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Lusemfwa Hydro strategic to energy sector – Nanjuwa

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Lusemfwa Hydro strategic to energy sector – Nanjuwa

Central Province Minister, Credo Nanjuwa, has said Lunsemfwa Hydro Power Company (LHPC) Limited is a strategic investment that has potential to booster the power deficit in the country.

Mr Nanjuwa says the government is not going to allow any clandestine activities that will affect the operations of the power company.

ZANIS in Central Province reports that the minister said this through the Provincial Deputy Permanent Secretary (DPS), Godfrey Chitambala, during the familiarisation tour of the company’s infrastructure.

He has called for more engagements between LHPC Limited, the government and other stakeholders to foster mutually sustainable activities.

“Government is not going to allow any clandestine activities that may affect the operations of LHPC. There is need for more engagements between LHPC Limited, the government and other stakeholders to foster mutually sustainable activities,” Mr Nanjuwa said.

Meanwhile, LHPC Limited Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Alfa Mwale, has complained that the manganese mining activities have become a threat to the hydrological system.

“When they take the water to wash those minerals they can’t take it back hence disturbing the water flow. We have rejected a letter from the Water Resource Management Authority (WARMA) but we are aware that those activities are happening,” Mr Mwale said.

He said the power company will not stop industrialisation but it should not impinge on the operations of the company.

Mr Mwale observed that the permits that have already been issued to take water from the dam are enough.

And LHPC Senior Geologist, Chanda Chisha, said human activities have emerged as a threat to the water recharge areas.

Mr Chisha has appealed to the government through the provincial administration to inspire councils to stop allocating plots in the water recharge areas.

He said sand mining activities must also be controlled to ensure that the recharge areas are not compromised.

“Farming also requires control and management. There is need to control all the upstream activities to guarantee continued power supply. As we promote agriculture we must sensitise the communities on sustainable agriculture,” Mr Chisha said.

Government committed to universal health coverage

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Government committed to universal health coverage

Chipata City Mayor, George Mwanza, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritising universal health coverage to the public.

Mr. Mwanza says this has led the local authority to intensify talks with some stakeholders to expedite the process of providing mechanised water systems in health facilities.

Speaking when he officiated at the commemoration of this year’s International Day of Midwifery, Mr. Mwanza said, following the directives of the President, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema to prioritise the needs of the health sector, there was a need to support the sector.

He said that the reduced maternal deaths from 380 to at least 278 per 100,000 new born babies, was currently not good enough, especially that the population was increasing.

The theme of this year’s celebration is Together again from Evidence: To Reality.

And Eastern Provincial Health Director, Dr Mathews N’gambi, said the sector faced a lot of challenges which included lack of adequate ambulances, electricity, modern ablution blocks and mothers’ shelters in some facilities.

In response, Mr. Mwanza acknowledged the challenges and expressed sadness that some midwives continued to use phones for lighting in the maternity wards, a situation he said made health workers fail to perform their duties effectively.

The Mayor called on stakeholders to support the health sector in order to increase efficiency in the country.

Meanwhile, a grandmother of twins, Joyce Tembo, whose daughter had premature delivery, said the twins were saved due to early antenatal visit and care that was offered by health workers at Mbenjele Clinic, a situation she appreciated.

And Zambia Association of Gynecologists and Obstetricians representative, Dr. Yolani Tembo, said the public needed to embrace health services rendered to them by the health professionals in order to save lives, especially on maternity care and gynaecological issues.

“A wealthy country depends on the health of the public who work hard and are productive,” Mr Tembo said.

Stray lion kills livestock in Senga Hill

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Stray lion kills livestock in Senga Hill

A stray lion has killed eight livestock in Senga Hill District of Northern Province. Davies Makali of Mungomba Village told ZANIS in an interview that the beast killed four of his goats which were in a kraal.

He said the lion also killed two goats and two pigs in Tukuta village on 21 April 2023. He said the lion ate all the major parts of the carcass of two of his goats and only left the head and trotters.

Mr Makali said the other two goats only had their stomachs eaten. He disclosed that the community immediately reported the case to the department of national parks and wildlife.

“We informed Officers from the department of national parks and wildlife who came to the area,” he narrated.

Mr Makali said he has lost his goats and has since appealed to the government to consider helping all the affected people in the area to restock the livestock.

He also appealed to officers under the department of national parks and wildlife to kill the beast which has been terrorizing animals in the district.

And Department of National Parks and Wildlife Senior Warden for Northern Province Lackson Ng’andu has confirmed receiving reports of animals being killed in Mungomba and Tukuta villages.

Mr Nga’ndu explained that two officers were dispatched to the area to access the carcasses in the two villages.

He disclosed that it has been difficult for officers to do their job because most of the people temper with the remaining carcass.

