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Chisi Reflects on Zambia U20 Defeat to Nigeria

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Chisi Reflects on Zambia U20 Defeat to Nigeria

Zambia U20 coach Chisi Mbewe says Friday’s junior international friendly loss to Nigeria is an eye-opener.

Junior Chipolopolo lost 4-2 away to Nigeria in Abuja on the first stop of their two-nation West African friendly tour en route to the 2023 U20 AFCON that Egypt will host from February 19 to March 11.

“It was a good game, good intensity, this is what we really wanted to have this type of international friendly,” Chisi said.

“I am happy with the effort from the boys I know we have lost but these are preparations, we just have to work on aspects of the game where we did not do well.”

Nigeria took a one-nil halftime lead through a Haliru Sarki 43rd minute goal.

Moses Mulenga equalized in the 59th minute but four minutes later but Nigeria was back in the lead through Olamilekan Adams.

Lasmond Phiri restored parity in the 66th minute.

But Nigeria hit back in the last quarter through Emmanuel Uchegbu and Samson Lawal in the 75th and 88th minutes respectively.

“These are not goals that they fought for but we just made a few mistakes that we need to work on,” Chisi said in a post0-match interview in Abuja on Friday night.

“Otherwise, it has given us a true picture of what to expect in Egypt.”

Zambia has now left Nigeria and heading to Dakar for their final friendly against Senegal on February 7.

Both Nigeria and Senegal are also 2023 U20 AFCON-bound.

Zambia is in Group C at the U20 AFCON where they will play Gambia, Tunisia and Benin in Alexandria.

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

Financial Inequality in Zambia: Limited Access to Genuine Credit for Local Businesses Despite Commercial Banks’ Huge Profit Figures

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Financial Inequality in Zambia: Limited Access to Genuine Credit for Local Businesses Despite Commercial Banks’ Huge Profit Figures

MMD President Dr Nevers Mumba recently made a statement on the limited access to genuine credit for local businesses in Zambia, despite the commercial banks posting huge profit before tax figures. In his statement, Dr Mumba congratulated ABSA and Zanaco for their impressive financial performance, particularly highlighting the leadership of women in these organizations.

“I wish to congratulate ABSA for posting a huge Profit Before Tax figure of K1.95 Billion,” said Dr Mumba. “I also wish to recognise the historic performance of our ever Big, Strong and reliable Zanaco for posting astronomical figures in Revenues. This shows that our Financial Services Sector is growing.”

Dr Mumba expressed pride in the leadership of women in these organizations, saying, “I am particularly proud of the fact that this moment of success is a toast to women in leadership as the success has been presided over by my dear young sisters Madam MIZINGA MELU and Madam Mukwandi Chibesakunda of ABSA and also ZANACO, respectively. Well done ladies, Zambia is so proud of you and your organizations.”

However, Dr Mumba raised concerns about the impact of the high profit before tax figures on the Zambian economy as a whole. “I have a question,” he said. “I would like to know what this very high profit before Tax figure for the Commercial Banks represents to the Zambian Economy as a whole.”

Dr Mumba questioned whether the banks’ focus on low-risk lending is causing local businesses to resort to borrowing from the black market, leading to defaults and higher interest rates. “At the same time, being a politician, I know that most businesses in Zambia that have been able to borrow money have been unable to meet the repayments as and when they fell due and they end up paying more interest in penalties and or losing the assets they pledged as security,” he said.

He asked, “If these banks are so profitable, then who are the businesses borrowing and defaulting to? Could it be that businesses can only manage to borrow from the black market now? Could it also mean that these Banks have now almost completely made the shift into only lending money to Projects or sectors that have near Zero Risk?”

Dr Mumba also questioned whether the success of the banking sector has come at the cost of local entrepreneurs, saying, “Has this success come at a cost to Local Zambian Entrepreneurs?”

Dr Mumba called for the creation of real support for local businesses through affordable access to finance, saying, “Is it not time we as a nation created real support to Local Business through affordable access to finance?”

He asked for data on the yearly losses of small businesses due to high-interest rates and loss of assets pledged as collateral, saying, “Does anyone have accurate data on how much Small businesses in Zambia are losing every year in form of punitive interest to Shylocks popularly known as Kaloba Lenders, as well as loss of Assets pledged as Collateral to these lenders over very small amounts of money purely because the Bank’s refused to fund their Projects on more humane terms or because their business turn around time was longer than the unreasonable period that they get to pay off this ‘KALOBA’?”

Dr Mumba also asked what the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of SMEs, and Bank of Zambia are doing to improve access to credit for local SMEs. He raised the question of whether banks should adjust their credit policies and requirements or if local businesses need to improve, saying, “What is the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of SMEs, and Bank of Zambia doing to improve access to CREDIT for Local SMEs.

Irate Senga Hill residents beat up local businessman who attacked a Truck driver

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Irate Senga Hill residents beat up local businessman who attacked a Truck driver

Senga residents yesterday ran amok and damaged two grocery shops belonging to a local businessman only identified as Kabwaiche.

The irate residents also looted goods worth thousands of kwachas.

An eye witness who spoke on condition of anonymity said in an interview that people were incensed by the action of the business man who beat up the truck driver and his passenger who had packed at a lay-by near his shops to have lunch.

The source alleged that the businessman deflated the front tyres, and broke the car radio of the truck belonging to a named company before confiscating a document bag.

