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Successful combating of illicit financial flows will generate positive impacts for the good governance

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Successful combating of illicit financial flows will generate positive impacts for the good governance

Minister of Finance and National Planning Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane has said successful combating of illicit financial flows will generate positive impacts for the good governance of the country, economic growth and poverty reduction.

Giving a statement on the report of the parliamentary planning and budgeting committee on the effects of illicit financial flows on the budget and its sustainability, Dr. Musokotwane said Zambia is not spared from the scourge of illicit financial flows

He told Parliament that any form of illicit financial flows such as, through tax evasion or abusive tax avoidance leads to a haemorrhage of vital resources for the government which consequently undermines national development efforts.

Dr. Musokotwane said it is imperative for Zambia to continue cooperating with other jurisdictions to combat financial crimes.

“Madam Speaker, let me take this opportunity to thank the Planning and Budgeting Committee for the important report tabled on illicit financial flows.Madam Speaker, as a player in global affairs, Zambia is obviously not spared from the repulsive scourge of illicit financial flows. Any form of illicit financial flows from our country, such as, through tax evasion or abusive tax avoidance leads to a haemorrhage of vital resources for the government which consequently undermines our development efforts.Madam Speaker, successfully combating illicit financial flows will generate positive impacts for the good governance of our country, economic growth and poverty reduction,” he said.

Dr. Musokotwane highlighted some of the Strategies the Government has instituted, through Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), to fight tax evasion and financial crimes.

“Given the transnational nature of illicit financial flows it is imperative for Zambia to continue cooperating with other jurisdictions to combat financial crimes. Therefore, the importance of advancing international tax cooperation and tackling illicit financial flows to safeguard and mobilize domestic resources to bridge the financing gap in attaining the Sustainable Development Goals will remain crucial in our developmental efforts.Let me highlight some of the Strategies the Government has instituted, through Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), to fight tax evasion and financial crimes,” he said.

Dr. Musokotwane continued:”Zambia Revenue Authority has set up a dedicated investigations unit that targets countering tax evasion practices and prosecuting such offences and a number of persecution cases have been recorded. The Authority has further set up the Enforcement unit whose mandate is partly executing anti-smuggling initiatives.Since 2012 ZRA has been building capacity for transfer pricing audits, to this effect a number of officers were identified who have been trained over the years to increase their knowledge in transfer pricing. The officers have attended transfer pricing training in countries like Malaysia, Netherlands, France, South Africa, Norway, South Korea etc.”

In 2016 ZRA established the transfer pricing unit which is expected to conduct specialised audits that can detect transfer pricing practices among multinational companies.

“The ZRA has also partnered with collaborating partners over the past few years such as the OECD, UN, ATAF, IBFD to offer training to the officers on dealing with multinationals and international taxation in general which covers transfer pricing.The Zambia Revenue Authority has set up a functional forensic lab with the help of government and other cooperating partners that will help auditors and investigators uncover hidden financial transactions and trace illicit financial flows,” Dr. Musokotwane said.

“This will help the Authority monitor suspicious transactions and potentially tax proceeds from the informal sector. The requirement will also shine a light on businesses/ persons that shy away from declaring their source of income. It is expected that with the roll out of the transaction monitoring devises in 2018, tax evasion and illicit financial transactions can be monitored and controlled. We have embraced the “whole of Government” approach to combat money laundering and other financial crimes, as we recognise that knowledge and skills required to effectively fight against these offences are often spread across different bodies, such as tax administrations, FIUs, specialized criminal law enforcement authorities, financial regulators and the public prosecutor’s office,” the Minister of Finance concluded.

Information Ministry Director Spokesperson Kawana Issues Warning Against Fake News, Affirms Cordial Church Relations

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Information Ministry Director Spokesperson Kawana Issues Warning Against Fake News, Affirms Cordial Church Relations

The Zambian government has issued a warning against the spread of fake news, cautioning individuals who engage in the dissemination of false information with serious legal consequences. Thabo Kawana, the Director Spokesperson in the Ministry of Information and Media, addressed the press this morning, emphasizing the gravity of creating and publicizing forged documents.

According to Mr. Kawana, those responsible for fabricating documents and presenting them as authentic are in violation of Section 344 of the penal code, Chapter 87 of the laws of Zambia. He stated, “People who are making forged documents purporting them to be true when in fact they are not are committing an offense.”

