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Upon his return from Nairobi, President Hakainde Hichilema expressed gratitude to His Excellency, President William Ruto of Kenya, for the invitation to the high-level mediation summit for South Sudan held at the county’s State House. During his address at the summit, President Hichilema emphasized the critical need for peace and stability in South Sudan, stressing that instability in any part of Africa affects the entire continent.
“Instability anywhere is instability everywhere,” stated President Hichilema, highlighting the importance of prioritizing peace over conflict. He called upon President Salva Kiir and the opposition in South Sudan to prioritize the interests of the South Sudanese people and work towards sustainable peace.
President Hichilema also underscored the significance of intra-African trade, emphasizing the need for African nations to focus on exporting goods and services to each other rather than being embroiled in internal conflicts. He asserted that a peaceful and united Africa is essential for development, urging for concerted efforts towards peace and security in South Sudan to facilitate national development.
The summit, attended by regional leaders and stakeholders, served as a platform for dialogue and mediation efforts aimed at resolving the longstanding conflict in South Sudan and fostering peace and stability in the region.
Amidst a tense courtroom atmosphere with former President Donald Trump mere feet away, Stormy Daniels took the stand on Tuesday in the trial concerning hush money allegedly paid to her by Trump’s then-lawyer Michael Cohen. Daniels, a porn actor, provided a detailed and sometimes graphic account of a sexual encounter she claims to have had with Trump in 2006, an incident Trump has consistently denied.
Jurors were reportedly captivated as Daniels recounted the encounter, which she says led to a payment a decade later to keep silent during Trump’s presidential campaign. Trump, visibly stoic, occasionally whispered to his lawyers and shook his head during Daniels’ testimony.
Daniels testified that she first met Trump at a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, in July 2006. Describing their first meeting as a “very brief encounter” on a golf course, Daniels said she was 27 and remembered Trump being as old as her father — around 60.
The jury — which appeared focused intently on Daniels and her testimony — was shown a picture of them together from that trip.
Daniels said that they later ran into each other at the club and that a man she later learned was Trump’s bodyguard told her Trump wanted to have dinner with her. She said she replied, “No, with an expletive in front.”
She did, however, get the bodyguard’s number, and she said that later that day her publicist convinced her she should accept the invitation, telling her: “It’ll make a great story. He’s a business guy. Like, what could possibly go wrong?”
She said she went up to Trump’s penthouse hotel suite and was told they’d be going to dinner at one of the restaurants downstairs. When she entered the room, which she described as “three times the size of my apartment,” he was wearing “silk or satin” pajamas, she said. She said she quipped, “Does Hugh Hefner know you stole his pajamas?” and asked him to change, which he did.
They then sat at a dining table in the suite, where, she said, Trump asked her numerous questions about her adult film writing and directing. He then asked her about sexually transmitted diseases, and she said she was tested constantly and “I’ve never had a bad test.”
She said that she grew frustrated with him because he kept cutting off her answers and that when he pulled out a magazine with him on the cover, she said, “Someone should spank you with that.” She said she then rolled it up and “swatted” him with it. While jurors mostly appeared poker-faced through her testimony, one began rubbing her face and appeared to be holding back laughter.
After that, she said, Trump was “much more polite” and suggested she should come on his TV show, “The Apprentice.” Daniels testified that “he said, ‘You remind me of my daughter,'” and that appearing on the show would demonstrate she shouldn’t be underestimated.
In all, they chatted for about two hours, Daniels said. She said that she went to the bathroom and that when she walked out, Trump was lying on the bed “in boxer shorts and T-shirt.” She said she was “startled, like a jump scare. Wasn’t expecting someone to be there, especially minus a lot of clothing.”
She said Trump told her, “I thought you were serious about what you wanted.” She said she felt “there was an imbalance of power, for sure. He was bigger and blocking the way, but I was not threatened either verbally or physically.” Asked in court whether she ended up having sex with him on the bed, she said, “Yes.”
She described the sex as brief and said Trump told her “it was great. Let’s get together again, honey bunch.” She said he hadn’t used a condom and hadn’t expressed any concern about his wife’s finding out what had happened. She said he also didn’t give her his phone number.
Former President Donald Trump returns to the courtroom Monday in New York City.Julia Nikhinson / Pool via Getty Images
Trump’s bodyguard reached out to her the next day to invite her to meet Trump at a bar in her hotel, she said. When she got there, she said, he was with then-Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Trump left about 10 minutes later but continued to call her well after the encounter, she said, “with an update — or a non-update if he didn’t have one — for ‘Apprentice.’”
“He always called me honey bunch,” she said.
