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DEC arrests 3 NHEF directors for money laundering involving K36 MILLION

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DEC arrests 3 NHEF directors for money laundering involving K36 MILLION

Three directors from the National Housing Empowerment Fund (NHEF) have been arrested by the Drug Enforcement Commission through its Anti-Money Laundering Investigations Unit for money laundering involving 36 million Kwacha.

The Drug Enforcement Commission – DEC Public Relations Manager Hussein Khan confirmed this development in a press statement issued to the media stating that the Directors who are also shareholders have been charged with the offence of obtaining Money by False Pretenses contrary to Section 309 of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia and Money Laundering contrary to Section 7 of the Prohibition and Prevention of the Money Laundering Act No. 14 of 2001 of the Laws of Zambia as amended.

Mr Khan disclosed that the suspects are Kamphembele Ngulube a male aged 49 years, Margaret Mabingo a female aged 46 years and Lusuntha Ngulube a male aged 46 years of 168 Acacia Drive Roma Park, Lukasha Flats in Kabulonga and Plot 30029 Twapia Ndola respectively.

Particulars of the matter are that, between 1st January 2020 and 30th September 2022, the three (3) whilst acting together with other unknown persons, with intent to defraud did obtain money amounting to 36 million Kwacha from members of the public on the pretext that NHEF had plots for sale in an area called “Riverdale City” situated in Lusaka’s Leopards Hill Area when in fact not.

Mr Khan added that the members of the public paid for these plots believing that they were genuine plots for NHEF.

“And in the course of investigations, the Commission seized 18 motor vehicles and froze several bank accounts, the suspects are on bond and will appear in court soon,” he said

Meanwhile, in a similar incident, the Commission has jointly charged and arrested a married couple, Aaron Yobe Zulu, a male aged 40 years and Christine Nyondwa Msadabwe a female aged 39 years both of House Number 518/100, Ibex Hill in Lusaka for Fraudulent Transactions.

Mr Khan explained that this is contrary to Section 197 (a) and (b) of the Securities and Exchange Commission Act No. 41 of 2016 of the Laws of Zambia, Providing and Conducting Financial Services without a License contrary to Section 6 Subsection (i) and (ii) of the Banking and Financial Services Act No. 7 of 2017 of the Laws of Zambia, Obtaining Money by False Pretences contrary to Section 309 of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia, Theft contrary to section 272 of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia, Possession of Property Suspected of being Proceeds of Crime contrary to section 71 (i) of the Forfeiture of Proceeds of Crime Act No. 9 of 2010 of the Laws of Zambia, Money Laundering contrary to Section 7 of the Prohibition and Prevention of Money Laundering Act No.14 of 2001 of the Laws of Zambia as amended.

Brief facts of the matter are that, between 1st January 2016 and 30th December 2020, Aaron Yobe Zulu jointly and whilst acting together with Christine Nyondwa Msadabwe as Directors and Shareholders of Laurence Paul Investment Services Limited, jointly and whilst acting together with other persons unknown engaged in unlicensed banking services and obtained money amounting to 59 million Kwacha from members of the public under the pretext that the said funds would be invested in securities when in fact not.

“The couple further engaged in money laundering and acquired the following properties which were registered in their names and those of third parties: several farms in Siavonga, Chirundu and Mpika, seven houses in Chalala and one house in Ibex Hill, as well as several vehicles namely, one Quantum bus, one Mercedes Benz, one Renault Kadjar, one Toyota Spacio, one Toyota Alphard, and three Toyota Corollas,” Mr Khan disclosed

Mr Khan disclosed that the above properties including funds in various bank accounts have since been seized by the Commission as they are reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime.

“The suspects are on bond and will appear in court soon,” he said

In relation to these two matters, the Commission has since warned members of the public to be wary of empowerment and investment scams and to do the necessary due diligence before putting in their hard-earned funds, the public should take precaution when confronted with investment opportunities that promise returns that are too good to be true.

The Commission has noted with sadness that a number of retirees from the public and private sectors have been defrauded of their pensions by unscrupulous individuals posing as investment agents.

“As an investigative agency of the State, the Commission will not stand by and watch fraudsters masquerading as investment experts taking advantage of unsuspecting members of the public through fraudulent investment and empowerment programmes. The Commission has a mandate to fight financial crimes for the public good and it will carry out this mandate with the seriousness it deserves within the confines of the law.”

