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BOZ cuts monetary policy rate to 13.25

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BOZ cuts monetary policy rate to 13.25

The Bank of Zambia (BOZ)’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), has reduced the monetary policy rate by 25 basis points, from 13.5 percent to 13.25 percent following a meeting held from 11 to 12 May 2026.

Bank of Zambia Governor Denny Kalyalya explained that the committee considered several factors in making this decision, including the stability of the kwacha against the U.S. dollar, the expected maize harvest for the current crop marketing season, and the uncertainties stemming from the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Dr Kalyalya made these remarks today during a press briefing, citing that these considerations led to a careful approach in adjusting the policy rate.

He highlighted the favourable prospects for the current crop season, citing expectations of a bumper maize harvest that is likely to foster food security and curb inflation pressures in the country.

Dr Kalyalya also expressed that the committee also noted the relative stability of the Kwacha against the US dollar, which he said had contributed to a more predictable inflation outlook.

He highlighted that the country’s Inflation has shown remarkable improvement, from 11.2 percent in December 2025 to 7.1 percent by March 2026, which reduced furthermore to 6.8 percent in April within the central bank’s targeted range of 6-8 percent.

ZANIS reports that the MPC projects inflation to remain within the target band, with an average of 6.8 percent for 2026 slightly below the previous forecast of 6.9 percent.

“For 2027, inflation is expected to further decline to around 6.1 percent before edging up to approximately 6.6 percent in early 2028. These projections are supported by anticipated continued exchange rate stability and lower maize prices due to the favourable harvest,”

“While the positive outlook for maize and exchange rates supports a lower inflation trajectory, the geopolitical uncertainties and climate risks necessitate a cautious approach,” he emphasised.

The Committee further reaffirmed that future monetary policy decisions will continue to be data-driven, closely monitored against inflation outcomes, forecasts, and risks.

The next MPC meeting is scheduled to take place on September 28 and 29, 2026.

Agroforestry knowledge key to climate resilience-RCJ

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Agroforestry knowledge key to climate resilience-RCJ

Restoration for Community Justice (RCJ) has identified the advancement of agroforestry “know-how” as a critical strategy for enhancing climate adaptation and ensuring long-term food security in Kanchibiya District.

RCJ Chief Executive Officer, Mathews Mulenga, says while traditional agroforestry remains a staple of current farming systems, there is an urgent need to transition toward modern practices to maintain productivity amidst a rapidly changing climate.

Mr Mulenga explained that modern agroforestry goes beyond simple tree planting, as it actively sequesters carbon, protects fragile soils, and maintains the biodiversity necessary for a healthy ecosystem.

“Modern agroforestry is the anchor for food security in our changing communities. It allows for productive agricultural systems that can withstand the global landscape of climate change through better crop protection and more resilient food systems,” Mr Mulenga said.

He emphasized that for agroforestry to be successful in Kanchibiya, it must be “farmer-friendly,” necessitating policies that address land ownership, intergenerational equity, and access to digital technology.

 He noted that translating scientific research into practical, on-farm know-how is the only way to reconcile agriculture with nature.

“We need to focus on ecosystem services such as water harvesting and soil restoration. Whether it is lowland or mountain agroforestry, the goal is to create business models that improve the quality of life for our local farmers while mitigating climate impacts,” he added.

Meanwhile, Kanchibiya District Forestry Officer, Samson Zimba, noted that the district’s diverse landscape, spanning from floodplains to mountainous regions, is ideal for intensive ecosystem management through agroforestry.

Mr Zimba observed that there was a significant opportunity to manage traditional systems more effectively, particularly in the mountainous areas of Kanchibiya, to ensure they remained productive for future generations.

“Agroforestry is a natural solution to many of the environmental challenges we face. By integrating trees into our farmlands, we are effectively cooling the landscape and creating a more stable environment for our crops and livestock to thrive,” Mr Zimba stated.

He further noted that the Forestry Department was eager to work with stakeholders to boost the technical capacity of farmers, ensuring they understood how to design agroforestry systems such as fodder hedges and soil-amending tree rows that provide immediate benefits to their yields.