She said the behaviour exhibited by the businessman and his wife to beat up the duo and damage the truck angered the residents who resorted to looting all the goods from the two shops.

And Patrick Phiri, the truck driver, explained that he met his fate on his way from Mpulungu when he made a stopover at Senga market to have lunch in one of the restaurants.

Mr Phiri disclosed that whilst eating, he was confronted by the businessman and his wife, who ordered him to move the truck, saying it was obstructing their clients.

He said the couple dragged him from the restaurant and started beating him.

Mr Phiri narrated that he managed to flee the scene and reported the matter to the market committee, who advised him to report to the police.

And Senga Hill District Commissioner, Jestus Sikazwe condemned the act and has since appealed to people not to take the law in their hands.

Mr Sikazwe warned that the law would not take kindly to anyone found wanting.

He advised people to follow the right channel when aggrieved instead of taking the law into their hands.

The District Commissioner later held a meeting with traders, village headman, church representatives and community members at Senga market.

Efforts to get a comment from the police and the business owner filed by press time.

Calm has since returned in the area.

Zambia’s Ballooning Domestic Debt Sparks Concern: M’membe Calls for Real Checks and Balances to Avoid Economic Crash”

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Zambia’s Ballooning Domestic Debt Sparks Concern: M’membe Calls for Real Checks and Balances to Avoid Economic Crash”

Zambia’s Socialist Party President, Dr. Fred M’membe, has raised serious concerns over the ballooning domestic debt in the country. He says that the government has been borrowing money by selling government treasury securities to finance its operations while operating under a deficit, with little attention being paid to this growing problem.

“There is a serious maturity risk here because the government is managing the risk it by forcing local institutional investors to roll over their government treasury bills and bond holdings in order to avoid a balloon payout, which they may be unable to meet, causing a default on the domestic market,” warns M’membe.

He questions the government’s plans on the relentless issuance of government securities and asks, “What are the government plans on the relentless issuance of government securities to finance its operations, and when are we going to slow down on raising money by the issuance of government securities? This is what we are currently using to fund our budget deficit, but for how long and is this going to be sustainable?”

M’membe also highlights the need to know the debt ceiling on treasury bills and government bonds, asking, “Where are we at now?” He calls for journalists to ask the Bank of Zambia at the MPC briefing on February 14 where the country’s reserves currently sit and to know the details of any borrowing from China and other multilateral institutions.

“Let’s offer real checks and balances to avoid the country from crashing,” adds M’membe.

The Bank of Zambia’s recent decision to increase the statutory reserve ratio held by commercial banks has further added to the financial woes of Zambians. The Bank has instructed commercial banks to reduce money circulation by increasing the statutory reserve ratio to 11.5% from the current 9%.

M’membe states, “The decision by the Bank of Zambia to increase the bank reserve ratio means more money problems for Zambians. The move has effectively squeezed money out of circulation, forcing commercial banks to only deal or lend money to pristine clients like mines or big business.”

He further adds, “The ordinary already poor Zambian shall suffer even more as money is squeezed out of the market and suppliers are not paid, it’s going to be tough for many poor Zambians. What Zambians need is more money and not less money – more, and not less, money in circulation.”

M’membe believes that there is pressure on the Bank of Zambia to keep the exchange rate low, as promised by Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, but warns that “This will mean more money because increasing the (reserve requirement) ratios reduces the volume of deposits that can be supported by a given level of reserves and, in the absence of other actions, reduces the money stock and raises the cost of credit.”

He explains that while reserve requirements are one of the monetary policy tools used by the Bank of Zambia, “an over-employment of changes in reserve requirements to enact monetary policy can be very detrimental. Open market operations are a much more precise tool.”

M’membe concludes, “The impact of changes in reserve requirements is difficult to estimate. Each change has the potential to affect depository institutions in different ways, depending on each institution’s deposit base. Changes in reserve requirements may also lead to changes in pricing schedules for some bank services, because some bank fees and credits are set based on reserve requirements.”

Mundubile criticizes Republican Vice President Mutale Nalumango’s proposal for Zambians to eat roller meals

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Mundubile criticizes Republican Vice President Mutale Nalumango’s proposal for Zambians to eat roller meals

The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Brian Mundubile, has criticized Republican Vice President Mutale Nalumango’s proposal for Zambians to eat roller meals if they cannot afford breakfast. On a recent appearance on Radio Phoenix, Nalumango insisted that roller meal was the best option, citing that other opposition leaders eat it.

Mundubile, who is also the PF Presidential Candidate, took exception to Nalumango’s proposal, calling it “teasing” and lacking practical solutions to reducing the cost of mealie meals, which is a staple food in Zambia. He stated that the PF had practical solutions to the problem, such as organizing milling plants in order to reduce the cost of mealie meals.

“If I may take you back, during the PF government, they promised to reduce the cost of mealie meal and they went ahead and acquired 2000 solar-powered milling plants and a number of industrial milling plants constructed in provinces such as Southern and Muchinga,” Mundubile said. He added that the cost of Green Eagles mealie meal was lower in the Southern Province due to the industrial milling plant built by the PF administration and run by the Zambia National Service (ZNS) in Monze.