Zambian in US sentenced to jail for sex trafficking

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Zambian in US sentenced to jail for sex trafficking

An Iowa City man and Zambia native, Kachimbe Mukanzu, also known as Kash, was sentenced on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, to 264 months in prison for Conspiracy to Engage in Sex Trafficking by Force, Fraud, and Coercion and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

Following his imprisonment, Mukanzu was ordered to serve five years of supervised release.

According to court documents, Kachimbe Mukanzu, age 35, recruited several young women and sexually exploited them by force, fraud and coercion.

Mukanzu helped post advertisements through Backpage and various other sites where he would set up profiles for the victims advertising sex acts for money.

Mukanzu promised the victims things of value and glamorized the lifestyle to lure them into performing commercial sex acts and in return he profited.

Mukanzu provided the victims drugs so that they could work around the clock.

On multiple occasions in 2018, Mukanzu drove the victims to different states for the purpose of sex trafficking.

On February 4, 2022, Mukanzu pleaded guilty to the charges.

United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Iowa City Police Department investigated the case.

MID-WEEK PRO’S HIT LIST: Fashion Makes Winless UEFA CL Exit

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Fashion Sakala’s debut campaign in the UEFA Champions League group stages ended on a winless note.

=SCOTLAND
The Chipolopolo Zambia striker played the full 90 minutes on Tuesday in Rangers’ 3-1 home loss to Ajax Amsterdam.
Fashion also bowed out without a goal in five European appearances this term.
Tuesday’s home loss was Rangers’ sixth successive Group A defeat that saw Rangers finish rock bottom on zero points.

=SWEDEN
In Sweden on Monday, second placed Djurgarden won 1-0 away at number 12 side Norrkoping.
Midfielder Emmanuel Banda came on in the 74th minute of that match.

=DENMARK
On the same day in Denmark, 8th placed Midtjylland lost 2-1 at home to 4th positioned OB Odense.
Midfielder Edward Chilufya came on at the start of halftime.

Pointing Out Tribal Inclined Decisions, Actions of this Government Is Not Being A Tribalist

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Pointing Out Tribal Inclined Decisions, Actions of this Government Is Not Being A Tribalist

By Fred M’membe President of the Socialist Party

It’s crass dishonest, ignorance and stupidity for anyone to accuse me of tribalism.
Firstly, my ethnic, and even racial, composition make it very difficult and unrealistic for me to be a tribalist or a racist. I directly originate and hail from ten ethnicities and four provinces of our country. And indirectly, I have ethnic links with all the provinces of Zambia. This is my fortune or misfortune!

I am a Toka-Leya. There was this Toka-Leya man from Kalomo who went to what is now Nkeyema and married the daughter of the Nkoya chief, Mwene Kahare, and produced a daughter from whom I descend. I am a Mbunda royal from Mwene Kandala in Yuka, Mabumbu and Mwene Mundu in Liumba, Kalabo. My mother’s grandfather, Ndiyoyi who was the Mukulwakashiko of Lewanika, was a descendant of Mulambwa, the tenth Litunga. Ndiyoyi married a Totela woman from Bwina in Mulobezi – so I am Totela. I am Kwangwa from Kakulo in Ikabako. I am Kwamwenyi and Kwamashi from Silayi, Liuwa, Kalabo. All in all, on my mother’s side I originate from seven ethnicities in Western Province and one in Southern Province.

On my father’s side, I’m a Bemba royal from Mwika in Chinsali. The current Chitimukulu is my cousin. My grandmother, my father’s mother, was Bisa from Makumya on her father’s side – and this is where I was connected to Michael Sata.
My grandfather’s mother was white.

All Lozi or Luyana royals are Lunda. My relative Sikufele is a Mbunda chief in North Western Province. I also have a relative who is a Nkoya chief in North Western Province. It shouldn’t be forgotten that when the Kaonde came to Solwenji from Congo in 1000 AD they found the Nkoya there – so they mixed and became one people. The Mbunda are the same people with the Chokwe, Luchazi and Luvale. So I have a connection with all the ethnicities of North Western Province.

The connection of the Nkoya with the Ila, Sala, Soli and Lenje is well known and beyond dispute. Even the names are same. Nkomeshya is a Nkoya name. Chiti – the first Chitimukulu – died among the Nsenga in what is now Petauke. And it took a year to take his body to Chinsali for burial. The Bemba royals and Nsenga people are one with a common history and tight historical bonds. Zwangendaba – the father to the first Mpezeni – is buried in Muchinga Province, Chitimukulu’s land. Our Bemba and Ngoni ancestors exchanged blood to bond their togetherness. How can one with this heritage, and the knowledge of it, be a tribalist?

