Saturday, June 7, 2025
Subscribe
Home Blog Page 384

President Hichilema Praises Catholic Church for Promoting Social Justice and Human Rights

Chief Editor
-
8
President Hichilema Praises Catholic Church for Promoting Social Justice and Human Rights

President Hakainde Hichilema has held a consultative meeting with the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) led by its Chairman, His Grace Archbishop Ignatius Chama, at State House. During the meeting, the President acknowledged the concerns raised by the ZCCB on the high cost of living, driven by several factors, and its effect on the poor and vulnerable.

President Hichilema praised the Catholic Church for its efforts in promoting social justice, human rights, and equality, as well as its commitment to universal education and healthcare. He stated that the government was anchored on the ideals of reconstructing an economy that had broken down due to mismanagement, reckless borrowing, and unbridled corruption. However, measures had been put in place to ameliorate the negative effects of the economic situation on the citizens.

The President acknowledged the presence of a new member of the ZCCB, His Grace Bishop Raphael Mweempwa of Monze Diocese. He commended the Catholic Church for its unflinching efforts in spreading the gospel and reaffirmed the warm relationship that exists between the Catholic Church and all churches in Zambia and the government.

President Hichilema assured the ZCCB that the New Dawn Government will continue to hold consultations as it works towards a common agenda for the development of the country. He emphasized that social justice is crucial as it is anchored on respect and the upholding of the rights of everyone.

The meeting between President Hichilema and the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) has been welcomed by many as a positive step towards building a better and more inclusive Zambia. It is hoped that this partnership between the government and religious leaders will result in meaningful change and progress for all citizens.

Croatian nationals formally slapped with a fresh charge of attempted child trafficking

Chief Editor
-
26
Croatian nationals formally slapped with a fresh charge of attempted child trafficking

The re-arrested eight (8) Croatian nationals have been formally slapped with a fresh charge of attempted child trafficking.

And the Zambian authorities have revoked the temporary residence permits granted to the suspects last month.

On Monday, the State discontinued the earlier matter of attempted child trafficking of four children from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) charged on the four couples.

Lawyer representing the Croatians Kelvin Silwimba confirmed that his clients have been charged with attempted child trafficking, the same charges they earlier faced.

The suspects are Damir Magic, Nadia Magic, Subosic Zoran, Azra Immovic Subosic, Ladislav Persic, Aleksandra Persic, Noah Kraljevic and Ivona Kraljevic.

Mr. Silwimba from Zambia National Legal Aid Board said law enforcement officers have recorded warn and caution statements from the suspects.

“Yes I can confirm that officers recorded warn and caution statements from our clients and have been since been charged. Their temporary residence permits have also been taken away,” he said.

He said the eight were apprehended shortly after they purchased their air tickets to leave for their country.

Mr Silwimba said his clients are in custody at Kansenshi Correctional Facility in Ndola.

Department of Immigration Public Relations officer Namati Nshinka earlier confirmed the department received instructions from the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) to have the 8 Croatians re-arrested.

“The Department of Immigration has re-arrested the Eight (8) Croatian nationals Damir Magic, Nadia Magic, Subosic Zoran, Azra Immovic Subosic, Ladislav Persic, Aleksandra Persic, Noah Kraljevic, and Ivona Kraljevic, after the case in which they were alleged to have attempted to traffic Four (4) Congolese children aged between one and three years was on 6th February 2023 discontinued by way of Nolle Prosecqui. The Croatians were on 7th February 2023 re-arrested by Immigration Officers and detained pending prosecution on reconstituted charges but still related to attempted child trafficking. They are likely to re-appear in Court on 9th February 2023,” Mr. Nshinka said.

The eight were arrested at the Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe Airport Ndola on 7th December, 2022 on suspicion that they were attempting to traffic four children aged between one and three years old.

Zambian authorities on Monday ordered the eight discharged Croatians to leave the country within 48 hours.

When discontinuing the case, State advocate Mahape Libakeni, who made the application on Monday morning, stated that the matter was discontinued pursuant to section 88(a) of the Criminal Procedure Code chapter 87 of the laws of Zambia.

In response, lawyers from the Legal Aid Board representing the eight Croatian nationals did not object to the application from the state.

Ndola Chief Resident Magistrate Dominic Makalicha in delivering his ruling on the application granted the application with an emphasis that a discharge was not an acquittal.

