Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Jack Mwiimbu has urged staff in his Ministry to be professional and to ensure law and order as the country heads towards elections.

He has noted that the Ministry is the anchor of law and order, warning that any compromised conduct by staff has the potential to destabilise the peace prevailing in the country.

Mr Mwiimbu has stressed that peace and stability are key in ensuring that elections are free and fair.

The Minister said this during a farewell event hosted for him at the Ministry headquarters, in Lusaka.

Mr Mwimbu further commended the Ministry staff for their commitment and dedication to maintaining peace and stability in the country, ultimately creating an enabling environment for development to thrive.

He added that because of this the country has scored numerous developmental achievements such as increased investment and tourist visits, among others.

“You have made Zambia proud. You have heard the accolades that have been showered on Zambia, pertaining to economic development which is unprecedented”, he pointed out.

Speaking at the same event, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dickson Matembo thanked the Minister for his leadership in strengthening the Ministry’s mandate.

“You have successfully steered critical policy formulation processes, ensuring that our legal and policy frameworks remain relevant and responsive”, he said.

And in a vote of thanks, Director for Human Resource in the Ministry, Nicolyn Nyoni pledged, on behalf of the Ministry staff, to ensure the forthcoming elections are free and fair.

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has assured aspiring candidates in the forthcoming general elections of a conducive and credible electoral process before, during and after the polls.

Speaking during a briefing on ECZ nomination requirements, regulations and some of the offences during nominations, Petauke Central Assistant Returning Officer (ARO) Magret Nkosi said the Commission is mandated to protect the interests of all political players and members of the public during the electoral period.

Ms Nkosi was responding to concerns raised by political party representatives over allegations that polling agents were chased from polling stations during the 2021 general elections.

“We will ensure as ECZ that everyone is protected. That is the reason why we have police officers here. Where you experience anything suspicious,” she said.

Earlier, Tonse Pamodzi Alliance aspiring councillor Sophia Lungu recalled an instance in the 2021 General elections; where polling agents of an independent candidate were not allowed to enter the polling station until it was 12:00 hours.

“During the last general elections in 2021 at Kaluba polling station the polling agents for the independent candidate were only allowed to enter after 12:00 hours even the police officers were informed. I was one of the candidates at that time,” she said.

In reaction, aspiring independent candidate for Petauke Central Constituency Simon Banda appealed to the ECZ to fervently look into the matter and deal with it with the seriousness it deserves.

“This is a serious case where you need to get interested, please we beg you. Be observant on this one because chaos will start from the polling station and you will fail to control it if you don’t take keen interest,” he said.

Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of the District Electoral Officer Kelvin Banda, Petauke Constituency Returning Officer Sibeso Muimui, explained that every election comes with its own dynamics and environment hence the Commission saw it fit to brief and refresh the candidates on various electoral processes.

“I know some of us are seasoned politicians we have been through these processes but you can agree with me that each election comes with its own dynamics, so that is why the Commission is mandated to ensure that in every election every stakeholder is briefed at each and every stage,” he said.

The Zambia Chamber of Mines has commended Mopani Copper Mines PLC and Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) for securing four out of the available 21 trophies at the just ended 14th International Mines Rescue Competition (IMRC) 2026 Zambia.

Mopani’s Mufulira Mine Rescue team won the second overall best award after Coal India Limited who were the overall winners of the IMRC 2026 Zambia, while Canada’s Glencore Kidd Mine secured third position.

The Mopani Mufulira Mine Rescue team also scooped second best positions in both the technician skills and the rope rescue skills categories while KCM was awarded third position in the first aid competition category, bringing the total number of awards won by Zambian mine rescue teams to four.

Zambia Chamber of Mines, Chief Executive Officer, Sokwani Chilembo said the awards reflect the country’s growing capacity to compete at the highest international standards in mine safety, emergency preparedness and rescue operations.

“We are very proud of the achievements of both Mopani and KCM in the 2026 IMRC Zambia. It’s a major milestone for our country and indeed our mining industry as it is the first time that an African mine rescue team has emerged second overall best in the history of the competition.