Secondly, my family – both on my father’s and mother’s side – paid a very high price for the independence and oneness of this country for me to divide it. Not less than fifty per cent of the first cabinet of this country were my relatives on my mother’s and father’s side. How can I fail to be a patriot and fail them?

I have fought against Bemba tribalism, Lozi tribalism, Ngoni or Nsenga or Chewa tribalism! I have fought against racism. And I will continue to do so for the remaining part of my life.

Pointing out tribal-inclined decisions and actions of this UPND government of Mr Hakainde Hichilema and denouncing them is not being a tribalist.

Twelve people injured in a stampede at a recruitment Jobs event in Solwezi

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Twelve people injured in a stampede at a recruitment Jobs event in Solwezi

Twelve people have been injured in a stampede at the Zambia Correctional Service Solwezi regional offices when hundreds of youths turned up for job interviews.

The incident has resulted in the admission of three people to Solwezi General Hospital for treatment, while nine have been discharged after having received treatment.

According to Solwezi General Hospital Medical Superintendent, Dr Kikanda Sondashi, most of the victims sustained minor injuries.

Eyewitness accounts gathered by Diamond News reveal that the ordeal was triggered by desperate youths in the group that wanted to be ahead of others to attend interviews hence the occurrence of the stampede.

Following the chaotic scenes, some concerned citizens have since urged the government to decentralize the process to avoid the reoccurrence of such an incident that nearly took lives.

The recent recruitment in the Zambia Army and Zambia Airforce also experienced record numbers of young applicants desperate to seek employment in the Ministry of Defense as well as in the Zambia Correctional Service under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Kampyongo and wife, plead not guilty to possession of property suspected for be proceeds of crime

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Kampyongo and wife, plead not guilty to possession of property suspected for be proceeds of crime

FORMER Minister of Home Affairs Stephen Kampyongo and his wife, Wanizya, have pleaded not guilty to possession of property suspected for be proceeds of crime.

Three weeks ago, the Anti-Corruption Commission arrested Kampyongo and Chirwa for possession of property worth over K29 million suspected of being proceeds of crime.

Yesterday, the duo appeared before Lusaka Magistrate Sylvia Munyinya facing 11 counts of possession of property reasonably suspected to proceeds.

They are facing 11 counts of possession of property reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime.

It is alleged that between January 1, 2012 and 3 September 30, 2022, the couple had property number F/135/4301 and property number F/179/4301 located in Eureka off Kafue Road valued at K11,100,000, property reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime.

It is alleged in count two that between the same dates, Kampyongo did possess property number LUS/38467 located off Twin Palm Road, Ibex Hill valued at K1,600,000, property reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime.

In the third count, it is alleged that between the damage dates, Kampyongo did possess a residential house namely stand number LUS/24406 located off Lilayi Road Libala South valued K860,000, property reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime.

In the fourth count, it is alleged that between the same dates, Kampyongo did possess property number KAF/LN_59832/8 and KAF/LN 59832/9 in Chifwema Lusaka valued at K1,600,000, property reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime.

It is alleged in the fifth count that Wanziya and Kampyongo did possess property number F/33/A/F/2470 and property number F/33/A/F/2471 located in Meanwood Ndeke Lusaka valued at K2,100,000, property reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime.

In the sixth count, it is alleged that the couple pdid possess F/609/E/77/A48 and property number F/609/E/77/A48 located in Foxdale Lusaka valued at K5,200,000 property reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime.

In the seventh count, it is alleged that between the same period, Wanziya did possess property number L/2131/M/A/2/C1/11 valued at K 1,200,000, property reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime.

Further in count eight, it is alleged that between the same dates, Wanziya did possess property number L/2131/M/A/2/C1/10 valued at K 1,200,000, in Ibex Hill Lusaka, property reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime.

In count nine, allegations are that between the same period, Wanziya did possess property number L/30168/M and property number L/30167/M located in Mikango Lusaka worth K2,110,000, property reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime.

Further in the 10th count, allegations are that between the dame period, Wanizya was in possession of K1,382,513.84 in a bank account, property reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime.