She said they saw each other again in January 2007, when he invited her to the launch of his Trump vodka brand. While she was there, she said, he introduced her to his friend “Karen,” who she later learned was Karen McDougal, a former Playboy model who said she was having a monthslong affair with Trump during that period. Former National Enquirer publisher David Pecker testified earlier in the trial that he paid McDougal $150,000 to keep her quiet about the claim during the 2016 presidential campaign. Trump has denied both Daniels’ and McDougal’s claims.
Daniels said Trump also invited her to Trump Tower around that time and assured her, “I’m still working on the ‘Apprentice’ thing.”
She said they last saw each other in the summer of 2007, when he invited her to see him at a bungalow he was staying at in Los Angeles. She said that he “kept trying to make sexual advances” but that she shot him down. “I told him I was on my period,” she said. He said he later called her and told her he hadn’t been able to get her on his show.
Payments made to Daniels by Trump’s then-lawyer Michael Cohen at the end of the 2016 campaign are at the heart of the case, the first criminal trial of a former president. Cohen paid Daniels $130,000 in return for her keeping quiet about her claims of a sexual encounter with Trump.
Daniels said Tuesday that Gina Rodriguez, her manager, spoke to her about going public with her story for money in 2015 after Trump announced he was running for president. Rodriguez didn’t have much success shopping the story until after the release in October 2016 of the “Access Hollywood” tape, in which Trump was recorded in 2005 bragging that he could grope women without their consent.
She said that Rodriguez then told her that Trump and Cohen were “interested in paying” for the story and that she agreed, because it meant the story — which her husband didn’t know about — wouldn’t become public. “I didn’t care about the amounts. It was just, ‘Get it done,'” she said.
Prosecutors say Trump reimbursed Cohen the money in payments that were falsely described as legal expenses. They have charged him with 34 counts of falsifying business records. Trump has pleaded not guilty.
Daniels’ deal with Cohen was revealed in a January 2018 story in The Wall Street Journal. Asked about the impact the story had on her life, Daniels said, “Chaos.”
“My husband asking questions, my friends asking questions,” she said, with people showing up on her front lawn.
She said that Cohen started to talk about her allegations publicly but that she couldn’t because of the NDA and the $1 million penalty it included if she violated it. She said she later hired lawyer Michael Avenatti “so that I could stand up for myself.”
He helped her get out of the NDA but also filed an unsuccessful defamation suit against Trump on her behalf and against her wishes, she said. Daniels lost the case and was ordered to pay Trump’s legal fees. She eventually fired Avenatti, who was convicted of several crimes, including stealing from Daniels.
The highly anticipated testimony unfolded in a trial marked by tabloid-esque elements and meticulous legal proceedings. Daniels’ presence, as a porn actor alleging intimacy with a former U.S. president, added to the trial’s historic significance, steeped in allegations of sex, payoffs, and cover-ups, all amidst Trump’s renewed bid for the White House.
Despite objections from defense lawyers, Daniels delved into salacious details of the encounter, prompting calls for a mistrial on grounds of prejudice and irrelevance. However, the judge dismissed the request, advising defense lawyers to voice objections during testimony. Later, Trump’s legal team sought to portray Daniels as motivated by personal animus and financial gain, questioning her credibility during cross-examination.
The heart of the case revolves around payments made to Daniels by Cohen during the final weeks of Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign. Daniels asserts that Cohen paid her $130,000 to conceal the encounter, a claim Trump staunchly denies. Prosecutors allege that Trump reimbursed Cohen for the payment, leading to charges against Trump for falsifying business records.
Trump’s reaction to Daniels’ testimony prompted the judge to intervene, citing potential witness intimidation. Trump’s attorney assured the court that Trump’s behavior would be addressed.
Daniels’ testimony, coupled with earlier accounts, offers a glimpse into the intricate web of events surrounding the alleged payment and subsequent fallout. As the trial progresses, all eyes remain on the unfolding drama, with Daniels slated to return to the witness stand Thursday.
The trial marks a pivotal moment in legal history, as the first criminal case against a former U.S. president reaches a jury. With Daniels’ testimony shaping the narrative, the trial underscores the intersection of power, politics, and personal conduct, casting a shadow over Trump’s political aspirations.
The Kwacha, plummeted to a historic low against the US dollar on Wednesday, reaching 27.30 to the dollar. This significant depreciation comes amidst a backdrop of hard currency shortages and a devastating drought that has triggered power cuts across the nation.
According to data from the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), the Kwacha has shed nearly 5% of its value against the greenback since the beginning of the year, and a staggering 17% in the past six months. The currency’s previous low was recorded at 27.23 on February 6.
The recent depreciation of the Kwacha is attributed in part to a severe drought that has ravaged crops in Zambia, compelling the country to increase its reliance on food imports. Additionally, critically low water levels in Zambia’s hydropower dams, responsible for generating 85% of the nation’s electricity, have led to plans for heightened electricity imports, further exacerbating pressure on the local currency. Moreover, heightened demand for dollars to facilitate the importation of petroleum products has intensified the strain on the Kwacha.