It’s also the first time that an African country has had two mine rescue teams winning awards in the prestigious competition,” Mr Chilembo said.

He added that the competition further highlighted the importance of preparedness, teamwork, discipline and rapid emergency response in safeguarding miners and mining communities.

Mr Chilembo stated that the Chamber is of the view that the achievement will inspire continued collaboration among mining companies, regulators and stakeholders in strengthening a strong safety culture across the sector.

“As we continue to grow the mining industry, safety and zero harm must remain central to all mining operations. Our teams’ performance at the IMRC 2026 is a reminder that mining success is not only about production, but also about protecting lives and maintaining the highest safety standards,” he added.

The competition brought together leading mine rescue teams and safety professionals from across the world, including participants from India, Canada, Australia, China, Poland, Colombia, Indonesia, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire and Zambia.

Zambia made history by becoming the first African country to host the IMRC since mine rescue brigades started, a 100 years ago, bringing together more than 400 foreign nationals to Zambia.

The Chamber of Mines, which is an affiliate member of the International Mines Rescue Body (IMRB), was awarded the rights to host the 2026 IMRC in September 2024 at the last IMRC held in Colombia, South America.

The IMRC 2026 Zambia was held at the Mopani Central Training Centre (MCTC) in Mufulira and FQM Kansanshi Mining in Solwezi and drew participation from 22 national mine rescue teams from across the world from 27th April to 5th May 2026.

Super Secretary General (SG) for Mines United Football Club Chizengu Lukama has hailed the renaming of Manyumbi tollgate after legendary coach and player Godfrey Ucar Chitalu.

Lukama says the honoring of the legendary football icon was long overdue, describing the move as a fitting tribute to a man whose contribution to Zambia football remains unmatched.

Lukama told the media in an interview, that the renaming of the Manyumbi toll plaza to Geoffrey Ucar Chitalu was a good move as it was intended to recognize the extraordinary role played by the legendary footballer in promoting national pride, unity, and international recognition through football.

Lukama noted that Chitalu’s achievements on the pitch elevated Zambia’s image globally and inspired generations of footballers and sports enthusiasts across the country.

“Chitalu’s legacy continues to motivate young people to pursue excellence in sports and in life. He was not only a football player but a national hero whose dedication, discipline and talent brought honour to the country,” he said.

Lukama added that Chitalu has remained one of Africa’s most celebrated football figures as he is remembered for his remarkable goal scoring record of 107 goals in one season and his immense contribution to the growth of football in Zambia.

“The decision to rename the toll plaza is a good move as it recognizes the man who dedicated his life to the sport and the nation,” he added.

The newly named Godfrey Ucar Chitalu toll plaza stands as a lasting tribute to the legendary striker’s enduring impact on Zambian football history and national identity.

10 people have died in Choma District following suspected consumption of contaminated illicit alcohol locally known as gwala and kachasu.

According to the statement issued to the media by Choma District Health Director Belita Zulu today, the deaths occurred between May 11th and 14th, 2026, in what health authorities described as a serious public health emergency.

The victims are suspected to have consumed highly concentrated and potentially contaminated alcohol products.

Health officials have warned that illicit beer may contain dangerously high alcohol content, toxic contaminants and harmful chemicals used during the brewing process.

The District Health Office stated that such substances can lead to severe illness, organ failure, blindness, coma and death.

Authorities have since urged members of the public to avoid consuming unknown alcohol products and to immediately seek medical attention for anyone showing symptoms such as confusion, vomiting, difficulty breathing, seizures, unconsciousness and acute blindness after drinking alcohol.

The Choma District Health Office has described the loss of 10 lives within four days as a strong warning on the dangers of consuming unsafe alcohol.

Police have also launched investigations into the suspected illegal brewing and distribution of the alcohol linked to the deaths.

Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry Permanent Secretary (PS) Lillian Bwalya says Zambia and Uganda must strengthen trade cooperation and create sustainable partnerships that will unlock economic growth and expand opportunities for businesses in both countries.