In this case, it was alleged that on December 7, last year, Damir Magic, an electrical technician and Nadic Magic, a chemical teacher,jointly and while acting together, attempted to traffic a child namely Beatrice Magic.

It was further heard that this was within the territorial boundaries of Zambia for the purpose of exploitation.

In count two, another couple namely, Subosic Zoran, a musician and Immovic Subosic, a Constitutional Court administrator, on the same date attempted to traffic a child namely Mariella Kalinde Immovic Subosic within the territorial boundaries of Zambia for the purpose of
exploitation.

Further, Ladislav Persic, a veterinary doctor and Aleksandra Persic, a dog beauty stylist on December 7, this year allegedly attempted to traffic a child namely Jona Asnate within the territorial boundaries of Zambia for the purpose of exploitation.

It was also alleged that Noah Kraljevic, a human rights activist and Ivona Kraljevic, a proxy woman at that country’s national theater, were also alleged to have attempted to traffic a child namely Jean Val Kraljevic within the territorial boundaries of Zambia for the purpose of exploitation.

The Croatian nationals were on 23rd January, 2023 released on bail pending trial.

On 12th January, 2023, Magistrate Makalicha granted bail to eight (8) Croatian nationals charged with the offence of attempted trafficking in four children of Congolese origin on the Zambian territory.

Earlier on 23rd January, 2023 continued trial failed to take off as Magistrate Makalicha was not available.

Monday, 23rd January 2023, was supposed to be the second day of trial and more witnesses were scheduled to testify before Magistrate Makalicha.

Trial in the old case started on January 12 in the Ndola Magistrate’s Court with three witnesses testifying during a three-hour long court session.

On 10th January, 2023, the eight suspects pleaded not guilty to the offence of attempted trafficking in four children of Congolese origin on the Zambian territory.

The Immigration Department on 7th December, 2022 in collaboration with police in Ndola stopped an alleged illegal adoption involving four Congolese children who were destined for Croatia.

Catholic Bishops has opposed the Comprehensive Sexuality Education materials in the current form

Chief Editor
-
12
Catholic Bishops has opposed the Comprehensive Sexuality Education materials in the current form

The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) has opposed the Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) materials in the current form.

ZCCB says Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) materials in their current form cannot be taught in Catholic Schools in the country.

Recently, pictures emerged on social media allegedly extracted from the yet to be introduced school text books on Comprehensive Sexuality Education.

The pictures showed families of same-sex marriage.

ZCCB National Education Secretary Fr. Leonard Namuhuma says the Catholic church holds on the biblical understanding of family as designed by God and its definition of a family ‘as those of the same household’, and as the pairing of a man and a woman, along with their children.

He explained the other five well-known types of families as nuclear, single-parent families, extended families, childless families, stepfamilies and grandparent families.

Fr. Namuhumba said the text books need to be revised so that there is the right material for the right age.

Fr. Namuhumba added that the books that have been published do not stress the role and place of cultural and Christian values on family, marriage, sex and sexuality.

“Sex and sexuality education need to be contextualized in such a way that only the right material is given to the appropriate age group unlike a situation where pupils are being exposed to unnecessary information,” he said

Fr. Namuhumba further explained that the Catholic church’s teaching on family structure, gender and family life is not by human design, a reason it cannot be changed.

Fr. Namuhumba revealed that ZCCB submitted a number of suggestions to the Ministry of Education which included careful consideration of teaching of children in matters of sexuality in social, cultural, religious and political contexts as the issue has been a challenge.

He said while the curriculum is well intended, and has always been taught in carrier subjects, the framework and all the learners’ books must be re-packaged and made age appropriate, and introduced diligently and gradually.

“Care must be taken not to sexualize the children which may lead to moral degradation of the learners and allow room for perverts to take advantage of the created ‘fertile’ mind to abuse them. All efforts must be made to protect the cultural, traditional and religious fibre of our society,” Fr. Namuhumba said.

The Ministry of Education (MoE), through its Curriculum Development Centre (CDC) with the support from UNESCO and the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA) has produced a curriculum in life skills that focuses on the Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE).

The curriculum framework was developed to enrich the provision of Reproductive Health and Sexuality Education (RHSE).

In its introductory comments of the framework, the MoE explains that this curriculum framework was prompted by data from research indicating high alarming numbers of school dropouts due to pregnancies.

The Catholic Church teaches that a family naturally springs from marriage of man and woman. And this marriage is “ordered to the procreation and education of children.”