This downward trend in the value of the Kwacha is not a recent phenomenon. Over the past decade, the Zambian currency has experienced a depreciation of more than 300% against the US dollar, reflecting persistent economic challenges and vulnerabilities.
The latest depreciation of the Kwacha underscores the urgent need for policy interventions to address the underlying economic issues facing Zambia. As the country grapples with the consequences of the drought and currency depreciation, policymakers face the daunting task of implementing measures to stabilize the economy and restore investor confidence in the Kwacha.
Lawyer Kelvin Fube Bwalya visits GBM at Medland hospitalThe family of prominent Zambian figure (GBM) has voiced growing concerns over what they perceive as the denial of adequate medical treatment for GBM, citing alleged interference from state organs.
In a statement released , the family expressed distress over the treatment GBM has received from government authorities regarding his health condition. They assert that GBM, who is reported to be suffering from a serious heart ailment, has been prevented from seeking necessary medical attention abroad, despite court orders permitting him to do so.
The family accuses certain individuals within the government of exerting undue influence on state organs, resulting in what they describe as a callous disregard for GBM’s fundamental right to medical care. They allege that despite court approval for GBM to travel for specialized treatment, he was blocked from leaving the country, leading to the cancellation and postponement of crucial medical appointments in South Africa.
Furthermore, the family’s legal representatives have issued a stern warning to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the government at large, holding them accountable for any adverse consequences resulting from the denial of medical treatment to GBM. They stress that the Commission will be held responsible for any delays in the prosecution of GBM’s case, as well as the emotional distress inflicted upon him.
GBM’s family emphasizes his contributions to Zambian society and his significant investments in the country, portraying him as a patriotic citizen and not a flight risk.
The situation surrounding GBM’s health has garnered widespread attention, with many expressing solidarity with his family’s plea for justice and accountability. As the controversy unfolds, all eyes remain on the government’s response to these allegations and the treatment of GBM’s medical condition.
President Hichilema arrived in Nairobi, Kenya, ahead of the Africa Fertiliser and Soil Health Summit, which is scheduled for 9th May 2024.
This follows the invitation extended His Excellency, Dr. William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya.
The African Union’s Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit (AFSH24) has attracted over 4,000 participants gathering to address the looming soil health crisis on the continent. The event, co-organized by the African Union and the Government of Kenya, aims to tackle critical issues affecting agricultural sustainability and food security across Africa.
Notably, the second edition of the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit has drawn the attention of global leaders, including eight heads of state and government, as well as ministers, scientists, and representatives from civil society and partner organizations. The summit is a pivotal platform for fostering dialogue and cooperation towards enhancing the value of land as a pivotal asset for farmers across the continent.
One of the key objectives of AFSH24 is to evaluate progress made since the 2006 Abuja Declaration, which aimed to elevate fertilizer use for agricultural growth to a minimum threshold, a target that remains largely unmet. With Africa losing over US$4 billion worth of soil nutrients annually, urgent action is needed to address the deteriorating soil health and its implications for food security.
Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries of the Republic of Uganda and Chair of the AU Specialized Technical Committee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Water and Environment, highlighted the challenges faced in increasing fertilizer uptake and the unpredictable yield gains in rainfed agriculture.
Conversations at AFSH24 are centered on adopting a holistic approach to agricultural sustainability, prioritizing climate change mitigation, land restoration, and biodiversity conservation in agricultural practices. H.E. Amb. Josefa Leonel Correia Sacko, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment at the African Union Commission (AUC), emphasized the need for collaborative action and innovative solutions to address Africa’s soil health crisis.
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Hon. Mithika Linturi, expressed optimism that the summit would lead to transformative decisions to drive immediate action in improving Africa’s soil health for food security and economic growth.
Under the theme “Listen to the Land,” AFSH24 seeks to evaluate the state of Africa’s soil health and review progress made since previous commitments to boost fertilizer use. The summit aims to draft the Nairobi Declaration on Fertilizer and Soil Health, endorsing commitments, strategies, and actionable directions to enhance sustainability in fertilizer use and soil health practices.
With a 10-year Action Plan and mechanisms for financing, the summit aims to triple local production of organic and inorganic fertilizers by 2033. The event represents a significant milestone in Africa’s quest to unlock its agricultural potential and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
The Archbishop of Lusaka, Alick Banda says the problem of junkies is a ticking time bomb that will wreck the country’s development gains if left unchecked.
“Everything we are working for, building will be in vain if we do not seriously and urgently address the issue of junkies” Dr Banda is quoted by the media as saying.
He further observes that there is an urgent need for Christians to step up and find solutions in order to address the challenge affecting the country’s young population.