Mr Ng’ndu urged members of the general public in Senga Hill district to desist from tampering with the animals suspected to have been killed by the beast to help the officers conduct their assessment well.

He said officers have since left the area after receiving another report that the lion has been spotted in Chimbola village in Mugwi district.

“I also want to appeal to people to be security conscious and protect their livestock,” he added.

Mr Ngandu cautioned people not to move in thick forests and ensure they also move in groups at night to avoid being attacked by the lion.

Last month a stray lion was spotted in Senga Hill and Mbala districts respectively which also killed livestock in some areas.

Use equitable model of allocating CDF-Sunday Chanda

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Use equitable model of allocating CDF-Sunday Chanda

Kanchibiya Member of Parliament Sunday Chanda says there is a need for the Government to seriously consider using the equitable model of allocating Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Mr Chanda says rural constituencies need more CDF allocation because they have unique challenges than constituencies in urban towns like Lusaka.

He also notes that rural constituencies like Kanchibiya are lagging behind in terms of development activities compared to well-established and developed constituencies like Kabwata in Lusaka.

The Kanchibiya lawmaker was speaking in an interview with the Zambia News and Information Service ZANIS in Kanchibiya today.

He said to increase the rate of development activities in rural underdeveloped constituencies there is a need for the equitable distribution of CDF.

Mr Chanda said equitable CDF will spur the rate of development in rural constituencies and attract more people to come and work in these areas, unlike now when some civil servants shun working in rural places.

“Yes, it’s an argument I have raised on the floor of Parliament before and rural-based MPs agree in principle,” he said.

And the Kanchibiya lawmaker has commended President Hakainde Hichilema for increasing the CDF allocation from K1.6 million to K25.7 million and now K28.3 million.

He said the increase in CDF allocation to constituencies is a milestone step that the Government has provided for its citizens.

“The bottom line is that we appreciate the expanded CDF scope and the difference it is making on the ground. And our appeal is that the Government considers our unique challenges and that rural constituencies will develop at a faster rate,” Mr Chanda said.

He also disclosed that his office would continue engaging the central Government to assist in implementing certain capital projects that cannot be done using CDF.

The lawmaker pointed out that his office has already engaged the Ministry of Home Affairs to assist in the construction of the ongoing the Kanchibiya modern police station

Meanwhile speaking in a separate interview, Chief Mpepo of the Bisa people has commended the area Member of Parliament and Kanchibiya Town Council for prudent utilisation and management of CDF.

Chief Mpepo said CDF has brought tangible positive significant change to the district such as sponsorship of boarding secondary school bursaries and skills and trade development courses among other things.

“We are so grateful to the Government for increasing the CDF fund,” Chief Mpepo said.

And Kanchibiya District Town Council Secretary David Mwansa has urged all contractors implementing CDF projects in the district to continue adhering to recommended set standards and guidelines for implementing CDF projects.

Mr Mwansa further said that Kanchibiya will endeavour to implement all CDF projects with the spirit of excellence.

“Generally we are impressed with those engaged to implement the CDF project in Kanchibiya.

Socialist Party Zambia President Questions Government’s Claims on IMF Loan Benchmarks

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Socialist Party Zambia President Questions Government’s Claims on IMF Loan Benchmarks

The President of the Socialist Party Zambia, Dr. Fred M’membe, has expressed skepticism about the government’s claims that all benchmarks for securing an International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan have been met. Dr. M’membe made the statement during a press conference where he addressed issues concerning debt restructuring and Zambia’s economic recovery.

According to Dr. M’membe, the IMF statement clearly sets out conditions for the disbursement of the US$188 million loan, subject to financing assurances from debt restructuring. He stated that it was mischievous for the government to claim that all benchmarks have been met when there are still outstanding conditions that have not been met.

The President of the Socialist Party also expressed concerns about the government’s credibility in handling debt restructuring. He cited numerous statements and timelines provided by the Minister of Finance that had come and gone without any concrete results. Dr. M’membe questioned how one could be confident in the outcome when timelines kept changing.

Dr. M’membe further raised concerns about the effectiveness of debt restructuring in solving Zambia’s economic challenges. He pointed out that over the past two years, Zambia has not been servicing its debt, so where have the savings gone? Once debt restructuring is concluded, Zambia will have to resume paying the suspended debt, which means that the country will have less money than it had in the past two years. He asserted that debt restructuring is not a panacea for Zambia’s economic challenges.

The President of the Socialist Party Zambia emphasized that the real solution lies in formulating an internal economic recovery plan that focuses on industrialization, expanding the country’s manufacturing capacities, sound agriculture policy, reviewing tax waivers provided to the mining and other sectors, and energy sector reforms, among other things. He called for the adoption of a non-favorite child policy, where all creditors are treated equally, and engagement with each credit category on a bilateral basis in addition to the G20 Common Framework.

