effectively combat corruption and restore faith in its governance

“It’s normal that the coach sleeps with the players in our team.”

Lusaka Times Editor
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“It’s normal that the coach sleeps with the players in our team.”

Zambia women’s football team head coach accused of sexual misconduct

The head coach of Zambia’s women’s football team, due to compete in this month’s Women’s World Cup, has been investigated over allegations of sexual misconduct.

Bruce Mwape was appointed in May 2018 and helped Zambia qualify for the World Cup for the first time. The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) said in September 2022 that it had referred an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse in the women’s game to Fifa, football’s governing body. Mwape and the under-17 coach Kaluba Kangwa are understood to have been among the FAZ employees who were investigated.

“If he [Mwape] wants to sleep with someone, you have to say yes,” one player who did not want to be named told the Guardian. “It’s normal that the coach sleeps with the players in our team.”

One source who knows the players said they had received threats, not from Mwape himself. “They are being threatened with punitive action if they dare say anything about what happened,” the source said. “The federation is turning a blind eye because the women have had good results. It’s their way to show to the public and the authorities success and a good image. But behind the scenes, it’s very ugly.”

Mwape referred questions sent by the Guardian to the FAZ press office. A FAZ spokesperson, asked by the Guardian whether it had received any complaints about Mwape’s conduct, referred to their statement of September 2022 and would not add to their comments.

“Although we have no record of official complaints from anyone on the allegations, we consider these allegations very serious and have opened an inquiry into the matter,” said the FAZ’s general secretary, Adrian Kashala, in the statement. “We shall collaborate with the Zambia Police Service and other relevant stakeholders in dealing with this matter.”

According to the FAZ’s president, Andrew Kamanga, the investigation was referred to police and Fifa to ensure that it is not accused of “taking sides”.

“We prefer that an independent body such as Fifa which has the capacity to do it will be able to handle the inquiries,” he said in October 2022. “Definitely we are going to take sanctions; we have enough rules and regulations within football which we can deal with.”

The Guardian has contacted the Zambian police for comment.

It is understood that Fifa is aware of the accusations made against Mwape and has been in touch with the FAZ to investigate. However, a Fifa spokesperson said it could not comment on ongoing investigations. “Please note that as a general policy, the independent ethics committee does not comment on whether or not investigations are under way into alleged cases,” he said. “As usual, any information the ethics committee may like to share will be communicated at their discretion.”

Zambia, one of four African teams in the Women’s World Cup, are in Group C with Spain, Japan and Costa Rica and will play those games in New Zealand.

Source: The Guardian

President’s Excessive International Travel a concern-Vomo

Lusaka Times Editor
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President’s Excessive International Travel a concern-Vomo

A concerned citizen, Alexander Vomo, has addressed a letter to President Hakainde Hichilema, expressing apprehension about the frequency of the President’s international travels. In the letter, Mr. Vomo points out an apparent inconsistency between the President’s current actions and his previous statements while in opposition.

Mr. Vomo highlights that during his time in opposition, President Hichilema criticized the former president for excessive travel, especially when accompanied by a large entourage. The letter mentions that the President had criticized the inclusion of dancers and individuals for personal purposes, such as taking selfies and engaging in personal activities like shopping.

While acknowledging that circumstances and responsibilities can change when assuming the role of the presidency, Mr. Vomo emphasizes the importance of maintaining consistency in words and actions to foster public trust and confidence. The letter raises questions about the President’s own frequent international travels in light of his previous criticism of the former president’s travel habits.

As a concerned citizen, Mr. Vomo urges President Hichilema to reflect on the significance of setting an example through his actions and adhering to the principles and expectations he expressed while in opposition. He calls for transparency and prudence in the President’s international travel arrangements to demonstrate a commitment to the responsible use of public resources and address concerns raised by the public regarding excessive entourages and personal engagements during official visits.

The letter concludes by expressing confidence that President Hichilema, as a leader dedicated to Zambia’s welfare, will carefully consider the implications of his travel practices and strive to align them with the expectations set forth during his time in opposition. The maintenance of consistency and accountability, the letter suggests, will not only strengthen public trust but also demonstrate the President’s commitment to effective governance and the betterment of the nation.