The government’s warning comes in response to the circulation of fake documents on various platforms, including the Patriotic Front, GrandStone Television Zambia, and Fred Namakando M’membe’s Facebook pages. Mr. Kawana confirmed that these pages had published two fraudulent documents, one claiming to be issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, and the other purportedly originating from State House.

Dismissing these documents as fake, Mr. Kawana emphasized that neither the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security nor State House had issued any such documents. He called upon the authors of the documents to reveal their sources, describing them as a concoction by unknown individuals.

Furthermore, Mr. Kawana addressed a fake email allegedly sent to the UPND Secretary General and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence. The email claimed to express grievances with the Catholic Church and included names, including that of the President. The Media Director confirmed the email’s falsity, reiterating that there is no existing dispute between the government and the Catholic Church.

In fact, Mr. Kawana stressed the cordial and longstanding relationship between the government and the Catholic Church, based on consultation and partnership. He emphasized that the government engages with institutions, not individuals, and that recent discussions between government officials and the Chairperson of the Council of Catholic Bishops exemplify this approach.

“The church and government serve the same people who form congregations on Saturday and Sunday in our various churches,” Mr. Kawana stated. He clarified that communication between the government and the Catholic Church occurs through direct engagement and pastoral letters.

In conclusion, the Zambian government is cracking down on the spread of fake news, warning individuals behind the creation and dissemination of false documents of the serious legal repercussions they may face. The government reiterated its amicable relationship with the Catholic Church, emphasizing its commitment to consultation and partnership on matters of national importance.

Minister urges the public to stop making payments for land related transactions using the old system

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Minister urges the public to stop making payments for land related transactions using the old system

Minister of Lands and Natural Resources Elijah Muchima has urged the general public to stop making payments for land related transactions using the Zambia Integrated Lands Management Information System (ZILMIS).

Mr Muchima says following the switch from ZILMIS to the Zambia Integrated Land Administration System (ZILAS) last year, all land related payments to the Ministry should be made electronically.

Mr Muchima was speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka, where he explained that all the services are currently being provided, except that a number of functions that have errors and complications have been segregated.

The Minister said that ZILAS is not segregating certain functions at the moment, therefore assured that the system will soon be at 80 percent functioning in the next six weeks.

The Minister urged the public to be patient saying that once all is in place, the new system will be better than the old one.

Indicating the various advantages of using ZILAS, Mr Muchima listed enhanced transparency and convenience, adding that it is a role-based security feature allowing for segregation of duties.

He disclosed that the technocrats are currently working hard to perfect the new system.

Smart Zambia National Coordinator Percy Chinyama said that the government is committed to building an advanced land database that will ensure credibility and reduce elicit activities.

“The public will benefit more because the system will make sure that land administration becomes transparent, with features such as the tracking mechanism that shows how long a member of staff takes to work on a case,” he said.

PeP Expresses Concern Over Police Refusal to Bring Dr. Christopher Zumani Zimba to Court

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PeP Expresses Concern Over Police Refusal to Bring Dr. Christopher Zumani Zimba to Court

The Patriots for Economic Progress (PeP) has expressed dismay at the recent statement made by Mr. Rae Hamoonga, spokesperson for the Zambia Police Service, regarding the responsibility for bringing Dr. Christopher Zumani Zimba to court. PeP President Sean Tembo argues that the police, having arrested Dr. Zimba, hold the duty and responsibility to present him before the court, after which the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) can proceed with the case.

Mr. Hamoonga’s statement implies that the NPA should proactively monitor police station detention cells to identify those who have been arrested and then take them to court. PeP finds this reasoning flawed, asserting that it is the duty of the police to initiate the process by presenting the case to the court, and then the NPA can proceed with prosecution.

PeP accuses the Zambia Police Service, and Mr. Rae Hamoonga specifically, of politicizing Dr. Christopher Zumani Zimba’s arrest and employing baseless justifications to keep him in detention without due process. PeP argues that under President Hakainde Hichilema, law enforcement has been weaponized to target perceived political opponents, including Dr. Zimba. President Hichilema is urged to reflect on the current state of affairs, as the country appears to be turning into a banana republic, blurring the line between those serving the state and those serving the ruling UPND party. PeP further suggests that Mr. Hamoonga, through his statement, reveals his alignment with the UPND party, using his police uniform to disguise his political activities.