Mundubile also pointed out that the government recently commissioned another plant in Mongu District in Western Province, and that it was expected that the price of mealie meal in that area would be low. He questioned why the UPND, which is the current ruling party, promised to reduce the cost of mealie meal without presenting a plan for practical solutions.

“The questions that beg is that in the case of the UPND, when they were promising cheaper mealie meal, what exactly did they have in mind? It is therefore, unfortunate that her honor the Vice President is making proposals that are seemingly meant to tease the Zambian people,” he said.

Nalumango, however, countered Mundubile’s criticisms, stating that she did not look down on the people when she suggested eating roller meal. Nalumango stated that eating roller meal should be encouraged because it is cheaper and has a lot of nutritional value. She also explained that roller meal is what she and her family eat, and that she has a duty to promote healthy diets.

“The roller meal issue has been blown out of proportion because I made the statement when mealie meal was an issue in the country,” Nalumango said during the “Let the People Talk” discussion program on Radio Phoenix. She added that millers should not inflate the price of maize, saying that if they did so, the government would have no option but to intervene.

Nalumango acknowledged that the cost of mealie meals is high but that the government is working on measures to stabilize its price. She also said that the government is not responsible for setting the price of fuel, but that it is doing all it can to reduce it.

“For us, it is important to have drugs and free education. Most nations that have developed have invested in education for skills training,” Nalumango said. She added that the fuel monthly review does not increase the price of fuel, but only shows what is happening on the international market and helps the government to see what is happening.

Mr Mundubile called on the government to take the issue of the high cost of mealie meals seriously and find lasting solutions to ensure that prices are reduced. Nalumango, on the other hand, stated that the government is working on reducing the cost of fuel and making education and drugs accessible to all, which are also important factors in life

Five escape death in road accident

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Five escape death in road accident

Five people narrowly escaped death when the vehicle they were in flipped and plunged into a stream along Mwinilunga -Solwezi road.

The incident occurred on 02 February 2023 at around 12:30 hours in Makangu area about 65 kilometres east of Mwinilunga Central Business District.

North Western Province Police Commanding Officer, Dennis Moola confirmed the incident in a statement availed to to the media

Mr Moola explained that the incident occurred when the driver of a saula truck registration number BAG 6075 Anshel Katumba 31, of Chingola mining area, while driving from the north to south direction lost control of his motor vehicle and plunged into Ngoma stream due to excessive speed.

“He lost control of the motor vehicle, hit into the culverts and flipped into a stream” said the Commanding Officer.

He said in the process four people sustained injuries among them Arnold Mphundu aged 39 of Chililabombwe who sustained broken right wrist, suspected fractured legs and deep cut on the head, Womba Kapusa aged 40 of Ikeleng’i area who sustained deep cut on the forehead and
complained of painful ribs.

Mr Moola named others injured as Chishala Jones aged 33 of Chingola who sustained a bruised face and right elbow and the driver, Jeff Kaheu 31, of Kabundi area in Chingola, complained of painful back bone and bruised left hand while the driver Anshel Katumba sustained deep cut on the left hand and complained of painful both ribs.

He said the motor vehicle is extensively damaged adding that the driver is to blame and will be charged with the offence of dangerous driving once he is discharged from the hospital.

“The motor vehicle is extensively damaged, and the driver is to blame, he will be charged with dangerous driving” he said.

Mr Moola said all the casualties have been admitted at Mwinilunga district hospital where they are receiving treatment.

Speaker of Zambian National Assembly appreciates India’s lines of credit for key sectors

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Speaker of Zambian National Assembly appreciates India’s lines of credit for key sectors

Speaker of the Zambian National Assembly Nelly Mutti has expressed her appreciation for India’s four lines of credit, which are being utilized in key sectors such as transportation, hydro-power, and health. The Speaker, speaking during a visit to India with a parliamentary delegation, noted the strong development partnership between the two countries.

During her visit, Speaker Mutti met with Republican President Droupadi Murmu and India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, as well as India’s Vice President Jagdeep Dhanker. President Murmu welcomed the Zambian delegation and spoke about the strong and cordial relations between India and Zambia. He highlighted that the leaders of the Zambian freedom struggle drew inspiration from the Indian freedom struggle, especially that of Mahatma Gandhi. The President also noted that bilateral trade has been growing steadily and India is one of the leading investors in Zambia.

In her meetings with Indian leaders, Speaker Mutti discussed economic and development cooperation and called for the strengthening of existing ties, which she attributed to President Hakainde Hichilema’s international relations and economic diplomacy. The Speaker and her delegation also held talks with India’s Vice President Jagdeep Dhanker, who emphasized the warm relations and historic cultural ties shared between the two nations.

Speaker Mutti expressed confidence that the visit would make the bonds between Zambia and India even stronger. The delegation consisted of Deputy Government Parliamentary Whip and Keembe MP Princess Kasune, Mitete lawmaker Misheck Mutelo, and other parliamentary staff.

Part III: Russia-Ukraine Conflict- Africa Must Not Miss The Opportunity

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Part III: Russia-Ukraine Conflict- Africa Must Not Miss The Opportunity

(Continued from yesterday)

The majority view in Africa is that the Russian-Ukrainian conflict is a clash of two giants that have been shaping the world order since 1945.

In spite of the plain history on invasion of other sovereign countries by the West and their support for Israelis who have been slaughtering Palestinians, the West and its media are using the Ukrainian conflict to sustain a narrative that Russian President Vladimir Putin is an iniquitous, revanchist who will stop at nothing but attack and kill innocent and unified Ukraine.