Full Letter Below

Advisory Concerning Frequent International Travel of the President

Dr. Hakainde Hichilema
President of Zambia
09 July 2023

I hope this letter finds you well. I would like to express my concern regarding the frequency of your international travels, as well as draw attention to an apparent inconsistency between your current actions and your previous statements while in opposition. It has come to the attention of the public that you used to criticize the former president for excessive travel, particularly when accompanied by a large entourage, you criticized him saying that he has included dancers and individuals for personal purposes, such as going just to take selfies and engaging in personal activities like shopping.

I write to express my concerns regarding the frequency and nature of your recent international travels, which appear to have occurred within a remarkably short period. It has been observed that in the span of a few weeks, you embarked on trips to Ukraine and Russia for a peace talk, followed by visits to Rwanda and France, where a debt restructuring deal was secured. Remarkably, within a mere ten days of returning from Rwanda and France, you have now traveled to Ghana to attend a university graduation ceremony.

While recognizing the importance of diplomatic engagements and international cooperation, the consecutive nature of these trips gives rise to concerns among the Zambian public. The rapid succession of visits to different countries, often within a brief timeframe, creates an impression that you are merely returning to Zambia to change clothes before embarking on your next journey. This perception can undermine the perception of stability and focused leadership required for effective governance.

Additionally, it is essential to ensure that the purpose of international travel aligns closely with national priorities and objectives. While the peace talks in Ukraine and Russia and the debt restructuring deal in France hold significance, it is equally vital to balance such engagements with the pressing needs and challenges faced by our nation. The public expects that your international travels are undertaken judiciously, with clear objectives that directly contribute to the welfare and development of Zambia.

In light of these concerns, I kindly urge you to review the frequency and timing of your international travels, ensuring that they are conducted in a manner that maximizes the benefits for Zambia and demonstrates a clear prioritization of national interests. By maintaining a balanced approach and a deliberate focus on addressing domestic issues, you will not only reinforce public confidence but also set an example of effective leadership and stewardship.

While it is essential to acknowledge that circumstances and responsibilities can change when assuming the role of the presidency, it is important to maintain consistency in words and actions to foster public trust and confidence. Your previous criticism of the former president’s travel habits, specifically highlighting the inclusion of individuals for non-official purposes, raises questions when compared to your own frequent international travels.

As a concerned citizen, I urge you to reflect upon the importance of setting an example through your actions and adhering to the principles and expectations you expressed while in opposition. By ensuring transparency and prudence in your international travel arrangements, you can demonstrate your commitment to the responsible use of public resources and address the concerns raised by the public regarding excessive entourages and personal engagements during official visits.

I trust that as a leader dedicated to the welfare of Zambia, you will carefully consider the implications of your travel practices and strive to align them with the expectations you set forth during your time in opposition. Maintaining consistency and accountability will not only strengthen public trust but also demonstrate your commitment to effective governance and the betterment of our nation.

Thank you for your attention to these matters. I believe in your commitment to the well-being of our country and trust that you will carefully consider the implications of your recent travel patterns.

Yours faithfully,
Concerned Citizen
Alexander Vomo

 

 

President Hakainde Hichilema Vows to Tackle Corruption.

Lusaka Times Editor
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President Hakainde Hichilema Vows to Tackle Corruption.

In a powerful address to Zambians residing in Ghana, President Hakainde Hichilema reiterated his commitment to combating corruption in all its forms. The President emphasized the need to tackle both past and present corruption, while also focusing on preventing any future instances. Highlighting his dedication to upholding the rule of law, President Hichilema revealed that he had recently dismissed a minister and a permanent secretary, allowing the legal system to pursue appropriate action.

President Hichilema expressed his firm resolve to eradicate the culture of laziness that has plagued the public sector. He voiced his concern over individuals receiving salaries without putting in the necessary effort and urged for a renewed work ethic across all government departments. The President emphasized the importance of productivity and stressed that the Zambian public deserved efficient and dedicated civil servants.

During his speech, President Hichilema assured the audience that there would be no discrimination or bias in the fight against corruption. He acknowledged the detrimental impact of corruption, citing the theft of school fees and meal allowances meant for children. The President empathized with the challenges faced by ordinary citizens and reassured them that the fight against corruption was not targeted or politically motivated.

