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Government warns street food traders who defy ban on ready-to-eat foods

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The Zambian government has issued a warning to traders who continue to sell ready-to-eat foods on the streets, in spite of a ban aimed at preventing the spread of cholera. The ban was imposed due to concerns over unhygienic practices and the potential for the disease to spread throughout the country.

The ban has been flouted by many street traders in Lusaka and Kitwe, who claim that selling food on the streets is their only means of survival. However, Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary Maambo Hamaundu has emphasized that traders who disregard the ban will be dealt with according to existing laws and guidelines.

Hamaundu has reminded traders that the issue at hand is a matter of life and death, and urged them not to put citizens at risk by continuing to sell food on the streets. He has also directed local authorities to communicate the ban effectively, in order to ensure that all stakeholders move in the same direction.

The Association of Vendors and Marketeers of Zambia President Abel Chikwa has called on the government to find lasting solutions to prevent cholera outbreaks in the future. Meanwhile, the street traders selling ready-to-eat foods have argued that they cannot stop selling on the streets as it is their only source of income.

Some traders have suggested that the government work with them to ensure that the streets are kept clean, rather than imposing a ban that harms their livelihoods.

The ban on the sale of ready-to-eat foods on the streets is a measure aimed at protecting citizens from cholera, which is caused by contaminated food or water. The disease has been a persistent problem in Zambia, with outbreaks occurring regularly in recent years.

Energy Minister Announces Plans to Increase Access to Electricity and Reduce Fuel Prices

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Zambia’s Minister of Energy, Hon. Eng. Peter C. Kapala, has delivered a press statement addressing the current state of the country’s energy sector. The briefing, which was held at the Ministry of Information and Media, highlighted improvements in electricity generation and measures being taken to reduce fuel prices.

According to the Minister, the water levels in the country’s major hydropower reservoirs have continued to rise, resulting in an increase in generation at the Itezhi-Tezhi Power Station and Lusemfwa Hydropower Station. As a result, the total available average electricity generation now stands at 2,235MW, which is sufficient to meet the current power demand. Therefore, the Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) has stopped load shedding.

The Minister also announced that the government is committed to achieving universal access to electricity, and has increased funding for rural electrification projects. Sixty-two grid development projects have been advertised for implementation in 2023, and 18 off-grid systems shall be installed through solar mini-grids.

In addition, the Minister discussed measures being taken to reduce fuel prices. The government plans to convert the TAZAMA pipeline to transport finished petroleum products instead of feedstock, which will significantly reduce the cost of transporting low sulfur gasoil. The government is also exploring blending petrol with ethanol, which has realized several benefits in other countries, including reduction in prices and the promotion of cassava out-grower schemes.

The Minister further stated that negotiations have been initiated for the possibility of utilizing the Zimbabwean fuel pipeline for the transportation of gasoline, which would result in lower prices. The government is also revisiting and revising the rates for selected cost lines in the fuel price build-up, including costs related to profit margins and applicable charges/fees.

Regarding the current fuel stock situation, the Minister confirmed that Zambia had sufficient national fuel stocks, with diesel exceeding the required threshold of 15 days and petrol falling slightly below. The reduction in petrol stocks has been attributed to high premiums charged by international suppliers and refineries due to the low availability of the product worldwide, making imports costly for oil marketing companies. To address this, the government has confirmed orders from several oil marketing companies of both diesel and petrol, which will provide more than 15 days of stock cover for each product.

The Minister concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring a reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy supply for the country, towards a brighter and more sustainable energy future for Zambia.

UPND Government admits corruptions within its ranks, Vows to Crack Down on Illegalities

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The Zambian Minister of Information and Media, Hon. Chushi Kasanda, has raised the alarm over the rise of illegal activities taking place with the aid of government and United Party for National Development (UPND) officials. Speaking in a press statement, the Minister expressed the government’s concern over the matter, stating that it is a total disregard of the rule of law.

“Government has observed with serious concern that some Government and UPND party officials are abetting corruption and other illegalities, which are a total disregard of the rule of law. We are extremely disappointed that vices, including illegal land acquisition and allocation; illegal harvesting and transportation of Mukula tree; and illegal mining and selling of minerals such as gold, lithium and sugilite, are taking place with the blessing of some Government and Party officials. This is totally unacceptable under the New Dawn administration, presided over by His Excellency the President Mr Hakainde Hichilema, and must be stopped immediately,” said the Minister.

The Minister went on to emphasize that the government is fully aware of the schemes being used to keep law enforcement agencies at bay and warned that perpetrators of illegal activities will face the full wrath of the law.

“Lawless individuals are misusing the name of the ruling Party and names of some senior Party and Government officials, as being the ones under whose instructions they are committing the illegalities. Government wishes to state, in no uncertain terms, that those UPND Party and Government functionaries who will be found wanting will not be protected in any way. Perpetrators of illegalities are on their own, and law enforcement officers who will fail to take action against them on account of their political affiliation will be treated as accomplices and will face corresponding consequences,” added the Minister.

The Minister further reiterated the President’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and equality before the law, stating that the UPND administration will never condone corruption or any other illegality, no matter who the perpetrators are.