We may not always agree with the Archbishop, but he has definitely hit the bull’s eye on this one! As readers may recall, late 2021 we undertook a 365 marathon walk from Kitwe to Lusaka to petition the New Dawn Administration to call for National Indaba to interrogate the problem of street kids and identify practical solutions. We emphasised that in the fullness of time, those we are referring to as street kids will ‘graduate’ into notorious gangsters who will come and terrorise our communities.
What’s the order of the day? Since they are now hardened and tempered, these misfits have gone into overdrive engaging in petty thefts and if you happen to stand in their way, you risk having your teeth knocked-out, eyes gorged-out or your stomach ripped open!
When the so-called junkies can no longer find anything of value in the shanties or townships, they will look for the proverbial greener pastures in posh neighborhoods where the ministers and all the apamwambas (the affluent) live! They will obviously use unimaginable force to dispossess them of their earthly possessions! Is this when those in authority will be compelled to act…… when the ‘apamwambas’ have been hit below the belt?
Rounding them up and throwing them in prison once in a while isn’t a solution, of course! We are perfectly aware government can’t tackle this problem alone. We need to start building consensus around this issue. As the Archbishop has suggested, the Church needs to come on board and open-up their doors to street kids; corporate entities have to take a stand by exercising good corporate responsibility; political parties must not just focus on criticising government but provide solutions while the NGOs should stop just holding workshops in plush hotels and move into the shanties to tackle this problem head on.
We didn’t just burn calories walking to Lusaka for nothing; we expect government to set the tone by leading the way.
Runners from Kenya, South Africa and Zimbabwe are expected to participate in the 2024 Kansanshi Marathon to be held in Solwezi on May 25th at Trident College.
This month’s marathon is a follow up to the 2023 edition which saw over 1,200 runners participate in the Kansanshi Mining organized event.
Kansanshi Mining Specialist Corporate Affairs Clinton Masumba says the race will feature the ZA and World Athletics accredited categories that include 42.2 km, 21.1 km, 10 km, and the popular 5 km fun run.
“As Zambia’s highest-paying marathon, the event boasts a cumulative prize purse exceeding K500,000.Building on the resounding success of the inaugural event in 2023, which saw over 1,100 participants, Kansanshi Mining PLC is committed to elevating the standard of marathons in Zambia,”Masumba stated.
“Participants of all ages and skill levels are invited to join in the celebration of athleticism and community spirit.In the main categories, the winners will be rewarded for their outstanding achievements. The first finisher in the 42.2 km race will receive a substantial prize of K42,000, while the top finisher in the 21.1 km race will walk away with K21,000. Additionally, the first finishers in the 10 km and 5 km races will be awarded K10,000 and K5,000, respectively,” he said.
Organisers want this year’s marathon to surpass all expectations and continue to inspire athletes from Zambia and beyond.
In a mesmerizing entrance to her Met Gala debut on May 6, the 22-year-old “Water” singer, Tyla, captivated onlookers as she ascended the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s iconic steps, seemingly defying gravity with the help of a few assisting hands.
Draped in a form-fitting Balmain creation inspired by “the sands of time,” Tyla stunned on the red carpet, her ensemble meticulously crafted to embody the gala’s theme of “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion” and its dress code, “The Garden of Time,” inspired by J.G. Ballard’s 1962 short story of the same name.
Tyla’s Balmain gown, a vision in hues reminiscent of sand, intricately adorned with micro-crystal studs, exuded elegance and innovation. However, the ensemble’s intricate design posed a challenge for mobility, evident as Tyla gracefully accepted assistance while navigating the Met Gala staircase.
Speaking with La La Anthony during Vogue’s official red carpet livestream, Tyla expressed her excitement for the unconventional ensemble, stating, “I just love the outfit and how everything turned out.”
Behind the scenes, Balmain’s creative director, Olivier Rousteing, shed light on the inspiration behind Tyla’s Met Gala attire, describing the gown’s creation as a fusion of artistry and vision. Rousteing’s vision aimed to “redefine boundaries and transform a transient material into an everlasting masterpiece,” as reflected in Tyla’s ethereal ensemble.
The annual Met Gala, often dubbed fashion’s most illustrious event, saw celebrities, designers, and high-profile figures convene at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City for a night of glamour and philanthropy. Under the direction of Vogue magazine’s editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour, this year’s theme of “The Garden of Time” spurred attendees to explore innovative interpretations of time and beauty.
Grammy Award-winning musician Tyla undeniably stole the spotlight with her avant-garde interpretation of the theme, elevating her ensemble beyond floral embellishments to embody the essence of time itself.
With her striking Balmain creation, complemented by John Hardy jewelry and an hourglass purse, Tyla made an unforgettable statement on the Met Gala’s grand stage. As she playfully quipped about the practicality of her ensemble, her radiant confidence underscored her status as a fashion icon in the making.