Dr. M’membe stated that debt restructuring should not be viewed as a silver bullet to Zambia’s economic challenges. Instead, the government should focus on formulating an internal economic recovery plan that addresses the root causes of the country’s economic challenges.

Zambia Signs Host Agreement for 22nd COMESA Summit

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Zambia Signs Host Agreement for 22nd COMESA Summit

On 25th April 2023, the Government of the Republic of Zambia and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) signed the Host Agreement for the upcoming 22ndCOMESA Summit of Heads of State and Government. The event is set to take place on 8th June 2023 at the Mulungushi International Conference Center, Kenneth Kaunda International Wing, in Lusaka, Zambia.

This will be the first time in over two decades that Zambia will host and chair the COMESA Summit of Heads of State and Government. Speaking at the signing ceremony at the Raddison Blu Hotel in Lusaka, Hon. Chipoka Mulenga, MP, Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, highlighted the importance of the event for Zambia. He expressed his confidence that the upcoming Summit will foster common resolve among governments to enhance the Economic Diplomacy Agenda in the region.

The Summit will be held under the theme: “Economic Integration for a Thriving COMESA anchored on Green Investment, Value Addition and Tourism”. It will be preceded by the Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs and the COMESA Business Forum on 6th June and 7th June 2023, respectively. The COMESA Business Forum will feature participation from both the Private Sector and Public Sector from the COMESA Region.

Her Excellency, Ms. Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe, COMESA Secretary General, who signed the Host Agreement on behalf of COMESA Secretariat, expressed her gratitude to the President of Zambia, His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema, his government, and the people of Zambia for graciously accepting to host the event. She highlighted that Zambia’s hosting of the 22nd COMESA Summit is a great opportunity to strengthen its role and participation in regional integration, exchange information on investment opportunities, create business partnerships across the COMESA region, boost foreign exchange revenues for the country and enhance the country’s tourism potential.

Ms. Kapwepwe further stated that the theme of the Summit acknowledges the need to tackle many of the challenges faced by the continent, particularly emerging issues on climate change, regional value addition to move away from the export of raw materials and the need to create additional wealth and jobs, especially in support of the regrowth of sectors such as tourism in the post-COVID-19 recovery era.

The upcoming 22nd COMESA Summit of Heads of State and Government will be a great opportunity for Zambia to showcase its potential and further its regional integration efforts.

State enters nolle in Nakacinda defamation of the President case

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State enters nolle in Nakacinda defamation of the President case

The Patriotic Front (PF) Chairperson for Information and Publicity, Raphael Nakacinda, has been discharged of a charge of defamation of the President after the state entered a nolle prosequi. However, Nakacinda has taken a fresh plea in a matter where he is charged with expressing words of contempt or ridicule to persons because of race, location and color, to which he pleaded not guilty.

The matter began when Nakacinda was initially charged with two counts of defamation of the President and expressing words of contempt or ridicule to persons because of race, location and color. He was alleged to have uttered tribal and derogatory remarks against President Hakainde Hichilema and the Tonga people during a live program on Hot FM in Lusaka.

State prosecutor, Micheal Nyundwe, told the court that the case was coming up for a plea, but before Nakacinda could take plea, the state had an application to make. Mr. Nyundwe said that the application was in relation to withdrawing the first count against Nakacinda so that he could remain with the second charge bordering on the charge of expressing hatred.

He said that the application was based on Section 88 (a) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CPC) and urged the court to discharge Nakacinda of the first charge. Magistrate Idah Phiri informed Nakacinda that he was discharged of the charge of defamation of the President following the decision of the prosecution to enter nolle prosequi in his favor.

Nakacinda is alleged to have uttered words in a local language translated as “You know what you did you Zambians is very bad, you went to pick the worst and complete ignorant of a Tonga from Bweengwa and then went to dump him in state House, expressing or showing hatred, ridicule or contempt against a group of persons namely the Tonga Speaking People of Bweengwa area of the Southern Province of the Republic of Zambia because of their place of origin and tribe.

The case has been adjourned to June 22, 2023, for possible commencement of trial. Nakacinda was represented by Francis Daka from Makebi, Zulu Associates.

Why HH might not manage to win the 2026 polls

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Why HH might not manage to win the 2026 polls

By Chrispa Mulenga

With just 1,200 days to go before the 2026 general elections in Zambia, there are some who believe that the incumbent President, Hakainde Hichilema, will easily retain his position due to a weak and disorganized opposition. However, a closer look suggests that winning the election will be far from straightforward for Hichilema.