“God is love and in himself he lives a mystery of personal loving communion. Creating the human race in his own image .God inscribed in the humanity of man and woman the vocation, and thus the capacity and responsibility, of love and communion.God created man in his own image – male and female he created them;116 He blessed them and said. Be fruitful and multiply.When God created man, he made him in the likeness of God. Male and female he created them, and he blessed them and named them Man when they were created.Sexuality affects all aspects of the human person in the unity of his body and soul. It especially concerns affectivity, the capacity to love and to procreate, and in a more general way the aptitude for forming bonds of communion with others.Everyone, man and woman, should acknowledge and accept his sexual identity. Physical, moral, and spiritual difference and complementarity are oriented toward the goods of marriage and the flourishing of family life. The harmony of the couple and of society depends in part on the way in which the complementarity, needs, and mutual support between the sexes are lived out.In creating men ‘male and female,’ God gives man and woman an equal personal dignity.Man is a person, man and woman equally so, since both were created in the image and likeness of the personal God.Each of the two sexes is an image of the power and tenderness of God, with equal dignity though in a different way. The union of man and woman in marriage is a way of imitating in the flesh the Creator’s generosity and fecundity:Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and cleaves to his wife, and they become one flesh. All human generations proceed from this union,” states the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

EL Mukuka announces debut album entitled ‘ZEBRA’

Entertainment Editor
-
0
EL Mukuka announces debut album entitled ‘ZEBRA’

EL mukuka

EL Mukuka took to social media to announce his upcoming debut album.
“Big news my friends!!!After years in the making, I’m excited to announce that I have a debut album in the pipeline, entitled ‘ZEBRA’!
The colors black and white not only represent my racial mix but my entire genetic & cultural makeup too. African culture meeting European culture is literally the definition of El Mukuka and that mix serves as a fountain of inspiration for me. Since my teenage days as an upcoming producer and all the way through my twenties both as a music student at the @berkleecollege and then as a young professional musician, fusion dance music has been my mission.
‘ZEBRA’ is an album that serves as a manifesto for the El Mukuka sound but is also a culmination of my musical transformations throughout my twenties, experimenting with techniques that blend Western music with African music. In a rather juxtaposed way, this album is simultaneously closing an old chapter while opening a new one.
Since my first professional release back in 2013 entitled “Heart” under my full name Eleftherios Mukuka, I have had people (mostly industry people) criticize my take on dance music. They criticized my slightly main-stream side, my passion for sweet and uplifting melodies & harmonies, my non-purist approach to Afro-House music, and my super picky taste in whom I collaborate with (especially on vocals). To those people, this album might serve as a form of defiance.
‘ZEBRA’ is unapologetically me and all of me, at this point in my life.
For those of you who took the time to read this far down my post lol, I hope this album if anything, will serve as a voice of encouragement to stay true to yourself and to stay connected to your roots.
The next single off the album drops in 3 weeks and features one of my fave Zambian artists – I’ll let you guess who! “

 

African Debt Crisis: Western Banks, Asset Managers and Oil Traders Blamed by Fred M’membe

Chief Editor
-
11
African Debt Crisis: Western Banks, Asset Managers and Oil Traders Blamed by Fred M’membe

Socialist Party President Dr Fred M’membe spoke out on the African debt crisis in an interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN). He criticized the claims that China is responsible for the debt crisis in Africa and pointed out that Western financial institutions, such as the World Bank, IMF, and commercial creditors, hold a large portion of Africa’s external debt.

According to Dr M’membe, Western private lenders hold 35% of Africa’s external debt compared to just 12% owed to Chinese lenders. He also mentioned the role of Western institutions in African countries such as Zambia, where multilateral financial institutions and Western commercial lenders hold a majority of the country’s external debt.

Dr M’membe highlighted that the causes of the African debt crisis are multi-faceted and include the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical conflicts, and a decline in global economic growth, among others. He also pointed out that the rate hikes by the US Federal Reserve and the strengthening of the US dollar have added to the debt service burden of African countries.

In contrast, Dr M’membe spoke highly of China’s support for the African countries, pointing out that China has been a strong supporter of the Group of 20 Debt Service Suspension Initiative and has signed agreements with 19 African countries for debt relief. He dismissed claims that China is a predatory lender and that its financial assistance to Africa is aimed at practicing a new form of colonialism in Africa. He stated that China has helped in the construction of important socio-economic and cultural projects in Africa, such as roads, bridges, hospitals, and schools, creating job opportunities for millions of Africans.