“His Excellency President Hichilema is on record saying that the UPND administration will never condone corruption or any other illegality, no matter who the perpetrators are. Equality before the law shall continue to be the hallmark of the UPND administration under the leadership of President Hichilema,” said the Minister.

The recent arrest of Luapula Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, along with District Commissioners for Nchelenge and Mwansabombwe, for allegedly transporting suspected stolen sugilite, disguised as manganese, was seen as an example and a deterrent to those wanting to engage in illegal activities for whatever reason.

“The arrest should serve as an example and a deterrent to those wanting to engage in illegalities for whatever reason. The arrest should also send a clear message to those who have been made to believe that some suspected criminals are being arrested for belonging to a particular political party,” said the Minister.

The statement serves as a warning to all those involved in illegal activities and emphasizes the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and bringing those involved in illegal activities to justice, regardless of their political affiliations. The nation is urged to be guided accordingly.

Part III: Appointment Of Judges: Implications On Financing Of The Judiciary

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By Isaac Mwanza

(Continued from yesterday)

In our first discussion of this series, we assessed the effect of continued appointment of Judges on the existing Judicial infrastructure and operations. Our conclusion was that the recruitment of new Judges will exacerbate the problem of limited courtrooms, office space, Judges’ chambers and other judicial resources.

In the second article, we examined the emerging pattern in the system of appointing and promoting Judges, and concluded the current ‘tap-on-the-shoulder’ system of promoting Judges is flawed as it is based on institutionalised political patronage and favouritism rather than seniority of Judges, experience, merit, and hard work. This final article of the three series addresses the vexing question of adequate financing of our Judiciary.

PAYING FOR AN EFFECTIVE JUDICIARY

There should be no doubt that the recent appointments of Judges of the superior courts by the Republican President, His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema have a far-reaching effect on the existing Judicial infrastructure and adds substantially to the financial burden.

Apart from the basic salaries and related allowances which will drastically increase expenditure and put additional pressure on Judicial resources, our Judges are entitled to a qualified secretary, research assistant, Marshall, security personnel, and domestic staff.

These staff will have to be employed if they are not available and also must enjoy conditions of service as stipulated in our Employment Act and Code.

Judges are also entitled to a personal-to-holder vehicle, fuel allowance, a non-private practising allowance of twenty per centum of the basic salary.

In addition, Judges, their spouse and four children are also entitled to vocational leave with travel benefits as well as medical insurance, all paid by the State.

This may appear to be somewhat excessive, but this is the price that we must pay as a country in order to insulate our Judges and those who work with them from worldly temptations.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Before President Hichilema appointed his first 18 Judges in 2021, the emoluments budget for the Judiciary stood at K325.4m which later increased in 2022 to K359.6m.

In 2023, Government has allocated a total of K496.2 million for emoluments for the Judiciary, an increase of K84.5m from the previous year. However, only K340.4 million of this amount will be spent on salaries and wages while K68.2 million has been allocated for other emoluments.

It is this author’s humble opinion that this is woefully inadequate, considering the vital role that our Judiciary plays in upholding the very existence of our free Republic.

More resources should be allocated to ensuring that our Judicial system functions at the optimal level, which means that our Judges at all levels, must have the environment required to discharge their noble duties without undue pressure resulting from inadequate offices, inadequate staff, lack of courtrooms, lack of transport etc.

This country needs to invest far more in our Judicial system and in our Judiciary, from the Local Court, which serves our people at a level which they readily understand, up to the Constitutional and Supreme Courts, the guardians of our modern democratic freedoms and rights.

To understand the financial implications of recent appointment on the budget for the Judiciary, one has to also look at the annual salary for our Judges. As an example, a High Court Judge earns a basic salary and housing allowance totalling K521,085.60 per year.

This K521,085.60 figure has to be multiplied by 12 new High Court Judges President Hichilema appointed, giving a whooping total of K6.3 million as basic salary and housing allowance only.

The new Deputy President of the Constitutional Court will earn a total of K 705,048.80 per year while the other new Judge will receive K633,384.86 in basic salary and housing allowance.

The two Judges who have been elevated from the High Court to Constitutional Court bench each add K112,299.26 to each of their old basic salary and housing allowance totalling K521,085.60 each.

The elevated Judge President of the Constitutional Court and elevated President of the Appeals Court each receive a new basic salary and allowances amounting to K698,307.88 and K603,236.34 from K665,048.8 and K547,139.88, respectively.

The two new Judges of the Court of Appeal also increase their salaries and housing allowance from K521,085.60 each to K 547,139.88 each.

These may sound like fantastic figures but, in reality, do not reflect the enormous responsibilities placed on the shoulders of each of our Judges who spend time considering arguments from two sides and then deciding on whose side the law stands.

This is an awesome responsibility placed on each one of our judges, when we consider the level of salaries, we pay them for their enormous sacrifice for the good of all of us.

This calls for drastic measures by the government to address the question of financing the Judiciary, even though we know that it will mean higher expenditure on our Judiciary.

We should do more for our Judges and Judicial officers, as a nation. The question is, what price are we prepared to pay, as a nation, in order to realise the goal of “Justice for all?”

It is the humble opinion of this author that a so-called “bloated budget” for the Judiciary, would be fully justified in the short term, in order to address the needs and challenges which have been discussed in the first and second articles, and above.