Addressing the Zambian community in Ghana, President Hakainde Hichilema called for a united effort to build a corruption-free society. He stressed the significance of equal treatment and emphasized that no individual, regardless of their position or background, should be exempt from facing the consequences of corrupt actions. The President’s commitment to justice and accountability was evident in his words, resonating with Zambians both at home and abroad.

As President Hakainde Hichilema leads Zambia into a new era, his unwavering dedication to fighting corruption and promoting a productive work environment in the public sector serves as a beacon of hope for the nation. With the dismissal of officials involved in corruption and his call for collective action, President Hichilema paves the way for a brighter future, where integrity and diligence take precedence.

Siakalima re-opens gutted Kapiri Girls Technical School

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Siakalima re-opens gutted Kapiri Girls Technical School

Minister of Education, Douglas Siakalima has announced the full re-opening of Kapiri Girls National Technical School on July 17, 2023 which was closed on May 18, 2023 after fire swept through three dormitories and destroyed pupils’ property.

 Mr Siakalima said the decision to re-open the school has been made to allow pupils at the institution to resume classes for them not to remain behind in their lesson schedules and school calendar.

He made the pronouncement after inspecting progress on the repair of the affected dormitories at the institution.

This follows the partial opening of the school to examination classes, Grades 9 and 12, on June 18.

Mr Siakalima declared that the school will fully re-open to learners on July 17, 2023 stating that pupils are expected to report on 15th and 16th July adding that the school will not close during the August term break to allow pupils to catch up with other schools in the learning calendar.

“I have decided to re-open the school to allow our girls to resume classes on 17th of July 2023. This measure is meant to ensure that pupils don’t remain behind in their lesson schedules,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mr Siakalima has assured of maximum security at the institution to avert the recurrence of the incident that disturbed the learning process at the school.

He disclosed that according to police investigations so far, pupils, teachers, and unknown persons could have been behind the fire.

” I can never imagine if we had lost a life and whoever was involved and wherever they are they should have not done that. The Police are telling me some of the pupils could have done that. They are also alleging some of the teachers could have done that and they are also alleging it could have been an outsider who did that. But whoever did that life could have been lost,” Mr Siakalima said.

Meanwhile, Central Province Resident Engineer, Gift Chibuye assured the minister that works on two hostels will be completed within the course of this week before the school fully re-opens.

Ms Chibuye said only works on one other hostel will take about four weeks because about 50 percent of the building will need to be demolished and reconstructed.

“We are currently working on two dormitories Ngabwe and Mushimbili which were not so damaged and the works involved is largely painting and we are replacing doors, window glass panes and working on surfaces that were damaged while the other building will take about four weeks to allow for curing because we have to partially demolish and reconstruct it,” she said.

And Kwame Nkrumah University has donated 200 mattresses and K70, 000 cash towards the re-opening and renovation exercise of the dormitories at the institution.

Kwame Nkrumah University Board Chairperson, Lloyd Shimwambwa said the university decided to donate to ease the challenges the school was facing following the fire incidents.

“As Kwame Nkrumah University we feel duty bound to extend a helping hand in financial and material form to ease problems arising from the unfortunate situation the school and the Ministry of Education found themselves in,” Mr Shimwambwa said.

Mushindamo district in 9,000 desk deficit

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Mushindamo district in 9,000 desk deficit

Mushindamo District Council Director of works, Ricky Siamatu has disclosed that the district has a deficit of nine thousand school desks out of the eleven thousand that were allocated for procurement under the 2023 Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Responding to North-Western Province Permanent Secretary , Grandson Katambi who wanted to know the progress in desks procurement, Mr Siamatu said the CDF committee only managed to get two thousand this far.

“The CDF committee has only bought about 2000 desks for 2023, we have about a nine thousand deficit according to the statistics from DEBS,” Mr Siamata said.

The situation has displeased the Permanent Secretary, Col. Katambi who told them to learn from their colleagues who have strategized to ensure that no child sits on the floor by December 2023.

Col. Katambi (Rtd) said presidential directives should be treated with the importance they deserve and not just as mere pronouncement.

“Let us differentiate between Presidential directives and our own programmes, school desks come under Presidential directive,” Col. Katambi said.