PeP President Sean Tembo concluded the statement by calling for a more professional and unbiased approach to law enforcement under the new administration, ensuring that due process is respected, and political motives are set aside.

ZPPA Suspends SMSize Solutions Limited from Participating in Public Procurement for submitting false Information

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ZPPA Suspends SMSize Solutions Limited from Participating in Public Procurement for submitting false Information

The Zambia Public Procurement Authority (ZPPA) has taken decisive action by suspending SMSize Solutions Limited from participating in public procurement for a period of one year. The suspension comes after it was discovered that the company had submitted falsified compliance certificates from the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) and the Workers Compensation Fund Control Board.

The investigation into SMSize Solutions Limited was initiated following a complaint from the Rural Electrification Authority (REA), which had floated a tender for the supply and delivery of high-powered solar home systems in December 2022 and January 2023. ZPPA began its inquiries in April 2023, leading to the discovery of the falsified compliance certificates submitted by SMSize Solutions Limited.

During the investigation, it was revealed that the compliance certificates from the Workers Compensation Fund Control Board and NAPSA were not genuine. In response, the supplier claimed that it had used an agent to obtain the false certificates.

The submission of false information in a contract or procurement process is a violation of section 96(b) of the Public Procurement Act No.8 of 2020. This section states that any bidder or supplier providing false information in a bid or any other document submitted to a procuring entity in connection with a procurement process or contract shall be suspended from participating in public procurement.

Consequently, ZPPA has imposed a one-year suspension on SMSize Solutions Limited, effective from 5th June, 2023. The suspension extends to any entity that may be considered a successor in interest, including those employing or associated with any partners, directors, or other officers of SMSize Solutions Limited.

It is important to note that the suspension does not affect any outstanding contracts that were entered into prior to 5th June, 2023. SMSize Solutions Limited will be allowed to fulfill its obligations under those existing contracts.

To ensure the enforcement of the suspension, ZPPA advises all procuring entities to refrain from awarding contracts, selling or issuing solicitation documents, or inviting bids from SMSize Solutions Limited. Additionally, procuring entities are instructed not to engage in any dealings or communications with the suspended supplier, except in relation to existing contracts entered into before the suspension.

The details of the suspension have been provided in Circular No. 7 of 2023, available for reference on the ZPPA website at www.zppa.org.zm.

Over 5 000 Shortlisted For Military Recruitment

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Over 5 000 Shortlisted For Military Recruitment

Government says over Five Thousand candidates have been shortlisted for the commissioned and noncommissioned jobs in the Defense Forces.
Defense Minister Ambrose Lufuma said a total number of Two Hundred, Thirty Six Thousand candidates applied for recruitment in the Zambia Army, Zambia National Service and Zambia Air force.

Mr Lifuma however maintained that the available slots for recruitment in the three defense services is five thousand.
Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka today, Mr Lufuma said the names of successful candidates will be published in the Zambia Daily Mail and Times of Zambia and the Ministry of Defense website on Monday, Wednesday and Friday next week.

The Minister says the shortlisted candidates will be expected to report to the provincial centers on Sunday 18th June, 2023.

He said the third phase will be shortlisting and publication of successful candidates after undergoing medical, physical exams and aptitude tests.
Mr Lufuma said prospective candidates in the military will have a duty to defend the sovereignty of their country and will be required to be deployed within and outside Zambia.

The Minister thanked the Youths for their patience and resilience through the entire recruitment process and wished the successful candidates luck as they undertake the military training.

Education Minister Calls for Quality Graduates and Research to Boost Economic Growth

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Education Minister Calls for Quality Graduates and Research to Boost Economic Growth

Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima has challenged Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the country to be contributors to the inclusive growth and sustainable development the nation desires for.

Mr Syakalima said the current changing global economic environment calls for Institutions of higher Education to up their game in terms of the quality of graduates and the type of research being produced from the sector to stimulate economic growth.

He said that the prospects of taking advantage of the positive indications in the face of the fast changing global economic environment lie with ensuring that all key sectors in the economy play their role.

The Minister said that issues of energy crisis have become topical today, therefore, requires some reflection, just as the innovations coming out of the HEIs and their partners.