Lastly, it is alleged that during the same period, Wanziya did possess money amounting to K 1,200,000 in a bank account, property reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime.

After the charges were read before magistrate Sylvia Munyinya, the duo pleaded not guilty.

Trial will start on November 16,2022.

Court finds a company with a case to answer for alleged false returns and tax evasion

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Court finds a company with a case to answer for alleged false returns and tax evasion

THE Kitwe Magistrate’s Court has found a company with a case to answer for alleged false returns and tax evasion.

Focus on Equipment and Services Limited ,a registered tax payer with the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has since been put on its defence together the company Director, Accountant and it’s Human Resource Officer.

ZRA Acting Corporate Communications Manager Oliver Nzala said the company in question had been found with a case to answer on false returns and tax evasion.

He said Focus on Equipment and Services Limited jointly and while acting together with Xing Tang as Director, Edward Mwamulima as an Accountant and Kennedy Chintukwane as Human Resource Officer, on dates unknown ,but between the 1st day of January 2020 and the 2nd day of March 2022, furnished documents namely Tax Invoices to ZRA purporting to show that Mount Meru Petroleum (Z) Limited had supplied taxable goods to Focus Equipment and Services Limited when it false.

Mr Nzala further alleged that in the same period and jurisdiction the accused persons fraudulently recovered Value Added Tax by furnishing false returns that taxable supplies were made to Focus Equipment and Services Limited for the month of May 2020 when in fact not.

He said the revenue loss amounted to K458,251.

“The Court found all the accused persons with a case to answer and accordingly put them on their defence. The accused persons elected to give evidence on oath and will call 14 witnesses in their defence. The case has been adjourned to the December 5th, 6th and 7th 2022 for commencement of defence,” he said.

The case is before Maloza Phiri and is being prosecuted by the ZRA lawyers.

Zambia celebrates 70 percent COVID-19 vaccination achievement

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Zambia celebrates 70 percent COVID-19 vaccination achievement

President Hakainde Hichilema has commended the efforts of various stakeholders for Zambia’s attainment of the 70percent COVID-19 vaccination set target across the country.

President Hichilema says that Zambia is where it is today in achieving over 70 percent fully vaccinated citizens against COVID-19 because of the partnerships and inputs from stakeholders working with government and the people of Zambia.

Speaking during the celebration of Zambia attaining 70 percent full vaccination against COVID-19 at State House on Tuesday, President Hichilema indicated that the pandemic contributed to the vulnerability of the world as a whole, hence the need to work together in combating the virus.

Mr. Hichilema explained that Zambia was among countries that experienced the global inequalities such as access to vaccines, thereby affecting the developmental agenda.

He described it as the worst combined health and social economic crisis that required urgent action.

” It was inevitable for the country to find ways of dealing with the pandemic, thus the relaunch of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign in October last year, with a set target of 70 percent fully vaccinated across the country, ” President Hichilema said.

Government took a decision to deal with COVID-19 by putting everything at the disposal of fighting the pandemic to accelerate preventive measures and vaccinations.

Estimating over four thousand lives lost in the country due to the pandemic, the Head of State stressed the need for government to spearhead the fight with the partnerships of various stakeholders.

He noted this included dealing with the misconceptions of the vaccine, sensitisation among communities as well as the appointment of a COVID Advisor, who he commended for the tremendous job done.

“We will always know that no one can achieve anything working alone, hence the importance of working as a team together with others,” President Hichilema said.

The Head of State noted the multiple efforts that have surpassed the 70 percent to the country attaining 75 percent.

He however called on those that are not yet fully vaccinated to ensure they do so, because the country will not only attain a 100 percent achievement but also safeguarding the lives of all Zambians.

And the United Nations Resident Coordinator Beatrice Mutali commended every fully vaccinated Zambian for heeding to the call of protecting themselves and all those that contributed to the milestone.

Ms. Mutali said that Zambia receives the global recognition for staying the cause and ensuring that vaccines reach even in vulnerable communities.

She attributed the key milestone to the governments leadership and the partners who showed commitment and support for Zambia.

“Vaccination is among the critical interventions that contributed to the reduction of COVID-19 cases and reduction in admission,” Ms Mutali indicated.

And British High Commissioner to Zambia Nicholas Woolley said Zambia is one of the fastest countries to achieve progress in vaccination coverage.

The British Envoy assured his government’s continued support in various areas including the health sector.

Meanwhile, Minister of Health Sylvia Masebo was happy the country managed to fight the pandemic under difficult circumstances.

