Young people today are growing up in a world beset by crises in their localities and abroad. Africa has the youngest population in the world, with 70 percent of sub-Sahara Africa having young people aged 30 years or below.
I see this not as a curse, but as an opportunity for this generation to learn values and leadership skills, in readinessfor assuming leadership in future.

I joined leadership as a youngman, working with elders and learning from them everyday. The result was that i became Deputy High Commissioner to the United Kingdom in 1964. I was promoted to Ambassador to the Soviet Union in 1965 at the age of 21 years.

I was promoted to Permanent Secretary in the President’s Office in 1966 at the age of 22 years. I was appointed Ambassador to the United Nations in 1968 at the age of 24 years. I then became Minister of Foreign Affairs first time round in 1973 at the age of 29 years. These appointments did not come by accident.
I had to prove to my elders and mentor Kenneth David Kaunda that I was serious and capable of handling state responsibilities.

I get very disturbed when I see how casual some young people are in handling state responsibilities.Even more disappointing, is to see young people being paid and used my irresponsible politicians as tools of violence against their opponents. This is not right.

As these young people grow up, it is important to involve them in decision making. As generational change kicks in, the country will be guaranteed of continuity with change. This will only be possible if they are politically brought up the right way. These young people are better educated and should ideally have a better understanding of current issues such as climate change, new technology, development issues, social issues, population issues, the Constitution of Zambia and the laws that flow from it.

Throwing stones at opponents simply because they hold a different view point, excessive alcohol consumption, addiction to harmful substances and disorderly behaviour is wrong and unacceptable.

I appeal to young people to regard themselves as important stakeholders in the future of our country and our one world.
They are capable of coming up with innovative ideas and energy, which will help us to create and build a better society for tomorrow.

I am usually inspired, when I interact with young people pursuing collective action by bringing together diverse voices to care for their communities.

We must accept that today, we live together in a global village and it is only by interactive dialogue, understanding each other and having respect for one another, that we can create the necessary climate for a peaceful and sustainable world.

I am optimistic that our young people will rise to this challenge.

By Vernon J. Mwaanga GOEZ
The author is a former Cabinet minister

NAPSA Pays Over K4 Million to Former Society Business Park Tenants as Renovation Plans Take Shape

Lusaka, Zambia – The National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) has made significant strides in addressing longstanding commitments to former tenants of the Society Business Park. Over K4 million has been disbursed to 42 tenants, representing a substantial portion of the K6 million owed to a total of 63 beneficiaries.

Speaking to ZNBC News, NAPSA Director General Muyangwa Muyangwa confirmed that the payments form part of the authority’s broader strategy to ensure accountability and transparency in its dealings. “We are urging the remaining tenants to promptly submit their bank details so that we can finalize all outstanding disbursements,” Muyangwa said.

The payments are a crucial step in fulfilling NAPSA’s obligations, especially after delays that had raised concerns among stakeholders. This development not only underscores the authority’s commitment to its tenants but also sets the stage for future growth and transformation.

Alongside the disbursement of payments, NAPSA has unveiled plans for the long-awaited renovation of the Society Business Park. Muyangwa disclosed that the authority has finalized the terms of reference for hiring an expert to lead the project. The tendering process for the renovations is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2025.

The project will prioritize consultations with various stakeholders, including neighboring property owners, to address potential disruptions during the renovation phase. By fostering an inclusive approach, NAPSA aims to ensure that all parties affected by the redevelopment are adequately informed and their concerns addressed.

Muyangwa emphasized the importance of collaboration in the upcoming project, noting that stakeholder engagement will be a cornerstone of the renovation process. “We understand the impact that such large-scale projects can have on surrounding communities. Therefore, we are committed to finding solutions that minimize disruptions while ensuring the successful completion of the renovations,” he stated.

The planned renovation of the Society Business Park is part of NAPSA’s broader vision to modernize its infrastructure portfolio and enhance the value of its investments. Once completed, the project is expected to revitalize the facility, making it a vibrant hub for business and community activities.