There is of course a genuine concern of the wheels of justice turning too slowly, which President Hichilema may be attempting to address in the immediate term. The President has personally spoken for the many who remain incarcerated in detention facilities due to various reasons.

But there is another problem which some of us have argued is bigger or overshadow the question of numbers of Judges in our courts. It is the question of attitude to work or the work culture among our Judges and Judicial officers themselves.

There is urgent need for change of attitudes and work culture in the Judiciary if the available time is to be maximised to clear the backlog of cases and to attend to new ones.

With regard to the Constitutional Court, with which this author is familiar, the current numbers of Judges have been exceptionally diligent in attending to cases in a timely fashion and have therefore avoided creating a backlog of cases.

I shall readily admit that, at the Constitutional Court, it is almost always the litigants who have delayed proceedings before this court, rather than the Court itself.

Of course, very highly politicised constitutional cases come with them challenges of seeking to balance between the interest of the State and straightening the law.

There are also reports of some adjudicators who have to consult politicians whenever political cases are filed.

In recent times one would hardly fail to notice certain movements at Subordinate courts level which point to pressure being brought to bear on the courts.

Over different ruling regimes, we keep witnessing the not-so-helpful transfers of our magistrates who are perceived as not being helpful to the government of the day. It is thus not unusual that cases are stalled for months or years or have to start afresh.

The question therefore arises, as to whether the recruitment of more Judges should have been the priority of this administration, rather than the provision of adequate infrastructure for our Judiciary.

At the moment, the country is going through a difficult phase with government pleading for debt relief and restructuring of our national debt by Zambia’s creditors.

In the face of these negotiations, the administration should not be seen to be increasing the public wage bill through recruitment of civil servants and now Judges, whose wage bill may be perceived as higher.

Somehow, those who want to help Zambia will be making assumptions that Zambia has no real cash problem and does not therefore need debt relief. Our real problem may be seen as priorities and how to mobilise resources locally.

This also raises a further question as to what should have been priority expenditure for the Judiciary. Government should be working towards increasing funding so as to meet infrastructure needs and less emphasis on appointment of more Judges who add to the financial and infrastructure burden.

There is need to construct new court infrastructure and to rehabilitate existing structures in order to enhance access to justice.

There is also considerable concern about the personal emoluments of both junior and senior staff at the Judiciary; their present or current emoluments are far from being motivating at all, leading these Judiciary staff into temptation.

There is need to invest resources in completing capital projects and avoid further dilapidation of the court and other buildings which are placed at the disposal of our Judiciary, especially in rural parts of the country.

CONCLUSION

The current number of Judges is not too far from the numbers deemed sufficient to deal with the cases before them, especially if a little more motivation is provided to them. The current Judges are working under very stressful condition. If the government is serious about improving and speeding the delivery of justice, the priorities should be focused on infrastructure.

The Judiciary needs a well-motivated workforce, workers who are well-remunerated at all levels. The Judiciary has been grappling with a huge amount of unpaid personal emoluments or low salaries to employees and former employees. The failure to meet these emoluments and improve low salaries for employees is contributing to diminished morale among the affected members of staff and exposing unpaid former employees to destitution.

[Isaac Mwanza is a holder of a Bachelor of Laws degree. He is Mandela Washington Fellow, governance and legal activist. In the last 20 years, he dedicated his life to work on governance and legal-related issues with civil society organisations and coordinated the World Bank’s Youth for Good Governance Program in Zambia. He was one of the two lead consultants in the publication of the report dubbed, “Electoral Justice in Zambia: Resolving Disputes from the 2016 Elections and Emerging Jurisprudence.” He authors a column in the Zambia Daily Nation titled: Court of Public Opinion. For any comments and feedback, write to [email protected]]

(Published by the Zambia Daily Nation, February, 2023)

Zambia U20 Face Gambia in Must-Win Game

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Zambia U20 coach Chisi Mbewe has described Friday’s penultimate Group C match at the 2023 AFCON in Egypt as a must-win.

Young Chipolopolo started their campaign on Tuesday with a modest display to earn a 1-1 draw against Benin in a match Zambia rallied from one down early in the second half to clinch a point.

Zambia now faces Gambia who leads Group C after beating Tunisia 1-0 in Tuesday’s early kickoff.

“Yes, it is not going to be an easy game but the most important thing is at least we came from a draw and they won their first match,” Chisi said.

“We are also looking for a win and they are also looking for a win but the most important thing is we must be able to compete and collect maximum points.”

Zambia needs a win to take into Monday’s final Group C game against Tunisia with pressure on them to replicate the 2017 U20 AFCON winning team on home soil.

The big prize in Egypt is qualifying for May’s FIFA U20 World Cup in Indonesia.

The entire semifinalist at the three-group, twelve-team tournament will qualify for the FIFA U20 World Cup.

“They know what is at stake we have been working in training on the areas that we did not do well in the Benin game,” Chisi said.

“Coming into this game we are confident, we know what we want, we know the goals that we want to achieve.”

The Inspector General of Police has yet to prove he is better than former IG Kakoma Kanganja

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By Venus N Msyani

The Inspector General of Police Lemmy Kajoba has yet to prove he is better than his predecessor Kakoma Kanganja. Like IG Kanganja under the Patriotic Front government, Kajoba seems scared of losing his job.

