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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.

Chasefu man dies, five others escape unhurt in road accident

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Chasefu man dies, five others escape unhurt in road accident

A 35 year old man of Chasefu District in Eastern Province has died on the spot while five others escaped unhurt after they were involved in a road traffic accident.

A Scania truck registration number, ABM 7906, which was laden with cotton bales with five passengers on board was being driven by Alex Munthali aged 25 of Walela Compound in Chipata District.

Eastern Province Deputy Police Commissioner, Lucky Munkhondya, confirmed the accident in a statement.

Ms Munkhondya identified the deceased as Michael Gondwe, of Chilibwe Village in Chief Magodi’s area in Chasefu district.

She said the accident happened in the early hours of Sunday around 02:00 hours near Membe bridge, 10Kilometres North of Lundazi district along the Lundazi – Chama road.

Ms Munkhondya said the accident happened when the driver of the vehicle who was driving from the Northern to the Southern direction was ascending and in the process one the passengers fell off from a moving truck and died on the spot after sustaining serious head injuries.

The Deputy Eastern Police Chief disclosed that the body of the deceased has since been deposited in Lundazi District Hospital mortuary awaiting postmortem.

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

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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.

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