Of course, we all must condemn the death of innocent children and people in Ukraine. Africa and its leaders must do so without bias and hypocrisy. At the very same time, Africa must remind NATO leaders that Africa will not pay a blind eye, in the manner Western and European governments have done, to the senseless killings by the Israeli government of thousands of innocent Palestinian children, journalists, pregnant mothers, the old and sick, in the Middle East. The world simply sits to watch because Big Brother is funding military operations by Israel.

LEVERAGING THE UKRAINE CONFLICT

According to one report by one UN agency, the Russia-Ukraine crisis poses a real threat to food security in Africa as a result of pressing issues surrounding affordability and accessibility of supplies and fuel. The conflict has also exposed how vulnerable our countries have been, in spite of all the aid and so called “capital investment” made to Africa.

Africa has vast arable land, wealthier in natural resources and probably more water bodies and best weather in the world to support growth in all fields of agriculture, energy, and mining. One then is prompted to ask, whether the billions of dollars from the Western and European into capital investment have any effect in creating self-sustaining Africa. Has capital investment into Zambia and the rest of Africa been directed towards the right priorities which can sustain and insulate us from external shocks?

Zambia and other African countries can emerge from this European winner by taking bold decisions that promote increased internal trade on the continent than always look to the West or East. When our countries look to the West or East, we should negotiate business investment that builds our internal capacity to deliver finished products. Most of the capital injection into Zambia, for instance, has been to facilitate the making of huge profits by foreign businesses and not necessarily built capacities that survive without foreign investors.

Zambia’s non-aligned policy was designed to ensure the country does not get entangled in the battles between Western and Eastern giants. Amidst the challenges that have arisen and revolve around shortages of fertilisers and fuel, government must make a decision, boldly and unafraid, to look to Russia with whom we have had trade in fertilisers but also lobby for fuel supply to satisfy our markets.

Our political and trade relations with Russia date back to the Soviet-era when, four days after Zambia gained independence on 24 October 1964, the Soviet Union and Zambia exchanged notes and established diplomatic relations. The two countries signed the Lusaka Agreement on economic and trade relations on 17 December 1971.

The Zambia-Russia trade and investment is currently not impressive compared to that of the United States and United Kingdom. Imports from Zambia are mainly of tobacco, and Russian exports to Zambia comprise agricultural, machinery, motorcycles, and food.

According to the UN COMTRADE database on international trade, Zambia’s imports from Russia in 2021 stood at US$18.9 million, with fertiliser alone accounting for $7.13 million while Zambia’s exports to Russia amounted to US$2.89 million, largely comprising tobacco and its substitutes.

The war in Ukraine plus the IMF conditionalities have turbocharged the sharp surge in prices of fuel and fertiliser which Russia produces in large quantities. The effects can be seen in the increases and monthly reviews of fuel and electricity prices as the country sheds off subsidies.

The conflict now reveals the extent of the continent’s dependence on Western, European and Russian aid to enable it to function. However, this conflict must give leverage to Zambia to negotiate better deals from these parties and use capital to invest in manufacturing.

Zambian political leaders must not shy away from increasing trade with Russia, Western and European government if they genuinely want their countries to develop. Aid is not a solution for Zambia and the rest of Africa but fair trade. We must emphasise establishment of joint business ventures between or among private entities that promote transfer of skills, investment in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and education. Zambia must develop industries which can survive and thrive, whether in conflict periods or after foreign investors leave.

In particular, Russia must change its approach to Africa by emphasising on trade that emphasises on building human capital. Industrialists in Russia should take advantage of the prevailing conducive economic conditions in Zambia to strike joint-venture deals with their Zambian counterparts rather than concentrate on provision of supplies.

Russia and Zambia should move from the traditional set up which focuses on government-to-government engagement to investing in the people and institutions in Zambia. Russian President Vladimir Putin must consider widening his engagement in Africa to promoting reciprocal training programmes among today’s young African entrepreneurs, who are tomorrow’s future business leaders in Africa and decision makers. Sufficiently equipped young entrepreneurs are future guarantee on best choices Africa must take to competing on the global market – in the Champions League.

[For any comments and contributions, send email to [email protected]]

UPND must must abandon the International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal

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UPND must must abandon the International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal

Opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) President Kasonde Mwenda has said the New Dawn Government must abandon the International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal because it will destroy Zambia beyond redemption.

Mr. Mwenda said the IMF will never have an interest in developing any nation.

He charged that it will be the ordinary Zambians who will suffer as a result of harsh IMF conditions.

Mr. Mwenda said President Hakainde Hichilema and his group will not suffer because they are already benefiting in billions through taxpayers allowances and kickbacks.

“IMF want their borrowed money back and last week the IMF chief rushed to Zambia because they were concerned why Zambia was slow in implementation of harsh austerity economic measures as were instructed and warned our leader to implement ALL IMF conditionalities (SAPs) with immediate effect regardless of how they will hurt the poor Zambians provided the country raises the money to pay back the $1.3 billion debt. The IMF also demands that it be prioritized for repayment above old debt and China whom we owe $6.6 billion is very displeased. China wants to talk directly to Zambia but HH is afraid of the Americans who unfortunately owe the Chinese like us,” Mr. Mwenda said.