The fear seems to have left the Inspector General confused; Now attacking even those who are sincerely trying to be on his side!

Commenting on his recent arrest, Dr. Chishimba Kambwili, alleges the current Inspector General of Police Lemmy Kajoba is a figurehead. The PF presidential hopeful claims that a senior police officer at State House is running the Zambia Police Service.

Responding to Kambwili’s statement, IG Kajoba is quoted saying his office does not wish to engage Kambwili in public fora such as social media platforms. The Inspector General says instead, his office is watching Dr. Kambwili closely and analyzing every statement he utters.

The author could be wrong, is Kajoba happy? If he was, he would be telling Dr. Kambwili thank you. People are spending nights in police custody for misdemeanors. Chishimba Kambwili is simply saying Lemmy Kajoba he knows cannot allow that to happen.

How come Kajoba is failing to get it! Of course, he is trying to keep his job. The problem is that he may never prove that he is better than Kakoma Kanganja.

By attacking Dr. Kambwili, the Inspector General is saying he is the one allowing Zambians to spend days in police custody for misdemeanors.

Meanwhile, very sure most people are as disappointed as the author. Victims of the tyrannous behavior of the new dawn administration are not receiving equal support.

To be specific, support from the opposition. It appears the more popular one is the more support he/she gets. No doubt poor youth activist Kelvin Kakula would still be in custody if it weren’t for Dr. Chishimba Kambwili‘s arrest.

Kakula and Kambwili were arrested for unlawful assembly, which is a misdemeanor offense. Kakula spent days in custody no one seemed to be bothered. Kambwili spent about a day in custody the whole opposition swarmed the police station to demand his release.

Is that fair? Ordinary Zambians will suffer more if only politicians get enough support when facing authorities. Victims of the tyrannous behavior of the United Party for National Development (UPND) administration deserve equal support.

IG Lemmy Kajoba has yet to prove he is better than Kakoma Kanganja.

Fred M’membe Urges Protection for Investigative Journalists Exposing Sugilite Criminal Syndicate

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Investigative journalism plays a vital role in holding those in power accountable for their actions. It is the duty of journalists to uncover the truth and expose wrongdoing, no matter how powerful or influential those responsible may be. Unfortunately, the risks and dangers faced by investigative journalists are often high, and the recent case of Jubilee Malambo is no exception.

Malambo’s investigative reporting on the Sugilite criminal syndicate in Mansa, Luapula Province, has been critical in exposing the corruption and criminal activities of those involved. However, in doing so, he has received death threats, causing him to live in fear for his life. As Dr. Fred M’membe, the President of Zambia’s Socialist Party, has stated, “Investigative journalists often risk their lives to uncover the truth.”

The threats and attacks against journalists like Malambo not only endanger their lives but also threaten the freedom of the press and the ability of society to make informed decisions. The right to information is a fundamental human right, yet access to information in Zambia is not yet recognized by law, observed or provided for.

To support and defend investigative journalists like Malambo, Dr. M’membe has called for the implementation of an Access to Information Act. This legislation would provide the right to information and ensure transparency, accountability, and the ability of citizens to make informed decisions. He believes that the free flow of ideas is a key driver of vibrant societies and human progress, and crimes against journalists have an enormous impact on society as a whole.

Dr. M’membe further stated, “Investigative journalism is of great importance for the functioning of our democracy. Investigative journalism increases transparency and can hold authorities to account. Investigative journalists can stir up a lot in society.” It is vital that investigative journalism is supported and protected, especially in a time when high-quality, independent journalism is more necessary than ever.

Meanwhile, the UPND spokesperson, Cornelius Mweetwa, has welcomed the recent arrest of senior government officials in Luapula and Mongu. He has stated that this is an indication that the UPND does not interfere in the operation of law enforcement agencies and respects the principle of the rule of law.

Mr. Mweetwa clarified that any government official committing an offence against the law of the land would be dealt with in accordance with the law of the land. Additionally, any member of the party who violates the party Constitution will be treated according to the provisions of the party Constitution. The President is committed to respecting the rule of law and fighting all vices that violate the law.

The arrests of the Luapula Deputy Permanent Secretary, Mwansabombwe District Commissioner, and his Nchelenge counterpart for Conveying property reasonably suspected to be stolen and carrying out mining operations without a license are a clear indication that the current administration is committed to upholding the rule of law and fighting corruption.

FIC laments increased financial crimes in Zambia

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Government says it has endeavored to fight financial crimes ranging from corruption, money laundering, terrorism and proliferation financing.

Muchinga Province Permanent Secretary, Henry Mukungule says this has been demonstrated through the various policy reforms, such as the establishment of the financial crimes court among others.

The PS was speaking during a meeting on the National Anti-money laundering, countering terrorism and proliferation financing policy.

Mr Mukungule said in ensuring that the fight is in conformity with the global community, the government has remained committed to ensuring strict compliance to international standards such as combating money laundering and financing of terrorism.

“On 2nd February, 2023, Zambia launched its first ever national anti-money laundering and countering terrorism and proliferation financing policy which is in response to the financial action task force recommendation,” Mr Mukungule stated.