In interviews with media outlets, Tyla revealed that her look was inspired by the Sands of Time, a theme expertly brought to life by the innovative craftsmanship of Balmain’s atelier.
As Balmain succinctly captured on Instagram, Tyla’s Met Gala appearance epitomized the convergence of art and fashion, breathing life into the Sands of Time with a gown that transcended mere fabric, becoming a testament to creativity and imagination.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation wishes to inform the nation that Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia will embark on an Official Visit to Kenya at the invitation of His Excellency Dr. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, to attend the Africa Fertiliser and Soil Health Summit, which is scheduled for 9th May 2024.
President Hichilema will engage with other African Heads of State and Government, along with high-ranking Government officials, senior policymakers and development partners at this important meeting. The Summit serves as a platform to assess soil health across Africa and deliberate on innovative policies, financing mechanisms, and investments geared toward boosting agricultural productivity. The Summit will aim to highlight the crucial role of fertilizer and soil health in stimulating sustainable pro-poor productivity growth in African agriculture, and to forge consensus on an African Fertiliser and Soil Health Action Plan.
The Summit will be preceded by an Experts Session and a Joint Ministerial Session for Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Ministers of Agriculture on 7th and 8th May 2024, respectively. These sessions will offer an opportunity for experts and policymakers to delve into key topics and prepare recommendations for discussion during the main Summit.
The decision to convene the Summit was endorsed by the 40th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in February 2022.
The convening of the Summit is timely and aligns seamlessly with Zambia’s ambitious Economic Transformation Agenda. President Hichilema’s participation in this meeting is therefore crucial in order to shore up the Government’s ongoing efforts to create opportunities for joint ventures and partnerships in the Agriculture sector, which serves as a primary source of livelihood for the majority of Zambian citizens.
Additionally, the Government remains committed to attracting investments in climate-smart agriculture in order to bolster food security, enhance livelihood resilience, and mitigate the detrimental impacts of climate change.
On the margins of the Summit, the President is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with other leaders and heads of key international organisations, leveraging the opportunity to discuss pressing regional and global issues.
The President is expected to return to Zambia immediately after his engagements.
Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, SC, M.P
ACTING MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids announced that it will present Given Kapolyo of Lusaka, Zambia, with its first-ever Global Young Ambassador of the Year Award for her leadership in working to reduce tobacco use and pass a comprehensive Tobacco Control bill in Zambia.
Ms. Kapolyo will be honored at Tobacco-Free Kids’ annual awards celebration on May 9th in Washington, D.C., along with other young leaders and public health champions from around the world. Established this year, the Global Young Ambassador of the Year Award recognizes a young adult who has demonstrated excellence in tobacco prevention by driving policy change, mobilizing peers, or in media advocacy.
Ms. Kapolyo currently serves as Campaigns and Mobilization Officer at the Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD). She is a passionate advocate at the forefront of the battle against tobacco use in Africa. She has recruited, trained, and mentored youth in Zambia with the goal of activating young voices for change.
Ms. Kapolyo has played a leading role in advancing Zambia’s comprehensive Tobacco Control bill, which includes 100 percent smoke-free public places, pictorial health warnings on tobacco products, regulations on emerging tobacco products, and a ban on tobacco advertising.
“Given is a passionate young leader who is sparking change in her country, and she is highly deserving of our first Global Young Ambassador of the Year Award,” said Yolonda C. Richardson, President, and CEO of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. “Given’s work demonstrates the power of advocacy to achieve meaningful change and create a healthier future in Zambia and Africa. She is an inspiration for all of us.”
“We congratulate Given for being recognized as a Global Youth Ambassador on Tobacco Control. This prestigious award is a testament to her dedication, passion, and tireless efforts in combating one of the most pressing public health issues of our time in Zambia,” said CTPD Executive Director Mr. Isaac Mwaipopo.
“I am thrilled to be the first Global Young Ambassador of the Year,” Ms. Kapolyo said. “This award will give me the platform to keep pushing for change in Zambia, to keep lifting up youth voices, and to cross the finish line with a comprehensive tobacco control bill for Zambia – and for all of Africa.”
The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids is the leading advocacy organization working to reduce tobacco use and its deadly consequences in the United States and around the world. Through strategic communications and policy advocacy campaigns, it promotes the adoption of evidence-based policies that are most effective at reducing tobacco use and save the most lives.
The Global Health Advocacy Incubator builds on the successes and lessons learned in the fight against tobacco to support civil society organizations working to tackle other critical public health challenges across the globe.
The United Party for National Development (UPND) has refuted claims of tension with the catholic church, dismissing them as mere propanganda by the embattled former ruling party PF.