Meanwhile, Provincial Local Government Officer, Adrian Zulu said the CDF Committee in Mushindamo is concentrating on trying to procure earth moving equipment in 2023.

Mr Zulu,however, said the committee has plans to divert some extra funds from bursaries to desks procurement.

He further clarified that the number of desks mentioned does not include those desks that have been planned for rehabilitation by the DEBS office.

Govt. calls for inclusive economic transformation

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Govt. calls for inclusive economic transformation

Chongwe District Commissioner, Evans Lupiya has called for inclusiveness in the agriculture sector to promote economic transformation in the country.

Dr. Lupiya said inclusive economic transformation can be actualised through investment in sustainable agriculture practices and supporting small scale farmers to improve their productivity as well as enable them to easily access markets for their produce.

He said agricultural practices such as value addition will provide support to women and youths who are also key in the sector.

 Dr. Lupiya was speaking when he officially opened the District Agriculture show at Chongwe High school held under the theme ‘Inclusive economic transformation’.

He stated that farmers can also play a critical role in promoting inclusive economic transformation by forming cooperatives and groups.

Dr. Lupiya states that government is implementing measures to ensure that the sector remains inclusive and sustainable to alleviate poverty and develop the economy of the country.

He urged farmers in the district to continue embracing climate smart agricultural practices to counter the effects of climate change on their farming activities.

Dr. Lupiya stated that practices such as Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) and irrigation respectively have the potential to not only grow the country’s economy but also improve their livelihood.

He further called for a multi-sectoral approach involving various stakeholders such as the private sector, civil society organisations and farmers themselves to promote inclusive economic transformation in the agricultural sector.

Meanwhile, Chongwe District Show society Chairperson, Alice Musingilo appealed to government and other relevant stakeholders in the area to help the society to find land where the District Agriculture show can be hosted.

Ms. Musingilo stated that Chongwe Secondary School where the show is hosted every year is not conducive for the event as it inconveniences both pupils and the farmers.

She also called on government to consider increasing the number of beneficiaries under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) as Chongwe is predominantly a farming area with a lot of small scale farmers.

“As you are all aware, Chongwe is predominantly a farming area with a huge number of small scale farmers. The district has 50,000 registered farmers but only 18,000 of them are beneficiaries of FISP,” he said.

“We are therefore appealing to government to come to our aid by increasing the number of FISP beneficiaries in our district,” Ms. Musingilo stated.

Ms. Musingilo further called on the Ministry of Agriculture to consider re-demarcating agriculture camps in the area as most of them are too vast for agriculture camp extension officers to manage.

Boy 15, commits suicide

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Boy 15, commits suicide

A 15 year old boy of Ngangula area in Sesheke District, has committed suicide by electrocuting himself at a 66 kilovolt ZESCO pylon.

Oscar Wakumelo committed suicide by climbing the 66 kilovolt ZESCO pylon which is transmitting power from Livingstone to Mongu.

His body has since been retrieved from the pylon and deposited at Yeta district hospital mortuary.

Oscar was in grade eight at Nakatindi secondary school and the reasons for his actions remain unknown.

Meanwhile, Sesheke District Commissioner, Alex Namenda has received the death of the young man with great shock.

The visibly saddened DC has since wished the bereaved family God’s comfort and strength.

Barrick Gold Corporation praises govt.

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Barrick Gold Corporation praises govt.

Barrick Gold Corporation has praised government for restoring investor confidence following government’ successful debt restructuring deal last month.

 Barrick President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow says the debt restructuring has made Zambia more viable for investment.

He said this when he addressed the media at Barrick Lumwana Mining Company (LMC) in Kalumbila district.

“The restructuring has made the country more investable. We are committed investors in this country and the best way for Africa to really develop is to attract investment and that is what the current President of Zambia has done,” he said.

Mr Bristow further stated that President Hakainde Hichilema has created an enabling environment for investment.

And LMC Country Finance and Administration Manager, Anthony Malenga pointed out that the debt restructuring gives a long-term perspective to future investors as well as stability in the economy.

Ngoma calls for promotion of Trade expos

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Ngoma calls for promotion of Trade expos

Buyzed Brand Ambassador, Evans Ngoma says trade expos should be promoted to enhance social and economic development in the country.