Mr Syakalima was speaking during the official opening of the 3rd Zambia Association of Public Universities and Colleges (ZAPUC) conference in Livingstone.

The minister added that addressing the underlying factors to the global challenges constitutes a first step in making the HEIs become key contributors to inclusive growth and sustainable development for all.

And ZAPUC Chairperson, who is also the University of Zambia and Chalimbana University Vice Chancellor Prof. Annie Sikwibele said, despite most African countries being endowed with abundant natural resources, they still remain amongst the poorest nations of the world.

Prof Sikwibele said that Zambia has not been spared to challenges of climate change and that HEIs must take up the leading role in finding solutions to these challenges.

She said, the main objective of the conference is to take stock of the strides made within the HEIs to adapt to the paradigm shift of the role of education institutions in contributing to national economic development and people’s well-being.

The conference was being held under the theme “enhancing the role of higher education institutions in the changing economic environment”.

Government and Catholic Church Pursue Peace and Unity

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Government and Catholic Church Pursue Peace and Unity

President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration has dispatched a delegation of ministers to engage in dialogue with the Catholic Church. Led by Honorable Felix Mutati, the delegation comprised Honorable Gary Nkombo, Honorable Doreen Mwamba, Special Assistant to the President Honorable Levy Ngoma, Honorable Sylvia Masebo, and Honorable Charles Milupi. The objective of this delegation was to foster a peaceful relationship between the government and the Catholic Church as a whole.

The delegation held fruitful discussions with Archbishop Ignatious Chama of the Kasama Diocese, resulting in an agreement that emphasized the vital role of dialogue between the church and the state. Both parties recognized the significance of maintaining an open channel of communication to ensure harmony and cooperation. A photograph captured the momentous occasion, showing Honorable Masebo, Honorable Nkombo, Archbishop Ignatius Chama, Honorable Mutati, Honorable Doreen Mwamba, Honorable Milupi, and Honorable Levy Ngoma.

Meanwhile, the Catholic Church, specifically the Monze Diocese, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to promoting reconciliation, love, unity, and peace throughout the country. During the dedication ceremony of the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Monze, Right Reverend Bishop Raphael Mweempwa emphasized the importance of unity through reconciliation among Zambians and with God. He urged Christians to embody love, mutual understanding, and respect, viewing diversity as a source of enrichment rather than division among citizens.

Bishop Mweempwa urged believers to lead authentic Christian lives, emphasizing the need to align personal values with gospel principles and faith. The occasion saw the presence of Right Reverend Bishop Clement Mulenga of Kabwe Diocese, six traditional leaders, and senior government officials. Southern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Yolanta Malunga hailed the Holy Trinity Cathedral as a symbol of unity, transforming the face of both Monze District and Southern Province.

Ms. Malunga further expressed gratitude to the Catholic Church for their commitment to uplifting lives in Zambia. She acknowledged the alignment between the Church’s teachings of love, unity, justice, peace, and human development with the aspirations of the UPND government. Ms. Malunga praised the Catholic Church’s support in supplementing government efforts in various areas such as education, social programs, and infrastructure development, which aim to improve the lives of vulnerable individuals in society.

Chief Choongo of Monze District appealed to the government, the Church, and traditional leaders to collaborate in promoting unity and peace across the country. Recognizing the pivotal role of traditional leaders and the Church as custodians of the people, Chief Choongo urged them to complement government initiatives, particularly in the realm of development. Chief Choongo expressed gratitude for the Catholic Church’s notable contributions, especially in education and healthcare, and highlighted the Church’s role in shaping individuals to adhere to Christian values while traditional leaders preserve cultural norms.

Chief Choongo concluded by urging the government, the Church, and traditional leaders to unite their efforts, serving the Zambian people diligently and prudently. With both the government and the Catholic Church expressing their commitment to peace and unity, there is renewed hope for a harmonious future in Zambia.

M’membe raise concerns about drugs shortages and condemns the detention of Dr. Chris Zumani Zimba

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M’membe raise concerns about drugs shortages and condemns the detention of Dr. Chris Zumani Zimba

In the face of a dire health crisis marked by shortages of drugs and medical equipment in hospitals and clinics, concerns are mounting over the lack of urgency displayed by the UPND government in addressing this critical issue. The right to healthcare is a fundamental aspect of a decent standard of living, and governments, even those grappling with limited resources like ours, are obligated to allocate maximum available resources to ensure its realization.

