Government has spent over K199 million on agriculture support programmes in Southern Province aimed at boosting productivity and advancing national food security targets.

The funds have been channelled towards the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP), irrigation development and mechanisation initiatives from 2022 to date.

Speaking during the first-quarter Provincial Development Coordinating Committee meeting in Choma, Southern Province Permanent Secretary Namani Monze said the investments are central to achieving the country’s maize production ambitions.

Dr Monze said the interventions have benefited 183,735 farmers under FISP across the province.

He highlighted that 36,355 farmers have been trained in smart agriculture practices as part of efforts to promote modern and climate-resilient farming methods.

“This investment is aimed at boosting agricultural productivity key to contributing to the country’s 10 million tonnes maize production target by 2027”, he said.

Dr Monze however raised concern over potential irregularities in beneficiary selection under FISP, Social cash transfer and the implementation of the school feeding programme.

Dr Monze directed agricultural authorities, district commissioners to work with responsible departments to clean up the beneficiary register.

“I direct the Provincial Agriculture Coordinator to review the FISP beneficiary list and eliminate ghost beneficiaries in order to sustain the gains made so far,” he said.

Dr Monze also highlighted gains made in health, education, and empowerment.

He said 98 maternity annexes and 288 sanitation facilities have been built in schools and health facilities to improve hygiene and service delivery across the province during the period under review.

He further indicated that government has also improved staffing levels significantly, with 2,152 health workers and 5,038 teachers recruited in Southern Province since 2022.

“In addition, K69 million has been disbursed to 3,793 beneficiaries under youth and women empowerment programmes aimed at improving livelihoods”, he explained.

Dr Monze also thanked government heads of departments, councils and parastatals for the combined efforts that reflect government commitment to strengthen service delivery and promote inclusive development across Southern Province.

Aspiring Member of Parliament, for Katuba Constituency in Central Province, Chooma Mwachikoka, has commended President Hakainde Hichilema, on his decision of returning the Public Gatherings Bill to Parliament, for further adjustments.

In an exclusive interview with the media, Mr Mwachikoka says that the president has demonstrated democratic leadership, by ensuring that the will of all concerned stakeholders and ordinary citizens is heard and put into consideration.

Mr Mwachikoka, added that it is his wish that the clause that demands that the police be notified when people gather, should be amended to a mere police notification and request for manpower.

“The President is demonstrating that he is trying to make sure that the democracy of our country, a young democracy, grows by following the will of the people, and that it should prevail,” said Mr Mwachikoka.

He said that the government should however ensure that people that have convened at a particular meeting have taken care of all security concerns.

“I think the public are saying that the police should just be notified, in a modern democracy, there is no need to put so many restrictions,” he added.

He also called for particular attention to other contentious clauses before the bill is brought back to the president for ascent.

Government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing African unity, sustainable development and regional cooperation, as the country joined African continents today commemorating Africa Day, a historic occasion that celebrates Africa’s liberation journey and aspirations for a prosperous Africa.

Speaking during the Africa Day commemorations in Lusaka, Ministry of Tourism Permanent Secretary Evans Muhanga, says this year’s African Union theme, “Ensuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” is particularly significant as it highlights the critical role that water security and sanitation play in improving public health, food security, economic growth, environmental sustainability and climate resilience across the continent

Mr Muhanga stressed that Africa Day marks the anniversary of the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) on May 25, 1963, an institution that has laid the foundation for continental solidarity and cooperation and whose legacy continues through the African Union.

He said the day provides an opportunity for Africans both on the continent and in the diaspora to celebrate the achievements attained over the years while renewing their commitment to addressing the challenges that continue to affect the continent.

He also paid tribute to African freedom fighters and visionaries whose sacrifices secured independence and dignity for many African nations, noting that their commitment to justice, self-determination and unity remains a source of inspiration for present and future generations

He noted that Zambia holds a special place in Africa’s liberation history, having provided political, diplomatic and logistical support to liberation movements in Angola, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe during the struggle against colonial rule.

Mr Muhanga explained that Zambia’s support for liberation movements was guided by the belief that the freedom of one African nation was inseparable from that of the entire continent, adding that the country’s contribution remains one of its most enduring legacies.