Ms. Masebo said that some the front liners got such while some died in the process of rendering medical services to the citizens.

She explained that the pandemic however needed a shift in attitude, behavior and leadership which was well provided by the President.

And a COVID-19 survivor, Fisho Mwale commended the government for ensuring that the citizens received maximum attention and support in times of sickness.

Mr. Mwale said the life-threatening disease could only be defeated by governments ambition to spare no effort in the fight of the pandemic suffered for three years.

Farming Inputs are on the way, HH assures farmers at a campaign meeting in Mkushi

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Farming Inputs are on the way, HH assures farmers at a campaign meeting in Mkushi

President Hakainde Hichilema has assured farmers in the country that they will all receive farming inputs under the Comprehensive Agriculture Support Programme (CASP).

Mr. Hichilema says the consignment of fertilizer is already on the way and has advised the farmers not to listen to lies.

Addressing a gathering at the show grounds in Mkushi, on Tuesday afternoon, the head of state has observed that there has been a lot of lies from the opposition Patriotic Front (PF) and even some extension officers surrounding the farming inputs.

“I am your servant. I am your president and an elder in the church and I don’t tell lies. The fertilizer is already on the way and I am confirming to you as your servant,” Mr. Hichilema.

And Mr. Hichilema has called on the people of Mkushi District to vote for the UPND candidate Melson Chilema in the Mkushi Town Council By-Election slated for Friday 4th November 2022.

The head of state observed that Mkushi was lagging behind in development because he had no direct link to carry his vision.

“I know we didn’t get a council chairperson here in Mkushi. I know we didn’t get the MP here in Mkushi. But God is God of a second chance.

” God has given us another opportunity to correct that which we didn’t do in 2021. Let us join the rest of Zambians that have decided to move forward,” he said.

He said is aware of the poor township roads, scarcity of water and lack of development in general because there is no one he could work with to accelerate implementation of these programmes in the area.

President Hichilema reminded the gathering that he promised to increase the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) during campaigns in 2021 and his administration has since fulfilled.

It is for the first time that the government is ahead in terms of fund releases as well as sending funds to the districts.

“CDF is in the bank and you people of Mkushi you deserve better markets and when you give me Chilema I will have someone to send.

” It is the first time the president has sent money to the district, but I have no one to work with, so vote for Chilema,” he stressed.

To demonstrate the love of the One Zambia One Nation Motto, the government now releases CDF on the same date to all the 156 constituencies.

Mr. Hichilema urged the people of Mkushi to wake up very early in the morning of Friday and vote for the UPND candidate.

The Mkushi Council by-election has been necessitated after the election of Evans Bwalya of PF in the 2021 was successfully petitioned by Chilema.

Meanwhile, Mr. Hichilema has advised Mr. Chilema not abandon the people after being voted into office on Friday.

“We are servants of the people, and we must work to sort out township roads, issue of desks in schools, markets, water and sanitation challenges in the district,” the president advised.

And Mr. Chilema has promised the people of Mkushi that he will provide the servant hood leadership once voted into office.

Mr. Chilema asked the people of Mkushi to vote for him on Friday.

The ruling UPND is fielding Melson Chilema while Evans Bwalya and Mabvuto Nyirenda are standing on the Socialist Party and PF respectively.

Kwacha faced October with some nominal loses

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Kwacha faced October with some nominal loses

A Social Economist Kelvin Chisanga has explained that the kwacha has closed up the month of October in nominal losses despite having strong supply lines of hard currency on the other hand, as the United States Dollar.

Mr Chisanga said that this is because of the high demand placed on the import activities contrasted with the export market, a situation that has led to a hot run on the local currency.

He noted that the kwacha has been exposed to an importer demand drive which has been quite huge and very overwhelming with the supply levers, which were also critically strong at the back of central bank’s weekly continuous market interventions.

“In the short to medium term, during the course of the month, kwacha kept on oscillations between gains and loses but the large percentage was weighing more on the loses as agriculture inputs and fuel have been serious pack of activities into forex trading patterns during the month of October,” he noted

Mr Chisanga mentioned that though, the local and broader market have indicated some serious stabilities, though kept on fluctuating on overnight lending rates between commercial banks, adding that the in the interim, there’s a likelihood to see the kwacha keep on oscillating, but with high chances of posturing stability owing to strong expected supply channels from corporates and slowdown in demand, which is headed to some dry period on forex inflows.