ZANIS reports that Mr Ngoma said Trade expos play an important role in enhancing networks and profiling business brands locally and internationally.

Speaking during a media briefing to reflect on his entity’s participation in the just ended trade fair which was held in Ndola, Mr Ngoma said trade fair is a platform to discover new customers and progressive partnerships.

He said Buyzed believes in stimulating consumption of locally produced goods and services, while leveraging support for domestic firms to promote home grown entrepreneurship.

Mr Ngoma further explained that the Buyzed campaign is a private sector driven initiative but mainly exists to complement government’s efforts in promoting local content.

He has called on government to effectively collaborate with the private sector in order to host such events more than once in a year.

President Hichilema visits Ghana’s recycling plant

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President Hichilema visits Ghana’s recycling plant

President Hakainde Hichilema has assured private companies that government will provide the necessary support for them to thrive.

President Hichilema was speaking in reference to a waste management company operating in Ghana that also has its presence in Zambia but has had difficulties in implementing its vision in the previous governments.

He said government is ready to work and not just talk about transforming the economy and improving the welfare of people.

The Head of State wondered why Accra’s biggest recycling company which set base in Zambia several years ago has not accomplished the work as compared to the plant in Ghana.

President Hichilema was speaking when he visited Ghana’s leading waste management company where he was taken on a conducted tour of the plant for purposes of helping him understand the model which they are using to turn waste into cash.

Mr Hichilema learnt that among the challenges faced by the company was lack of political will from government and civic leaders.

He said a lot of leaders in Africa have resolved to lift each other to address the economic challenges that exist, adding that government is determined to enhance private sector partnership.

“So you don’t have to persuade us for support, our doors are open wider now and government will work with you to support this initiative,” he told the Executive Chairman of Zoomilion Waste Management Company.

And Zoomilion Executive Chairman, Joseph Agyapong said Africa faces a challenge in waste management because very few people budget for it.

Dr Agyapong said the company has set up a model that has enabled about 10 thousand people in Accra in the informal sector who are working on collecting waste which is then sold to the company.

He stated that the model can also work well in Zambia as almost 1.3 tonnes of waste is generated in a short period of time in Lusaka alone.

“Mr President, to manage waste, governments need to put it as a priority and this is one of the reasons why most African countries are struggling with waste because of lack of political will,” he said.

Dr Agyapong said the Ghanaian government has shown commitment in managing waste by supporting the company to commission over 48 recycling plants with 16 more expected to be commissioned this year.

And in clarification, Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba explained that government did not designate a specific land field in densely populated areas which could have added a challenge to the operations of  Zoomilion.

“We have not started sorting the waste but something is being done to turn waste into cash,” he said.

Zoomilion is a leading waste management company that has set recycling plants in Lusaka, Kabwe and Ndola.

President Hichilema graces Ghana’s Valley View University graduation

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President Hichilema graces Ghana’s Valley View University graduation

President Hakainde Hichilema has urged graduating students at Valley View University in Ghana to regard hardships as an opportunity for greater opportunities.

President Hichilema briefly narrated how he was imprisoned 15 times before attaining public office.

 the President said the hardships he went through was an opening for him to restore the rule of law as he well understood the injustice that was prevailing while in prison.

The Head of State told the 1, 324 graduates that such an experience was God’s way of allowing him to attain the highest office and further encouraged the students to see suffering as an opportunity for better opportunities.

“I was in prison 15 times before attaining public office, little did I know that God was allowing me to enter the highest office that I have now used to restore the rule of because they had accused me of something I didn’t do,” he said.

President Hichilema said leadership is a huge burden but with a positive attitude anyone can manage stating that one’s background does not limit success.

He further commended the University for imparting positivity into the students because it is among the good ingredients that makes good leaders.

And Valley View University Chief of Staff, Frema Opare praised President Hichilema for his dedication to improving Zambia’s economy.

Ms Opare noted that since Mr Hichilema attained office, he has made significant milestones such as the free education policy and increase of the Constituency Development Fund among other issues.

“We have followed keenly, Mr President, how you have reinforced international relationships and enhanced private sector engagements, and we commend you for that,’ she said.

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