Dr M’membe emphasized that there is a great trust and credibility in the China-Africa cooperation and that China is considered a reliable partner by many independent-minded Africans. He concluded by saying that accusations against China are just a red herring to absolve the West of any responsibility and that an honest analysis would reveal China’s positive contribution to Africa.

The IG’S Three Stars: The President should Order the Inspector General of Police to Remove them

Chief Editor
-
14
The IG’S Three Stars: The President should Order the Inspector General of Police to Remove them

By Fred M’membe, President of the Socialist Party

Over the past week, I have read many opinions or arguments concerning the three stars of a Lieutenant General’s put on the Inspector General of Police’s official motor vehicle. I have no intention or desire to prolong this debate. If anything, I would like it to come to a close.

But before I do this, I want to make it very clear that there is no profession that is not important. A soldier or military officer is no more important than a policeman (woman) or officer. But their roles are different – they are different professions with different traditions, customs and values.

Let’s leave military traditions, customs and values to the Army, Zambia Air Force and Zambia National Service – military institutions. And let the Police be Police – a civilian institution with its own traditions, customs and values.
My plea is to the President of the Republic of Zambia, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of all our armed forces, to order the Inspector General of Police to remove those three stars and revert to the usual police tradition of ZP1.

Allowing the three stars is to condone anarchy with no end or limits. This is not a contest between the Police (civilian) and the Army, Air Force and ZNS (military). It’s just a matter of doing things the right way. And let’s do them the right way, even if it calls for our greatest efforts.

I also urge the Commander-in-Chief to elevate the Army Commander from the rank of Lt Gen to General. It will smoothen the command structure of our armed forces. And in future, we should consider making the ZNS Commandant a Maj Gen, and not Lt Gen. The ZAF Commander can remain a Lt Gen.

Military life is highly based on traditions, customs and values. Some of these are customs and courtesies. But, what are customs and courtesies? Customs are established practices, and courtesies could be defined as good manners and politeness. Every civilised army should have a regulation – “Salutes, Honours and Courtesy” that “provides general policies and procedures for the rendition of salutes, honours, ceremonies, customs, and visits of courtesy”. For example, the mandatory hand salute between officers and enlisted personnel of the armed forces.

What were the origins of the hand salute? Actually, we don’t know. There are some theories for this action. Some say that Roman Empire soldiers used to slap their chest and raise their right hand as a symbol of respect and to show that they were unarmed. Another theory points to the Middle Ages, when knights raised the cover of their helmets to identify themselves as friendly. In the 1600s, the British started to salute with their hats, raising them to show respect to officials. Although these are some theories, there is no exact date for the birth of the hand salute.

However, armed forces adopted the salute as a necessary requirement for soldiers. Although, some of the ranks, ceremonies and personnel do not demand a hand salute, a soldier must always display good manners. These are some of the customs and traditions armed forces all over the world have adopted:

(i) Never offer excuses.
(ii) Never go over your superiors, use your chain of command.
(iii) Never turn and walk away to avoid giving the hand salute, among others.

Customs and courtesies are key for a cohesive relationship in the armed forces. Furthermore, all of these beliefs have a set of values that cement the course of action that a soldier takes in the course of his daily life. The hand salute is more than a simple “greeting”, it is a symbol of respect, honour and integrity.

When a soldier salutes a high-ranking officer, he or she is not saluting the individual but showing respect to the rank. On the other hand, the Army has a set of ranks and positions that do not require a hand salute, but proper manners and courtesies are highly recommended. For example, the non-commissioned officer (NCO) does not require a hand salute, but proper courtesies are always expected.

Without a doubt, our armed forces have a very strict mission and vision for the new soldier. They need to have professionals in all their departments and above all, soldiers with values. When soldiers salute or greet their comrades, they are living up to the general military core values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honour, integrity and personal courage. Values define who you are as a military person, they go hand in hand with the customs and courtesies of the military.

Without a doubt, leadership is very important to the implementation of customs and courtesies in the military. Being a leader is a dynamic process. More than words, it is to take action. Leaders have to set an example and be proactive with their soldiers so they can be educated and moulded to their customs and courtesies. The military has a set of values that are not negotiable and cannot be broken. These are the foundations to continue their customs and courtesies.
Therefore, leadership should be the foundation and example to apply all the customs and courtesies of our military. We have to build them up, not crash them down.