The PS has since called on stakeholders involved in the anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism and proliferation regime to ensure that all outstanding issues are addressed.

And speaking earlier, Director Inspection at the Financial Intelligence centre , Katuna Sinyangwe lamented that the country has faced a lot of financial crimes.

Mr Sinyangwe said this is the reason the team is in Muchinga Province to sensitise stakeholders on how they can work with the government to fight financial crimes in the country.

“We all have a part to play in fighting money laundering and corruption and other vices that have been taking place for many years now, in the country” He added.

The meeting was attended by various stakeholders within Chinsali District.

JCTR urges the Government to step up bilateral engagement with China over debt

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The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has urged the Government to step up bilateral engagement with China, Zambia’s largest creditor, in order to expedite the prolonged debt restructuring process under the G20 Common Framework.

JCTR Executive Fr. Alex Muyebe, S.J said Zambia urgently needs a debt restructure to unlock investment and improve fiscal space.

Fr. Muyebe said the perceived foreign policy shift by the New Dawn Government must not be allowed to jeopardize the debt restructuring negotiations.

He said the interest of the Zambian people must take precedence over the geo-political and economic dynamics between the West and China.

Fr. Muyebe emphasised that in the end it is the Zambian people who are bearing the brunt of delayed debt restructuring and who will bear consequences in the event that the debt restructuring deal collapses

“Zambia is still battling with a debt distress which has denied the country the opportunity to grow at its full potential. This has worsened the poverty levels as the past few years have seen a rechanneling of resources from key sectors of the economy such as: social security protection; education; health; water and sanitation among others to debt serving. The coming in of Covid-19 further worsened the living conditions in Zambia through disruptions of livelihood as productivity was lost and government’s responsibility to meet health needs of its people increased. Zambia therefore needs to grow to its full potential to improve livelihoods of its people and eradicate poverty. It is for this reason that the country desperately needs a debt restructure to unlock investment and improve fiscal space. Zambia was among the first countries to apply for debt restructure under the G20 Common Framework for debt treatment in early 2021,” Fr. Muyebe stated.

“Progress has been made in this regard as the next step is for the Official Creditor Committee for Zambia to agree with the authorities the specific modalities of how official creditors intend to deliver debt relief consistent with the Fund-program parameters in the form of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The authorities aimed to complete discussions on the MoU by the end of 2022, however, this is yet to be accomplished as the process has lagged. The Zambian government has remained committed to fiscal sustainability. The country has also received support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) through the US$1.3 billion extended credit facility and a total of US$740 million concessional loan from the World Bank (WB).”

“This has helped Zambia return to positive economic growth levels. However, debt restructuring is needed if Zambia is to achieve sustained economic growth. The Zambian government has implemented a medium term strategy to run for the period between 2023 and 2025. This is intended to improve livelihoods of its people through reduced cost of living; improved and sustained economic growth averaging 4.2 percent; increased domestic revenue and improved reserves in the treasury,” Fr. Muyebe said.

He said JCTR has observed that the delayed debt restructuring is also contributing to the instability of the Zambian currency.

“For all these to be actualized, Zambia needs investment inflow. The delayed restructuring in Zambia’s debt is blocking investment inflow into the country as investors may not perceive Zambia to be credible. This is making it difficult for the government to meet the needs of its people to the required extent due to limitations of resources. It is very important to understand that no nation can grow in isolation as global partnership and trade is very important. Foreign direct investment boosts the countries reserves, increases the country’s revenue generation capacity and creates jobs. The delayed debt restructuring is also contributing to the instability of the Zambian currency.”

“As earlier highlighted, Zambia’s huge debt overhang is eroding market and investor confidence. Reduced direct foreign investment reduces the country’s forex earnings. For a country that is a net importer like Zambia, high demand for forex to import commodities adds pressure to the country’s reserves and leads to the devaluation of the local currency. This has been evident as the Zambian kwacha has been depreciating against major currencies. The depreciation of the kwacha means more of the Zambian currency is needed to import commodities for consumption. This is likely to lead to increased inflation rate, which if not accompanied by increased nominal income (salaries) reduces household’s real income implying that household’s income can no longer purchase the same quantity of basic needs (food, shelter, clothing, medicine among others) that it previously could,” Fr. Muyebe said.

He predicted that the delayed debt restructuring is likely to contribute to the rising cost of living for an average Zambian as monitored by the monthly study by JCTR on the basic needs and nutrition basket.

“Therefore, the delayed debt restructuring is likely to contribute to the rising cost of living for an average Zambian as monitored by the monthly study by JCTR on the basic needs and nutrition basket. The rising cost of living is causing households to cut down on the number or quantity of meals per day as well as compromise on nutritional content of these meals. It is also compromising the capacity of households to access decent housing due to reduced real income and therefore worsening the poverty levels in Zambia,” he said.

“With the aim of speeding up the debt restructure process; the Zambian government needs to step up bilateral engagement with China (Zambia’s largest creditor) to help expedite the restructuring process under the G20 Common Framework. The perceived foreign policy shift must not be allowed to jeopardize the debt restructuring negotiations. The interest of the Zambian people must take precedence over the geo-political and economic dynamics between the West and China. Ultimately it is the Zambian people who are bearing the brunt of delayed debt restructuring and who will bear consequences in the event that the debt restructuring deal collapses,” Fr. Muyebe said.