He further stated that Zambia continues to uphold the principles of Pan-Africanism, respect for sovereignty, peaceful coexistence, democratic governance and mutually beneficial cooperation among African states.

He also observed that as a country endowed with abundant water resources and home to major transboundary river systems, Zambia recognises the importance of regional cooperation in promoting sustainable water management and environmental protection

Mr Muhanga also highlighted the progress Africa has made through initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), strengthening regional economic communities, infrastructure development and growing intra-African cooperation.

He said the AfCFTA presents unprecedented opportunities to expand markets, strengthen value chains, promote industrialisation and accelerate economic transformation across the continent.

Meanwhile, Head of African Union Economic Social and Central Council (ECOSOCC) William Carew whose speech was read on his behalf by ECOSOCC Head of Administration, Human Resource and Finance Mutale Muloshi expressed that Africa’s future will be shaped by its people, particularly the youth, women, innovators and communities, who remain key drivers of the continent’s transformation.

He adds, that while Africa is rich in potential there was need for governments and stakeholders to continue addressing challenges that hinder social and economic progress.

Mr Carew further urged African nations to align with the African Union Theme of the Year 2026, “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063.

He highlighted that the theme serves as a call to action for governments, civil society organisations and development partners to mobilise communities and support policies that guarantee equitable access to water and sanitation services.

He also emphasised on the need to achieve the aspirations of Agenda 2063 which will require collective effort and determination from all Africans.

He has since encouraged the continuity of spirit of unity and commitment reflected in this year’s Africa Day celebrations and that Africans should be inspired to work together in advancing sustainable development and improving the lives of people across the continent.

And speaking at the same event, Ambassador of the Republic of Zimbabwe to Zambia and Dean of Africa Group Charity Charamba said Zambia’s support for the African Union under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema continues to strengthen regional cooperation and collective development.

Ms Charamba said the celebration, held under the theme “63 Years of Unity, Integration and Development: Let’s Celebrate Together,” provided an opportunity for African countries to reflect on the progress made in advancing the continent’s shared aspirations.

She noted that the Africa Group was pleased to celebrate this year’s Africa Day after failing to hold commemorative activities as a group last year, adding that the event demonstrated the spirit of togetherness among African nations.

 She also thanked the Zambian Government for the hospitality extended to members of the Africa Group, the diplomatic community and African diaspora communities residing in the country.

She further commended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for maintaining regular engagements with the Africa Group through briefings on issues of mutual interest.

Ms Charamba said Africa Day remains significant as it marks the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on May 25, 1963, where African leaders chose unity, liberation and self-determination as guiding principles for the continent.

She noted that the African Union continues to advocate for reforms at the United Nations Security Council, including the allocation of at least two permanent seats with veto powers and five non-permanent seats for Africa

” Africa should remain committed to speaking with one voice on matters affecting the continent and advancing its role in global peace, security and development.” she said.

President Hakainde Hichilema says the next chapter for the United Party for National Development (UPND) will focus on further reducing the cost of living for Zambians while accelerating economic growth.

Speaking when he launched the UPND Manifesto at Mulungushi International conference, President Hichilema says the party’s ambition is to double the size of the economy through massive economic transformation aimed at creating jobs, boosting investment and improving livelihoods.

He outlined the five pillars of the UPND 2026 manifesto as growing the economy, connecting the nation, serving the people, effective delivery-oriented public sector and financing the future of Zambia.

President Hichilema was speaking in Lusaka today during the unveiling of the UPND’s 2026 Party Manifesto.

Mr Hichilema noted that the party manifesto incorporates alliance partners in its shared vision for the country, adding that the manifesto and the election is about protecting unity, inclusion, peace, progress and the future.

He disclosed that every provincial centre will house an international airport and that three rail systems are currently being worked on, that is the Tanzania-Zambia railway (TAZARA), Zambia Railway Line (ZRL) and the Lobito railway.

He emphasised that more measures will be effected to protect free education, further saying there shall be a public university in every provincial centre.