RCJ and the Forestry Department are advocating for a landscape-wide adoption of these practices to safeguard Kanchibiya’s agricultural future and contribute to the national green economy agenda.

Mining sector shows continued growth-Kabuswe

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Mining sector shows continued growth-Kabuswe

Minister of Mines and Minerals Development Paul Kabuswe says Zambia’s mining sector has continued recording positive growth, with copper production from large scale mines increasing from 195,418.89 metric tonnes in the first quarter of 2025 to 198,930 metric tonnes during the corresponding period in 2026.

Speaking during a media briefing on the performance of the mining sector for the first quarter of 2026 in Lusaka today, Mr Kabuswe says the sector’s performance reflects an increased investor confidence, with ongoing mine recapitalisation programmes, expansion projects and the positive impact of government policy reforms implemented under President Hakainde Hichilema.

Mr Kabuswe disclosed that while overall copper production declined by 4.27 percent from 218,308 metric tonnes recorded during the first quarter of 2025 to 208,992 metric tonnes in the same period this year, large-scale mining operations registered positive growth.

He explained that the growth is attributed to the ongoing investments, mine expansion projects, improved operational efficiencies and government’s efforts to provide a stable and conducive environment for mining operations.

Mr Kabuswe highlighted that Lumwana Mining Company recorded a 19.2 percent increase in copper production due to improved mining fleet capacity, enhanced operational efficiencies and increased budgetary support.

He further cited that Konkola Copper Mines posted a 22.02 percent increase in output, while Mopani Copper Mines registered a 4.39 percent rise in production during the period under review.

Furthermore, Mr Kabuswe stressed that Kansanshi Mining Plc recorded a 4.25 percent decline in production due to lower ore grades processed during the quarter.

He added that Non-Ferrous China Africa also experienced a 10.51 percent reduction in production following the temporary placement of the South East Ore body under care and maintenance between July and December 2025.

Mr Kabuswe expressed that cobalt production increased by 9.15 percent, while nickel production rose significantly by 142.75 percent during the first quarter of 2026.

He also revealed that emerald production increased by 241.41 percent, while coal production rose by 36.32 percent and cement production increased by 8.31 percent.

Solwezi General Hospital renovations advances

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Solwezi General Hospital renovations advances

Phase One renovation works at Solwezi General Hospital have gained momentum, with three inpatient wards now complete and handed over.

In an exclusive interview with the media in Solwezi today, Senior Medical Superintendent, Kitanda Sondashi, says three out of the six wards earmarked for renovation have been fully completed and are already in use.

Dr Kitanda Sondashi notes that the development has greatly improved the hospital environment and enhanced service delivery.

He has since thanked the government for the ongoing renovation works at the health facility.

“These renovation works commenced in January 2024, and these are massive works. We are talking about the renovation of our six wards and the support departments that include the Intensive Care Unit, Emergency and Theater,” he said.

He said three wards including the children’s ward, Zambezi and Kabompo which he said was currently being used as a high cost ward after the actual one developed cracks.

Dr Sondashi has also provided updates on the remaining works.

“What remains to be done is the laundry department and mortuary. Progress has been made in terms of renovation works and we just want to implore the two contractors Midil Construction Limited Builders Village to speed up the works so that the entire project is completed,” he said.

Meanwhile, he said the highest referral public hospital in North-Western Province has also received state-of-the-art digital medical equipment aimed at improving diagnosis and treatment of patients.

“The Radiology department has received a state-of-the-art digital X-ray machine which is already mounted. We have also received a CT Scan machine, one of its kind for the first time that we are seeing such a piece of equipment in our province. The Ministry of Health has scored,” he added.

He said the Hospital is yet to receive the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Machine.

And Solwezi General Hospital Senior Radiographer, Carol Nonde, added that the equipment has played a critical role in improving service delivery and reducing referral cases to the University Teaching.