Speaking in Lusaka today during the Zambia-Uganda Trade and Business Forum, the PS said the two countries have established mechanisms such as the Joint Trade Committee to address trade-related challenges and improve business cooperation.

Ms Bwalya commended Zambia and Uganda for organising the Forum, describing it as an important platform for deepening cooperation in trade and investment at a time when African countries are seeking stronger regional economic integration.

“This forum comes at a pivotal moment as nations across Africa strive to strengthen economic cooperation, expand trade opportunities, and promote sustainable private sector-led growth,” she said.

Ms Bwalya noted that trade remains a key driver of economic development because it stimulates industrial growth, promotes innovation, facilitates technology transfer, and enhances competitiveness.

She highlighted several products Uganda can source from Zambia, including fertilizers, cement, sugar, textiles, and home care among other products.

The Permanent Secretary said Zambia and Uganda share similar development aspirations and possess abundant natural resources that can be leveraged for mutual benefit.

She observed that Uganda has emerged as an oil-producing nation, while Zambia remains rich in copper and agricultural resources, adding that the two countries should focus on exploiting their comparative advantages rather than competing against each other.

“The idea is not for us to compete, but the idea is for us to tap into our comparative advantage and together build and tap into external markets, so that we mutually benefit from our collaboration,” she said.

Ms Bwalya stressed the importance of private sector participation in driving inclusive economic growth and unlocking investment opportunities.

She said Zambia offers investment opportunities in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, mining, tourism, energy, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

She stressed that the Zambian government continues to implement reforms aimed at improving the business environment and attracting investment.

Ms Bwalya said Zambia has introduced structures such as the Public Private Partnership Dialogue Forum to address bottlenecks affecting business development and has also rolled out a single window system to streamline trade processes and reduce delays at border posts.

Ms Bwalya further called for stronger cooperation between governments and the private sector in removing barriers to trade, promoting value addition, and advancing regional integration.

She encouraged businesses, investors, and stakeholders attending the forum to take advantage of the platform to network, exchange ideas, and establish practical partnerships that will increase trade and investment flows between Zambia and Uganda.

The Permanent Secretary also welcomed efforts to expand air connectivity between the two countries, noting that collaboration between Uganda Airlines and Zambia Airways could contribute to the growth of the aviation sector.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting private sector development under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema.

“Our idea is to make sure that we do come out of this with tangible partnerships,” she said.

Meanwhile, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Zambia Fred Mwesigye said the Uganda-Zambia Trade and Business Forum is intended to facilitate practical business engagements through business-to-business and business-to-government meetings.

Colonel (Rtd) Mwesigye said Uganda and Zambia should work together to reduce trade barriers, improve logistics and connectivity, strengthen standardisation, and support regional value chains that enable African countries to trade more with each other.

“We’re particularly keen to encourage joint ventures, technology transfer, nurturing cross-border social partnerships, and increasing trade in locally produced goods and services,” he said.

He added that modern economic diplomacy must focus on measurable outcomes such as attracting investment, unlocking markets, supporting exporters, and creating opportunities for citizens, especially women and young people.

The Ugandan Envoy urged participants at the Forum to translate discussions into concrete partnerships, investment commitments, and long-term business relationships.

“To the private sector, Uganda is open for business,” he said.

A seven-year-old girl of Washeni Village in Chief Tungati’s Chiefdom has drowned after falling into a well while playing with her siblings.

Disclosing the matter to to the media in a statement, Northern Province Police Deputy Commanding Officer, Charles Mbita identified the deceased as Odenia Katuta.

Dr Mbita revealed that the incident occurred on May 14, 2026, around 16:00 hours, and that the matter was reported to Luwingu Police Station at 17:15 hours by the child’s grandfather, Alimagasi Mwape, aged 65.

He said preliminary investigations revealed that the juvenile was playing by jumping across the top of a covered well when the lid gave way, causing her to fall inside and drown.