What should our leaders – political, military and otherwise – do as leaders to apply these customs and courtesies as a good culture in our military? Our leaders must have patience, trust and respect with our military personnel. This goes all the way from the top to the bottom, so we can get in line.

Let’s not act based on emotions, but as effective stewards of the profession. Military customs and courtesies are the foundation of our military. There’s a general decline in adherence to military traditions and customs, and this comes out clearly at military parades, state funerals and other military ceremonies.

I urge our military leaders, both officers and NCOs, to pay greater attention to this decay or erosion, and reverse it.

President Hichilema Emphasizes Partnership between Government and Civil Society Organizations in National Development

Chief Editor
-
5
President Hichilema Emphasizes Partnership between Government and Civil Society Organizations in National Development

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has emphasized the importance of partnership between the government and civil society organizations (CSOs) in the development of the country. During a consultative meeting held with CSOs from various sectors, President Hichilema stated that, “Perceptions that the government and the CSOs are in competition should not be there as the two are important partners in national development.”

The meeting covered a wide range of issues affecting the nation, including the country’s debt, governance, human rights, the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, the fight against corruption, public finance management, and others. President Hichilema acknowledged the significance of regular engagement with CSOs and emphasized the government’s position that, “We are not in competition with them but partners in the development of our country, and co-workers in unifying our communities.”

During the meeting, President Hichilema appreciated the views and opinions of the CSOs and praised their diversity, which he considers a source of information and expertise for the government. He said, “I appreciate the views and opinions of the CSOs and applaud their unique diversity which brings in a wealth of information and expertise to the government’s attention.”

In order to address the issues raised during the meeting, President Hichilema proposed for regular consultative processes through smaller thematic working groups. He stated, “We need to create the necessary framework to achieve our objectives in resolving the issues that were raised today, and I believe regular consultative processes through smaller thematic working groups will help us achieve that.”

In conclusion, President Hichilema emphasized the importance of a continued partnership between the government and CSOs in the development of the country. He said, “The government and CSOs are not competitors but partners in the development of our country, and I hope that this meeting has provided a platform for constructive dialogue and sets the stage for a continued partnership in the future.”

This meeting between the President and CSOs has highlighted the significance of a continued partnership between the two in the development of Zambia. It is hoped that regular consultative processes will provide a framework for addressing the issues affecting the nation and for achieving their objectives in the future.

Cost of Living in Lusaka Higher than Projected, Says Lusambo

Chief Editor
-
12
Cost of Living in Lusaka Higher than Projected, Says Lusambo

Former Lusaka and Copperbelt Provinces Minister, Hon. Bowman Chilosha Lusambo, has stated that the cost of living in Lusaka could be higher than what was projected by the Joint Christian Council of Zambia (JCTR).

During a recent appearance on Millennium Radio’s “The Interview Program,” Hon. Lusambo claimed that the current tabulation of the cost of living for a family of five in Lusaka stands at over K9,000, but he believes the actual cost of living is beyond K13,000.

He attributes this increase in cost of living to the escalation of prices for goods and services and the resulting hunger in the country. Hon. Lusambo has challenged the New Dawn Administration to reduce fuel prices, which are having a significant impact on commodities.

Despite the challenges, Lusambo believes that Zambia has a lot of money in the form of natural resources and should tap into them instead of rushing to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He also stressed the need to diversify from the dependence on the mining sector to agriculture.

“We have a lot of minerals in this country. Everything about Zambia is natural. The difference between Zambia and countries like Dubai is commitment. The people of Dubai are committed to making their country better, but the people of Zambia have neglected this country. I would need the people of Zambia who would support the country,” he said.

Hon. Lusambo has since called for home-based solutions and for the people of Zambia to support their country to improve their standard of living.

President Hichilema Commutes Death Sentences for 390 Inmates to Life Imprisonment

Chief Editor
-
20
President Hichilema Commutes Death Sentences for 390 Inmates to Life Imprisonment

President Hakainde Hichilema has taken a step towards upholding human rights by commuting the death sentences of 390 inmates to life imprisonment. The decision, which was announced by the Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister, Jack Mwiimbu, is in line with the UPND administration’s commitment to preserving life and upholding human rights.