“People used to suffer and cover long distances to Lusaka in search of health services that we could not offer previously due to lack of modern medical equipment’s but we are now privileged to have all this equipment able to help us diagnose and treat patients within our Province and we commend government for that, “she said.

Dr Sondashi has also appealed to the government to consider expanding the hospital infrastructure in order to match the demands of the growing population in the Province.

“Our patient load has increased tremendously and so we are appealing to the government to consider expanding this hospital to enable us to contain the number of patients that are coming to our facility. We are really facing serious challenges of space at this hospital, “he said.

Mande School in Nalolo to get first ever classroom block, it’s taken 40 years

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Mande School in Nalolo to get first ever classroom block, it’s taken 40 years

After four decades of operating without a standard classroom block, Mande Primary School in Nanjucha Ward of Nalolo District, is set to receive its first-ever 1×3 classroom block, fitted with solar power, within the next two weeks.

Nalolo Town Council (NTC) Public Relations Officer, Buttyson Kandimba, disclosed that the project, valued at K511,150.49, was initially funded under the 2022 expanded Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

She said however, delays by the first contractor led to termination of the contract, which was later awarded to Nalolo Construction Company.

Mr Kandimba confirmed that the project has now reached over 96 percent completion.

Nalolo Construction Company Director, Goodwell Sengela, has expressed gratitude to the Local Authority for entrusting his firm with the responsibility.

“We are proud to be part of this historic development. For 40 years, this school has operated without a proper classroom block, and it is an honor for us to help change that story,” he said.

Speaking during a routine CDF supervision exercise led by Nalolo Council Secretary, Falantino Mweemba, Mr Sengela emphasised his company’s commitment to quality works.

“Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure that this project is completed to the highest standards. We want the children of Mande Primary to learn in a safe, modern environment that inspires them to succeed,” he added.

Mr Sengela further assured the community that the new facility will stand as a lasting investment.

“This classroom block is a foundation for the future of our children. We are confident that once handed over, it will serve generations to come,” He said.

Meanwhile, Mande Primary School Headteacher, Sililo Iluba, welcomed the development, noting that the school which has an enrollment of 366 pupils, has relied on mud-and-pole structures since its establishment in 1986 hence the new block will greatly improve the delivery of quality education to the learners.

In addition to the classroom project, the Council installed a solar-powered water reticulation system at the school in 2023 at a cost of K194,256, further enhancing learning conditions.

The supervision team later inspected ongoing works at Sikelenge Primary School in Ukolo Ward, where another 1×3 classroom block is being completed under the CDF programme for floodplain schools.

Contractor working on Cheswa-Chungulo to Chinsali road cautioned

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Contractor working on Cheswa-Chungulo to Chinsali road cautioned

Government has expressed disappointment with the slow pace of works on the 53-kilometre Cheswa-Chungulo to Chinsali gravel road in Chinsali District.

Muchinga Province Permanent Secretary, Tuesday Bwalya, says the contractor, M and N Industrial Merchants, has failed to record meaningful progress on the road project.

Dr Bwalya notes that the contractor has also failed to mobilise more machinery or subcontract some works to others to expedite the project.

The Permanent Secretary said this when he inspected part of the road in Chinsali yesterday.

He said the government and the people in the area have waited for a long time to have a good road in the area.

“We had hoped that you would call your colleagues to say, ‘Come, let us work together so that you don’t delay us or delay the people in the area. They have waited; they have complained enough, and it is now time for action. Let us all be accountable,” he said.

Dr Bwalya expressed disappointment that not much has been done when the government already has funds from the World Bank to pay the contractor once he is done.

“Money is already there from the World Bank to pay you if you do the work,” he said.

Dr Bwalya has indicated that the government is committed to supporting local contractors but that some have been disappointing when given contracts.

“We want you to grow as a company, and this government wants to give you business, but we expect you also to deliver, and that should be the message to shareholders of this company,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Road Development Agency (RDA) said the contractor has only handed over 10 kilometers of the road works.

Dr Bwalya said the contractor is now working on another 5 kilometers of the road.