This initiative reflects NAPSA’s dedication to maintaining high standards in service delivery and infrastructure management. The timely disbursement of funds and transparent handling of renovation plans demonstrate the authority’s resolve to prioritize the welfare of its stakeholders while ensuring compliance with its long-term strategic goals.

As the tender process begins in 2025, all eyes will be on NAPSA to see how it navigates the challenges of a large-scale renovation while maintaining its commitment to transparency and stakeholder satisfaction.

By addressing both the financial needs of former tenants and the infrastructural requirements of Society Business Park, NAPSA is setting a precedent for effective governance and responsible development.

The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has dismissed circulating social media reports suggesting an imminent fuel shortage in the country, assuring the public that diesel stocks are sufficient and steps are being taken to address logistical challenges affecting petrol imports.

In a statement to ZNBC News, ERB Acting Public Relations Manager Chibulu Musonda reaffirmed the board’s commitment to ensuring a steady supply of petroleum products. He noted that Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have been directed to implement measures for the timely delivery of fuel, particularly petrol, to their designated sites.

“OMCs have been urged to pre-clear their imported products to prevent unnecessary delays at border points,” Mr. Musonda explained.

To further ease the supply chain, ERB, in collaboration with the Road Traffic and Safety Agency (RTSA), has temporarily relaxed movement restrictions for Petroleum Road Tank Vehicles (PRTVs). The operating hours for PRTVs have also been extended beyond 18:00 hours to facilitate uninterrupted fuel transportation.

Mr. Musonda assured stakeholders and the general public that these measures are part of ERB’s ongoing efforts to stabilize fuel distribution and maintain public confidence in the country’s energy supply.

The ERB has urged citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information as it continues to monitor and address any challenges in the petroleum sector.

There is a need to address the plight of elderly Zambians living in rural communities with rising challenges of neglect, poor health and lack of access to financial support and wellbeing.

Speaking in Chibombo, Central Province Minister Honourable Mwabashike Nkulukusa noted that older persons also have rights to survival, income and health among others, and that they “should not be left behind” in terms of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

“There is need to explore the challenges they face, with a view to coming up with measures to ensure their health and welfare,” he noted. Mr. Mwabashike was speaking at Dream Life Two Sixty’s annual programme supporting the elderly community in Chibombo. The programme, in its second year, provides free healthcare services in the community and particularly supports community members aged over seventy years old with food relief, healthcare and wellness.

In many rural areas across Zambia, the elderly are among the most vulnerable members of society. Often overlooked and underappreciated, they face challenges such as food insecurity, lack of access to healthcare, and social isolation. Yet, these elders have contributed immensely to their communities, passing down wisdom, traditions, and life skills.

“Elderly people are the backbone of our societies and are the living history of our communities and their contributions are invaluable. Unfortunately, too many elders in rural Zambia face poverty, hunger, and neglect. Our goal is to change that and make sure they receive the support they need to live their final years with dignity,” says Cyrille Njikeng, Founder of Dream Life Two Sixty.

Mr. Njikeng adds that the initiative aims to bridge the gap for elderly people who have often been left behind as younger generations move to urban centers in search of work.

“Through our Antu Omwe Health Centre, we are ensuring that elderly people aged seventy and above have free regular medical check-ups, ensuring access to the medications and treatments they need.”

The health center has also strengthened social connections to reduce isolation, providing a network of volunteers, caregivers, and peer support for mental and emotional well-being of elders in the Chibombo catchment area.

“We would like to commend Dream Life Two Sixty and SB Investments for this timely and welcome initiative. We cannot forget those who helped build our communities,” said Mr. Nkulukusa.

“It’s time to give back, to show our elders that they are valued, respected, and loved. Their contributions continue to shape our lives, and it’s our responsibility to make sure they live their lives with the care and dignity they deserve.”

Through collaborative efforts of the Central Province Ministry, local leaders and volunteers, the initiative has reached over 150 elders in Chibombo and is on course to extend within the region in coming years.