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President Lungu; Be Brave And Come Out of Hiding!

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President Lungu; Be Brave And Come Out of Hiding!

I first bumped into ArchbishopTelesphore Mpundu at Northmeads in Lusaka around March 2022…….in a liquor store to be precise. I had hoped there to get a few “brownies” after a long day at Mulungushi where we were attending a National Indaba on Street Kids. I’ve no clue what took the good Bishop there, but I know it wasn’t ma jiggies or toffee sweets for sure!

When I spotted him again in the corridors as we were preparing to leave, I asked my colleague to stop the car and accosted him. Since he always seemed to have an opinion on several issues, I thought I should pick his brains, particularly on politics.

He vented and gesticulated boisterously as he ran me through the litany of misdeeds of Lungu’s corrupt and kleptomaniac government. Furthermore, he disclosed how Lungu wanted to divide the Catholics in the nation by driving a wage amongst them and pitying the priests against each other. He didn’t have kind words for his predecessor at Lusaka Diocese, Bishop Alick Banda.

“One day, we were invited to State House as Catholic bishops. By that time Banda was still at Ndola Diocese,” the Bishop was literally fuming. “When the meeting ended, Banda and another bishop from the northern regions were nowhere to be seen.”

Tired of waiting, one of them suggested that they should just leave without them as the duo were adults who would easily find their way to Kapingila House in Kabulonga.

“We all knew what they were doing in there!” he exclaimed. “Even that so called fundraising walk they had in Ndola for the carpark was laced with corruption…..”

What I learnt about Bishop Banda that day was earth shattering…….it could actually perforate someone’s ears! Yes, as Christians we mustn’t hold grudges for a long time and should endeavour to forgive one another as much as possible. However, I was rather shocked yesterday see photos of the trio – Edgar Lungu, Bishops Mpundu and Banda all smiles as they posed for photos.

Bishop Mpundu knows in his heart of hearts that God is a witness to what he said about Lungu and Banda. What has changed now? Did he accuse his brothers falsely and therefore sinned in the eyes of our Lord?

What has necessitated this “reconciliation” as observed by the Newsdiggers Newspapers?

When some of us saw PF dilly-dalling to go for a party convention to ‘select’ new leaders and indeed Lungu launching his foundation, our sixth sense warned us that there was something definitely cooking in the air and we didn’t like the smell of it. I followed this up with an article, “Will Lungu Pull A Quick One?”

I postulated that there seemed to be well calculated machinations to dribble individuals deemed to be real owners of the party such as Miles Sampa, Chishimba Kambwili and Godfrey Bwalya Mwamba out of the presidential race and instead impose a weak candidate to warm up the seat for Lungu – someone with roots strongly hankered in MMD such as one Brian Mundibile so as to use it as a weapon to pull the rag off his feet at a later stage. Is the PF convention happening any time soon? No! Haven’t we seen Kambwili and GBM crawling back to Lungu? Of course, we have!

Chase pieces are now beginning to move fast and furious as Lungu’s plans fall into place. As we approach 2026, we should expect to see more individuals that had previously differed with Lungu making pilgrimages to his place to make amends, his outreach to churches around the nation will be heightened while the ‘noise’ from people clamouring about his return to power will reach a crescendo.

Ignore communique being made available to the public after such interactions that they are about academic work on the 2021 elections or exchange of notes about national and spiritual matters. It’s all a charade meant to hoodwink the public that Lungu isn’t scheming a comeback. It’s a well calculated move by a cunning and shrewd hardcore politician whose looks easily betray him.

While Lungu may be entitled to still harbour ambitions of bouncing back, he should be doing so within the confines of the law. The law is very clear, a former president shall be stripped of their retirement benefits should they continue involving themselves in active politics!

We are encouraging Lungu to be courageous and come out of hiding so that he should stop chewing our money.

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Modern meteorological equipment to boost early warning systems

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Modern meteorological equipment to boost early warning systems

By BENEDICT TEMBO

MINISTER of Green Economy and Environment Collins Nzovu has said the expanded and modernized meteorological observation infrastructure will support and contribute to early warnings.

Speaking when he launched the installation of 120 automatic weather stations at Nangoma Secondary School in Mumbwa District of Central Province, Mr Nzovu said multi-hazard early warnings simultaneously address flooding, storms and other major hazards.

“Long before such hazards arise, early warning information prepares those at risk as well as those who may be involved in providing assistance so that they will be prepared when warnings sound,” he said.

Mr Nzovu added that the expanded and modernised observation network will enhance the monitoring and measuring of the weather, climate and the environment to support among others, sustainable generation and management of the hydropower and other renewable energy facilities and improve agriculture productivity.

It will also strengthen water resource management, provide timely and usable early warning information; support climate change adaptation and enhance, environmental management and pollution monitoring.

“Furthermore, the expanded and modernized meteorological infrastructure will support resilience building in communities and climate sensitive sectors in our economy,” he said.

Mr Nzovu said the installation of the 120 automatic weather stations launched today has been done through the Transforming Landscapes for Resilience and Development (TRALARD) project with support from the World Bank at US$3.8 million.

“This is indeed a huge investment to support climate change adaptation and resilience building as outlined under the environmental sustainability pillar in the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP),” he said.

He added that as the ministry responsible for meteorological services, one of its goals is to provide timely weather and climate information and products for sustainable development in the various sectors of the economy.

Mr Nzovu said the implementation of the programme to expand and modernise meteorological observation infrastructure across the country is a demonstration of the fulfilment of commitments of the government made to the Zambian citizens.

“This is one of the ways that this government wants to strengthen early warning systems to aid disaster responses and preparedness as well as support the country’s adaptation to climate change for sustainable development,” he said.