“We shall introduce performance-based contracts to curb inefficient in the public sector, the work culture must change. We shall operationalise the 24-hour economy,” he said.

He explained that to finance the country’s future, the UPND will expand public-private partnerships beyond roads to hospitals and bridges.

“We will also raise money on capital markets and prioritise production for exports. We will push investment expenditure more than consumption expenditure,” he added

He pointed out that target setting is important for economic growth, adding that set targets include realising 10 million tonnes of maize, 10 thousand Megawatts of electricity, five million tourists, three million metric tonnes of both copper and soya beans.

“One million metric tonnes of wheat and one billion United States dollars’ worth of beef exports,” he added.

Mr Hichilema also reminded the gathering of a UPND vision of a peaceful, united and prosperous nation and advised that hatred, violence and ethnic divisions must be rejected.

And Vice President Mutale Nalumango said the New Dawn Administration has fulfilled many of the promises it made to the Zambian people.

Mrs Nalumango said President Hichilema has demonstrated commitment to delivering on his administration’s development agenda and improving the welfare of citizens.

Meanwhile, UPND National Chairperson Collins Maoma described President Hichilema as a visionary leader committed to uniting the country and driving economic development.

Mr Maoma said the President has continued to work closely with alliance partners to promote national development and improve the economy.

Earlier, hundreds of UPND supporters, mainly youths, gathered at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre where they sang and chanted party slogans in celebration of the manifesto launch.

President Hakainde Hichilema has declined to assent to the Public Gathering Bill and has referred it back to Parliament for further consideration, citing constitutional concerns.

According to State House Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka, the President returned the Bill to Parliament on May 29, 2026, in accordance with Article 66(1)(b) of the Constitution.

Mr. Hamasaka said the Head of State identified inconsistencies between the current draft legislation and established judicial precedents, prompting him to withhold assent and request that lawmakers reconsider the proposed law.

He explained that while the President acknowledged several positive aspects of the Bill, he emphasized the need for the legislation to be fully aligned with the Constitution, particularly the fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed under Part III of the Republican Constitution.

According to State House, President Hichilema believes legal reforms should strengthen democratic governance and expand, rather than limit, the freedoms enjoyed by citizens.

“The President reaffirmed that legal reforms must strengthen the nation’s democracy and broaden the freedoms enjoyed by all Zambians,” Hamasaka stated.

The President has expressed confidence that Parliament will revisit the Bill and address the concerns raised so that any future legislation reflects constitutional principles and the highest standards of democratic governance.

The Public Gathering Bill was intended to reform the legal framework governing public assemblies and gatherings, but its reconsideration means Parliament will now have to review the provisions highlighted by the President before it can become law.

The two principal suspects linked to the murder of seven people and the theft of 43 cattle in Lukulu District, Western Province, have been shot dead during a police operation.

According to Rae Hamoonga, the suspects, identified as Numbo Mate Mubita, 41, and Chiteta Kayombo, 25, were killed while attempting to escape police custody.

Police say the two suspects were leading officers to the Kashasha area, where they had allegedly hidden a firearm believed to have been used in the killings that occurred at Kamboyi Village in Lukulu District last weekend.

Mr. Hamoonga explained that during the operation, one of the suspects reportedly retrieved the concealed weapon and opened fire on the escorting officers. The pair then attempted to flee from the scene.

Police officers returned fire, fatally wounding both suspects.

Following the incident, officers recovered an AK-47 rifle believed to have been used in the murders. The firearm had its serial number defaced and was found together with three rounds of ammunition.

The two men had been under investigation as the main suspects in the killing of seven people and the aggravated theft of 43 cattle from Kamboyi Village, a crime that shocked residents of Lukulu and surrounding communities.

Police say investigations into the broader circumstances surrounding the murders and cattle theft are continuing.

Daniel Mwenya, a green economy and sustainable development advocate in Mpulungu District, Northern Province, has urged young people, whether employed or not, to take entrepreneurship seriously.

Hailing from Maziya village in Chief Chitimbwa’s chiefdom, Mr Mwenya emphasized that entrepreneurship is a vital avenue for job creation, particularly in areas with high unemployment rates.