The enjoyment of the right to an adequate standard of living necessitates equal and adequate access to healthcare services for all citizens. To achieve this, the government must acknowledge the persistent problems plaguing our healthcare system and display the necessary resolve to address them with the urgency they deserve. The current situation requires a departure from viewing healthcare as an industry, as it is not a commodity that should be commodified for profit. It is imperative that we reclaim ownership of our health and prioritize care over profit-driven motives. The lives of our citizens depend on it.

Dr. Fred M’membe, President of the Socialist Party Zambia, emphasized the need to address the crisis in the healthcare system. He stated, “We need to move away from the notion that our health is something to be insured by an ‘industry.’ The notion that it is any part of an industry is fundamentally wrong. Health is not a commodity. It cannot and ought not to be commodified. Our health should not be used for profit. We need to take back the ownership of our health. Let’s bring the care into ‘health care’ instead of giving it to an ‘industry.’ Our lives depend on it.”

As a socialist, Dr. M’membe questioned whether significant improvements in the healthcare system could occur without fundamental changes in the broader social order. He argued that the problems facing the healthcare system were deeply intertwined with the larger issues afflicting our society and could not be resolved in isolation. According to Dr. M’membe, “Our viewpoint, as socialists, questions whether major improvements in our health system can occur without fundamental changes in the broad social order. One thrust of the field — an assumption also accepted by many non-socialists — is that the problems of the health system reflect the problems of our larger society and cannot be separated from those problems.”

Meanwhile, concerns have been raised regarding the detainment without trial of Dr. Chris Zumani Zimba, former President Edgar Lungu’s Political Advisor. Dr. Zimba’s incarceration, which has persisted for over ten days, has drawn attention to the growing trend of employing state machinery, including the police and law enforcement agencies, to settle political scores. Dr M’membe, in support of Dr. Zimba, remarked, “Today, my team and I visited former President Edgar Lungu’s Political Advisor Dr. Chris Zumani Zimba, who has been in detention without trial for more than ten days now. We listened to his side of the story, and it is very sad. Politics should be fought with politics. Dr. Zimba has done nothing wrong, and it will be proved in court.”

Dr M’membe further criticized the current administration’s use of state resources and institutions to fight political battles, emphasizing that such practices would undermine the nation. He remarked, “What was opposed in the previous regime must be condemned under the current UPND government. This growing trend of using State Machinery by this government, the use of the Police and Law Enforcement agencies to fight their political battles with others will surely destroy our country. We can do better and deserve better. This is not the way to run a country and its people.”

Election of Zambia as chair for COMESA shows the confidence other countries have in Zambia

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Election of Zambia as chair for COMESA shows the confidence other countries have in Zambia

President Hakainde Hichilema has said the election of Zambia as chair for COMESA shows the confidence other countries have in Zambia.

Zambia through President Hichilema is also the Chair of the new bureau of the regional economic bloc which will be deputised by Burundi

The handover ceremony of the instruments of power by the outgoing Chairperson, the Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to the incoming Chairperson was done during the 22nd COMESA summit of Heads of State and Government which was hosted by Zambia and COMESA.

President Hakainde outlined his agenda for the region for the next year focusing on the priority issues.

He hailed the outgoing chairperson Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt, and commended him for the achievements of COMESA under his leadership

He also urged member states to harness the collective resource endowments of the region.

“We accepted the chairmanship of COMESA, which we view as a vote of confidence in Zambia.We thanked the outgoing Chair, His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt, and commended him for the achievements of COMESA under his leadership. These are the building blocks that we will set COMESA members to implement the free trade area and trade among ourselves.This Summit captures our collective desire to see the COMESA region thrive based on the resolve to adapt, evolve, and integrate our economies while considering global, multilateral and regional developments,” President Hichilema said.

“We implored member states to harness the collective resource endowments of our land mass of 12 million Square kilometers and a population in excess of 580 million people.More people-to-people relations, no-stop borders between our countries and friendly tariffs are key ingredients to
springboard more intra- Africa trade which stands at a paltry 17%. The stability, peace and security in our region is key. Which is why we agreed that dialogue and diplomacy are a prerequisite to settling disputes.Let’s change the narrative by working closely among the member states, towards attaining economic integration for a thriving COMESA that builds wealth and prosperity for all our peoples,” President Hichilema said.