Unsupervised boarding houses are being used for drug abuse and sexual activities-Lusambo

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Former Lusaka Province Minister Bowman Lusambo has said President Hakainde Hichilema should tackle the issues of increasing unsupervised student boarding houses that are being abused as he addresses Parliament on Friday on the Application of National Values, Ethics, and Principles.

Mr. Lusambo said mushrooming unsupervised student boarding houses are being used for drug abuse and sexual activities by students.

The former Kabushi Member of Parliament said some students are engaging in “mini-marriages” with no regard for traditional and cultural values.

Mr. Lusambo observed that the growth in tertiary education over the last few years has evidently brought with it unprecedented demand for student accommodation.

“The tragedy of unsupervised student boarding houses. As President Hichilema addresses Parliament on Friday on the Application of National Values, Ethics and Principles, we wish to draw the nation to a matter of serious concern, one that threatens national values and risks decimating the moral fiber of this great nation. The growth in tertiary education over the last few years has evidently brought with it unprecedented demand for student accommodation. All Universities and Colleges, both private and public have been outstripped with regard to student bed spaces while a number of these Institutions are operating with no provision for student accommodation. In their desire to obtain a qualification, most young people are choosing to live in boarding houses as they pursue their educational goals,” Mr. Lusambo said.

“What we have seen now is the emergence of a social tsunami where students as young as 17 are being forced to look for boarding houses to rent for the entire duration of their study programmes. Their level of vulnerability is so high such that by the time they graduate, these young people would have been exposed to so many social and moral ills that would have a lasting impact on their lives forever. Gathered evidence is showing that most boarding houses are now dens of sin, criminality and outright moral decay. We now have students engaged in “mini-marriages” with no regard to traditional and cultural values. Others have been introduced and have gotten addicted to hard drugs while living in these boarding houses and the lack of adequate sanitation services at these boarding houses poses a serious public health threat. If nothing is done urgently to curb the rise in these boarding houses, Zambia will face a huge public health crisis in the next 10 years. We will have a generation of young adults that won’t be able to function as the moral backbone would have been weakened,” Mr. Lusambo stated.

He proposed measures aimed at helping address the crisis of student accommodation.

“The Higher Education Authority should place a moratorium on the issuance of new licenses for Universities and Colleges that do not have student ready accommodation spaces. An application should only be reviewed after evidence has been provided to show that adequate bed spaces to absorb at least 90% of students is available. Existing higher learning institutions should be given a two year grace period to provide accommodation facilities for at least 90% of the students. After the two year period has elapsed, the Higher Education Authority should review and inspect the bed spaces before renewing the license. The Ministry of Education and Ministry of Finance working with the Bankers Association of Zambia should collaborate to develop a financing framework for higher learning institutions to access cheaper financing for them to construct student hostels closer to campus,” Mr. Lusambo said.

He further urged councils to collaborate with Higher Education Authority to carry out inspections on all boarding houses to check for compliance to public health laws

“Local authorities should work with Higher Education Authority to carry out inspections on all boarding houses to check for compliance to public health laws. Institutions flouting those guidelines should face stiffer penalties. Higher learning institutions should insist on only offering Acceptance Letters to students who will present Lease Agreements signed off by guardians and property owners that will show how and where the student will be accommodated for the duration of their study programme. Higher learning institutions should carry out periodical compliance checks to ensure that students are staying in boarding houses that are traceable. It is our strongly considered view that President Hichilema should take this matter seriously to protect the future of this great nation,” Mr. Lusambo said.

Eight Croatians moved to the High Court in Ndola City

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The case in which eight Croatians are accused of attempting to traffic four children from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on the Zambian territory has been moved to the High Court in Ndola City.

And the Croatian suspects have been released from prison on bail pending trial.

This follows a decision made on Wednesday by High Court judge Yvonne Chembe who granted the State the application to have the case heard in the higher court of Zambia.

Last Tuesday, the State filed a notice of motion stating that the matter has garnered widespread attention at local and international level adding that it would be suitable that the matter is heard before the High Court.

In an affidavit in support of originating notice of motion filed in the Ndola High Court, assistant immigration officer Kombe Sakeni said it is inevitable that the laws of Croatia and the DRC will be a point of consideration during the hearing of the trial.

“That part of the evidence touches on communications made by and to a sovereign state, that is, the DRC and could conceivably be on international interest.

“That the case also involves the four children namely Beatrice Magic, Mariella Kalinde Subsic, Jona Asnate Persic and Jean Val Kraljevic whose fate will be affected by the outcome of this matter,” he stated.

Mr Sakeni further contends that if the order is granted, it will be to the general convenience of the parties and will not prejudice the accused persons.

“I am reliably informed by counsel that this court is clothed with the jurisdiction to hear this application and that this is a proper matter in which this honorable court can exercise its jurisdiction to order that the respondents be committed to trial before itself,” he said.

And when the matter came up in chambers, defense lawyers did not contest the application.

Judge Chembe adjourned the case to a later date.

Recently, the eight Croatians and a senior Department of Immigration officer Gloria Sakulenga, 36, who is on police bond were charged with the offence, to which they all pleaded not guilty.