One key factor is the Lusaka/Copperbelt region, which has historically played a decisive role in determining the outcome of presidential elections. The ruling party has become extremely unpopular in these areas due to economic hardships, and Hichilema’s UPND party lacks a clear strategy to reverse this trend. If the party fails to gain significant support in these regions, they may struggle to achieve the necessary 50% plus 1 vote to win outright.

Another obstacle is Hichilema’s lack of natural popularity among Zambians. Unlike some previous presidents who were elected based on their perceived affability and charm, Hichilema’s intelligence, wealth, and good looks have not endeared him to the electorate. His victory in the previous election was largely due to sympathy votes and the absence of any better alternative. This vulnerability could work against him in the next election, as voters may not be as forgiving.

Finally, it’s worth noting that the immediate past ruling party, the PF, remains a formidable presence and is capable of disrupting Hichilema’s plans. If they emerge from their convention in good shape, they could pose a serious challenge to Hichilema’s re-election bid.

While there are undoubtedly other factors at play, these two issues – the importance of the Lusaka/Copperbelt region and Hichilema’s lack of natural popularity – are likely to be key challenges for the UPND party in the run-up to the 2026 elections. Winning 50% plus 1 of the vote will be crucial, and without significant support in the Lusaka/Copperbelt region, Hichilema’s path to victory may be far from assured.

Government in partnership with Czech Republic to launch outreach medical services

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Government in partnership with Czech Republic to launch outreach medical services

The government in partnership with the Czech Republic are set to launch the Czech medevac program in Mongu District, Western Province.

Minister of Health Silvia Masebo has acknowledged the poor performance of the health sector in the province citing various challenges.

The Minister who was accompanied by Czech Republic Ambassador to Zambia Pavel Prochazka, said this when she paid a courtesy call on Western Province Permanent Secretary, Simomo Akapelwa.

She revealed that the medevac program where the Czech Republic and Zambia through the Ministry of Health invites specialised doctors to perform surgeries that cannot be done by local doctors.

Ms. Masebo said the aim of the program is to look at patients with complicated health problems such as orthopaedics specifically.

The Minister said Czech doctors will be working with local doctors to avoid sending patients out of the country and pass on some skills to local doctors.

And speaking when she paid a courtesy call on the Barotse Royal Establishment Ngambela, Mukela Manyando, Ms Masebo said not much has been done in the area of health in Western province.

She pointed out challenges such as staffing when it comes to specialised doctors and equipment.

Ms Masebo said government wants to do more work in terms of improving the health sector in the province.

She explained that government is beginning the process of decentralizing the health sector.

The Minister said her Ministry will be decentralising some functions in a phased approach to the local authorities in districts adding that government wants to work with the traditional leadership in implementing the decentralisation policy.

Ms Masebo said President Hakainde Hichilema has directed the Ministry to move with this policy because nothing will succeed if the running of the country can only be done in Lusaka.

And Czech Republic Ambassador to Zambia, Pavel Prochazka told the BRE that his country is committed to assisting with improving the health sector in Western Province.

He said the Czech doctors will be in Mongu District till May 12,2023.

Ambassador Prochazka said the Medevac program is a program the Czech Republic wants to see grow and have a positive impact on Zambia’s health sector.

He also disclosed that Czech Republic’s first mission in the health sector is Mongu.

In response, the Ngambela Mukela Manyando thanked Government and those navigating the program for considering Western Province as a recipient of the offer.

The Ngambela has expressed gratitude to the Minister for visiting the province and the effort the government is making in improving health services in the region.

He said health facilities in Western Province are very few and far dispersed and added that the help of the Ministry and Czech Republic will lead to an improvement of health delivery.

Mr Manyondo said there are 16 districts in the province but some donot have district hospitals.

He appealed for more health posts as it takes a day to walk from one village to the nearest health facility which have further been worsened by poor road network.

President Hakainde Hichilema departs for the UK to attend King Charles III’s coronation

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President Hakainde Hichilema departs for the UK to attend King Charles III’s coronation

Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema is set to attend the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla at Westminster Abbey in the United Kingdom on May 6, 2023. Before the coronation, President Hichilema will participate in the Pre-Coronation Summit of the Commonwealth Heads of States and Government, which will be hosted by His Majesty King Charles III, the Head of the Commonwealth.

President Hichilema will also travel to Paris to hold bilateral discussions with His Excellency Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, to expedite Zambia’s debt restructuring process. This meeting is part of President Hichilema’s ongoing efforts to improve Zambia’s economic situation.

In addition to these engagements, President Hichilema will visit Scotland to hold talks with His Excellency Mr. Humza Yousaf, the First Minister of Scotland. The President will deliver a keynote address at Edinburgh’s Panmure House to share his experience in Zambia’s economic development agenda. He will also meet with key stakeholders in investment at Heriot Watt University to discuss various matters, including his passion for offering free education to Zambian youths.