Meanwhile, Malawian President Lazarus Chakwela used his maiden COMESA speech, delivered at the 22nd summit of Heads of State and Government, to call for expedition of regional integration as a path to sustainable development for member states.

“I have used my maiden COMESA speech, delivered at the ongoing 22nd summit of Heads of State and Government, to call for expedition of regional integration as a path to sustainable development for member states as we build back stronger from a range of social, economic and natural inconveniences.Using Malawi as a handy case study, I highlighted the combination of setbacks over the past six years that have rendered serious social and economic damage on livelihoods. These being Cyclone Idai, Tropical Storms Ana and Gombe, Cyclone Freddy, droughts, the war in Eastern Europe, and outbreaks such as Covid-19 and cholera.”

“I have also put to light the need for quick integration to deal away with underhand forces that are trying to manipulate the Africa Continental Free Trade Area to their advantage rather than ours. We must remain united to lift our people out of all forms of poverty.I have assured the gathering that Malawi will build stronger alliances to advance the agenda of integration and gain through positive outcomes in trade, investment and general wellbeing of our people.Only integration will help us meet our development aspirations within the COMESA framework,” President Chakwela said.

COMESA Heads of State and government conducted their 22nd Summit in Lusaka, Zambia and closed ranks on priority issues being promoting intra-regional trade, addressing climate change, industrialization, value addition and peace and security.

President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi became the vice chair in preparation for hosting the next Summit in his country next year.

Other Heads of state that spoke included Presidents William Ruto of Kenya and president Ndayishiye who moved a vote of thanks.

A new Assistant Secretary General of COMESA in charge of programmes Dr Mohamed Kadar from Egyot was sworn-in, while four journalists that won the COMESA Media Awards were recognized.

My Party will show the Zeal to Fight Corruption-Haward Kunda

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My Party will show the Zeal to Fight Corruption-Haward Kunda

Interim leader of the newly formed Zambia Wake-Up Party (ZAWAPA) Howard Kunda has said his party will have zero tolerance to corruption and all ills that deprive the people of Zambia of the much needed public resources.

Mr. Kunda said ZAWAPA will show the zeal to fight against corruption which he demonstrated when serving as Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee Chairperson between 2016 and 2021.

The former Muchinga Member of Parliament said there is a need to ensure that Zambia fights all forms of corruption without segregation or favouritism.

Mr. Kunda said people doing wrong things in the current or old regime must never be protected by government officials or law enforcement agencies.

“We will stand on the premise that there will be zero tolerance to corruption. We presented ourselves and for me I presented myself as parliamentary public accounts committee chairperson and I was looking at the Zambian people and not individuals. I never looked at anyone with an eye to protect, if they were doing wrong I was there and my team to protest national interest,” Mr. Kunda said.

Mr. Kunda said the people of Zambia must unite and be innovative with proper government support to take the nation to greater heights.

He said young people in particular should work with ZAWAPA to shape their destiny and that of the nation.

“As ZAWAPA President, Zambia Wake-Up Party President, I am offering myself to the people of Zambia knowing that we can do it if we only come together and pursue that which we believe in. We believe that Zambians must unite and be innovative and government to support their innovative ideas so that our country once again can see the development the people of Zambia are longing for. So I think that it is very important that the young people can come on board because we are in majority. Young people must be there to shape their destiny and that is where ZAWAPA is coming in to bridge that gap,” Mr. Kunda said.

Meanwhile, Mr. Kunda said the New Dawn Government has failed to guarantee food security in the country as evidenced by recent mealie meal shortages in some parts of the country.

He said no Government should starve its people of the much wanted staple food by failing to plan and enhance food security.

“We cannot have a situation where we are lining up to buy mealie meal. Mealie meal is our staple food which I think any leader should pay attention to so that no one goes hungry but that is not the case now. We are looking at this situation which is dire because I think this government has not been caring in terms of providing for the people to ensure that food security is guaranteed in the country because the first thing they came to do was to sell the maize to our neighbouring country,” he said.

“Yes we can sell but you only sell after you plan and make sure you are within your reserves but we saw that this is a government that does not plan. They want to show that they have the expertise but they do not listen even from experts who are already there in those offices as civil servants who have been polished so to say to doing these works. So I think those are some of the reasons, then we have looked solely at the agriculture sector which has been a disaster under this government. We have looked at the health sector, we looked at the education sector, we looked at the commerce industry, we looked at generally even the political climate in the country,” Mr. Kunda added.