“The IMF must go before life becomes too unbearable. Mr. Hakainde Hichilema and his group will not suffer, they are already benefiting in billions through taxpayers allowances and kickback’s, it is the ordinary Zambian who will perish if we just sit and watch our country being grabbed from us by the West. The solution is to have visionary Fresh Generation Leadership which is selfless and firm.IMF has and will never have interest in developing any nation, it is NOT their objective. Their professional objective is to make sure all countries keep participating in international trade so the developed Western world continues benefiting from cheap natural resources and having a market for their products. They do this by providing liquidity to keep governments running by helping them balance payments. Yet we have leadership that is either just naive or just deliberately lies to people that they got a “bailout package from IMF. That backward thinking,” he said.

Mr. Mwenda said Zambians must wake up and claim their country back from foreigners.

“IMF and World Bank are technically US projects to serve western interests. This even President Hakainde Hichilema knows but he is now their puppet. He is now too weakened and afraid to tell them to stop dictating hurtful policies such as increase of electricity tariffs, liberalization of our economy, devaluation of our already weakened kwacha, removal of subsidies on farming inputs, deregulation of the economy, selling of public estates and the loss of sovereignty. This is how powerful nations conquer and take over weaker nations in this modern era. So as we speak we are a conquered nation. Of course the visionless PF started the mess and now the hopeless UPND is worsening it. Zambians must wake up and claim their country back otherwise the end will be bad,” he said.

Mr. Mwenda said only Zambians can properly develop their nation.

“We have all the potential to develop ourselves because we have the resources the world needs. With our Cobalt, Lithium, Copper we can develop Zambia with the AV batteries technology value chain even more than Dubai which used their oil advantage. But the West won’t allow that and they will use their puppet Presidents in Africa to stop Africa from developing so that we continue being dependent on them. Mental slavery indeed, that’s why we open mines but avoid establishing value adding plants. We can change that narrative in this generation if we unite and work together for our country and continent of Africa. Wherever we want to go our feet will take us there,” he concluded.

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva last week dispelled fears among Zambians that the institution’s bailout package for the country will come with harsh conditions that will negatively affect the citizens.

Speaking on ZNBC TV’s Sunday Interview, Ms. Georgieva said the IMF was aware of fears among some Zambians that its bailout package for the country will come with harsh conditions.

She said the IMF over the years has transformed into a better global institution that means well for nations seeking bailout packages like Zambia.

“I was meeting university students who asked the same questions about harsh conditions. I told them this is not the IMF of your grandmothers. Look at me and other people in the institution who include Africans. We promote good governance,” she told ZNBC’s Sunday Interview.

Load shedding hours reduced to 4 hours per day

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Load shedding hours reduced to 4 hours per day

Government has reduced load shedding hours downwards from 8 hours to 4 hours.

Minister of Energy, Peter Kapala says this development comes after an improvement in water inflows into major hydro power reservoirs such as Kariba, Kafue and Itezhi-tezhi.

Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka today, Mr Kapala indicated that the water inflows has resulted in increased power generation at Kariba North Bank Power Station, Kafue Gorge Power Station, Kafue Gorge Lower Power station, Itezhi-Tezhi Power Station and Victoria falls Power Station.

Mr Kapala explained that with this improvement, total electricity generation has now increased by 305 Megawatts, bringing the total national generation to 2,215 Megawatts.

He pointed out that this increased generation is against the current power demand of 2,380 Megawatts resulting in a reduced power deficit from 470 Megawatts to 165 Megawatts.

‘’Given the above development, the load-shedding duration has since been reviewed and revised downwards from 8 hours to 4 hours. In this regard, customers will now be load-shed once in a day for 4 hours only.

With this adjustment, customers will have power for a total of 20 hours in a day as opposed to the previous 16 hours of power supply,’’ said Mr Kapala.

He also assured that the government is doing everything possible to normalize the situation and some of the planned interventions include importation of 100 to 200 MW of power from Mozambique which will further reduce the Power deficit.

And Mr Kapala said that the government has made significant strides in the conversion of the TAZAMA Pipeline citing the disengagement from financing and procuring of petroleum products.

He stated that the pipeline conversion process began on 24th January 2023, and so far, 15 percent of the pipeline has already been cleaned.

Mr Kapala added that the conversion will result in a reduction in the cost of transportation of Low Sulphur Gasoil of up to 60 per cent and also reduce tear and wear on roads.

He added that the transformation of INDENI has also removed inefficiencies from the petroleum products supply chain, resulting in a streamlined cost line for petroleum pump prices

Mr Kapala further assured the nation that the government will continue working on measures to stabilize and reduce the cost of petroleum products on the Zambian market.

He pointed out that some of the measures include bilateral negotiations with Zimbabwe for use of the Zimbabwean oil pipeline to cut down on transportation costs of petrol, thereby contributing to a reduction in the cost of petrol.

‘’We are close to completing the Lusaka Bulk Fuel Depot, which is currently standing at 99.5 percent completion. This infrastructure will provide critical storage for strategic petroleum reserves.

The government will introduce a private sector-led bulk procurement system to ensure security of supply and predictability in the market,’’ assured Mr Kapala.