He expressed disappointment with the phase at which the contractor is moving and indicated that RDA in Lusaka has since summoned the contractor for a serious management meeting.

“We expect key decisions to be made concerning the direction of the project because we are equally disappointed that the contractor has delayed looking at the time frame in which he was supposed to deliver the project,” he said.

Dr Bwalya also disclosed that the model of the project is that the contractor is expected to do two years in construction and three years for routine maintenance.

Earlier, M and N Industrial Merchant Site Engineer for the project Everisto Katongo, attributed the delays to a lack of gravel in the area.

He said the company is extracting gravel from a distant place.

Mr Katongo, who was also questioned about the lack of availability of adequate machinery, assured the team that it would be coming next week.

“The machinery is in Kitwe undergoing some service. And we expect it to be in by next week,” he said.

He also assured the government that the firm would do all the road work on the project by August and remain with critical crossing points.

Meanwhile, a motorist, Latest Mwamba, has called on the contractor to raise the road to avoid damage.

Mr Mwamba also called on the contractor to speed up the work stating that the road is a vital link.

President Hichilema mourns former Botswana President Festus Mogae

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President Hichilema mourns former Botswana President Festus Mogae

President Hakainde Hichilema has described former Botswana President Festus Mogae as a distinguished African statesman whose leadership and contribution to regional development will continue to inspire generations across the continent.

President Hichilema said Dr Mogae was not only a leader for the people of Botswana, but also a respected figure in Southern Africa and beyond due to his commitment to democracy, good governance and regional cooperation.

The President said this today when he signed the Book of Condolences at the Botswana Embassy in Lusaka following the death of Dr Mogae, who passed away on May 8, 2026, at the age of 86.

“I wish to convey my heartfelt condolences on the passing of former President Dr Festus Mogae, who was a true leader not only for the people of Botswana, but for the entire Southern African region and the African continent at large,” President Hichilema said.

President Hichilema noted that even after leaving office, Dr Mogae remained actively engaged in national and regional affairs by offering guidance and support to leaders and governments.

“Even after his retirement from office, he remained committed to national development and continued to support successive governments through wise counsel and statesmanship,” he said.

President Hichilema further said Zambia will continue to cherish Dr Mogae’s contribution to regional unity through his work in SADC, the African Union, and other international platforms.

“We shall forever cherish the good works he rendered to the people of Botswana and to the region as a whole. His legacy will continue to inspire current and future generations of leaders,” President Hichilema said.

Acting Botswana’s High Commissioner to Zambia, Oabona Dibeela thanked President Hichilema for finding time to sign the Book of Condolences and for standing in solidarity with the people of Botswana during the mourning period.

“We are deeply moved that Your Excellency has taken time out of your busy schedule to convey condolences on the passing of former President Dr. Festus Mogae. Your visit today serves as a fitting tribute to a great son of Africa and a dear friend to many,” Ms Dibeela said.

Dr Mogae served as Botswana’s President from 1998 to 2008 and was internationally recognised for championing economic reforms, democracy and the fight against HIV/AIDS.

HH Returns to Lusaka After Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi

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HH Returns to Lusaka After Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi

President Hakainde Hichilema has returned to Lusaka from Nairobi, Kenya, following the conclusion of the Africa Forward Africa–France Partnership for Innovation and Growth Summit.

President Hichilema attended the high-level summit alongside several African Heads of State and Government. The meeting focused on strengthening partnerships, promoting innovation, accelerating economic growth and redefining relations between Africa, France and the wider global community.

While in Nairobi, President Hichilema participated in summit discussions centred on economic transformation, infrastructure development, investment promotion and regional cooperation.

The President also held bilateral talks with Kenyan President William Ruto on the sidelines of the summit. According to a message shared on his official Facebook page, the discussions focused on matters of mutual interest aimed at strengthening cooperation between Zambia and Kenya.

President Hichilema said Zambia and Kenya continue to enjoy warm bilateral relations rooted in the legacy of the two countries’ founding Presidents, Dr Kenneth Kaunda and Mzee Jomo Kenyatta.