In this case, it is alleged that on December 7, 2022, in Ndola, Sakulenga, a senior Department of Immigration officer attempted to traffic four children within the territorial boundaries of Zambia for the purpose of exploitation.

The eight Croatians include Zoran Subosic, 52, a guitarist in a well-known band Hladno Pivo or Cold beer, Immovic Subosic, 41, an administrator, Damir Magic, 44, an electrical technician, Nadic Magic, 45, a technician, Ladislav Persic, 42, a medical doctor and Aleksandra Persic, 43, a hair salon attendant.

Others are Noah Kraljevic, 40, a programme director and Uvona Kraljevic 36, a dog handler.

It is alleged that on December 7, last year, the four couples acted together in an attempt to traffic the four children.

President Hakainde Hichilema is a heartless extortionist-Edith Nawakwi

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Hakainde Hichilema is a heartless extortionist who wants to increase electricity tariffs at a time when Zambians have gone beyond the limits of suffering, FDD leader Edith Nawakwi has charged.

And Economic Front (EF) leader Wynter Kabimba described the President as a stubborn “chintomfwa” who will not listen to the poor people’s cries, but that judgment day is coming for him in 2026.

Speaking through an interview on the proposed hike of 37 percent in electricity tariffs by the state-owned utility company, Zesco, Nawakwi said no Zambian deserves to be burdened further with high electricity costs after the President has already decimated them with high fuel prices, resulting in the skyrocketing cost of living for ordinary Zambians.

She said President Hichilema was a “hard-nosed” capitalist who is pandering to the west as that is what has been included in the $1.3 billion IMF facility.

“That was what was included in the agreement that he will be an agent of death for the Zambian economy and people of Zambia,” Nawakwi said. “You have seen the price of mealie meal skyrocketing yet there isn’t one single construction going on in the country.”

She said Zambia was a country without a shepherd, and therefore everything was at a standstill “because our leader has no eyes, because if he had he would have seen the people’s suffering not to burden them with further electricity tariff hikes.”

“He has no heart. If he has it doesn’t feel the people’s pain. The only heart he has is ‘how much will be in my pocket.’ It’s insensitive for anyone to inflict more pain on the people at this time,” Nawakwi said, and that IMF will be responsible for the President’s eviction in 2026.

Nawakwi said it was ironic that the same government that claimed that tariffs have to be hiked to attract investment, were also saying that they are exporting power and making millions from the same.

“Hakainde doesn’t listen to anyone. He doesn’t listen to God. He has power and he will do what he wants,” she said.

President Hichilema during a recent radio appearance described the skyrocketing prices of mealie meal as extortion and sabotage as the government had offloaded maize through the FRA to the millers to cushion the high prices. But Nawakwi urged the President to consider his own actions before blaming others.

“He is the extortionist. He has been increasing the price of fuel because mealie meal cannot be delivered in isolation of fuel,” Nawakwi said, adding that “the cattle economist” is detached from reality as mealie meal prices cannot be stabilised by just offloading maize as it requires time to do so.

She said she had never seen a situation where the minister of Agriculture was the one presiding over which millers should receive the maize.

“I have said he doesn’t understand economics. He is a cattle economist. He only understands the economics of cattle where they are walking from Kalomo to Kafue and he is creating deforestation and calls himself a cattle rancher,” said Nawakwi.

And Kabimba said the tariff increments must affect the mines who were the heavy consumers as apart from being given tax holidays they also paid little on the energy they consumed despite being the heavy users of the commodity.

He said the rule in terms of tariffs must move alongside the lines of taxation where those who earn more pay more.

Kabimba said he and others were representing the voice of the poor who will be the main judges of President Hichilema’s stay in power “against the mining companies to who can claim that they will rig elections for him and get 10 helicopters to fly him around the country.”

“HH must stop cheating himself that he can treat the poor people in the manner he feels because he has got the support of his fellow capitalists in the mines,” said Kabimba, adding that the trend he was developing of getting the poor to sustain the rich could not build peace. “HH has proven to be a very stubborn man to hold office. And this is confirmed by those working around him. Ni chintomfwa (He’s someone who never listens to anyone)

Mundubile Dispels Falsehoods About Contractors Getting Money But Failed To Deliver

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The allegations that some contractors received payment for services not rendered during the PF regime have been dispelled by Mporokoso Member of Parliament, Hon Brian Mundubile. He challenged the Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Hon Garry Nkombo, to reveal how much money the government lost through non-delivery of contracts.

Since the New Dawn Administration took over, many local contractors have not been paid because they have been labeled as PF cadres. Despite delivering their services to the government, they have not been paid, which has led to worsened money scarcity and an escalated cost of living.

In their defense, UPND officials have claimed that the contractors did not deliver the services as per the contract. However, Hon Brian Mundubile has schooled the New Dawn in Parliament on how contracts and business with the government are conducted.

Hon Mundubile explained that in the standard contract he has known for the past 20 years, either a contractor is paid an advance payment in exchange for an advance payment bond or an Interim Payment Certificate (IPC) is signed by the consultant. If there is payment that has been signed without work, the government can still execute the performance bond of the consultant. He challenged Hon Nkombo to state how much money the government lost regarding the matter in question.