Mighty Striker Biyeta Believes Shinde Stadium Will Be Celebrating Promotion This Season

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Mighty Striker Biyeta Believes Shinde Stadium Will Be Celebrating Promotion This Season

Mighty Mufulira Wanderers striker Clive Biyeta has promised supporters that the legendary club will win promotion back to the Super Division this season.

Wanderers are second in the National Division 1 with 41 points, a point behind leaders Trident, after 21 matches played.

Biyeta said Mighty are determined to make supporters happy this season.

“Let the supporters continue giving us support. We will give them what they want and that is going into the Super Division,” Biyeta said.

Mighty were relegated from the top flight league in 2020.

Biyeta is the leading scorer in Division One with 12 goals so far in the season.

“I pray to my God who is above that I emerge top scorer,” he said.

Meanwhile, Wanderers have traveled to Lusaka to face Young Buffaloes at Independence Stadium on Saturday.

FAZ NATIONAL DIVISION ONE WEEK 22 FIXTURES

05/02/2023

Kafue Celtic Vs Trident

Young Buffaloes Vs Mufulira Wanderers

City of Lusaka Vs Kafue Eagles

Lusaka Dynamos Vs ZESCO Malaiti

Mutondo Stars Vs Livingstone Pirates

05/02/2023

Kitwe United Vs Indeni

BARTS Vs Mpulungu Harbour

Jumulo Vs Aguila Stars

POSTPONED

Konkola Blades vs Atletico

VP Nalumango Addresses Lack of Fuel Subsidies, Advises Zambians on Eating Habits and Agricultural Input

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VP Nalumango Addresses Lack of Fuel Subsidies, Advises Zambians on Eating Habits and Agricultural Input

Vice President Mutale Nalumango has stated that the government does not have the funds to subsidize fuel. During an appearance on the “Let People Talk” program on Phoenix FM, the Vice President highlighted that the available resources have been allocated towards providing free education, quality health services and other sectors. However, she stated that the government is in the process of clearing the Indeni Oil Pipeline to reduce the cost of fuel transportation, which is expected to result in lower fuel prices.

Mrs Nalumango also stressed the importance of managing the available maize stocks to avoid food shortages. She pointed out that while the country is food secure and has adequate maize stocks, the recent weather patterns have necessitated the need to ensure that available stocks are not depleted. Mrs. Nalumango stated that even the recent exports of maize were controlled.

During the program, the Vice President also spoke about the importance of eating roller meal, which is cheaper and more nutritious than breakfast maize meal, according to her office’s studies. She advised farmers to use cow dung instead of expensive fertilizers, which will save them money. Mrs. Nalumango also challenged fellow politicians, including Hon. Harry Kalaba and Chishimba Kambwili, to deny whether they eat roller meal.

Critics have responded to Mrs Nalumango’s statements by pointing out that the Vice President is missing the point as Zambians are complaining about the rising cost of food in the absence of money and poverty, not the nutrition value of roller meal. Nalumango also accused oil marketing companies of hoarding fuel to profit from the monthly ERB increases in fuel prices, a similar accusation she made against millers.

The Vice President stated that the country is not responsible for fuel price hikes as Zambia does not produce its own oil. She expects fuel prices to eventually come down with the help of the TAZAMA oil pipeline and a deal with Angola. Nalumango recognized that President Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND promised a good life and reduced cost of living, but warned Zambians that these promises were based on little information and that the UPND has discovered that the PF did more damage than previously thought.

Mrs Nalumango advised Zambians to remember that the UPND and President Hichilema have five years to be judged and that the delays in fulfilling promises are due to limited information. The full interview can be found at the link provided.

Terrible Decision By HH to Allow Mining in Lower Zambezi

Chief Editor
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Terrible Decision By HH to Allow Mining in Lower Zambezi

Lower Zambezi mining decision: Zambia’s poor investor compliance history keeps repeating itself

By Grandy Ntumbo

The Zambian economy has yet again been fraught with yet another mining investor controversy following the Zambian Government’s recent decision to grant a mining licence and Zambia Environmental Management Agency’s (ZEMA) to grant a go-ahead for the Lower Zambezi National Park open-pit mining project to proceed.

Essentially, this project is known as the Kangaluwi Copper Project owned by Mwembeshi Resources Limited. In the recent past two weeks, I came across a Worldwide Fund for nature (WWF) Zambia Facebook post entitled “Halt mining in Lower Zambezi.” I quickly recalled that only less than six months ago WWF Zambia country director Nachilala Nkombo had assured me that one of the new dawn government ministers had assured her that the lower Zambezi mining project would not proceed. I therefore immediately called her to find out what WWF Zambia advocacy post on the organisation’s Facebook page was all about and what had changed since our conversation a few months.

Indeed, in the last two years, I have found myself increasingly passionate about Zambia’s tourism-led economic growth. I also subscribe to Zambia’s agenda to foster climate smart industrialisation and economic growth. From my very early childhood, I have always supported wildlife and nature conservation in Zambia and in the last two years I have found myself supporting the WWF Zambia through various ways including advocacy to support Zambia’s agenda to foster a tourism-led economic growth.

Following my conservation with Ms Nkombo, I had to immediately get in touch with researchers and legal minds connected to the ongoing litigation between stakeholders and Mwembeshi Resources Limited regarding the Lower Zambezi mining project. In the next two weeks, this platform will endeavour to delve into what has transpired from the time ZEMA gave a go-ahead for Mwembeshi Resources Limited to commence mining operations in the Lower Zambezi National Park.