Mr Nzovu said the installation of automatic weather stations in all the districts brings the new dawn government one step closer to adapting to climate change, in line with sustainable Development Goal number 13, which urges “taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts”.

“In addition, the expanded and modernised meteorological observation infrastructure will support and contribute to early warnings for all initiative, launched by UN secretary-general António Guterres and endorsed at COP(Conference of Parties) 27 in Sharm-el-Sheikh in 2022. The 120 automatic weather stations will be used to monitor the meteorological factors in agricultural planting, which is conducive to improving farmers’ defense against meteorological disasters, speeding up the promotion of new varieties, reducing blind investment and effectively improving economic benefits,” he said.

Mr Nzovu said Nangoma area in Mumbwa district has been chosen for the launch because it is one of the areas in the country which is vulnerable to the impacts of extreme weather and climate events such as floods and droughts.

He said Mumbwa and surrounding areas as well as many other areas across the country experiences recurrent flash floods and flooding which affect many communities.
“You may further wish to note that the rainfall received in the Mumbwa, Nangoma catchment area contributes significantly to the Itezhi-Tezhi hydropower station and subsequently to the 900 MW Kafue Gorge Upper and the 750mw Kafue Gorge Lower hydro-power stations,” Mr Nzovu said.

Ministry of Information and Media Director Spokesperson dismisses calls to disband National Pension Scheme Authority

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Ministry of Information and Media Director Spokesperson dismisses calls to disband National Pension Scheme Authority

The Ministry of Information and Media Director Spokesperson Thabo Kawana has dismissed calls by the president of the Patriots for Economic Progress (PEP), Sean Tembo, to disband the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA). In an exclusive interview with the Falcon News in Lusaka, Kawana stated that the government had already done its groundwork before implementing the partial withdrawal of pension.

“Government has released 11 billion Kwacha which is able to take care of 600,000 would-be beneficiaries of the 20% of partial withdrawal of pension,” Kawana stated confidently. He also defended the government’s decision to allow partial pension withdrawals, saying that it was a necessary step to provide much-needed financial support to workers during tough times.

“We are not like Sean Tembo who can have the audacity to participate in an election expecting to win and later come out with zeros. Everything on him is zero,” Kawana added, clearly unhappy with Tembo’s recent comments on the NAPSA.

Kawana also reminded Tembo that the current government is a serious one that knows what it is doing. “The New Dawn is not a ‘chipantepante’ government that does things without planning and calculating,” he said.

Kawana’s comments come after Tembo’s recent appearance on Radio Phoenix’s Let the People Talk Program, where he called for the disbanding of the NAPSA, claiming that the institution has no capacity to provide income security through payment of benefits to contributing workers.

The National Pension Scheme Amendment Bill 2023, which allows for the partial withdrawal of pensions, was recently signed into law by President Hichilema. The new law, which fulfils one of the major campaign promises of the United Party for National Development (UPND), has been met with a lot of excitement by workers.

Kawana reiterated that President Hichilema is delivering on the promises he made prior to the August 12, 2021 General Election. “The president is committed to improving the lives of Zambians and he is taking bold steps to make sure that happens,” he said.

Kawana dismissed Tembo’s claims and assured Zambians that the government is committed to providing financial support to workers through the NAPSA. “The government is doing everything it can to ensure that workers are financially secure, and we will continue to work towards that goal,” he said.

Former Army Army Commander Gen. Mumbi revisits former office

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Former Army Army Commander Gen. Mumbi revisits former office

By BENEDICT TEMBO

Former Zambia Army Commander Lieutenant General Solomon Mumbi (rtd) has urged Zambians to learn about their country’s history.
Lt Gen Mumbi says history helps citizens understand their origins and where they are headed.

He made the remarks yesterday when he paid a courtesy visit to the Zambia Army Commander’s Military Assistant Brigadier General Jethrow Chipili and Public Relations and Foreign Liaison Directorate Director Colonel Martin Kalaluka Liyungu.

Lt Gen Mumbi, a graduate of the Irish Army Officer Cadet School, held the position of Army Commander between 1997 and 1999.

He was one of the first six officer cadets the Zambia Army sent to that country for military training between 1967 and 1969.

Lt Gen Mumbi trained in Ireland, alongside Major Michael Chikoti (rtd), Maj Emmanuel Chisha, Brig Gen Weston Chanda (late), Captain Michael Zulu, and Major John Munthali.

Other officers that trained at the same school include Brigadier General Idi Hachanga, Brig Gen John Banda, Brig Gen Oliver Mubita (rtd), Col Erwin Mumbi, Col Killian Kaila, Col Chrispin Kanjungu, Lieutenant Colonel Innocent Mutinta, Captain John Chiyaze Luyako (rtd), Lieutenant Kwalombota Mate, and Mr Chishimba Tate (late).

Notable in other intakes are Big Gen Justus Sichuunga, Col Dick Chibuye, Col Savian Chali, Col Langford Phiri, Lt Col Robert Simutende, Lt Col Gabriel Chabwe, Lt Col Harrison Hastings Chifwaya Matibini (late), Maj Jabulani Lungu, Capt Lovesone Mutakela and Capt Steven Maimisa.

In addition, Lt Gen Mumbi was the second artillery officer to be Army Commander, after Lt Gen Garry Kalenge, who was in office from 1987–1990, and before Lt Gen Sitali Alibuzwi, who is still serving in the similar capacity.

He later became Zambia’s High Commissioner to Namibia and Ambassador to the African Great Lakes region.

Zambia’s democratic gains at risk with threatened de-registration of PF, says NGOCC

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Zambia’s democratic gains at risk with threatened de-registration of PF, says NGOCC

The Non-governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has expressed its concern over the threatened cancellation of the registration of the Patriotic Front (PF) political party by the Registrar of Societies.