UPND Consultant Mark Simuuwe addressing media at the Anderson Kambela house in Lusaka , described the ongoing narrative suggesting tension between the church and the ruling party UPND as an agenda the embattled PF are setting to dent the image of the ruling party and its President who has exposed their weaknesses in governing and managing the country’s resources.
“ Our Party has always maintained a respectful and cooperative relationship with the catholic church and we value the important role they play in our society.” said Mr Simuuwe.
Adding that it is crucial to not fall for false narratives and instead focus, on the facts and truth of the matter.
Mr Simuuwe said that, It is a known fact that the Patiotic Front during their time in government completely failed, to acknowledge and recognise the role played by the Catholic Church in the social and economic system of the governance.
“It is so shocking that those who previously disregarded the Catholic Church, marginalized the church’s voice and gave preference to alternative groups like “Christians for Lungu.” are now leading a propaganda claiming that there is tension between with the ruling party,”said Mr Simuuwe.
He noted that the opposition are spearheading the propaganda when, there has been no formal complaint from the Catholic Church or the ruling party regarding any conflicts between them.
“Yet, the PF persist in creating a false narrative of tension, which not only lacks sincerity but also disrespects the Catholic Church and undermines efforts to foster unity.” said Mr Simuuwe.
He said the ruling party has maintained a positive and constructive relationship with the Catholic Church since their time in opposition.
Mr Simuuwe said the UPND will not fall prey to divisive propaganda, but will continue to uphold the values, transparency, accountability, and mutual respect in all public discussions.
And condemned PF’s attempts to fabricate a conflict between the Catholic Church and the ruling party.
“As Zambians, we must remain vigilant against such divisive tactics and prioritize unity and cooperation for the betterment of our nation.”said Mr Simuuwe.
Adding that it is important to scrutinise the motives behind these accusations and acknowkedge, President Hichilema’s dedication and efforts to fostering a harmonious bond between the church, government and the people of Zambia in general.
Mr Simuuwe said the current situation of PF’s efforts to manufacture discord calls for alertness from the people of Zambia who need a peaceful environment.
“We echo President Hakainde’s call that unity and collaboration over divisive strategies is key to the advancement and prosperity of every nation.
President Hakainde Hichilema’s three-day working tour of the North Western Province was an inspiring and perhaps unprecedented event since the days when the United Party for National Development (UPND) was in opposition. This region, which is rapidly becoming Zambia’s New Copperbelt faces its own internal challenges among diverse groups. Yet, President Hichilema has emerged as a unifying force, transcending these divisions and seamlessly connecting the diverse communities of the province.
Outpouring of Love and Emotion
North Westerners are known for their heartfelt expressions of love and affection, which they offered unsparingly throughout President Hichilema’s tour. From Solwezi to Chavuma, Zambezi, Kasempa, and Mufumbwe, thousands of people gathered—chanting, ululating, singing, and dancing in the streets, markers and stadium. This was not an orchestrated display, but a genuine, spontaneous outpouring of emotion, love and respect.
Historical Context and Support
The people of North Western Province have consistently shown their support for the UPND and President Hichilema. If there’s a region that truly owns the President and the UPND, it’s this Province. This loyalty is rooted in the province’s history of marginalization, abuse, and ostracization by successive governments, which labeled them as “backwards” and “unworthy.” Some leaders had even dismissed them contemptuously; notably, one past President derogatively referred to them as “buttocks.”
Insight from the Market: A Youth’s Analogy on Leadership and Recovery
A random question was posed to a young person in a market, regarding his passionate support for President Hakainde Hichilema despite the rising cost of living. His response was both intriguing and revealing.
“President Hakainde Hichilema is like a mechanic fixing a wrecked vehicle that was involved in a severe traffic accident. This car had been stolen. How can a vehicle, with its twisted metal, look good while still under repair? How can the very thieves who stole and crashed it praise the repair work? The PF was an accident that occurred and they are also the robbers who stole the car. Our country was stolen and wrecked. Let’s allow Hakainde to repair it. It may look ugly now, but it will be alright soon, as a matter of fact, there are signs of recovery”.
Shared Struggles and Development Promises
Development in the province has historically lagged, mirroring the struggles President Hichilema himself faced, including false accusations and a 127-day unjust imprisonment on charges of treason stemming from an alleged traffic offense by his driver. His experiences of abuse and persecution resonate deeply with the people of this province.
Since declaring his political ambitions, President Hichilema has faced relentless abuse and false accusations. The people of North Western Province, understanding the pain of disrespect and marginalization, see a kindred spirit in him
In response, he has pledged to prioritize employment opportunities for locals in the province’s mining and investment sectors. On Labour Day in Solwezi, he directed mining companies and other investors to prioritize hiring locals. This directive aims to ensure that the people of the North Western Province, who view him as their own son, benefit directly from the region’s endowment and opportunities.