CEEC Should stop Toying Around with People’s Emotions

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CEEC Should stop Toying Around with People’s Emotions

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

The other day, former Mufumbwe Member of Parliament Steven Masumba made an impassioned plea to the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) to stop toying around with people’s emotions and avail money to them, pronto!

In a video that elicited several negative sentiments against CEEC on social media, Masumba laments, “CEEC how come you’re failing to implement the vision of the president? Money is there……how come you are not disbursing it? You keep on advising people to apply for funding but when they do, you don’t give feedback and yet keep on introducing more packages. The most honourable thing for you to do if you’ve failed to do your work is resign, bwana!”

Masumba has a point……When several changes were made at CEEC just after the elections; many of us thought the new management would do things differently. Alas, the situation seems to remain as worse as before! Clearly, this institution has lamentably failed to foster broad-based economic empowerment of our citizens in accordance with the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission Act No. 9 of 2006 under which it was established. I will give a personal example. My prayer is that this information gets to the Small Scale & Medium Enterprises Minister, and hopefully the president himself as many folks may have suffered a similar fate.

In response to the call for proposals for Aquaculture business proposals in 2018, we tendered in our application accordingly. We pitched our proposal on intergrating fish farming with piggery/poultry and gardening to be based in rural Zambezi. Of course, our proposal was selected and funding amounting to K120, 000 was approved. Then the long awaiting for the coming of our Saviour commenced, as usual…..

As the rain season was fast setting in, we tapped into our own savings and went ahead and extracted 4 fish ponds and further procured water pumps, drip irrigation equipment and a wire fence as we waited for funding. Everyone in the surrounding villages were of course happy. They looked forward to the ‘fruition’ of this project as it obviously presented a golden opportunity for job creation, particularly amongst our vulnerable youth and helpless women.

Alas, our project is still yearning to be funded although we later learnt that some cadres belonging to the former ruling party were funded even if they absolutely had no clue about farming. However, when the new Director General was appointed, our hopes were rekindled. We wrote to his office bringing this predicament to his attention. We never got any response….not even a regret!

Imagine the resources we invested in the project which is now on a trajectory to be consigned as a White Elephant Project. CEEC, why can’t you for a change infuse professionalism in the manner you conduct your business. Shouldn’t tax payer’s money be invested in worthy projects aimed at improving the welfare of our people as opposed to ‘surrendering’ it to musicians and celebrities who will probably never bother to pay it back?

Ba Director General, we need serious answers!

Chipolopolo Settle Down at Joburg Camp

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Chipolopolo have settled down in Johannesburg, South Africa in readiness for the 2023 Africa Cup qualifier against Ivory Coast set for Ndola on 17th June.

According to FAZ Media, Coach Avram Grant and his technical staff held their full session at Wits University as they plot the fall of the elephants of Ivory Coast in the June 17 Africa Cup of Nations Group H qualifier.

Zambia has camped in Johannesburg as prescribed by Grant with the team having all, but three players summoned for duty.

The team is expected to fly to Ndola on June 13 to wind up preparations for the crucial clash against the Ivoirians.

Zambia needs a point against the West Africans to qualify for the Africa Cup.

Chipolopolo To Play Malawi in COSAFA Cup Group B First Match

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Defending champions Zambia will kick off their 2023 COSAFA Cup campaign with a match against Malawi on July 6 at the King Zwelithini Stadium

Zambia and Malawi are in Group B alongside Seychelles and Comoros.

Seychelles and Comoros will face off in the other Group B fixture on July 6.

According to CASAFA Media, Eswatini and Botswana will kick-off the 2023 COSAFA Cup when they clash at the King Zwelithini Stadium in a Group A fixture at 15h00 CAT on July 5.

“That opening match will be followed by a meeting of old rivals as hosts South Africa take on Namibia at the same venue at 18h00, providing an intriguing opening day to the best regional competition in Africa. The semifinals will be staged on July 14 as the winner of Group B takes on the top side in Group C, while the winner of Group A meets the best placed runner-up from across the three pools,” COSAFA said.

“The third-place play-off is on July 16 at 15h00, with the final on the same day at the King Zwelithini Stadium from 18h00.”