Pursuant to article 97 of the Constitution of Zambia, the President has the power to grant pardons and substitute severe punishments imposed on convicted persons. The move to commute the death sentences of 390 inmates, all of whom are housed in the Mukobeko Male and Female Maximum Security Prisons, comes just a month after the President signed into law the penal code amendment bill, which abolished the imposition of the death penalty.

Minister Mwiimbu highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing the criminal justice system by working closely with all stakeholders, including the judiciary. He also expressed hope that the judiciary will explore alternative sentencing mechanisms for minor cases, in an effort to address the congestion in the country’s correctional facilities.

Zambia has a long history of using the death penalty, with 406 people being sentenced to death between 1964 and 1978, and another 140 remaining on death row by the 1980s. With this latest move, Zambia becomes the fifth sub-Saharan African nation to abolish the death penalty in the past decade.

President Hichilema’s act of mercy and commitment to human rights is a positive step towards a fairer and more just society.

Chipoka Calls for Easy and Affordable Credit Financing from EU for Youth Development

Chief Editor
-
1
Chipoka Calls for Easy and Affordable Credit Financing from EU for Youth Development

The Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry of Zambia, Hon. Chipoka Mulenga, called for the European Union (EU) to provide easy and affordable credit financing to Zambian youths. The Minister made the appeal during the Africa Investment Forum and Awards held in Paris under the theme “Political perspective towards a Europe-Africa partnership”. The forum brought together over 700 business executives and investors eager to explore investment opportunities in Africa.

Mulenga stated that lack of access to easy financing has kept the youthful population of Zambia out of employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. He added that if the youths are provided with the resources and finances, they will engage in meaningful activities that will help resolve the problem of unemployment levels in the country. The Minister highlighted that working with partners like the EU will help in laying a strong foundation for Zambia’s energetic youths to develop socio-economic solutions on the continent.

Mulenga also expressed concern over the lack of access to European markets by African countries despite the various signed trade facilitation agreements. He seized the opportunity to woo French investment in Zambia, saying that the country has prioritized good governance, zero tolerance to corruption, protection of the private sector, and economic stability.

Zambia’s Ambassador to France, Dr. Christine Kaseba Sata, spoke on the sidelines of the forum and called for deeper and strengthened Africa-EU partnerships on a mutual and beneficial basis. Dr. Kaseba said that Zambia is endowed with natural resources and urged the EU to empower its citizens so that they can get value for their resources.

In conclusion, Minister Mulenga’s appeal for easy and affordable credit financing from the EU highlights the need for a more inclusive approach to sustainable economic growth in Zambia. The Minister’s call aligns with the objectives of the Africa Investment Forum and Awards, which is aimed at bringing the world’s markets together and promoting investment in African countries.

President Hichilema Urges Quick Delivery of Drugs to Health Facilities in Zambia

Chief Editor
-
10
President Hichilema Urges Quick Delivery of Drugs to Health Facilities in Zambia

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has urged relevant authorities to expedite the delivery of drugs to health facilities throughout the country. During a meeting with officials from the Ministry of Health, Zambia Public Procurement Authority, Zambia Medicine Regulatory Authority, and Zambia Medicine and Medical Supplies Agency, President Hichilema stressed the importance of timely drug distribution in preventing and curing diseases.

The President emphasized the need to address corruption, pilfering, and any deliberate distortions in the medical supply chain, warning that anyone found responsible should face legal consequences. He also directed Provincial Health Officers to address any flaws in the distribution of medicines, noting that the diversion of drugs meant for public health facilities to private hospitals and clinics is unacceptable.

Tracking the distribution of medicines from Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency, President Hichilema believes, is one way of preventing pilfering of drugs from public health institutions. The President’s directive comes as a response to the growing concerns over the lack of availability of drugs and medical supplies in health facilities. The move aims to ensure that Zambian citizens have access to the essential medicines and medical supplies they need to maintain their health and well-being.

Minister Hon. Nkandu appoints the PR Girls as part of the local organizing committee for the Confederation of African Athletics to be held in Lusaka, Zambia

Entertainment Editor
-
9
Minister Hon. Nkandu appoints the PR Girls as part of the local organizing committee for the Confederation of African Athletics to be held in Lusaka, Zambia

pr girl

Earlier today, Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Hon. Elvis Nkandu officially unveiled a 19-member Local Organising Committee that will spearhead the hosting of the forthcoming Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) and U20 championships scheduled to be hosted in Lusaka, Zambia this year between the 19th and 23rd of April 2023. This will be the first time that Zambia will host the U-20 continental athletics championship which will attract over 50 African countries.