Chief Registrar of Societies Thandiwe Mhende has written to the Patriotic Front, notifying it of her intention to deregister it for failure to avail a complete list of office bearers.

Ms. Mhende has advised the opposition party to make representations, within seven days upon receipt of the notice, to show cause why the party should not be cancelled.

But NGOCC Board Chairperson Grace Sinkamba said the proposed cancelation of the registration of the Patriotic Front if effected would negate the democratic gains Zambia has made.

Ms. Sinkamba said said the important role of political parties in the country’s democratic governance system cannot be over-emphasised.

She said the Registrar of Societies’s role of promoting compliance must not be to the detriment of the country’s democracy as espoused in the Republican Constitution.

Ms. Sinkamba said as opposed to threatening de-registration, the Registrar should instead be supporting Societies, including the PF to ensure that they are compliant in the best interest of democracy and good governance.

“Th Non-governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) is deeply concerned by the threatened cancellation of the registration of the Patriotic Front (PF) political party by the Registrar of Societies and is urging the former ruling party to urgently address the compliance issues raised so as to ensure the party remains a legal entity in the interest of the country’s democracy.Zambia’s Constitution which states that we are a democratic and multi-party State, recognizes the important role of political parties in the governance of the country. The important role of political parties in the country’s democratic governance system cannot be over-mphasised. It is against this background that we remain concemed with the threatened cancelation of the registration of
the Patriotic Front as it would negate the democratic gains made by the country,” Ms. Sinkamba said.

She said the de-registration of the PF has the potential to negatively affect the citizen’s right to freedom of Association which is guaranteed by the Constitution.

“While recognizing the legitimate role of the Registrar of Societies to promote compliance of Societies, it is our considered view that this must not be to the detriment of the country’s democracy as espoused in the Republican Constitution. State institutions such as the Registrar of societies should be more concerned about deepening the country’s democratic culture. As opposed to threatening de-registration, the Registrar should instead be supporting Societies, including the PF to ensure that they are compliant in the best interest of democracy and good governance. As already stated, Zambia is a multi-party state and the de-registration of the PF has the potential to negatively affect the citizen’s right to freedom of Association which is guaranteed by the
Constitution,” Ms Sinkamba said.

She also reminded political parties to ensure that they fulfil their legal requirements as provided by the societies Act Chapter I 19 of the laws of Zambia so that they are not found wanting and ultimately.

“We also urge political parties to ensure that they fulfil their legal requirements as provided by the Societies Act Chapter I 19 of the laws of Zambia so that they are not found wanting and ultimately disadvantage the Zambian people. The leadership of the PF should as a matter of urgency submit the requirements as demanded by the Registrar of Societies. It is our hope that all political parties, including the governing party, the United Party for National Development (UPND), are compliant with the provisions of the Societies Act. As the women’s movement we are keenly following the implementation of the rule of law and its unbiased enforcement in the present and future. With this. we would like to urge the Government to immediately review all laws that tend to stifle and close the civic space including the complete repeal of the NGO Act of 2009,” Ms. Sinkamba said.

Meanwhile, PF Information and Publicity Chairperson Raphael Nakacinda says it’s a shame that the Registrar of Societies has resorted to threatening to deregister the party instead of simply reminding the members to fulfill all requirements.

In a letter dated April 25, 2023, addressed to the PF Secretary General, Mhende informed the party that she intends on canceling it following its failure to comply with regulations.

Minister of Finance Emphasizes the Importance of Teamwork and Alternative Investments in African Economic Recovery

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Minister of Finance Emphasizes the Importance of Teamwork and Alternative Investments in African Economic Recovery

Minister of Finance Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane has highlighted the importance of teamwork among different stakeholders in building the economies of African countries.

Dr. Musokotwane said Africa and Zambia needs to push so much for productive investment in driving full-scale economic recovery.

When officially opening the inaugural Zambia Institutional Investors Forum in Lusaka, Dr. Musokotwane said Zambia and many other African countries need to harness alternative investments to set their economies on a higher growth
trajectory given the multiple crises arising from Covid-19.

“This forum being hosted by MNCapital Group and co-hosted by NetCom Business Solutions Zambia Limited is part of MNCapital Group’s continental drive to provide emerging markets with a platform to best fitting solutions for the specific country immediate challenges. I am therefore happy to note that the theme for this forum is “Harnessing Alternative Investment to Drive Economic Recovery”. The theme is timely, as many countries need to harness alternative investments to set their economies on a higher growth trajectory given the multiple crises arising from Covid-19 pandemic, the Ukraine-Russia conflict, climate change and the debt burden. As the Zambia Institutional Investors Forum 2023 gets under way today, I wish to state the importance of team work among different
stakeholders represented here in building the economies of African countries. This Forum is convened at such a time when Africa and Zambia in particular, needs to push so much for productive investment in driving full scale economic recovery,” he said.

Dr. Musokotwane reflected on some of the opportunities for investment in key sectors identified in the Eighth National Development Plan.

“In the agricultural sector, Government wishes to expand the production capacity of the sector and promote economic diversification, sustainability and create employment opportunities. Given that Zambia is endowed with a large arable land resource base of 42 million hectares, a lot of opportunities exist for crop farming and breeding of livestock. The country is also endowed with large freshwater bodies that can support irrigation and aquaculture including cage fish farming.Government has already provided incentives to the agricultural sector. These include lower corporate income tax rates in the agricultural sector; suspension of customs duty on machinery, equipment and other goods; and zero-rated Value Added Tax (VAT) rate for most agricultural products,” Dr. Musokotwane said.