“In the month of November, we may likely see a surgical action on the monetary policy rate in an effort to contain expansionary budget for fiscal year of 2023, so in short we may see a surge in policy rate in order to counterbalance on global inflationary pressures and balancing up of local fiscal expenditures slapped in a 2023 stimulus budget,” Mr Chisanga stated

Ndola City Council urged to unblock drainages

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Ndola City Council urged to unblock drainages

Ndola residents have appealed to the local authority to unblock drainages in the City before the onset of the 2022/2023 rainy season.

The residents are of the view that the blocked drainages will have a bad effect on the few roads still in good condition.

They say their concerns over the drainages should be treated with the urgency it deserves as the situation will make it difficult for road users to use the roads once the rains start.

One of the residents, Luke Bwalya, said in an interview that Ndola City Council should ensure that the drainages are unblocked according to its mandate.

Mr. Bwalya is of the view that as the council collects revenue in the area, it was only logical for the local authority to ensure that it ploughs back into the community by unblocking the drainages before the onset of the rains.

“We are not even supposed to be appealing to the council to unblock the drainages. It is the duty of the local authority to provide services for the residents in any given town,” he said.

He said as much as the residents have the responsibility to ensure that they do not litter garbage in drainages, the council should do periodic works to ensure that drainages are not blocked.

However, other residents are of the view that the drainages that pass through their yards should be cleared by the affected residents instead of waiting for the council.

Mr. Cabby Chilufya said the stretches that do not pass through many residential places are long and are labour intensive than the ones that pass in people’s yards.

He observed that the council has been reluctant in clearing the drainages in the district which causes floods in most cases when there are heavy rains.

In response, Ndola Mayor Jones Kalyati assured the residents that his council is coming up with a work plan to abate this looming disaster.

Mayor Kalyati has since urged the councilors and Ward Development Committee (WDC) members to take advantage of the finances on ward allocation and Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to help with such works in communities.

HH warns erring Extension officers over FISP

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HH warns erring Extension officers over FISP

President Hakainde Hichilema cautioned camp extension officers in the tendency of misleading farmers over accessing inputs under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) of stern action.

Mr. Hichilema warned the erring officers advising unsuspecting farmer that they will not access inputs to immediately stop as government will supply inputs to all farmers registered on the program.

President Hichilema notes that government is determined to support viable farmers who qualify to access the inputs.

Speaking at a campaign rally for UPND candidates in the Mkushi local government elections slated for Friday, the head of state observed that some camp extension officers were spreading falsehood about the program.

“If you’re a camp extension officer spreading lies, then you want to lose your job,” he warned.

President Hichilema stated that province has started receiving inputs for distribution to those who qualify.

“This is happening while those who supplied maize to the Food Reserve Agency are being paid.” President Hichilema said.

The Head of State also stated that government is determined to improve the lives of the people at grassroot level hence the increase of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

” We increased the CDF from K1.6 million to K25.7 million, we have employed thousands of teachers and health workers and we are employing personnel in the defense. This is unprecedented, ” he said.

And on the forthcoming By-elections, Mr. Hichilema appealed to the people of Masansa to vote for Melson Chilemu as District council chairperson and Deborah Phiri as Mibanga ward councilor.

Central Province Minister Credo Nanjuwa highlighted the delayed distribution of inputs as the major issue affecting people in the area.

“I would like to announce that we have started receiving the inputs and the delayed distribution is no longer an issue, ” he said.

Meanwhile, UPND Central Province chairperson Albert Chifita said the party has continued to grow in the province.

Mr. Chifita was optimism that the ruling party will win the November 4, 2022 , By-elections both at ward level and District council chairperson seat.

And UPND District council chairperson candidate Melson Chilemu pledged to improve the road network, markets access to safe water, education and health services.

Police Arrest NDC Leader Saboi Imboela for Libel and Hate Speech

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Police Arrest NDC Leader Saboi Imboela for Libel and Hate Speech

National Democratic Congress – NDC Leader Saboi Imboela has been arrested and charged for the offence of Libel and Hate Speech by the Zambia Police Service.

The Zambia Police Service in Lusaka arrested and charged Ms Imboela aged 45 years of House Number 12698 Lilayi Road in Lusaka for the offence of Libel Contrary to Section 191 of the Penal Code Act Chapter 87 of the laws of Zambia.