He said police officers visited the scene and retrieved the body, no foul play was suspected, and the family has since been advised to proceed with burial arrangements.

Dr Mbita expressed concern over the increasing number of drowning incidents linked to uncovered or poorly secured wells.

“It is particularly unfortunate that barely a month ago, another child lost a life in similar circumstances. These are preventable tragedies that should not continue recurring in our communities,” he said.

The Deputy Commanding Officer strongly condemned negligence by individuals and property owners who leave wells uncovered or insecure, thereby exposing children to danger.

“We urge all community members to take immediate responsibility by properly covering, fencing, or securing wells and other hazardous structures within residential areas,” Dr Mbita emphasised.

He further appealed to parents and guardians to closely monitor children during playtime and educate them on the dangers of playing near wells.

Dr Mbita reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to safeguarding lives and called upon local authorities and community leaders to work together in preventing such avoidable tragedies.

Milenge District Electoral Officer Cleophasio Mbotwa has urged aspiring candidates in the district to maintain peace and unity ahead of the commencement of the campaign period for the forthcoming general elections.

Speaking during the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) briefing for aspiring candidates and election agents, Mr Mbotwa said political players should conduct their campaigns in a peaceful and respectful manner in order to promote harmony and avoid unnecessary conflict among community members.

He said elections should not divide communities but instead provide an opportunity for citizens to freely choose leaders in a peaceful environment.

“As we enter the campaign period, I would like to urge all aspiring candidates and their supporters to uphold peace, unity and tolerance throughout the electoral process,” Mr Mbotwa said.

 He further emphasized the need for political parties and independent candidates to respect one another regardless of political affiliation.

“Political competition should be based on issues and development agendas and not violence, insults or intimidation. Let us work together to preserve the peace that Milenge District is known for,” he said.

Meanwhile, Milenge District Returning Officer Bright Chota said that all aspiring candidates were expected to adhere to the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) guidelines and requirements for successful nominations during the nomination process.

Mr Chota noted that candidates should ensure that all nomination papers are correctly filled in and submitted within the stipulated time frame to avoid inconveniences.

“All aspiring candidates are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the ECZ guidelines and nomination requirements to ensure a smooth and successful nomination process,” Mr Chota said.

He observed that compliance with electoral regulations was important in safeguarding the credibility and transparency of the electoral process.

Mr Chota   further called on candidates to cooperate with electoral officials and security wings during the nomination and campaign periods to ensure orderly conduct of the elections.

Minister of Health Alex Katakwe says the digitalisation of records management systems is critical to improving efficiency, accountability and service delivery in Zambia’s health sector.

Speaking during the handover of e-Registry equipment by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to the Ministry of Health in Lusaka today, Dr Katakwe described the donation as a major milestone in Zambia’s journey towards building a fully digitalised, efficient and people-centred health system.

Dr Katakwe said the donated equipment, which includes computers, high-volume digital scanners and multifunctional printers, is expected to strengthen records management, improve document processing and enhance information accessibility within the ministry.

He stated that the government, under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, has placed digital transformation at the centre of national development and public service delivery, adding that the health sector remains one of the key beneficiaries of the country’s digital reform agenda.

“This occasion marks a long-awaited milestone in Zambia’s journey towards a fully digitalised, efficient and people-centred health system,” Dr Katakwe said.

The Minister explained that the Ministry of Health’s digital transformation agenda is anchored on the National Digital Health Strategy 2022–2026, which seeks to strengthen healthcare systems through technology and improve service delivery across the country.

He noted that the government has already made significant progress through the rollout of electronic health record systems such as Smart Care and PEPFAR Information Platforms, as well as the implementation of the Laboratory Information System and the Electronic Logistics Management Information System known as DELVIS.

“These are not small achievements.

They represent years of deliberate investment and collaborative effort by government, cooperating partners and dedicated health workers across the country,” he said.

Dr Katakwe stressed that digitalising registry operations is essential in addressing inefficiencies associated with paper-based systems, which he said have contributed to delayed processing of files, missing records and limited access to critical information.