“There are various opportunities in the tourism sector ranging from the establishment of hotels to the development of recreational facilities. Government focus in this regard, is on developing the enabling infrastructure that will unlock opportunities for investment and support to surrounding communities. Specifically, we are in the process of securing resources to develop prerequisite infrastructure at Kasaba Bay, Liuwa and the source of the Zambezi river that will attract private sector investment into these areas.

Some of the incentives provided by the Government include the suspension of customs duty on the importation of safari vehicles and reduced corporate tax rate from 25 percent to 15 percent in the sector. Government is also working on a number of measures to reduce the cost of doing business in the sector,” he said.

On mining, Dr. Musokotwane said Zambia has mineral endowment that remains untapped.

“Apart from copper, there are other minerals such as Gold, Zinc, Lead, Iron ore, Manganese, Nickel, Feldspar, sands, Talc, Barite, Apatite, limestone, Dolomite and Uranium among others. Therefore, we wish to woe investors to invest in the mining sector to increase exploration and develop green field projects. Such move will indeed support Government’s strategy to diversify within the
mining sector; and will increase the country’s net foreign earning apart from improving the living standards of the surrounding communities and the whole nation. To encourage investment in the sector, Government has restructured the Mineral Royalty tax regime to align with international good practice and in our effort to make the sector more attractive for investment. The mineral royalty is also deductible for corporate income tax purposes; and the Property Transfer Tax rate on the transfer of mining rights held by exploration companies has also been reduced,” he said.

Dr. Musokotwane added that the Government aims to expand the manufacturing base by promoting value addition in the country.

“One key strategy is the use of Multi-Facility Economic Zones and industrial parks.The Zones and industrial parks come with a range of tax incentives for companies that are established in these designated areas. Government recognises the critical role the energy sector plays as an enabler of economic development. Given the growing demand for energy due to increased economic activities in the various sectors, the sector is much a priority. To increase electricity generation, a key policy reform is to make tariffs cost reflective to attract investment into the sector. Let me state that I have just given a sample of some of the opportunities that exist in our country.

More detailed information on the opportunities and incentives can be obtained from the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA),” Dr. Musokotwane said.

Faith Mukutu’s a rising star

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Faith Mukutu’s a rising star

By BENEDICT TEMBO

Zambeef Plc Chief Executive Officer Faith Mukutu’s profile in the corporate world is rising rapidly.

Ms Mukutu has been named amongst the 2023 Definitive CEO’s of Africa’s top listed companies.

Sharing the accolade with Ms Mukutu on the 2023 Definitive CEO’s of Africa’s top listed companies is Zanaco Chief Executive Officer Mukwandi Chibesakunda and her Absa counterpart, Mizinga Melu.

The Definitive list recognises women who lead large business organisations in Africa that are listed on the stock exchange with revenue of over US$100 million.

The list is compiled and analysed by Africa.com

“Of the 2,020 companies listed on the 24 African stock exchanges, we screened for those companies with revenue of $100 million or more, or a market cap of $150 million or more, which yielded a list of 787 companies,” Africa.com says on its website.
It says the public websites of the 787 companies were reviewed to identify female C-suite executives.

“Our team of researchers then examined the list of these women to determine those who have a title of chief executive officer or managing director or president and have bottom line profit and loss responsibility. This resulted in the final list of these 40 women CEOs,” the website says

Ms Mukutu was promoted from Chief Financial Officer to CEO of Zambeef, the largest processor of beef in Zambia and one of the biggest agri- busifnesses in southern Africa, was in January this year named as one of Forbes’ Women to Watch in 2023.

She features on the list alongside the likes of French Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne – who is the second woman, in French history, to hold that position, and Sudanese-American physician Dr Iman Abuzeid – co-founder and CEO of nursing staffing start-up Incredible Health.
The prestigious list, entitled ‘Power Rising: These are the Women to Watch in 2023’ is an annual compilation by the global Forbes magazine that features women in spheres of influence across the globe.

Ms Mukutu has also received recognition from two of Zambia’s top banks; having been conferred with the ABSA Women in Business 2023 CEO Award and honoured at ZANACO’s Zee Women’s Banking Awards with the Zee CEO of the Year Award.

CDF Empowers Grassroots Communities: 13 Beneficiaries Receive K2.2 Million in Chilanga District

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CDF Empowers Grassroots Communities: 13 Beneficiaries Receive K2.2 Million in Chilanga District

By BENEDICT TEMBO

Constituency Development Fund (CDF) loans have continued reaching the grassroots with 13 additional beneficiaries in the latest disbursement in Chilanga district. The 13 who have received K2.2 million are the third set after beneficiaries in Mwandi and Mafinga districts in recent weeks.

Chilanga Constituency has become the third to benefit from the CDF loans following the disbursement of K2.2 million to 13 beneficiaries yesterday.

Speaking during the disbursement of the CDF loan component by yesterday, Chilanga Member of Parliament Sipho Hlazo said the CDF loan disbursement was the first time it was happening in Chilanga after it was introduced by the new dawn administration.
This followed successful implementation of bursaries for boarding secondary schools and skills development to various beneficiaries in Chilanga constituency as well as community projects under the 2022 CDF.

“in addition, Chilanga district working with the CDF committee are in the process of concluding the selection of successful CDF applicants in all the categories for 2023, and sooner than later the beneficiaries will be communicated to when funds are made available, ” Mr Hlazo said

He said the CDF loan component has taken too long

to be disbursed due to some unforeseen circumstances beyond the local authority’s control.
“However, the Government has taken rigorous measures to correct the causes of the delay. We trust that we will not go through this again,” Mr Hlazo said.