Commitment to Regional Empowerment
The people of North Western Province deserve development and empowerment. President Hichilema is committed to delivering this, just as he is to other parts of Zambia. His connection with the province runs deep, and his dedication to not letting them down is very clear.
In a letter addressed to Mr. Barry Lwando, Head of Programs at the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC), Honorable Amutike, Member of Parliament for Mongu Central, has expressed deep concerns over what he perceives as language bias in ZNBC’s English programming. The letter, also copied to Mr. Thabo Kawana, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, highlights a trend where Bemba and Nyanja languages are seemingly prioritized over Lozi, the predominant language spoken in the Western Province.
Honorable Amutike’s letter, dated May 2, 2024, accuses ZNBC of allowing Bemba and Nyanja languages to feature prominently in English programs, while relegating Lozi to vernacular sections. The MP questions the legitimacy of this practice, arguing that it marginalizes the people of Western Province, who contribute as taxpayers to the national broadcaster.
The MP’s letter further criticizes a ZNBC broadcaster for allegedly stating that only Bemba and Nyanja languages are permitted on English platforms. Honorable Amutike condemns this statement as rude and calls for accountability from ZNBC regarding its language policies. As a member of parliamentary committees on Media, he asserts his intention to utilize parliamentary privileges to summon ZNBC officials for clarification on this matter.
“This matter needs to be dealt with the seriousness it deserves so we can achieve our goal of one Zambia, one nation,” states Honorable Amutike in the letter.
The issue raised by the Mongu MP underscores broader debates surrounding language representation and inclusivity in media, particularly in multilingual societies like Zambia. While English serves as the official language of Zambia, the country is linguistically diverse, with numerous indigenous languages spoken across different regions.
ZNBC, as the national broadcaster, plays a pivotal role in reflecting and promoting Zambia’s linguistic and cultural diversity. Therefore, allegations of language bias in its programming raise important questions about equitable representation and access to information for all Zambian citizens.
Former diplomat, Muhabi Lungu says it’s extremely dangerous to lie to the nation that some regions like Southern Province were excluded in the governance of the nation in previous regimes.
“This is a very dangerous lie to suggest that a certain group was excluded in governance, in leadership or in parastatal companies for 26 years,” a daily tabloid quotes Lungu as saying.
To think that an individual with absolute cognitive abilities is able to churn-out such untruths is mind-numbing! If we set the record straight, President Hichilema wasn’t just talking about Southern province when he made those remarks; he was actually referring to the entire Zambezi provinces – Western, North western and Southern provinces! And the previous regimes he was definitely alluding to weren’t the United Nation Independence Party (UNIP) or Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), but the Patriotic Front (PF)!
Stop insulting or mocking our intelligence Mr. Lungu, Sir; evidence of how your colleagues in PF sidelined people from the said regions in government appointments abounds. In my upcoming book, One Zambia One Nation; how various presidents have navigated around the issue since independence, I seek to demonstrate to which extent the recent regime desecrated the sanctity of our motto, “One Zambia One Nation” by completely ignoring certain ethnic groupings in government appointments. For the purpose of this rebuttal though, we’ll restrict ourselves to the issue of nominated MPs right from the Kaunda days to date.
There are basically two reasons why our forefathers inserted provision of nominated MPs into our Republican Constitution:
(1) To give room to a President to ‘head-hunt’ individuals with exceptional abilities and capabilities outside parliament in the event of the same being absent in the August House. That’s how Ng’andu Magande, a man who would demonstrate to be arguably the best Finance Minister, found himself at Manda hill from the diaspora!
(2) In case a particular political party fails to secure parliamentary seats in certain parts of the country; for the sake of fostering inclusivity in line with our motto, “One Zambia One Nation” a President may create space for individuals from such regions to promote national unity. A perfect example was when President Levy Mwanawasa nominated ex-service man, Lupando Mwape as MP and subsequently appointed him as his vice president. Readers may be keen to learn that his party, MMD was rejected in the northern parts of the country.
May we set the tone by considering the example our founding President Kenneth Kaunda set for us. KK, as he was fondly referred to, always ensured that his appointments to public offices reflected the ethnic diversity of our country – Lundas, Tongas, Bembas, Chewas, Kaondes and Luvales always found space in his administration. He never abused this privilege by roping-in every Jim and Jack as long as they traced their roots with him back to Chinsali! For instance, he would bring on board the likes of Professor Lameck Goma, a prolific scholar and excellent researcher and also Frederick Chomba, a brilliant legal mind. Others who cut theb list of nominees between 1988-1991 include distinguished military officers such as Malimba Masheke and Benjamin Mibenge and illustrious sons of the soil such as Fwanga Mulikita, Alex Shapi and Lazarus Tembo, a differently abled person.