President Hichilema will attend the Zambia Investment Forum, which has been organized by Invest Africa and the Zambia Development Agency. The forum will provide an opportunity for the President to interact with potential investors and showcase Zambia’s investment potential.

The President expressed optimism about the trip and its potential to promote Zambia’s interests. He promised to keep the public informed of his progress during the visit. The trip is expected to be productive and will demonstrate Zambia’s commitment to engaging with the international community to foster economic growth and development.

Earlier, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that President Hakainde Hichilema of the Republic of Zambia is set to travel to the United Kingdom, France, and Scotland for a series of meetings and engagements. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, President Hichilema will travel to the UK to attend the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla at Westminster Abbey on May 6, 2023. Before the coronation, President Hichilema will participate in an exclusive pre-coronation summit of Commonwealth Heads of State and Government with King Charles III as the new Head of the Commonwealth.

President Hichilema’s visit to the UK will also include bilateral meetings with other world leaders to provide valuable avenues for increased cooperation with international partners. He will be accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs. Mutinta Hichilema.

After the coronation, President Hichilema will travel to France on May 9, 2023, for a crucial bilateral meeting with President Emmanuel Macron. The meeting is a crucial undertaking for the President’s continued efforts to accelerate Zambia’s debt restructuring process, which is necessary to unlock significant foreign investment pledges into the country’s economy. The two presidents will engage in discussions aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation and fostering stronger multilateral ties, drawing on the strong historical bonds between France and Zambia.

President Hichilema will also travel to Scotland where he will hold a bilateral meeting with Mr. Humza Yousaf, the First Minister of Scotland, aimed at strengthening ties for enhanced social and economic development cooperation. While in Scotland, the President will give a keynote address at Edinburgh’s prestigious Panmure House to share his expertise in driving sustainable economic development in Zambia and the region. Additionally, the President will hold meetings with key stakeholders in investment, development, and global policy at Heriot-Watt University in recognition of the importance President Hichilema has attached to providing free and quality education for all Zambians.

On May 10 and 11, 2023, President Hichilema will return to London to attend a Zambia Investment Forum organized by Invest Africa, in collaboration with the Zambia Development Agency. The forum aims to provide a high-level platform for marketing Zambia’s investment potential and synergies that will help fulfill Zambia’s ambitious economic transformation plan.

The President’s visit to the United Kingdom presents an opportunity to strengthen historically strong bilateral relations and identify new areas of cooperation between Zambia and the United Kingdom. The President is expected to return to Zambia on May 12, 2023, after concluding his engagements.

Musokotwane sees huge demand for agriculture products as an opportunity for economic growth in Zambia

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Musokotwane sees huge demand for agriculture products as an opportunity for economic growth in Zambia

Minister of Finance and National Planning Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane says the challenge of huge demand for grain and other agriculture products from the region that Zambia is currently battling with is an opportunity for economic growth.

Dr. Musokotwane said the high demand for grain such as maize has caused mealie meal prices in Zambia to rise and negatively affect the people.

He said there is a need for Zambia to quickly produce larger agricultural surpluses that can be exported.

Dr. Musokotwane said producing more food and export to the countries in need will earn Zambia dollars and create jobs.

He added that some of the food will be produced by the existing small, medium and commercial farmers.

Dr. Musokotwane observed that the export market is so huge that it is necessary to bring in extra skills and capital in Zambia.

He said the Government is working on various initiatives to unlock higher economic growth.

“Our projection for real GDP growth in 2022 was 3.1 percent. The outturn, based on preliminary estimates from the Zambia Statistics Agency, is much higher growth of 4.7 percent. Growth was driven by the ICT, transport and education sectors. Growth was however subdued in key sectors such as agriculture, mining, tourism and manufacturing.As I always state, we must aspire for much higher growth, year after year. It is only when the economy is growing, preferably in double digits that the growth can have a meaningful impact on job creation, poverty reduction, and improvements in the lives of the people,” Dr. Musokotwane said.

“Government is working on various initiatives to unlock this higher growth. Let me give a few examples.Farm block development in agriculture. You will recall that this is an initiative to improve agricultural production in the country both in raw products and in the value-added agricultural products. In simple terms, it is about introducing many models like Nakambala Sugar in the
blocks except that the products in question need not necessarily be sugar but something else. In this model, large scale as well as small scale producers will work together to produce material for a processing factory,” he said.

Dr. Musokotwane said the government has heightened security against illegal exports.