From 8 March 2022, I published two articles in the Times of Zambia entitled “How Lower Zambezi mining project decision affects Zambia’s long term sustainability” and “Effects of Lower Zambezi mining decision on Zambia’s tourism, national economic strategic management”. For this discourse I would like to recap an overview of the above articles to provide readers, particularly this publication’s new readers and followers a background of one of Zambia’s mining and investor controversies in decades.

Remarkably, I have personally examined correspondences, documents, and so forth between all concerned parties, pertaining to the Kangaluwi mining project. From these correspondences, it is apparent that Mwembeshi Resources Limited has not complied with ZEMA conditions of carrying out mining activities in the Lower Zambezi National Park. For now, let’s leave this for the ‘main meal’ next week so that we delve into the background as earlier alluded to.

1st February 2022, I stumbled into a petition by the large coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs), traditional leaders, artists, safari operators and other stakeholders to Republican President Hakainde Hichilema to honour his campaign promise to protect the Lower Zambezi National Park, and halt a controversial open-pit copper mine. This furore follows the Zambian Supreme Court’s decision to dismiss an appeal by civil society organisations against the proposed large scale open-pit mining project that has been raging for a number of years now.

Following on media reports dating 31st January 2022, they reveal that the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment indicated that the controversial project will proceed under strict adherence to measures set by the Zambia Environmental Management Agency.

Environment minister Collins Nzovu said the measures were aimed at limiting damage to the environment to a minimum. Earlier on, then presidential spokesperson Anthony Bwalya was reported as having said that government would guide on the future of the open-pit mining project in Lower Zambezi National Park at an appropriate time.

“All due processes of the law and any other additional due diligence requirements will and shall be respected and carried out before the new administration can guide on the future of the said project,” Mr Bwalya said.

What was the genesis of the Kangaluwi copper project in the Lower Zambezi National Park by Mwembeshi Resources Limited? What is the bone of contention by CSOs, are they just making noise? Are they justifiable? Let’s carefully look at the ministerial statement on the status of Kangaluwi Copper Project in Lower Zambezi National Park by then minister of Mines and Minerals Development Richard Musukwa on 17th October, 2019. This statement provides an in-depth insight into the quagmire, the ‘skeletons’, processes, legalities and where Mwembeshi Resources Limited faulted A to Z of it!

“Mr Speaker, I thank you for giving me this opportunity to inform this August House and the nation at large, on the status of the proposed large-scale mining project known as the Kangaluwi Copper Project in the Lower Zambezi National Park by Mwembeshi Resources Limited following the ruling of the High Court of Zambia, delivered on 17th October, 2019. Sir, I will begin by giving a background to the licence before proceeding to give the position of the Government on the project.

Mr Speaker, the Kangaluwi Copper Project started during the reign of the Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD) Government with a grant of a large-scale prospecting licence on 18th December, 2003 to Mwembeshi Resources Limited, a subsidiary of an Austrian Stock Exchange Listed Company called the Zambezi Resources Limited, which is now called, Trek Metals Limited.

Sir, the licence was granted under the Mines and Minerals Act of 1995. The company commenced prospecting after the approval of the environmental project brief report by the then Environmental Council of Zambia (ECZ), now the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA).

Mr Speaker, Mwembeshi Resources Limited applied for a large-scale mining licence following the completion of the prospecting works and was granted a large-scale mining licence on 16th March, 2011 by the then Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Hon. Maxwell Mwale for a period of twenty-five years, in accordance with the provisions of the Mines and Minerals Act Development No. 7 of 2008. However, the project could not proceed with the mine development because the environmental and social impact assessment had not been approved by ZEMA.

The issuance of the mining licence was done without the prior clearance from ZEMA, but was conditioned on Mwembeshi Resources Limited obtaining authorisation from ZEMA prior to commencement of the mining operations.

Sir, on 14th March, 2012, Mwembeshi Resources Limited submitted an environmental and social impact assessment report for the proposed Kangaluwi Copper Project to ZEMA, which was rejected. Mr Speaker, on 19th September, 2012, Mwembeshi Resources Limited appealed against the decision of ZEMA to the then hon. Minister of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection, Hon. Harry Kalaba, in accordance with the provision of the Environment Management Act No. 12 of 2011. On 17th January, 2014, and in exercise of the powers vested in the ministry under the Environmental Management Act No. 12, the hon. Minister revised the decision of ZEMA and approved the project.

Mr Speaker, the House may wish to know that according to the Environmental Management Act as read together with the Environmental Protection and Pollution Control (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations, Statutory Instrument No. 28 of 1997, and as contained in Condition 3.4 of the decision letter of 4th February, 2014, Mwembeshi Resources Limited was required to commence implementation of the project within three years from the date of approval. Failure to commence a project in the required timeframe rendered the authorisation granted to Mwembeshi Resources Limited invalid and therefore, Mwembeshi Resources Limited is required to resubmit the environmental and social impact assessment report to ZEMA for consideration.

The decision letter for Mwembeshi Resources Limited expired on 4th February, 2017. The decision letter for Mwembeshi Resources Limited expired on 4th February, 2017.