Managing Partners of PR Girl Media, the sister-duo Monde and Chishimba Nyambe are among the influential personalities named as members of the Local Organising Committee. Other prominent figures to receive the appointment include Ms Ireen Muyenga as Managing Director of Savenda Insurance, Le Ann Singh who is the Managing Director of Image Promotions, ZANACO Bank CEO Ms Mukwandi Chibesakunda, Stanbic Bank CEO Mr Mwindwa Siakalima and Ms Bridget Kambobe of Trade Kings Group.

Speaking at the unveiling event, Hon. Nkandu stated that “the Zambian government through the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) to host the 2023 under 18 and Under 20 African athletics championship. To successfully host this event, we have identified and consciously selected a team of men and women to sit on the Local Organising Committee for the upcoming championships”. Hon Nkandu further added that the event will bring international exposure and contribute significantly to the development of sports in the country.

More details of the highly anticipated 2023 Confederation of African Athletics can be found on the Ministry of Youth, Sport & Arts social media profiles where information will be circulated as the local organizing committee continues to plan the prestigious sporting event.

Pr girl

 

Cabinet Discusses Electricity Generation, Fuel Supply, and Access to Information Bill at 2nd Meeting

Chief Editor
-
9
Cabinet Discusses Electricity Generation, Fuel Supply, and Access to Information Bill at 2nd Meeting

The Minister of Information and Media and Chief Government Spokesperson, Hon. Chushi Kasanda, announced the key decisions made by the cabinet in its second meeting held on Monday, 6th February, 2023. The meeting, presided over by the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, aimed to improve the general living standards of the people through enhanced service delivery.

One of the key topics discussed was the status of electricity generation and load management. The Cabinet emphasized the importance of reducing load management throughout the country to support economic growth. The restoration of the 150 Megawatts Generation Unit at Maamba Collieries Limited and the 10 Megawatts unit at Victoria Falls Power Station was appreciated, and efforts are underway to commission the 750 Megawatts Unit No. 5 at Kafue Gorge Lower Hydro Power Station by the end of March 2023. The Cabinet also indicated the need for the country to focus on renewable energy sources as a priority for resolving the electricity challenges.

The supply of fuel was another crucial issue addressed at the meeting. To enhance the security of supply, the Cabinet discussed the implementation of a private sector-led Bulk Petroleum Supply system.

The Cabinet also agreed on the Roadmap leading to the enactment of the Access to Information Bill by June 2023. Adequate consultations with all stakeholders will be undertaken to ensure the law is enacted to enhance access to public information and support efforts towards the rational utilization of public resources. The Bill is expected to also play a role in the current administration’s fight against corruption.

Cabinet also decided to host the Joint 19th International Association for Official Statistics (IAOS) and 3rd International Statistical Institute Regional Statistics (ISI RS) Conference from 4th to 6th April, 2023 in Livingstone. The conference is expected to be attended by over 400 international delegates, making it a landmark event for Zambia and Africa as a whole. The conference will demonstrate Zambia’s commitment to opening up to the global world and promoting tourism in the country.

The other decision was the approval of the hosting of the Vision Zero International Conference, which will be held in Livingstone from 7th to 8th September, 2023. The conference aims to raise awareness on occupational safety and health and foster coordination among member countries to promote workplace safety, health, wellbeing, and decent work. The decision reflects Zambia’s commitment to upholding fundamental principles and rights at work, as endorsed during the 110th International Labour Organisation Conference in Geneva, Switzerland in June, 2022.

Cabinet also approved the conferring of privileges and immunity to the East and Southern African Association of Accountants-General (ESAAG) Secretariat hosted in Lusaka, in accordance with the Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges Act, Chapter 20 of the Laws of Zambia. This reaffirms Zambia’s commitment to the Association and ensures a conducive environment for the ESAAG technical staff to carry out their duties as prescribed in the Host Agreement.

The cabinet approved the appointment of a seven-member Board of Trustees for the GRZ Funeral Assistance Scheme Committee to enhance good governance in the management of the Scheme on behalf of public service employees. The compulsory Funeral Assistance Scheme was launched in 2016 to provide sustainable livelihoods for families of public servants following the death of a family member. The appointment of the Board of Trustees will ensure effective operations of the Scheme.