‘The need to quickly produce larger agricultural surpluses has never been greater. Currently, our country is faced with the challenge of huge demand of grain and other products from the region. This demand has caused mealie meal prices in Zambia to rise and affect our people.In the immediate response, the government heightened security against illegal exports.Also, the government encouraged the local private sector to import mealie meal from other surplus countries for sale at border areas in those towns that are next to countries with deficit food availability.But we all know that the ultimate solution to the food deficits in the regional should be a sweet one for Zambia: let us produce more food and export to the countries in need. This will earn dollars and create jobs. Some of the food will be produced by our existing small, medium and commercial farmers. However, the export market is so huge that it is necessary to bring in extra skills and capital,” he said.

Dr. Musokotwane continued:”The farm blocks have been designed for this purpose.The implemention plans for the farm blocks are nearly ready. The money to establish the blocks is there. Within a few months, work will start. In parallel, the marketing of the farm blocks starts soon.The Government will also soon finalize formulation of the Comprehensive Agriculture Transformation Programme (CATP). The National Crop Diversification Strategy is also being developed to enhance production and productivity of a diverse range of agricultural commodities and products. As I mentioned the sources of economic growth in 2022, I did indicate that the mining sector was not one of the key drivers. Yet the government wants this sector to be one of the key drivers for growth in line with our ambition to attain copper production of three million tons per year.”

Christian Churches Monitoring Group Wants More Information Released on 2022 Census

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Christian Churches Monitoring Group Wants More Information Released on 2022 Census

The Christian Churches Monitoring Group (CCMG) has called for the release of more information relating to the outcome of the 2022 Census of Population and Housing conducted by the Zambia Statistics Agency (ZamStats).

Last December, the Government released some details of the 2022 census of population and housing with an emphasis that census data is critical to sound decision making in development planning, resource allocation and policy formulation.

According to the Zambia Statistics Agency, Zambia’s population as of 8th September 2022 were 19,610,769.

The male population was 9,603,056 and the female population was 10,007,713.

CCMG Programmes Manager Peter Mwanangombe said ZamStats should expedite the finalization of the census report and ensure to provide age and Ward Level Data from the 2022 Census of Population and Housing.

Mr. Mwanangombe said the Preliminary Report on census was missing age variables and that population was not distributed to the ward level.

“Following the completion of the 2022 census of population and housing and consequently release of the Preliminary Report, CCMG noted that the preliminary report was missing age variables and that population was not distributed to the ward level. We therefore call upon the Zambia Statistics Agency (ZamStats) to expedite the finalization of the census report and ensure to provide there in the following;Clearly disaggregated age data, paying particular attention to the Vote Age Population (VAP) which is critical for voter registration, and Distribution of population data to the ward level,” Mr. Mwanangombe said.

He said data from the 2022 Census of Population and Housing is key for planning purposes by institutions that include the Electoral Commission of Zambia and Department of National Registration Passports and Citizenship.

“CCMG further calls on the Ministry of Finance and National Planning to actively ensure that the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, through the Department of National Registration Passports and Citizenship, collaborates with ZamStats in setting targets for the Integrated National Registration Information System (INRIS), as well as ensure that the exercise is driven by census data. Furthermore, we call on the Electoral Commission of Zambia to enhance its collaborate and cooperate with ZamStats to ensure coherence and use of census data in processes, such as boundary delimitation and voter registration, and to use census data, particularly the VAP data, to inform its targets in the ongoing registration of voters,” Mr. Mwanangombe.

When releasing the preliminary census details in December 2022, Minister of Finance and National Planning Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane said the census of population and housing is the benchmark for key national indicators and statistics that, if well used, could support the socio-economic transformation of the country.

Dr. Musokotwane said despite some challenges faced at the commencement of the exercise, particularly in urban areas, the 2022 e-census was successfully undertaken as it achieved universal coverage.

“You may be aware that this is the first time our country has conducted an electronic census (e-census) through the use of tablets. This is a notable improvement in our statistical practices and a major departure from the last five censuses which were paper-based. Further, in order to improve the census coverage, satellite technology was used to create electronic maps for use by the more than 40, 000 census field staff. I would like to inform the nation that despite some challenges faced at the commencement of the exercise, particularly in urban areas, the 2022 e-census was successfully undertaken as it achieved universal coverage. This means that data collection was conducted in all the 38,570 enumeration areas countrywide,” Dr. Musokotwane said.

Former President Edgar Lungu Challenged to tell the Nation Whether he has retired or not from Active Politics

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Former President Edgar Lungu Challenged to tell the Nation Whether he has retired or not from Active Politics

Copperbelt-based Good Governance activist Peter Mulenga has challenged former President Edgar Lungu to clearly tell the nation whether or not he has retired from politics.

And Mr. Mulenga has condemned the storming of Mr. Lungu’s Lusaka residence by scores of uniformed police on Wednesday morning.

He said Mr. Lungu was a good man who is being misled over the issue of returning to politics by some few people surrounding him.

Mr. Mulenga said the sixth republican president has never publicly spoken about returning to politics contrary to what is being portrayed by some of his supporters.