Defending champions Zambia will kick off their 2023 COSAFA Cup campaign with a match against Malawi on July 6 at the King Zwelithini Stadium

Zambia and Malawi are in Group B alongside Seychelles and Comoros.

Seychelles and Comoros will face off in the other Group B fixture on July 6.

According to CASAFA Media, Eswatini and Botswana will kick-off the 2023 COSAFA Cup when they clash at the King Zwelithini Stadium in a Group A fixture at 15h00 CAT on July 5.

“That opening match will be followed by a meeting of old rivals as hosts South Africa take on Namibia at the same venue at 18h00, providing an intriguing opening day to the best regional competition in Africa. The semifinals will be staged on July 14 as the winner of Group B takes on the top side in Group C, while the winner of Group A meets the best placed runner-up from across the three pools,” COSAFA said.

“The third-place play-off is on July 16 at 15h00, with the final on the same day at the King Zwelithini Stadium from 18h00.”

President Hichilema takes COMESA Chairmanship

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President Hichilema takes COMESA Chairmanship

Zambia has assumed the position of Chairperson of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern (COMESA) authority of the Heads of State and Government.

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema is also the Chairperson of the new bureau of the regional economic bloc which will be deputised by Burundi.

The handover ceremony of the instruments of power by the outgoing Chairperson, the Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to the incoming Chairperson was done during the 22nd COMESA summit of Heads of State and Government which was hosted by Zambia and COMESA.

In handing over power, President Fattah El-Sisi has challenged Zambia to continue focusing on issues of regional integration through coming up with specific projects that will benefit people.

Mr Fattah El-Sisi explained that Africa and COMESA as a region still has a lot of work to do in attaining its vision and objective of achieving regional integration through peace and stability.

He noted that it is disappointing to see a number of countries within the region still facing instability.

He said this is why there is a need for countries to come together and ensure that tenants of peace and stability are embraced as the region strives to attain its ambitious objective of economic and regional integration anchored in trade and investment.

President Fattah El-Sisi added that to this effect Egypt will continue to offer support to countries that are facing conflicts like Sudan to ensure that peace and stability returns and encourage them to establish amicable measures of resolving their differences.

He said this is because it will be difficult for the region to meet it’s objective of transforming the economic development if some member states are still faced with instability.

” As Egypt we shall continue to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in some member states that are currently facing instability, like Sudan, because we know that it will be difficult for us to achieve our shared vision and objective if this is not addressed,” he stated.

President Fattah El-Sisi has advised President Hichilema as he assumes the role of Chairperson authority to concentrate and focus more on joint venture projects that will in- turn help accelerate the integration efforts among member states.

He explained that this is the only way that COMESA will deepen its economic and cooperation integration by working as a coordinated group.

In accepting the new role as Chairperson of the COMESA authority, President Hichilema re-affirmed Zambia’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at peace and security everywhere, in an effort to promote economic development.

President Hichilema noted that there is a need for Africa to attain its agenda 2063, of having an inclusive social and economic development, peace and stability which must be brought to every country on the continent.

” We need to stabilize our region,we need to take stalk of where we are coming from and where we are going,we have seen a lot instability on the continent that has potential to slow down the economic gains that we have achieved, peace and security is key to us successfully attaining the agenda 2063, which is anchored on our shared vision of propelling economic growth and development,” he explained.

The President said COMESA is a building bloc for the Africa Continent Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) which will provide a larger market for the continent, hence the need for member states to explore the opportunities that are available in order to improve their economies.

Mr Hichilema said this is why there is need to come with collective decisions that are targeted at harnessing the natural endowment of the region and unlock economic opportunities that can bring about sustainable development.

He also thanked the Egyptian President for coming up with different projects to promote economic integration, during his tenure as the Chairperson of the COMESA authority.

He also promised to embrace the idea of supporting joint venture projects, adding that it is an effective way of accelerating and harmonizing trade and economic integration within the region.

” We shall continue with your focus of lobbying for joint investment ventures,and harmonize our trade,we need non stop borders as compared to one stop borders, because through non stop borders we will be able to effectively reduce the cost of doing business, reduce travel time as countries should also reduce the roadblocks, but this should not compromise the fight on drug and human trafficking which still continue using advanced technology,” he pointed out.

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