“Data is the lifeblood of a functioning health system. Every document processed in our registry, every file retrieved for action and every decision made begins with reliable information management,” Dr Katakwe said.

He added that the newly acquired equipment will strengthen accountability, improve audit readiness and support faster retrieval of documents required for policy direction and decision-making at the highest levels of health governance.

Dr Katakwe further called on public workers to uphold professionalism, integrity and accountability in the management of records and public documents, warning against corruption and unethical conduct in public offices.

“With the equipment being handed over today, the era of missing records should become history. But technology alone is not enough. We must also change our mindset and work ethic,” he said.

Meanwhile, UNFPA Country Representative Seth Broekman said consultations conducted with various units within the Ministry of Health revealed critical weaknesses in the existing paper-based records management system, which has continued to affect document storage, retrieval and information flow.

He said the donated equipment will help convert physical records into searchable digital files and improve document indexing, storage and retrieval.

And Ministry of Health Assistant Director for Human Resources Goodson Kamanga thanked cooperating partners for supporting the ministry’s efforts to modernise records management systems and appealed for continued staff training to ensure officers effectively operate and maintain the equipment.

Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati has defined Zambia’s digital agenda as connecting remote villages, delivering power to clinics and enabling health workers to save lives via digital links.

Speaking at a farewell cocktail last night, Mr Mutati said his approach to the ministry was rooted in learning and service, not technical expertise.

Mr Mutati said his job was to inspire, to transform, to innovate and create new possibilities.

He recalled addressing the United Nations in New York as Zambia’s representative for the global south, alongside ICT Ministers and tech executives from around the world where he used the platform to explain what digital means for Africa.

“In Africa, digital means, in the very remote part of Zambia, where there was no connectivity, you now connect the people, where the nurse was operating, using the light on the cell phone, you deliver power, where the nurse was using her best endeavor to deliver a child, she was now connected digitally,” he said.

Mr Mutati highlighted what the ministry has achieved in the last five years among them is over  600 young innovators connected to resources and funding, distribution of more than 12,000 computers across the country, launch of Zambia’s first 5G network in 2022 at Mulungushi International Conference Centre among others.

Ministry of Technology and Science Permanent Secretary Brilliant Habenzu said Mr Mutati’s humility, decisiveness and ability to inspire confidence had left a legacy of professionalism and service.

“You have nurtured colleagues, empowered teams and left behind not only policies and programmes but also people who are better because of your guidance,”Mr Habenzu said.

He noted that the ministry’s work on cyber security, including the STAR 707 short code for reporting mobile fraud, had built trust in Zambia’s digital systems, enabling citizens to transact, learn, innovate and communicate without fear.

“As we bid farewell to the Honorable Minister, we do so not with sadness but with pride and gratitude, “Mr Habenzu concluded.

Meanwhile, Global System for Mobile Associations of Zambia Chairperson Abbad Reda said Mutati’s tenure has left an indelible mark on Zambia’s digital transformation journey.

Mr Reda recalled how the minister’s “three A’s” of access, affordability and availability had shaped industry efforts on network coverage and device accessibility.

He said mobile broadband coverage now reaches more than 93-94% of the Zambian population across all ten provinces.

He highlighted Mr Mutati’s role in phasing out scratch cards within his first 100 days, working with GSMA Zambia and ZICTA to move subscribers to electronic top up systems.

“This has also contributed to digital financial inclusion and made the environment safer, “he said.

Mr Reda also commended the Minister for leading coordinated responses during last year’s energy crisis, bringing mobile network operators and tower companies together to maintain quality of service.

He said the minister’s approach of collaborations over silos, progress over process, and outcomes over optics had strengthened trust between government and the private sector.

“Your willingness to engage with MNOs, to listen to the challenges to think bigger and act bolder has helped us really strengthen the trust between the public and private sectors,” Mr Reda added.

He added that Mr Mutati’s support for corporate income tax reductions had accelerated ICT investment and expanded broadband coverage, positioning Zambia as an emerging digital economy in the region.