“It’s written all over that former President Edgar Changwa Lungu is being misled by some ‘power hungry’ party officials. I know Edgar Changwa Lungu as a good man, but he is being misled by some few people who have surrounded him. The endorsement being made all over by boot lickers do not mean well for the Zambian public at large. The endorsements were unconstitutional. The current endorsements of Edgar Changwa Lungu are questionable. Dr Edgar Changwa Lungu has never spoken about it, and it’s like they are forcing him. He has told us on a number of occasions that he had retired, so am calling upon Edgar Changwa Lungu to come out clear on his position,” Mr. Mulenga said.

Meanwhile, Mr. Mulenga said the former president needs to enjoy his retirement in peace.

He said the storming of Mr. Lungu’s residence by police was embarrassing to President Hakainde Hichilema and the country at large.

“But again the events of today where the police storm his residence should be condemned; it has no place in this country. And in my opinion, this is why he has been forced to return in 2026 for revenge only. Mr President sir, as commander in chief please you need to look at this very seriously otherwise the witch hunt issues in Zambia of former presidents will also catch up with you sir. Former presidents need to enjoy their retirement in peace. Also let’s be reminded that Zambia is a democracy and people are free to express themselves, however they should be limited to their freedoms. One cannot be insulting the president in the name of democracy. What happened today is embarrassing to the President and the country at large. Most of the police officers have studied law, and I should believe that they know that Mr Lungu enjoys immunity.

The question is, was today’s event a quest to embarrass the former President or a political game instigated by the UPND? The Bible says; never take your own revenge. In Deuteronomy 32:35.Vengeance is Mine, and retribution, in due time their foot will slip; for the day of their calamity is near, and the impending things are hastening upon them. I leave the country to Judge. I submit,” Mr. Mulenga stated.

Meanwhile, social commentator Isaac Mwendela Nsoneka says the trend of harassing former Presidents in Zambia won’t end.

“Constitutionally each individual has got the right and Privilege to occupy and hold the office of President of the republic of Zambia for a period of 10 years which they can decide to cut short and serve for one term of 5 years but never to prolong the 10 years period to 15 or any other number of years that is not 10 years which is split into 2 terms, so the time to stop working from state house and lining up police officers on Mosi O’Tunya road is coming for President Hakainde Hichilema. Whenever that time comes, it will be very interesting to see who in UPND will stand with Mr Hichilema as has been the case with Dr Lungu whose house seems to now be more of a community one than any other. In all this remember that the days of subserviced loyalty are long gone, the people will only come to your aid if you once or twice aided them or even still do. How will the Membership remember Mr Hakainde? So it doesn’t seem like many would have fond memories if the end were today or tomorrow going by the recent outbursts from UPND members for lack of a proper reward system,” Mr. Nsoneka said.

FNB, KUPES ink youth mentorship pact

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FNB, KUPES ink youth mentorship pact

By BENEDICT TEMBO

First National Bank (FNB) Zambia has announced one-year partnerships with KUPES Young Women’s Network and Posterity Solutions aimed at accelerating youth mentorship and empowerment initiatives.

KUPES is a non-profit organisation founded in 2014 devoted to the development of young women and girls.
It’s mission is to empower young women by educating and equipping them with skills and opportunities that will enable them become leaders actively participating in the shaping of their world in reducing poverty, ending violence against women, catalysing communities, and pioneering social and economic development.

Posterity was founded in 2022 with the goal of seeing a population with shared values that are aimed at concerted efforts towards national development.

The organisation aims to create a legacy of effective leadership by training today’s leaders to mentor and inspire the next generation.
Posterity is a call to positively influence cultural change to a whole persons’ growth concept and using personal development approach as a vehicle, thereby investing in the next generation of Zambian leaders.

Speaking on the strategic partnerships, FNB Zambia Head – Strategic Marketing and Communications, Kasali Mwaba-Kaingu commended KUPES and Posterity for the shared commitment to create a better world by providing real help, aligned to the bank’s ethos of ‘How can we help you?’.