Hon Nkombo had earlier stated that the government lost a lot of money. He assured the public that only those that did the work will be paid, and there will be reconciliation. He also admitted that there is a lot of work to be done to harmonize the feeder roads and address the issue of debt.

Hon Mundubile lamented that most local contractors have fallen victim to the government machinations, and as a result, contractors are failing to secure facilities with banks and international business. He said that the contracts don’t invite outsiders, not even the government, to resolve the challenges but the parties to the contract. He said that the sector has collapsed because of the mistrust that exists from the government.

The PF presidential hopeful challenged the Minister of Local Government to be clear on what contract was used in the particular transaction and which consultant is before the court today for having signed an IPC where no work was done. He explained that a contract is just a normal business.

Hon Mundubile said it is high time the government started promoting local businesses and ended the mistrust that exists between them and the contractors.

Zambia’s Economy at Risk as Bank of Zambia Fails to Meet Bond Auction Targets, Says Fred M’membe

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Zambia’s Socialist Party President Dr Fred M’membe has expressed concern over the failure of the Bank of Zambia to meet the required K2.6 billion per bond auction. The latest auction results published on February 17 this year saw the Bank of Zambia only raise K854 million, a shortfall of over 67%.

Dr M’membe believes that the subscription rates are an economic barometer of the economy. An over-subscription is generally seen as a mark of economic confidence by investors, while an under-subscription is seen as a score for low investor confidence. He said, “The failure of the Bank of Zambia to raise the required amount shows that investors are on the fence due to uncertainty with regards to national debt restructuring.”

Dr M’membe also expressed concern that the under-subscription of government bonds could negatively impact the funding of government operations. He strongly suspects that financial institution participation in government securities has dwindled, resulting in low subscriptions. “The effects of removing liquidity from the markets are now being seen, and we will not be surprised if the bankers of economic evils eventually start printing money,” he said.

The Socialist Party President further stated that the rise in interest rates in the United States and Europe is incentivizing non-resident investors to pull out of emerging markets bond investments and redirecting back to the United States and Europe, which carry less country risk than emerging markets. He believes that this will result in a net payout position for government securities with the following consequences: “Depletion of international reserves as investors externalize their investment, pressure on the Kwacha with a medium-term outlook of continued depreciation, which will result in higher, imported inflation impact.”

Dr M’membe has called for urgent action to address the situation. He believes that reversing the generous tax holidays given to the mining sector, engaging China on a bilateral basis to give Zambia a three-year moratorium on its debt, and introducing austerity measures, including government-wide international travels at all levels, including for the Head of State, are necessary steps to take. He also called for the reversal of wrong monetary policy decisions taken by the Bank of Zambia to increase the statutory reserve ratio.

“The under-subscription in government securities is partially due to reduced participation of the banks in subscribing to government securities,” he said. “It is also clear that this policy direction will not impact the exchange rate depreciation as it is now evident that the forex demand side is significantly driven by non-resident/offshore investors cashing out and not rolling over their government securities. This is a highly misdirected policy decision.”

Dr M’membe believes that the situation is urgent and that the government must act quickly to find alternatives to raise funds for the shortfall. “Given the already underperforming economy, what alternatives does the government have? External loans? But who will be ready to give us loans? The commercial loans window is closed given the debt default and limited bilateral funding.”

U.S Congressional delegation visits Zambia to witness U.S. government support

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A U.S. Congressional delegation along with the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Agencies in Rome Cindy McCain this week visited Zambia to witness how the U.S. government, in partnership with the Government of Zambia and UN agencies, is investing in Zambia’s greatest resource – its people.

The delegation of leaders from the U.S. Senate Committees on Appropriations and Foreign Relations included Senators Lindsey Graham, Bob Menendez, Chris Coons, Martin Heinrich, Chris Van Hollen, and Mark Kelly.
The delegation, accompanied by U.S.

Ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzales, met with Minister of Foreign Affairs Stanley Kakubo and Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba to discuss the Zambian Government’s commitment to improve accountable and responsive governance, inclusive economic growth, and the delivery of services.

The delegation also visited Kabuyu Primary School to observe how the Zambian Government, with support from the U.S. government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the World Food Programme (WFP), is strengthening the quality of education and improving nutrition for children attending school.

While at the school, the delegation observed a reading lesson supported through the USAID Let’s Read program, which partners with Zambia’s Ministry of Education to improve reading outcomes for approximately 1.4 million children from pre-primary classes through Grade 3 in Zambia’s primary schools.

The Let’s Read program is implemented in over half of all public primary and community schools across Zambia.

The delegation also saw how the Zambian Government, through its Home Grown School Meals Program, is improving school enrolment, attendance, and retention by providing meals to students and enhancing their nutrition intake.

The delegation also visited the Kabuyu Bulking Center to observe how the Zambian Government is working with United Nations agencies to protect smallholder farmers against climate-related shocks such as floods and droughts by promoting conservation agriculture practices; diversifying livelihoods; and facilitating access to finance and stable, predictable markets.

Before departing Zambia, the delegation had the opportunity to appreciate the majestic Victoria Falls and explore investment and people-to-people opportunities through Zambia’s tourism industry.