Speaking to the media, Mr Mwenya encouraged young people and aspiring business owners to pursue innovative ideas and invest in their communities to foster economic resilience.

He noted that cultivating a strong entrepreneurial culture can reduce dependency on limited government jobs, create local employment and stimulate local economies.

Mr Mwenya also highlighted the importance of responsible land management.

He urged people to acquire land with long-term sustainability in mind, noting that land supports agriculture, real estate development and conservation efforts.

“Integrating business development with responsible land management and afforestation allows communities to build a foundation for long-term prosperity,” he said.

Mr Mwenya called on policymakers, entrepreneurs and citizens to collaborate on initiatives that promote sustainable growth.

He encouraged young entrepreneurs to seek mentorship, acquire relevant skills and invest in ventures that support sustainability and community development.

Police in Chipata District have launched a manhunt for a man accused of raping a 39‑year‑old woman in Zibazako Compound.

Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba confirmed the incident, which was reported to Chipata Central Police Station on June 9, 2026, at around 06:15 hours.

He identified the named victim as aged 39, of Zibazako Compound while the suspect has been named as David Phiri, whose age is yet to be established.

Mr Mweemba disclosed that the attack occurred at about 03:24 hours on June 9 with preliminary investigations indicating that on the evening of June 8, the victim had visited her sister‑in‑law in the Referendum area and later began walking home with her baby, accompanied by her brother, Davison Miti.

Along the way, they encountered the suspect, who allegedly accused the victim of owing him K50.

Mr Mweemba said the victim then reportedly dragged her into a nearby bush while her brother attempted to intervene but was overpowered because the suspect was armed with a knife.

Mr Mweemba said the brother then left to seek help from nearby residents.

During his absence, the suspect allegedly forced the victim to the ground and raped her and that by the time help arrived, the suspect had fled.

Mr Mweemba said the victim sustained injuries, including pain in her private parts and general body pains.

No arrest has been made, but police say efforts to track down the suspect have been intensified.

A 10-year-old girl has died after being hit by a vehicle while crossing the Chipata-Mfuwe Road in Mambwe District, Eastern Province yesterday.

Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba confirmed the fatal accident, which occurred on Wednesday at about 16:46 hours at Chiwawatala Village in Chief Kakumbi’s area.

Mr Mweemba said the accident involved a Toyota Sienta, registration number ARD 999, driven by 42-year-old Dingilizwe Daka of the Showgrounds area near David Kaunda Stadium in Chipata District.

Mr Mweemba explained that the driver was travelling from east to west when he struck a pedestrian identified as Stellia Mwale, 10, of Chakachino Village in Chief Kakumbi’s chiefdom.

“The juvenile sustained a bruised forehead, bruises on both legs and suspected internal injuries. She was rushed to Kakumbi Rural Health Centre, where she was pronounced dead on arrival,” Mr Mweemba said.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the accident occurred when the child attempted to cross the road from the northern side to the southern side and was hit by the oncoming vehicle in the middle of the road.

The driver escaped unhurt, while the vehicle sustained damage to its right front section.

Mr Mweemba said the body of the deceased has been deposited in the mortuary at Mambwe District Hospital awaiting burial.

He has since urged both motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution on the roads to help prevent accidents and save lives.

The Zambian government is executing an aggressive, nationwide road and border infrastructure program utilising a mix of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and treasury funding.

The initiative aims to enhance rural connectivity, improve trade corridors, and transition to durable concrete roads.

Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary for Administration Gabriel Pollen has since reaffirmed this commitment by the government.
The media  reports that the Permanent Secretary said this when he paid a courtesy call on Northwestern Province Permanent Secretary, Grandson Katambi in Solwezi.

“President Hakainde Hichilema remains committed to transforming the country through improved road network”, he noted.

Dr Pollen emphasized that it is for this reason that his Ministry has decided to undertake the trip to the province to appreciate what is on the ground.

“That is why we are here, to see how the roads that we are constructing are benefiting the people”, he said.

Dr Pollen recalled how the people of Solwezi suffered with the bad road network some time years back.