Following the 1991 revolutionary elections that ushered MMD into power, the party failed to secure any seats in Kumawa – Eastern province! As it were, the region had overwhelmingly voted for UNIP. Did Frederick Chiluba give them a cold-shoulder, henceforth? Of course, not! Of his 8 nominees, 4 were from Eastern province. The list somehow looked like this – William Harrington, Katele Kalumba, Kabunda Kayongo, Mwami Maunga, Godfrey Miyanda, Zilole Mumba and Hosea Soko.
As respected scholar and historian, Sishuwa Sishuwa, put it in his article, “Leadership matters; Remembering Mwanawasa,” the former lawyer turned politician didn’t only ensure that every tribe was catered for, but also went after the finest brains! When the northern provinces denied him parliamentary seats, he co-opted in Lupando Mwape and also brought in brilliant fellows such as Ng’andu Magande, Mundia Sikatana, George Kunda, Kalombo Mwansa, Patricia Mulasikwanda, Ben Kapita and Daniel Munkombwe – ignore his politics of benefits rhetoric!
At a time when some of us ‘suspected’ akulu mpuno, Rupiah Banda would disappoint us by reinforcing the “Umodzi Kumawa” syndrome by giving them jobs, he surprised many of us by casting the net wider! While still maintaining some of his predecessor’s nominees, his choice of candidates wasn’t disappointing. The following were his nominated MPs: Vernon Mwanga, Kalombo Mwansa, Situmbeko Musokotwane, Chileshe Kapwepwe, Boniface Kawimbe, Daniel Munkombwe and George Kunda.
Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy! The Michael Sata led PF takes over power and everything goes haywire! Sata would literally throw caution and dignity to the wind by arrogantly or ignorantly neglecting to enhance national unity by exclusively nominating his Kith and Kin as MPs just as he would do with his cabinet! This was indeed a national scandal. Here was his choice of nominated MPs: Alexander Chikwanda, Panji Kaunda, Joseph Kasonde, Solomon Mbuzi, John Phiri, Robert Sichinga, Ngosa Simbyakula and Sebastian Zulu. Not a single representation from the Zambezi provinces! Nangula tapaswosa, sure?
After a barrage of criticism and scrutiny from some of us, Sata’s successor, Edgar Lungu would break with the ranks and try to normalise things although he’d still fail in other places. He came up with the following team: Davies Chama, Edify Hamukale, Richard Kapita, Nathaniel Mubukwanu, Felix Mutati, Joyce Nonde, Godfridah Sumaili and Catherine Namugala.
We now come to the man that his many opponents and detractors want to smear with a tag of tribalism no matter how hard he tries to balance his appointments in government. When touring the northern circuit recently for instance, he reiterated that if he didn’t believe in KKs philosophy of national unity, he wouldn’t have appointed cabinet ministers from the same region. Here’s a complete picture of his nominated MPs: Doreen Mwamba, Peter Kapala, Felix Mutati, Elias Mubanga, Likando Mufalali, Elisha Matambo, Mrs Mazoka and Elisha Matambo. The northern regions have claimed a Lion’s share of 5O%! What more should a man do?
Please, let’s give credit where it’s due! Mulekutika?
Management at Solwezi General Hospital has expressed happiness over the ongoing rehabilitation works to improve the quality of infrastructure at the health facility.
Solwezi General Hospital Senior Medical Superintendent, Kitanda Sondashi said management has been engaging with the Ministry of Health over the challenges the hospital is facing and there is a positive response.
Dr Sondashi said the current rehabilitation works have been funded by the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development under the preventive maintenance unit.
“Rehabilitation works are expected to be complete in one year and the cost of the project is yet to be properly determined due to dynamic work environment and variations of works,” he said.
Dr Sondashi said the scope of work includes all the wards, operating theater, Radiology, Intensive Care Unit, Emergency room and renal department.
“ I am glad that especially in terms of Radiology services, we have been engaging the Ministry time and again and the Ministry has now responded positively that they have actually supplied us with the latest digital portable X-ray machine which we have been crying for a long time. The Ministry is also in the process of acquiring a bigger stationary digital X-Ray machine because we are using the old version analogue machine which has been giving us problems of breaking down,” he said.
He said management at the health facility is also happy that the Ministry of Health is also in the process of providing them with a CT scan.
“We are one of the few hospitals that have been earmarked to receive a CT Scan and we are ready for that, the works are nearly finished for the CT Scan room,” said.
Dr Sondashi however, said the laundry and the Kitchen departments have continued to face challenges and are affecting service delivery at the hospital.
He said from the kitchen department, only two pots are working while the four others have broken down, making it difficult for the hospital to prepare meals for patients.
Dr Sondashi has also appealed to the government to consider buying more laundry equipment as the hospital currently has one industrial washing machine used for cleaning hospital linen.