“Zambia and Kenya continue to enjoy warm bilateral relations, rooted in the legacy of our founding Presidents, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda and Mzee Jomo Kenyatta,” President Hichilema said.

He also expressed gratitude to President Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron for inviting Zambia to participate in the summit.

“We also expressed our gratitude to President Ruto and his co-host, President Emmanuel Macron, for inviting us to participate in the Summit,” he stated.

During the summit, President Hichilema called for stronger and more balanced partnerships that would enable Africa to unlock its vast economic potential and reduce dependence on foreign aid.

He said Africa must move away from reliance on aid and instead focus on partnerships that promote investment, innovation and sustainable development.

“We must shift from reliance on aid to forging balanced partnerships that help unlock our continent’s enormous potential,” President Hichilema said.

The Head of State further emphasized the need for African countries to harness locally generated wealth to finance development programmes and critical infrastructure projects.

He said the continent must develop the capacity to finance roads, logistical corridors and other strategic infrastructure using homegrown resources in order to secure long-term economic independence.

“Now more than ever, Africa must harness its own locally generated wealth to drive sustainable development across our nations. Our continent must be capable of financing itself and advancing key infrastructure using homegrown resources,” he said.

President Hichilema said Africa’s transformation would depend on the continent’s collective commitment to self-reliance and regional cooperation.

“Africa will only be developed by Africa,” he said.

The Africa Forward Summit was co-hosted by President Ruto and President Macron, and brought together leaders, development partners and international stakeholders to explore opportunities for balanced partnerships between Africa and the global community.

President Hichilema has since thanked Zambians for their continued support and prayers during his engagement at the regional meeting.

What is it with Africans and Prayer?

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What is it with Africans and Prayer?

By Prince Bill M. Kaping’a

Prayer is very paramount as it keeps us connected to our Lord and even helps us to make the right decisions when faced with difficult situations.

However, we tend to exaggerate or overdo things in Africa at times. Does anybody remember what legendary novelist, Chinua Achebe said in one of his books, Things Fall Apart, about crying more than the owners of the funeral? We want to pretend to be more Christian than the Europeans themselves who introduced the Bible to us!

Whenever a crisis of any kind rocks this nation, we want to resort to prayer! Have you ever seen Europeans or Americans get on their knees to pray whenever they’ve experienced terrorist attacks or suffered earth shattering storms? They simply interrogate the problem and seek to find solutions!

In recent days for instance, we’ve witnessed some fatal mishaps on our roads; notably the grisly one that claimed the lives of university students.

“Oh….there’s a bad spirit lingering upon this nation, we must watch and pray!” we say.

Nonsense! Complete cock and bull story.But where is the call to inspect the buses? To prosecute corrupt traffic police officers? To fix the death traps our roads? Prayer without action is empty. Nehemiah prayed, then posted guards and built the wall. Zambia needs both.

Last year, our nation experienced one of the worst droughts never seen before in many years! What did we witness, instead? Prayers and prayers and prayers as though God hasn’t called us to work and rest on the Seventh Day.

Nations that we consider as “unChristian” such as China, India and Pakistan are on the rise because of their culture of hard work! Why are we still the poorest of the poor if solutions to our endemic poverty, joblessness, disease and backwardness are domiciled in prayer? Isn’t a shame and indeed a serious indictment on us that foreigners keep dominating our commerce, trade and industry…..and now farms while we keep lazing about?

If the same energy we’ve to open up Churches in every township or every school can be directed to setting up factories and farms in every town, we wouldn’t be still stuck in the quagmire!

In our epistle, we analyze how politics has become a thriving industry in this country…..but at what cost?

Shiwang’andu council hands over 10 CDF projects

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Shiwang’andu council hands over 10 CDF projects

Shiwang’andu Town Council has handed over ten Constituency Development Fund (CDF) projects that were constructed at a cost over K7.4 million.

Speaking during the ceremony, District Commissioner, Maureen Bwembya, said the development signifies hope, progress, and improved public service delivery for local residents.