He counselled beneficiaries to work hard so that the money is paid back as it is a revolving fund to enable other people to benefit.
“I will not relent from asking youths and women to form groups and register limited companies and cooperatives so they can boost their business through CDF loans because CDF funds cannot be given to individuals, whether grants or loans but to registered entities,” Mr Hlazo said.

Chilanga council chairperson Champion Tembo described the disbursement of the CDF loans as a milestone in the Government’s effort to empower community members through financial support as it is an important tool in improving the lives of constituents.
Mr Tembo said President Hakainde Hichilema has walked the talk by ensuring that the promises are actualised through serving the Zambian people by creating tangible opportunities for economic empowerment.

He said hoax peddlers wanted to create havoc saying that by taking CDF directly to the beneficiaries was a doomsday theory.
“CDF is a tangible policy by the government as it is a game changer and is directly taken to the people so that they can create their own opportunity in their own locality,” Mr Tembo said

Chilanga District Commissioner David Sheleni described CDF as a flagship programme of the new dawn administration to deliver development in all the 156 constituencies through the country.

“For any constituency to develop, it will need the efforts of every stakeholder. Zambia will be developed based on the performance of stakeholders,” Mr Sheleni said

Indo Zambia Bank Chilanga branch manager Patricia Ndoti reiterated the prudent utilisation of the loans.
“These are loans and not grants,” Ms Ndoti said

During financial literacy training, IZB Senior Relationship manager Joseph Nyendwa urged beneficiaries of the loans to remain focused on their business plans.

Mr Nyendwa called for financial disciple so that the money is used for the intended purpose.

At five percent interest, Mr Nyendwa said the CDF Revolving Loan Facility is the cheapest on the market.

He emphasised the need for loan management.

Beneficiaries have a two month moratorium before they can start paying for the loans.

UPND recognizes efforts of New Dawn Government and Minister Masebo in eradicating malaria

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UPND recognizes efforts of New Dawn Government and Minister Masebo in eradicating malaria

UPND, the ruling party of Zambia, is determined to create a healthy, productive, prosperous, and equitable country. Speaking on behalf of the party, Dr. Bob Sakahilu, the chairman of the UPND Health Committee, stated that the party’s focus on healthcare is essential to achieving the goals of the 8th National Development Plan and Vision 2030.

“The UPND is committed to creating a Zambia that is healthy, productive, prosperous, and equitable. We believe that a healthy population is key to achieving these goals. That’s why the Ministry of Health, along with other government institutions, will work towards providing quality healthcare to all citizens,” said Dr. Sakahilu.

He went on to add, “We hope to ensure that our government provides equitable access to quality healthcare to all our people in order to have a healthy, productive, and prosperous people with healthcare which is as close to their families as possible. This principle is seen in the steps taken by the Ministry of Health to hand over some clinics, hospitals, and workers to the local government institutions.”

Dr. Sakahilu stressed the importance of investing in malaria prevention and control measures. On the occasion of World Malaria Day, the UPND Health Committee called on all Zambians to support the government’s efforts to combat malaria.

“We urge every citizen of Zambia to add his or her voice to those calling for investment that brings new vector control approaches, prevention and diagnostic activities, antimalarial medicines, and other tools to speed the pace of progress against malaria, a disease that kills thousands of our people in Zambia,” he said.

Dr. Sakahilu also recognized the efforts of President Hakainde and Minister Sylvia T. Masebo and their teams in eradicating malaria in Zambia. Their efforts have earned President Hakainde the African Union Medal and the title of WHO Malaria Ambassador.

“We would like to recognize the efforts of our New Dawn Government led by HE President Hakainde and the efforts of our Minister, Hon Sylvia T. Masebo, and her team in the entire Ministry over the eradication of malaria in Zambia. Their tireless efforts have made a significant impact in the fight against malaria in our country,” he said.

The UPND Health Committee is also exploring the possibility of introducing a malaria vaccine, which has been successful in other African countries.

“The committee is aware that there is now a vaccine for children against Malaria. Trials have been done, and countries in Africa like Ghana have already signed to use it. We are consulting our line ministry on this one because as a strong weapon against ending this endemic disease, it is worth looking at its use in Zambia,” Dr. Sakahilu said.

In conclusion, Dr. Sakahilu urged all citizens to implement preventive and curative measures to eradicate malaria. The theme for this year’s World Malaria Day was “TIME TO DELIVER ZERO MALARIA-INVEST, INNOVATE AND IMPLEMENT,” and Dr. Sakahilu encouraged all citizens to work towards achieving this goal.

“As we commemorate today’s World Malaria Day, it is my desire and call to every citizen to join hands in implementing the various preventive and curative measures that are within our control. We wish all Zambians a day of positive reflection of ourselves as we move towards achieving our vision 2030 of a health, productive, prosperous, united, and equitable nation,” he concluded.

Pay for Solid Waste Collection, Lusaka City Council Urges Residents

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Pay for Solid Waste Collection, Lusaka City Council Urges Residents

The Lusaka City Council has expressed concerns over the ignorance of waste management among the general public. In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer, Bupe K Chumbwe, the council revealed that it has observed a trend where many members of the public refuse to pay for the waste they generate, leading to indiscriminate waste disposal.

To manage waste in Lusaka, the council has three types of waste collectors – Lusaka City Council, Franchise Contractors, and Community Based Enterprises (CBE’s). Each of these collectors is assigned to different areas and zones in the city. The Lusaka City Council manages waste in places where no one is collecting waste, including historical waste piled up in undesignated areas, while Franchise Contractors collect garbage in planned settlements. CBE’s collect waste in unplanned settlements, also known as peri-urban areas. This means that all areas in the city are covered by these three types of waste collectors.

