Muzala Samukonga, the talented Zambian sprinter, sprinted to victory and claimed the gold medal in the men’s 400 meters race at the 2023 Ostrava Golden Spikes continental tour. Clocking an impressive time of 45.05 seconds, Samukonga showcased his exceptional speed and solidified his reputation as a rising star in athletics.

Representing Zambia, Samukonga started the race in lane six but swiftly maneuvered his way to the front of the pack, leaving his competitors trailing behind. The National Olympic Committee of Zambia reported his remarkable achievement, highlighting his consistent performance and extraordinary talent.

As he prepares for the upcoming World Athletics Championship in Hungary in August, Samukonga has intensified his training since establishing a base in Germany. On his Diamond League debut on June 15, he delivered an impressive performance, completing the 400m race in 44.49 seconds, finishing just behind the world record holder, South Africa’s Wayde van Niekerk, who clocked 44.38 seconds.

Today, at the Ostrava Golden Spikes, Samukonga had another opportunity to either surpass his personal best or achieve a new season best. His current personal best stands at 43.91 seconds, and he aimed to excel on the track in Ostrava, Czech Republic.

Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to compete at the prestigious Golden Spike event, Samukonga conveyed his honor to participate in the race. The event brought together top athletes from around the world, providing an excellent platform for Samukonga to showcase his skills and make his mark on the international athletics stage.

President Hakainde Hichilema has said it is important to expedite the implementation of the debt restructuring deal in order to ensure that its benefits reach the people of Zambia and stimulate economic improvement. He specifically called upon the World Bank to take swift action in executing the debt restructuring agreement and assured that no obstacles would hinder the process.

President Hichilema acknowledged the critical partnership between the Zambian government and international financial institutions, expressing gratitude for the support received thus far. He also highlighted the government’s readiness to assist other countries in debt restructuring if the need arises.

During a courtesy call by the World Bank Country Director, Nathan Belete, at State House, President Hichilema expressed his appreciation for the bank’s support during the debt restructuring negotiations. The World Bank has already approved over $1.1 billion for Zambia through the Common Framework since the commencement of the discussions. This substantial support reflects the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline, reforms, and the country’s growth agenda.

Mr. Belete, who congratulated Zambia on the successful debt restructuring deal, pledged the World Bank’s continued commitment to building partnerships that drive economic growth. He expressed optimism about expanding the collaboration between the Zambian government and the World Bank in the coming years. Furthermore, Mr. Belete shared his satisfaction that the World Bank President would hold bilateral talks with President Hichilema, further enhancing the partnership.

President Hakainde Hichilema, in response to the meeting, expressed his delight at hosting Mr. Nathan Belete, the World Bank Country Director for Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He expressed gratitude to the World Bank Group for its significant role in the successful debt restructuring agreement reached in Paris, France, last week. The President highlighted that the debt restructuring program marks the beginning of tangible efforts to transform the Zambian economy by increasing investment in critical areas such as human capital, agriculture, infrastructure, energy, private sector development, climate, and gender empowerment.

The President also appealed for additional support to diversify Zambia’s industrial base through robust value addition, particularly for small-scale entrepreneurs. This strategic approach aims to generate more job opportunities, especially for the country’s youthful population. President Hichilema emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing technological and digital platforms to improve efficiency across various sectors, including revenue collection and public services.

Looking ahead, President Hichilema expressed his eagerness to continue collaborating with the World Bank on their shared vision of triggering inclusive growth and uplifting the people of Zambia. The debt restructuring agreement serves as a stepping stone toward achieving the country’s economic transformation agenda and promoting prosperity for all.

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu’s son, Daliso Lungu, and his wife, Matildah Milinga, have been apprehended and charged by the police for the offense of possession of property suspected to be proceeds of crime. According to Police Spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, the couple, both aged 36, are directors of a company called Saloid Traders Limited.

Hamoonga stated that Saloid Traders Limited owns a total of 48 motor vehicles with an estimated value of approximately K23 million. Additionally, the company possesses fixed assets valued at K12.8 million, as well as K25 million suspected to be proceeds of criminal activities.

Further elaborating on the matter, Hamoonga revealed that Daliso Lungu, as an individual, has been arrested and charged for the offense of possession of property suspected to be proceeds of crime. The charges are related to his possession of 21 motor vehicles with an estimated value of about K1.5 million and fixed assets valued at K31.5 million, all registered under his name.

Hamoonga went on to explain that Daliso Lungu has also been arrested and charged with money laundering. The charges stem from the alleged deposit of over K23.9 million into the Saloid Traders Limited account, which is held at ZANACO Cairo Business Centre Lusaka Branch. The transactions are said to have occurred between September 1, 2017, and January 2022 in Lusaka.

Both Daliso Lungu and Matildah Milinga have been released on police bond pending their court appearance. The exact date of their court hearing is yet to be announced.

A devastating accident occurred last night just a few meters away from the east gate entrance of Copperbelt University, resulting in the loss of two promising engineering students. The incident unfolded as they were making their way from campus to their boarding house around 21:30 hours. The entire university community is mourning the untimely deaths of Thabo Mumbi , a third-year engineering student, and Christian Bwalya, a second-year engineering student.

According to the Copperbelt University Students Union (COBUSU) President, Castro Mulilo, the students’ lives were tragically cut short when they were struck by a speeding vehicle. Regrettably, Thabo Mumbi succumbed to his injuries at the scene of the accident, while Christian Bwalya was rushed to Kitwe Teaching Hospital, where he passed away a few minutes later. Another individual, Josphat Muyambwa , a former student at NORTEC, sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical care at Kitwe Teaching Hospital.

Expressing his deep sorrow, COBUSU President CASTRO MULILO shared the news of the students’ demise, urging fellow students to mourn the loss without causing any disturbances. The tragic incident has left the entire Copperbelt University community in a state of shock and mourning.

In response to the devastating news, CBU’s Acting Dean of Students, Leonard Nkhata , described the deaths of the two students as regrettable. He appealed to the student body to find solace in their collective grief while refraining from engaging in any activities that may disrupt the peace and harmony on campus.

This morning, students donned black attire and, led by the COBUSU leadership, marched in solemn remembrance of their fellow students. The procession moved through Copperbelt University and Jambo Drive, serving as a poignant protest against the tragic loss that has befallen their community.

Copperbelt Police Commissioner Peacewell Mweemba confirmed that 26-year-old Esther Aponde , the driver of the Toyota Hilux involved in the accident, has been detained in police custody pending further investigations. The authorities are working diligently to uncover the circumstances that led to the collision.

Unfortunately, the aftermath of the accident saw some students resorting to destructive behavior. Reports indicate that a shop opposite the main gate of CBU was looted, and another shop within the campus premises was also targeted. In addition, mobile money booths near the CBU main gate were set on fire, further exacerbating an already tragic situation.

The university administration, along with the local authorities, is appealing for calm and restraint during this challenging period.