Ms Bwembya noted that CDF has brought meaningful development closer to the grassroots.

She has since thanked President Hakainde Hichilema for his visionary leadership and for increasing the CDF allocation which is spearheading community development.

Ms Bwembya stated that the enhanced funds are transforming lives across the district through upgraded infrastructure, secondary school bursaries, skills training, and empowerment grants for women and youths.

“Today, because of CDF, our children are learning in better classrooms, communities are benefiting from improved infrastructure, and our youths are gaining opportunities through empowerment and skills training,” Ms Bwembya said.

The District Commissioner challenged critics of the CDF programme to appreciate the visible impact of the initiative, adding that the handed over projects serve as clear evidence that national development is reaching all communities.

Ms Bwembya also commended local contractors for participating in infrastructure development and urged them to maintain high quality standards to ensure that infrastructure being put up benefit future generations.

Meanwhile, Shiwang’andu Constituency Development Fund Committee (CDFC) Chairperson, Mark Harvey, emphasized the need for good workmanship in all public projects.

Mr Harvey urged planners to always include critical support facilities, such as staff houses and water reticulation systems, whenever new classroom blocks are being constructed.

He praised the Government under the leadership of President Hichilema for its continuous support toward equitable development and community self-reliance through the increased fund.

The 10 commissioned projects include a 1×4 classroom block, an ablution block, and a water reticulation system at Shiwang’andu Day Secondary School, alongside another 1×4 classroom block at Mulanga Secondary School.

Other infrastructure handed over include a dormitory at Lwanya Day Secondary School, 1×3 classroom blocks at Kalikiti and Nabutende primary schools, and a staff house at Kalesha Primary School.

The government through CDF has also put up a staff house at Lwanya Health Post, a bridge along the Yosamu-Mufolo road, and a boarding facility at  Ilondola Secondary School.

Referees helped Napsa to win – Numba

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Referees helped Napsa to win – Numba

Zanaco coach Mumamba Numba has accused referees of helping Napsa Stars to beat his team 2-0 in Tuesday’s Super League match played at Woodlands Stadium in Lusaka.

Lusaka referee Francis Sichali handled the match with Emmanuel Mpomwa and Emmanuel Matongo as assistants while Kelvin Likobama was the fourth official and Abasi Phiri from Chilanga served as match commissioner of the day.

Goals from Dickson Chapa and Austine Banda propelled Napsa to the win that lifted them out of the bottom four as they seek survival.

Zanaco, who have remained with three matches in the season, are placed seventh on the table with 46 points from 31 matches.

In a post-match interview, Numba described referee Sichali and company’s officiating as poor.

Zanaco had two of their players sent off, a penalty appeal turned down before conceding a penalty themselves.

“Firstly, this is a very disappointing result on our part, but this has happened because of poor officiating from our referees. Referees helped Napsa to grab the three points,” he said.

This was Zanaco’s eleventh loss of the season.

“This is the game that we controlled in the first half but unfortunately the referee decided to give them a penalty which they didn’t deserve. The awarding of a penalty to Napsa dampened the morale of the team. Coming to the second half, we lost concentration and ended up conceding another goal. And also, we received another yellow card which spoiled our game plan,” Numba added.

Zanaco’s next match will be against Nchanga Rangers at home in Lusaka.

“We have to put this game behind us and look forward to the upcoming game against Nchanga Rangers. We need to get down to work. The game against Nchanga is very important,” he said.
Napsa coach Tenant Chilumba said his team was playing under pressure.

“It was a difficult game but I’m still not happy with the performance of the team. Of course, the boys are playing under pressure, so in the last two games we must contain pressure,” Chilumba said.

“After getting maximum points at home, we must focus on the last two games. Every game is important but today we really wanted to win,” he said.

Napsa are number fourteen (14) on the table with 32 points from 32 matches played.