“At FNB, we see ourselves as part of the solution to the societal challenges youths face. This understanding is under-pinned on the basis that the majority of FNB Zambia employees are youths.
Therefore, we make deliberate efforts to support not only our employees, but the communities we operate in so that we can collectively provide tangible and sustainable solutions to empower the youth to positive contribute to the growth and wellbeing of our society,” Mrs. Kaingu said.
“This is the second year that we are partnering with KUPES to support the work they do in helping young women and girls to realize their potential, demonstrating the bank’s confidence in these activities.
This year, FNB is particularly excited to commence the partnership with Posterity Solutions under the Ascend Men’s Mentorship Program, where we will reach young boys across the country with a tailored mentorship program, carefully designed for boys. We are happy to take lead on this initiative by investing resources in meeting the growing need for boys in Zambia to get inspiration and guidance that will help them to shape a successful path. FNB is passionate about working with like-minded organizations focused on creating positive societal impact and the investment in the two organizations over the next one-year period will go a long way in offering the help needed in our communities”, she added.
KUPES Young Women’s Network Founder Norena Chiteba said, “We started the KUPES activities in February 2015 with a membership of nine girls and have since grown to a network of about 3,000 members. This achievement would not have been possible without the support of organizations like FNB Zambia who share our vision of meaningful impact to support young women. We are excited to continue the partnership with FNB so that we can elevate our activities to reach more girls across the country”.
Posterity Solutions Founder, Mina Tavaris Mukuma said “The Ascend Men’s Mentorship Programme has been carefully crafted to empower boys to take up leadership positions through mentorship from a network of men who will receive the requisite training. Our focus is to create a legacy of effective leadership by training today’s leaders to mentor and inspire the next generation. We would like to thank FNB for starting what will become a movement of men’s mentorship, something that other corporate organizations can emulate”.
FNB Zambia’s focus on real help has seen the bank embark on different community initiatives that include among others:

• Delivery of financial literacy education in partnership with Project Concern Zambia for women empowerment groups, and as part of Financial Literacy Week in the 23 locations where the Bank has branch presence.
• Donation of sewing machines and a peanut butter-making machine to the Mother of Millions Sandulula Women’s Empowerment program in Kitwe, that works with formerly incarcerated women.
• Donation of sanitary material to Chikankanta Secondary School in partnership with Awanachi Magazine as the Bank seeks to address period poverty that continues to impact access to education.
• Building and handover of a 1 x 2 classroom block equipped with desks and an ablution block to a community school in Luanshya with an aim to increase literacy levels.
FNB Zambia’s vision is to create a better world by offering real help in the communities that the Bank operates in. In April this year, FNB celebrated 14 years of operating in Zambia and the Bank continues to position itself as a helpful, innovative, digitally led financial and lifestyle services provider, adapting to the evolving needs of the diverse customers.
The bank is built on offering real and intuitive help and this is reflected in how the Bank continues to innovate and re-invent its products and services, as well as its societal impact.

Emirates and Zambia Tourism sign MoU to jointly promote tourism and boost visitor numbers to Zambia

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Emirates and Zambia Tourism sign MoU to jointly promote tourism and boost visitor numbers to Zambia

By BENEDICT TEMBO

Emirates and Zambia Tourism have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly promote tourism and boost visitor arrivals to Zambia by leveraging Emirates’ extensive global network of 140 destinations.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Badr Abbas, Emirates’ Senior Vice President Commercial Operations for Africa, and Matongo Matamwandi, Chief Executive Officer, Zambia Tourism Agency (ZTA).

Through this partnership, the two parties will explore opportunities to collaborate on key initiatives and undertake various activities to promote experiences in Zambia and increase the visibility of the destination within the Emirates network. Both parties will also consider various advertising and marketing campaigns to drive inbound visitors to Zambia.

Badr Abbas, SVP, Commercial Operations, Africa at Emirates, said: “We are pleased to work with Zambia Tourism and support their initiatives to advance the tourism economy. Zambia has been part of our destination network for more than ten years. We have been steadily building traffic into Zambia across the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, India, and China, and we look forward driving more travellers to Zambia. The MoU signed today will help us explore mutually beneficial initiatives that will boost the nation’s tourism and trade sectors and provide Emirates with an opportunity to serve market demand.”

Matongo Matamwandi, CEO Zambia Tourism Agency, said : “Zambia offers a rich tourism offering and wealth of opportunities to pursue outdoor activities, a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and unrivalled wildlife offerings in 20 National Parks and 36 Game Management Areas. The country has unique landmarks including the Victoria Falls in Livingstone, the World’s largest Bat migration in Kasanka National Park, Mwela Rocks in Kasama, the Thornicroft Giraffe in South Luangwa National Park and The Moto Moto Museum in Mbala. We are confident that the partnership with Emirates will give a boost to the tourism industry in Zambia and attract visitors from across the Emirates network showcasing the unique experiences that Zambia has to offer.”

Emirates launched operations to Zambia in 2012 and has grown the route over the years to offer a daily service with seven flights a week. The route is served by a Boeing 777-300ER offering eight private suites in First Class, 42 lie-flat seats in Business Class and 310 spacious seats in Economy Class. The airline supports trade lanes through the export of Zambian commodities like dry and smoked seafood, precious stones and imports such as pharmaceuticals, mobile phones, auto spare parts, apparel, printed materials and drilling equipment in its belly-hold, enabling commerce and supporting the local economy.

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