Sir, notwithstanding the High Court ruling, mining activities will not proceed because in accordance with the Environmental Management Act, Mwembeshi Resources Limited was required to commence the implementation of the project within three years from the date of approval. The company’s failure to commence the project within the required timeframe rendered the authorisation invalid. Therefore, Mwembeshi Resources Limited is now required to resubmit the environmental and social impact assessment report for consideration by the Minister of Tourism and Arts.

Mr Speaker, it is through these processes that the project in the Lower Zambezi National Park will be assessed to determine whether to proceed or not. Therefore, Mwembeshi Resources Limited is required to obtain approval from the Honourable Ministers responsible for national parks and wildlife and the environment. Further, the company should obtain consent from the source right holders, where necessary, as enshrined in the Mines and Minerals Act.”

The author is managing consultant at G. N Grant Business Consultant, a Chartered Certified Accountant (ACCA), a Master of Business Administration (MBA) holder with specialism in Strategic Planning, and a candidate for the Herriot Watt University (Scotland) Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). Send feedback to: [email protected], Mobile +260-977-403113, +260-955-403113.

Patriotic Front (PF) Expresses Confidence in Bouncing Back to Power in 2026

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Patriotic Front (PF) Expresses Confidence in Bouncing Back to Power in 2026

The Patriotic Front (PF) National Chairperson for Information and Publicity, Raphael Nakacinda, has expressed confidence in the possibility of the PF bouncing back into power in 2026. In an interview on YAR Radio in Kitwe, Hon. Nakacinda criticized the lack of economic recovery direction under the current UPND government and accused it of having sold itself to foreign interests.

Nakacinda stated that President Hakainde Hichilema has no originality of ideas on governance and is being told by foreigners on what to do. He added that the bad governance and the economy is affecting everyone, and that the opposition is mandated to provide checks and balances and to be the voice of the people.

Nakacinda explained that the PF’s plan for the next five to ten years is to focus on infrastructure development, in preparation for industrialization. He emphasized that the PF’s programs will not be a set of lies, but realistic policies and promises that the party has delivered before, and they are only looking to improve.

The interview was accompanied by former National Development Planning Minister, Alexander Chiteme. Nakacinda’s remarks come amid growing concern over the state of the economy and the high cost of living and doing business in Zambia.

The Patriotic Front (PF) seems determined to win back the trust of the Zambian people and to provide a better future for the country. The party’s focus on infrastructure development and its commitment to delivering realistic policies and promises could be key to its success in the upcoming elections.

Milupi directs RDA to engage the Zambia Army to carry out emergency works on the Ndola-Sakania Road

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Milupi directs RDA to engage the Zambia Army to carry out emergency works on the Ndola-Sakania Road

Minister of Infrastructure and Urban Development Charles Milupi has directed the Road Development Agency (RDA) to engage the Zambia Army to carry out emergency works on the Ndola Sakania Road where hundreds of trucks are stuck due to the deplorable state in which the road is.

And Mr Milupi has assured Copperbelt residents that construction of critical roads in the province will commence within this year.

Mr Milupi has disclosed that headways have been made towards the signing of the concession agreement to facilitate the commencement of the construction of the Lusaka-Ndola dual carriage way.

He said when he toured the Ndola-Mufulira road to check on the part that has deteriorated between Ndola and Sakania Sakania that government has received various bids on the road and it is in the process of analysing them where;

The Minister directed RDA to engage the Zambia Army to carry out emergency works to enable smooth flow of traffic before the project commenced.

Mr Milupi said a concrete road will be ideal on this part of the road which he added will be extended to a section on the Ndola-Lusaka road from Jacaranda Mall to Indeni area.

“Government will utilise all the assets available and Zambia Army is one such asset, they have the knowledge and the ability to do this road. RDA and the Ministry of infrastructure have to release funds to enable Zambia Army do the works to make this road passable,” he said.

In the company of his counterpart from Transport and Logistics,Frank Tayali, RDA board of directors chairperson, Mulchand Kuntawala, RDA acting chief executive officer, Grace Mutembo and officials from the agency, Mr Milupi is on the Copperbelt to check on the state of key economic roads.

And during his call on Copperbelt Province Minister, Elisha Matambo, Mr Milupi said the Public Private Partnership- PPP council has approved the negotiations between government and the private party.

He announced that in the next 10 days, administrative procedures will be concluded leading to the signing of the concession agreement.

Later, the Minister and his entourage called on chief Nkambo who is also chairperson of the Lamba-Lima Royal Council of Chiefs where the traditional leader appreciated commended government for the positives scored so far.

Chief Nkambo was thankful to appreciated government for the ‘huge strides’ it has made in various sectors of the economy within the short period of time it has been in power.

The traditional leader assured the Minister’s that traditional leaders in the province will to continue support government and it’s policies.

“We really appreciate the efforts by the new dawn government. We appreciate the CDF, free education and we have the confidence that if government can do this in the short period of time then the future is bright.

As the traditional leadership in the province we are with government and we are going to support you. We are going to stick together and we are going to be part of the solution,” he said.

Some of the roads inspected were Misundu, Presidents Avenue and the section of the Lusaka-Ndola road near Ndeke junction and the Ndola Sakania road.

Meanwhile, Mr Tayali said President Hakainde Hichilema has directed that there should be no part of the country that must be deprived of development.

Mr Tayali who is also Ndola Central Member of Parliament said government will not segregate adding that it is in the rural areas where food is produced and roads in such areas must equally be given attention.

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