Leonard Chibasa interred

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Leonard Chibasa interred

Scores of people turned out to pay their last respects to experienced football commentator and broadcaster Leonard Chibasa Mwila, who has been put to rest at Nkana East Cemetery in Kitwe.
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‎Chibasa died last Friday in Kitwe at the age of 65.
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‎The funeral programme started with Requiem Mass at Kitwe’s St. Augustine Parish in Ndeke.
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‎Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Mathews Musonda presided over the Requiem Mass.
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‎FAZ officials, members of the media, former footballers and people of good will were part of the mourners.
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‎Speaking during burial, FAZ Copperbelt Provincial Chairperson Patrick Ndhlovu described Chibasa as a library of football heritage.
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‎”Living library of football history. He gave people history live on radio,” Ndhlovu read the speech on behalf of FAZ President Keith Mweemba.
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‎Zambia Sports Fans Association Patron Peter Makembo said Chibasa used to sacrifice personal resources to entertain radio listeners.
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‎Kitwe Journalist Darius Kapembwa spoke on behalf of Chibasa’s media colleagues and friends.
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‎Power Dynamos legend Peter Kaumba, former Kitwe Mayor alderman Patrick Tembo, Kitwe Town Clerk Brian Kambita and football icon Kenneth Bubble Malitoli were among the notables at the funeral.
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‎Chibasa has left behind four children

WISE Empowerment Efforts Praised In Kaoma

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WISE Empowerment Efforts Praised In Kaoma

Kaoma District Commissioner, Kashina Sheba has commended Women’s Initiative Strengthens and Empowers (WISE) for empowering the young ones in their education.

Ms Sheba expressed gratitude to the organisation for uplifting people’s livelihoods in the district to pursue various academic programs.

She was sleeping when WISE Zambia together with WISE United States of America (USA) and a team of students paid a courtesy call on her.

Ms Sheba also thanked WISE USA for coming to the district to share knowledge with the students of Kaoma.

“What you are doing is very important and as government we appreciate that service. God will reward the organization because you are uplifting and empowering so many people”, she said

Kaoma District Education Board Secretary, Dickson Pola also thanked WISE for the infrastructure development such as the library, computer room and computers to help learners excel in their studies.

A team of students from the USA led by Professor Anita Charles of Bates college as well as Joanne Bollinger from WISE Zambia board are in Kaoma for a five days educational tour.

Prof. Charles stated that the 17 students are representing Bates college and are in the district for knowledge and cultural exchange.

They will visit Kashompa, Kashoko Longe and Nyango schools in exchange of knowledge and culture.

“I have 17 students, we’re all representing Bates college which is the university we come from. They have selected this trip to come and we’re learning cultural exchange, knowledge exchange. We hope to participate and collaboration

Parliament adjourns sine die ahead dissolution

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Parliament adjourns sine die ahead dissolution

Parliament has adjourned sine die, bringing to a close the Fifth Session of Zambia’s 13th National Assembly ahead of its official dissolution on Friday, May 15, 2026.

Acting Leader of Government Business and Monze Central Member of Parliament (MP), Jack Mwiimbu moved the motion to adjourn the House, paying tribute to Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti and her deputies, Malungo Chisangano and Moses Moyo, for what he described as their prudent and dedicated leadership during the session.

Mr Mwiimbu thanked the presiding officers for steering the House through what he termed unprecedented legislative achievements.

“On my own behalf and on behalf of my colleagues, I would like to thank you most sincerely, yourself and the two deputies, for the able manner in which you managed this House,” he said.

“As you indicated, Madam Speaker, we made unprecedented legislation, and this was made possible by your leadership,” he said.

Meanwhile, Speaker Mutti delivered an emotional farewell address in which she announced that, by law, the Fifth Session of the 13th National Assembly will officially dissolve on May 15 ahead of the August 13 general elections.

Ms Mutti praised Members of Parliament for their dedication, resilience and service to the country during what she described as a momentous period in Zambia’s constitutional history.

“It has been the highest privilege of my tenure to preside over this Assembly” she said.

“Your fidelity to the Constitution, your robust yet respectful debate, and your devotion to the people of Zambia have distinguished this Assembly.” she said.