However, the council has noted that many members of the public refuse to pay for the waste they generate, leading to indiscriminate waste disposal. The Solid Waste Regulation and Management Act number 20 of 2018 stipulate that all generators of waste must pay for the waste they generate for proper waste management.

The council has warned that it is prohibited under the waste regulation and management act to dispose of waste in undesignated areas and also burning of garbage or litter. Anyone found wanting will be prosecuted in the Lusaka City Council fast track court and may be liable for a fine or imprisonment.

The council has urged the general public to subscribe and pay for solid waste collection to the above-mentioned systems in their respective areas to avoid the indiscriminate disposal of waste and for the sanity of every member of the public. The council also emphasized that the indiscriminate disposal of waste leads to a very costly exercise for the council, thus, negatively affecting service delivery.

The Lusaka City Council has called on all members of the public to take responsibility for the waste they generate and follow proper waste management procedures to maintain a clean and healthy environment in Lusaka.

President Hakainde Hichilema to Attend Transform Africa Summit in Zimbabwe

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President Hakainde Hichilema to Attend Transform Africa Summit in Zimbabwe

Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema has arrived in Livingstone City to attend the Transform Africa Summit (TAS2023) in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, at the invitation of his counterpart President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. The summit, which is set to officially open on April 26, 2023, will bring together government officials, companies, and organizations from over 100 nations under the theme of “Connect, Innovate, Transform.” The goal is to accelerate the digital transformation of participating African countries, creating competitive, agile, open, and innovative smart societies.

Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati, who is also attending the summit, confirmed President Hichilema’s participation. He said the summit would focus on discussing practical ways to advance the commitment of transforming Africa into a fully digitized economy where technology is harnessed to reap the benefits of integration.

The summit will be hosted by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and bring together Heads of State and Governments, First Ladies, Ministers of Information Communication and Technology, and top executives of Information Technology and Telecommunications companies, among others. Women and girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), young entrepreneurs, and academicians are also expected to attend.

In a related development, Assistant Secretary-General and Special Advisor for the United Nations Envoy on Technology Fayaz King called for the need to connect schools to the internet if nations are to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) on education. Mr. King noted that during the COVID-19 period, about 2.3 million children were not in school and only relied on the internet, making digital connectivity in schools vital. He praised Zambia for participating in connecting Schools to the internet programme.

President Hichilema is a champion of transformation and passionate about digital transformation, making his presence at the summit significant. The Transform Africa Summit presents a unique opportunity for African countries to share ideas and experiences on how to leverage technology to transform their economies and societies.

UPND Government Accused of Assault on Democracy as Patriotic Front Faces Deregistration Threat

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UPND Government Accused of Assault on Democracy as Patriotic Front Faces Deregistration Threat

The Patriotic Front (PF) has accused the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government of attempting to pressure the Registrar of Societies to deregister the PF. The party’s Information and Publicity Chairperson, Hon. Raphael Mangani Nakacinda, has described the move as an assault on democracy and an indication of how scared the UPND Government is of the biggest opposition party.

“The UPND is scared of the PF, a party that has remained strong regardless of the efforts made to victimize members through trumped-up court charges,” Hon. Nakacinda said. “While the party will comply with the provisions of the law like always, it does not expect administrative issues to become fundamental to even threaten deregistration.”

The Registrar of Societies had issued a notice of intention to deregister the party for failing to provide a complete list of the party’s office bearers. Hon. Nakacinda criticized the Registrar of Societies for making administrative issues a fundamental issue that could lead to deregistration. He advised the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security Permanent Secretary Joseph Akafumba to stop pressuring the Registrar of Societies to deregister the PF.

“This issue of office bearers requiring to submit their fingerprints is an administrative issue that all was required by the Registrar of Society was to just write a letter requiring those things,” he said. “But this shows that the UPND is scared of the Patriotic Front because the party has remained strong regardless of the efforts made to victimize members and inconvenience people with trumped-up charges in court.”

In response, Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba warned that such actions could lead to great political embarrassment for President Hakainde Hichilema. He cited the example of the Movement for Multiparty Democracy’s deregistration in 2012, which backfired and brought great national and international embarrassment to President Michael Sata.

“Whatever the weaknesses, Zambia is a democracy, and there has been a campaign to promote democratic tenets and institutions,” Amb. Mwamba said. “The Patriotic Front as the largest opposition party in Parliament with about 58 Members of Parliament is part of the governance of this country. Therefore, any attempts to deregister the party could lead to unnecessary political tension and a setback in the country’s democratic progress.”

World Leaders rush to Beijing: How China Can facilitate Zambia’s fast economic recovery?

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World Leaders rush to Beijing: How China Can facilitate Zambia’s fast economic recovery?

 

  • Finance Minister needs to be on next plane to China to get Debt deal finalized
  • Sino – Zambia ties need urgent recalibration to make it real “ Win- Win”

By Mwansa Chalwe Snr

   

Zambia’s successive administrations have failed to exploit the potential economic benefits from our relationship with China, our “special and all weather friend”. The Chinese do not interfere in the internal affairs of the country. And our strategists over the years, have not taken advantage of this. Instead, some of our leaders have used this non-interference stance, to enrich themselves by having a “generally corrupt relationship” with Chinese entities – both State and Private. China provides an immense opportunity for a small country like Zambia to fast –track its development.

World Leaders Stampede to meet Dr. Xi Jinping
In the last two months of 2023, there have been several heads of state and government that have gone to China to meet President Xi Jinping. The visitors have been from Brazil, Spain, Singapore, Malaysia, France, German and the European Union. But why this unusual heightened pace of diplomatic activity? The reason is simple: the yearning to revitalize their economies

In the last two years – 2020 to 2022 – the World has been hit by two major crisis: the Covid-19 and the war in Ukraine, which has negatively affected many economies. Countries are struggling economically with high inflation and interest rates. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said that China will be the largest driver of global economic growth in the next five years. China will contribute 22.6% of total world growth, while the US will contribute 11.3%.