These decisions made at the 2nd Cabinet Meeting demonstrate the commitment of the government to improve the lives of the people and support the country’s economic growth.

Hon. Chushi Kasanda, Minister of Information and Media and Chief Government Spokesperson, stated that the government is fully committed to these decisions and the implementation of these initiatives in the coming months.

Senegal U20 Beat Zambia U20

sports
-
2
Senegal U20 Beat Zambia U20

Zambia Under20 coach Chisi Mbewe says Senegal gave them a good test despite losing Tuesday’s friendly to the hosts in Dakar.

Young Chipolopolo closed their West African tour with another defeat this time going down 1-0 to Senegal.

The match came five days after losing 4-2 away to Nigeria in Abuja on the first of their two-stop friendly tour of West Africa en route to the 2023 U20 AFCON in Egypt.

Zambia, Nigeria and Senegal are all U20 AFCON bound for the tournament Egypt is hosting from February 19 to March 11.

“We are so happy with the way both teams played it was a good game, a high-intensity game from both sides,” Chisi said.

A 1st minute goal from Bamba Diallo settled the contest.

“We were just unfortunate to allow that early goal in the early seconds of the game but I am so happy with the way the players responded,” Chisi said.

“Both teams played a very highly tactical game with a lot of fighting spirit from Senegal who had a lot of ball distribution and a lot of runs.

“This is was the kind of friendly we needed before the U20 AFCON.”

Zambia leaves Dakar on Thursday and is expected in Cairo late evening before transiting to their Group C base in Alexandria.

Zambia’s Group C opponents are Gambia, Tunisia and Benin.

Chisi’s team will open their Group C campaign on February 21 against Benin.

This is Zambia’s first time back at the U20 AFCON since winning it as hosts in 2017.

President Hichilema Accused of Abusing Police Powers by Sean Tembo in Response to Treatment of Hon. Kambwili

Chief Editor
-
13
President Hichilema Accused of Abusing Police Powers by Sean Tembo in Response to Treatment of Hon. Kambwili

President of the Patriots for Economic Progress (PeP) Sean Tembo has expressed his disappointment in President Hakainde Hichilema over the recent abuse of police powers in the country.

In a post on his Facebook page, Sean Tembo expressed his disappointment in President Hakainde Hichilema, claiming that the abuse of police powers under his leadership is becoming more prevalent compared to the previous regime.

“For someone with-whom we suffered together under the hands of the previous PF regime, President Hakainde Hichilema is a huge disappointment when it comes to abuse of Police powers,” stated Tembo. “In fact, the abuse of prosecutorial powers that we saw under the PF regime is slowly beginning to pale in comparison to what we are seeing today.”

According to Tembo, there is a distinct difference between law enforcement and harassment of citizens, and the arrest of Hon. Chishimba Kambwili is far from ordinary law enforcement. “It is an act of State-sponsored terrorism against a bonafide citizen that is engineered by a President that has nothing tangible to offer to the masses of this nation other than to flex his presidential powers,” Tembo claimed.

Tembo pointed out that Kambwili was charged with unlawful assembly, which is a misdemeanor under the penal code, and has the option of paying an admission of guilty fine of K54. He expressed his frustration over the excessive force used by the police in executing the arrest, questioning why an entire contingent of armed police officers was sent to break into Kambwili’s house for a minor offense. “Such force is only necessary if the suspect is accused of committing a serious felony such as murder, aggravated robbery, treason, etcetera,” stated Tembo.

The PeP President also raised concerns over the president’s use of police powers, reminding him of the argument he made during his time in opposition that police should have sent him a call-out when he was accused of treason. “Mr. President sir, it is high time that you surround yourself with competent advisors who will not make you appear like a tinpot dictator in the eyes of the international community,” Tembo warned. “You may wish to be reminded that even this relationship that you appear to be enjoying with the Americans and other western nations may soon be compromised if you continue to abuse the authority of your office.”

In conclusion, Tembo appealed to the president to treat opposition leaders fairly whenever they are accused of breaking the law, to avoid creating an environment that could lead to future persecution. “We are not saying that opposition leaders should be above the law, no. All that we are saying is for you to treat opposition leaders fairly whenever they are accused of breaking the law, so that you too may be treated fairly when your time comes. Otherwise, the way you have been treating opposition leaders of late is total nonsense, Mr. President sir,” Tembo stated.

1...383384385...5,635Page 384 of 5,635

Company

Trending

Categories

© Lusaka Times