He added that the government will not relent but continue spreading development through infrastructure development.

And Col Katambi noted that the province has continued registering development in different sectors of the economy.

Two members of the United Party for National Development (UPND) who are standing as independent aspiring candidates for the position of the Chairperson at the Kazungula Town Council and Kazungula Central ward councilor have resigned from the party.

Mr Osward Siansundi who was former Kazungula Town Council Vice Chairperson and also former Kanchele ward councilor is vying for the position of Chairperson while Gladson Sialumwemwe is vying for the Kazungula Central ward councilor seat.

Speaking in an interview with ZANIS, Mr Siansundi said he had resigned from the party on 19th May, 2026 and addressed his resignation letter to the UPND Kazungula District Chairperson stating that he ceased to be a member of the party with effect from the date of his resignation.

“I have since intensified my campaigns in all the 16 wards of Kazungula district with my supporters on the ground engaging with the people. The campaigns are currently going on very well and I am confident of scooping the Council Chairperson seat as an independent candidate with a 100 percent vote,” Mr Siansundi said.

He said despite having resigned from the UPND, he will still support the candidature of the Republican President, Mr Hakainde Hichilema.

Mr Siansundi stated that as he is campaigning, he is also asking the people of Kazungula district to vote for the President because of his sound economic policies and achievements he has scored in his first term in office.

Meanwhile, Mr Sialumwemwe said in a statement issued to the media today that he rendered his resignation as a UPND member through the UPND Kazungula District Chairperson on 3rd June, 2026.

“My action was taken in compliance with the electoral regulations and the guidance issued by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) stating that any person intending to contest an election as an independent candidate must resign from their political party before the prescribed deadline,” Mr Sialumwemwe said.

He mentioned that he remains a law-abiding citizen committed to upholding the Constitution and electoral regulations.

According to his resignation letter made available to ZANIS and addressed to the UPND District Chairperson and copied to the Constituency Chairperson, Mr Sialumwemwe expressed his displeasure for not having been adopted as a UPND Kazungula Central ward councilor.

Mr Sialumwemwe disclosed that during the primary elections that were conducted in Kazungula South Constituency, he emerged victorious for Kazungula Central ward as a best candidate but wondered why a different candidate was adopted on the party ticket instead of him.

“I have always believed in internal party democracy and respect for the will of the grassroots. The decision not to adopt me despite the clear outcome of the primary process leaves me with no option but to resign my UPND membership,” Mr Sialumwemwe complained

He said he would remain fully committed to serving the people of Kazungula South Constituency and continue to advance community development through other platforms.

 Southern Province Commanding Officer Moono Namalongo has confirmed that a man was killed by an elephant near Kaingu Safari Lodge in Chief Kaingu’s area of Itezhi-Tezhi District on June 6, 2026.

Mr Namalongo said workers at the safari lodge heard unusual noises from a herd of elephants about 30 metres from the lodge around midday, suggesting that the animals had become agitated.

He explained that lodge management immediately accounted for all members of staff and confirmed that they were safe.

“However, at around 17:50 hours, the body of an unknown male person was discovered lying in nearby thickets and the matter was subsequently reported to police,” Mr Namalongo said.

Mr Namalongo stated that police officers who visited the scene confirmed the incident and found the deceased with multiple injuries consistent with an elephant attack.

He added that torn clothing believed to belong to the victim was also recovered near the scene.

He further revealed that the deceased was later identified as Christopher Munsanje by Moomba Village Headman Ramsey Moomba.

 According to Mr Namalongo, the victim was known to have a history of mental illness and was believed to have originated from Chikanta Chiefdom in Kalomo District.

“The deceased had reportedly been seen roaming within the area during the month of May before the unfortunate incident occurred,” Mr Namalongo said.

Mr Namalongo said the body was retrieved from the scene and deposited into the Itezhi-Tezhi District Hospital Mortuary awaiting burial adding that an inquiry file has since been opened to establish the full circumstances surrounding the fatal elephant attack.

He has since urged members of the public living in or visiting wildlife areas to exercise caution and report any dangerous animal movements to relevant authorities.