“Much uncertainty clouds the short- and medium-term outlook as the global economy adjusts to the shocks of 2020–22 and the recent financial sector turmoil. Recession concerns have gained prominence, while worries about stubbornly high inflation persist,” The IMF said in its World Economic outlook in earlier in April, 2023.

And while on a State Visit to Moscow, China’s leader Xi Jinping boasted that they were driving geopolitical change around the world. He told President Putin: “Right now there are changes – the likes of which we haven’t seen for 100 years – and we are the ones driving these changes together.”

How the World depends on China

Napoleon once said: “When China wakes up, the World will tremble.” And guess what? The process of the World depending on China has already started. The numbers speak for themselves.

In order to put China’s global influence on trade in perspective, it is worth noting the following: in February, 2021, China overtook the US to become the EU’s biggest trading partner. Trade between China and the EU was worth $709bn (€586bn, £511bn), compared with $671bn (€569bn, £485bn) worth of imports and exports from the United States. German, the biggest economy in the EU, has been, for five consecutive years up to 2020, China’s the biggest trading partner

China is Australia’s biggest trading partner. It accounts for 32 per cent of Australian exports which amounts to $153.2 billion; whereas with Japan its trade volume is $296.9 billion; India’s with $77.7 billion; Brazil’s with $90 billion and German with $256.7 billion. The U.S cannot compete with these numbers. China is also Africa’s biggest trading partner.

Zambia’s fast-track economic recovery strategy: Sino -Zambia ties recalibration

It is not rocket science that Zambia with a population of 20 million only, which is less that the 29 million of Beijing, the capital City of China, can easily transform its economy very fast with smart strategies. At the moment and the recent past, Zambia’s relationship with China has not been “win-win”, mainly due to bad choices by our past leaders.

In the past 20 years or so, despite the massive economic relationship between China and Zambia, the benefits have not yet trickled down to ordinary Zambians, to reduce poverty and create sufficient jobs. The claimed “Win- Win” situation is a mirage, and needs some recalibration. The New Dawn government should focus on this. READ MORE: https://www.lusakatimes.com/2021/07/27/zambia-china-economic-ties-need-recalibration/. The lack of benefits to ordinary Zambians was supported by empirical studies carried out by two Scholars from China’s Hebei University of Economics and Business, Cheng Jian and Comfort Lubinda.

“Even though the Sino-Zambia relation is based on win-win cooperation, the current pattern favours China more and that China‘s impetus in engaging with Zambia and Africa as a whole is driven by the need to access markets and raw materials as well as on diplomatic basis. A new strategic partnership in the interest of the Zambian peoples, at least, the majority of local Zambians is needed,” The Scholars wrote in the International Journal of Economics, Commerce and Management, United Kingdom.

During the telephone conversation between President’s Xi JinPing and Hakainde Hichilema on 31st May, 2022, Chinese President made it clear on how Zambia could economically benefit from China.

“China and Zambia are “all weather friends” enjoying traditional and amicable relations and unbreakable friendship. The cooperation between the two countries enjoys huge potential and bright prospects with two way trade volume hitting a record high and Zambia becoming the country attracting the most Chinese direct investment in Africa. The two sides should grasp bilateral relations from a strategic height, support each other on issues concerning respective core interests. The two sides should strengthen strategic communication and policy synergy, fully implement the nine programs of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), promote more Zambian goods, especially quality agricultural products, to enter the Chinese Market,” President Xi was quoted in a statement from the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

The Presidential phone chat was an open invitation for Zambia to exploit the huge Chinese market in agriculture products. For instance, China has a huge Soya bean market which provides Zambia with a great opportunity. In 2021, China imported $44.2 billion in Soya beans. China is trying to reduce reliance on US and Brazil.

And in July, 2022, Zambia and China signed two protocols on sanitary and phytosanitary export of soya bean meal and stevia leaves. The protocols were signed by Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Du Xiaohui and Zambia’s Minister of Agriculture Mtolo Phiri in the southern district of Chikankata in the presence of President Hakainde Hichilema, who said it was a mark of true friendship between China and Zambia. The question one may ask is: what progress has been done in following up and implementing these protocols. Zambia’s relationship with China has been just all talk, and no action. And these are the low lying fruits and home grown solutions to diversify the economy. Zambia needs to exploit such solutions rather than this obsession with IMF and debt restructuring, to the exclusion of other complementary solutions.

Why Finance Minister should be on a Plane to Beijing

Zambia should not assume that China will sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in the May, 2023 during the next Official Creditor Committee meeting, in two to three weeks’ time, without Zambia engaging China in a face to face meeting, at their home turf. The reasoning for such caution is because of the recent history. Zambia had expected China to sign the MOU on four occasions in recent times. There was expectation for China to sign the MOU on the following instances: By 31st December, 2022; G20 Finance Minister Meeting in February, 2022; end of quarter on 31st March,2023 and recently in April,2023 during the IMF/ World Bank Spring Meetings. On all the four occasions, China did not sign. The missed deadlines have sent a clear message to discerning analysts.

In the light of past experience, and as part of a risk management mitigating measure, the Finance Minister and Development Planning, should immediately take a plane to Beijing. He should lead a powerful Zambian delegation, which should include the foreign minister on a diplomatic trip to go and unlock the restructuring deal. The trip should also be used to arrange a subsequent State visit to China by President Hichilema in the nearest future.