The Speaker said the 13th National Assembly would be remembered for enacting landmark legislation that transformed governance, human rights and economic management in Zambia.

Among the key laws highlighted were the Penal code amendment act and criminal procedure code Amendment Act of 2022, which abolished the death penalty and criminal defamation of the President; the public debt management act of 2022; the Children’s code act of 2022; the Trademarks act of 2023; the Minerals Regulation Commission act of 2024; and the Health Professionals act of 2024.

Ms Mutti further described the Constitution of Zambia Amendment Act No. 13 of 2025 as a historic reform that introduced the mixed-member proportional representation electoral system and expanded parliamentary representation.

Under the reforms, the number of constituencies will increase from 156 to 226, while 40 reserved seats will be created for women, youths and persons with disabilities.

She noted that the reforms would guarantee representation for at least 20 women, 15 youths and five persons with disabilities in Parliament.

She urged the future 14th National Assembly to enact the Political Parties Bill to compel political parties to adopt at least 30 percent women representation in elective positions.

She said such reforms would help Zambia meet the Southern African Development Community (SADC) protocol threshold requiring at least 50 percent representation of women in decision-making positions.

The Speaker also commended Parliament for promoting parliamentary diplomacy through friendship groups, increased citizen participation through public hearings and enhanced transparency through live broadcasts of parliamentary proceedings.

She paid tribute to parliamentary staff, led by the Clerk of the National Assembly, for their professionalism and dedication throughout the tenure of the Assembly.

As the country heads towards the August 13 general elections, Ms Mutti appealed to politicians and citizens alike to maintain peace before, during and after the polls.

“Elections come and go, but the nation remains,” she said.

She further expressed hope that many MPs seeking re-election would return to Parliament to preserve institutional memory and guide incoming legislators.

“To those who have opted not to stand, I wish you all the best in all your future endeavours,” she said.

In an emotional conclusion to the sitting, Members of Parliament from both the ruling party and opposition reportedly mobbed and hugged the Speaker as they bid farewell at the close of the 13th National Assembly.

Public Holidays Amendment Bill withdrawn from Parliament

Guest Editor
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Public Holidays Amendment Bill withdrawn from Parliament

The Public Holidays National Assembly Amendment Bill Number 76 of 2026 has been withdrawn from Parliament.

Acting Leader of Government Business in the National Assembly Jack Mwiimbu announced the withdrawal of the Bill during its second reading in the House today.

“Madam Speaker, the Public Holidays National Assembly Amendment Bill Number 76 of 2026 be withdrawn in line with Parliamentary Standing Orders,” Mr Mwiimbu said.

The proposed Bill had sought to amend provisions relating to the observance of public holidays that fall on weekends.

However, some Members of Parliament (MPs) opposed the proposal, arguing that workers deserved adequate time for rest, recreation, and commemoration.

Contributing to the debate, Chilubi MP Mulenga Fube questioned the rationale behind the proposed changes, saying the amendment appeared to remove the long-standing practice where holidays falling on a Sunday are observed on the following Monday.

Mr Fube said Section Two of the Principal Act already provides clear guidance that whenever a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday should be observed as a public holiday.

“The worker is supposed to rest, commemorate, celebrate, and venture into recreation to me, I am settled with that,” he said

He argued that the world was increasingly embracing stress management and work-life balance, adding that employees needed adequate time away from work.

Mr Fube also dismissed concerns that the observance of substitute holidays negatively affected productivity, noting that Zambia’s largely informal economy continued operating even during public holidays.

“The issues of production cannot come in because we have seen that Zambia is largely in the informal sector. Markets and shops continue running even on holidays,” he said.

Meanwhile, Shiwang’andu lawmaker Stephen Kampyongo, said Zambia’s declaration as a Christian nation supported the need for workers to enjoy such privileges, which were also recognised under labour and trade union rights.

Mr Kampyongo added that workers required motivation and proper rest in order to remain productive.

The withdrawal of the Bill means the existing provisions governing public holidays remain unchanged

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