The meetings that Zambia had with Chinese officials in Washington during the IMF/World Bank Spring meetings do not carry as much weight, as some people many think. Those meetings are supposed to be followed by more “serious” ones in Beijing. Zambia should emulate Sri Lanka, whose case was even more dire and worse than Zambia, but has overtaken Zambia in terms of getting financial assurances from China. Complaining, pleading and lobbying IMF to release the $188 million, even without China signing MOU, is not the best strategy. It will not help unlock the deal. The trip to China will.


Sri Lanka engaged in high level sustained economic diplomacy with China on several occasions from January, 2022 to February, 2023 with physical meetings. And in a last ditch effort, in February, 2023, the Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe talked to Chinese Finance Minister Liu Kun to personally persuade China to match Colombo’s other creditors as part of a debt restructuring deal to Unblock IMF deal. And within two weeks, in March, 2023 China gave Sri Lanka financing assurances, through a letter from the Export-Import Bank of China which paved the way for the approval of $2.9 billion IMF deal. And within another week, Sri Lanka receives $330million first tranche of $2.9 billion IMF bail-out deal. As at now, the Sri Lankan government has moved to the next stage of the restructuring process. They are having a round of talks with individual bondholders and bilateral creditors for final restructuring deals.

Conclusion

Zambia’s decision as to how it should conduct itself in the 21st Century geopolitical and economical competition between the super powers, is so simple. First, it has been a non-aligned nation since independence, and as the old saying goes,” if it isn’t broken, do not fix it”. Secondly, Zambia’s relationship with the USA and China should not be a zero sum game. Zambia can benefit from both of them. Thirdly, all countries including the United States, are taking advantage of the 1.4 billion Chinese market, and so why shouldn’t a small country like Zambia do the same. There is no doubt that Zambia’s economy will recover much quicker, by taking advantage of our relationship with China. What is required is recalibration to make it truly win-win, and not decoupling.

Mwansa Chalwe Snr is a Chartered accountant and Author. He is an independent financial commentator and analyst. He is the author of: https://www.amazon.com/CHINA-WEST-BATTLEGROUND-AFRICA-Geo-Economic Competition/dp/9982913174 Contact:[email protected]

Farmers urged to take agriculture as a business

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Farmers urged to take agriculture as a business

Kaputa District Commissioner, Cosmas Mwaya has urged farmers in the area to take farming as a business for them to realize their full potential.

Mr Mwaya says the district has huge economic potential in the agriculture sector which farmers need to exploit. He advised farmers in the district not to entirely depend on government for their farming activities but strive to invest in the business in order to make profit.

The District Commissioner said this during the 2023 Agricultural field day for Kaputa Central Agricultural camp.

He stated that government attaches great importance to the agricultural sector which is slowly becoming the mainstay for many families.

Mr Mwaya has also cautioned farmers not to sell all their produce this year but secure enough for household food security.

He said it is unacceptable that the same farmers that get subsidized inputs from government always come to queue up to buy maize under community sales from the Food Reserve Agency (FRA).

And Kaputa District Agricultural Coordinator, Kennedy Sinkamba said the area will produce enough maize despite the erratic rains and armyworms that attacked crop fields.

Mr Sinkamba also disclosed that government has employed extension officers and five have been sent to Kaputa.

And farmers expressed optimism that this farming season will be successful.

Webston Machushi of Tusekemo Cooperative in Kaputa Central Agricultural camp urged fellow farmers to secure enough maize for home consumption.

Mr Machushi said the tendency by some farmers in the district to sell all the maize might lead to a serious hunger situation in the district.

He has since called on agricultural officials in the district to work closely with the farmers to help improve crop yields.

Zambia gets K 11.6 million Grant from Japan for Livingstone Museum

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Zambia gets K 11.6 million Grant from Japan for Livingstone Museum

The Ministry of Finance and National Planning has received grants amounting to K 11.6 million from the Japanese government towards the improvement of equipment for research, conservation, exhibition and education at the Livingstone Museum.

Speaking today during a press briefing, Minister of Finance and National Planning Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane said the gesture will help in promoting the understanding of National Heritage and conservation through improved equipment necessary for educational programs, exhibitions, Research, documentation and conservation of collections.

Dr Musokotwane added that the project to be implemented by the National Museum board t will be funded through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) over a period of 2 years.

“The targeted equipment to be procured through this grant includes Projectors, Cameras, Laptops and computers microscopes among others. The grant will also be used to cover payment to suppliers and contractors and consultants under the project,” said Dr Musokotwane.
He further commended Japan’s unwavering commitments towards Zambia’s developmental agenda saying Zambia and Japan have continued sharing the warm relationship which has resulted into the collaboration of mutual benefit over the last 50 years.

“Japan has been a very supportive partner to Zambia through implementing projects in key sectors such as education, healthy, infrastructure, environment and water.

These projects have continued playing an important role to Zambia’s development including the government’s Economic Transformation and job creation agenda which has been embarked on for the next five years,” said Dr Musokotwane.

The Minister further added that it is pleasing to note that Japan has most of times been offering the financial support to Zambia under its grant window to improve the country’s basic infrastructure such as schools, hospitals, water supply facilities, roads, Health and medical care, equipment and other requirements.

The other notable infrastructure constructed by Japan is the Chirundu one stop boarder post

AND Japanese Ambassador to Zambia TAKEUCHI Kazuyuki commended the UPND Government for championing democracy and good governance since ascending to power adding that a peaceful development and growth of the country lies in her excellent ethnic delivery symbolized by a slogan “One Zambia, One Nation”.

Mr. Kazuyuki said that Zambia’s New Dawn administration has formulated the 8th National Development Plan and the tourism plan which set one of its keys aims of promoting cultural tourism and improving the quality of museums

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