In a press statement issued by the Zambia Police Service Spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, it is alleged that between 9th and 10th September, 2022, Ms Imboela acting together with other unknown persons did publish defamatory remarks against Mr Clayson Hamasaka through her Facebook page namely Saboi Imboela –SI.

Mr Hamoonga added that in a related incident, a warn and caution statement has been recorded from Saboi Imboela aged 45 of house number 12698 Lilayi road in Lusaka for the offence of Hate Speech Contrary to Section 65 of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act Number 2 of 2021 of the Laws of Zambia.

Mr Hamoonga disclosed that on 12th October, 2022, it is alleged that Ms Imboela in the Republic of Zambia knowingly and without lawful excuse did use hate speech by way of posting and circulating hate content on social media in particular on her Facebook account in the names of Saboi Imboela – SI, adding that the Police are Investigating the matter.

“The suspect is detained in Police custody and will appear in court soon,” Mr Hamoonga said

Brief facts of the matter are that, the Zambia Police Service arrested the NDC Leader Saboi Imboela for the offence of criminal libel and hate speech.

This follows the confrontation on social media that involved Saboi and State House Media Director Clayson Hamasaka, where Ms Imboela accused Mr Hamasaka of being HIV positive and infecting other women.

In her Facebook post, Ms Imboela further accused Mr Hamasaka of being the Admin for Koswe, an unreceptive online media platform that takes on political opponents. The Zambian social media was brought in an uproar when Ms Imboela incited the Koswe page whose Admins later responded to Ms Imboela by accusing her of sleeping with a ghost which torments, the matter went into a deep argument when Ms Imboela went public to accuse Mr Hamasaka of being behind Koswe stating that she has proof to back up her claims, and Mr Hamasaka responded with a warning to Ms Imboela to retract her accusations or face legal action to which she never complied. The issue went on via the social media platform Facebook hence, the Police summoned Ms Imboela who was later arrested.

And according to Ms Imboela’s lawyer Mr John Chirwa, she has been detained at Kabwata Police Station.

Central Bank advised on economic outlook

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Central Bank advised on economic outlook

Standard Chartered Bank says the stability of the kwacha and inflation rate has placed Zambia in a firm position to have a positive economic outlook for 2023.

The Bank has however cautioned the Central Bank to take the necessary measures to handle any risks that may come from external shocks.

Standard Chartered Bank said the Bank of Zambia needs to take precautionary steps, in the wake of investors exploring other markets.

Speaking during a presentation at a market outlook breakfast meeting in Lusaka today, Standard Chartered Bank Head of Research for Africa and the Middle East, Razia Khan says the debt restructuring plan via the International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal gives positive prospects for Zambia’s economy.

“Restructuring hopefully in process, the expectation is the focus that this will be a deep enough restructuring to allow for a big bounce back in growth. We know that policy is aimed at twisting private sector activity, greater predictability in transparency. We know that social spending is being re-fenced but there must be a need to cut back elsewhere, especially as debt service payments resume so Zambia is in a good place,” Ms. Khan said.

Ms. Khan also said Zambia’s currency has performed better against the United States dollar in comparison with other countries in the region.

She, however, said the country has an accumulation of large amounts of foreign portfolio investment in the Zambian economy.

“Zambia’s level of foreign ownership is so high, it now pretty much equates to the country’s foreign exchange reserves,” Ms. Khan said.

The Standard Chartered Head of Research for Africa and the Middle East commended government for putting measures in place to attract mining investment in the 2023 National Budget.

Speaking at the same event, Standard Chartered Bank Zambia Board Chairperson Caleb Fundanga said Zambia remains a big market for the financial institution.

Dr. Fundanga said the bank has continued to invest in various sectors in Zambia owing to the confidence it has attached to the economy.And Dr. Fundanga defended the bank’s move to close several branches in the country saying this is in a bid to fully embrace digitalisation.

“We are encouraging Zambians, financial entrepreneurs to take up the challenge and start offering our services on their own little platforms and this is part of creating jobs and opportunities in the financial sector,” he said.

Zambia’s target to increase copper Production to 3 million tonnes in the next ten years is attainable

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Zambia’s target to increase copper Production to 3 million tonnes in the next ten years is attainable

President Hakainde Hichilema has said Zambia’s ambitious target to increase copper production from the current 830,000 metric tonnes to 3,000,000 in the next ten years is attainable.

In a speech read for him by Mines and Minerals Development Minister Paul Kabuswe during the opening of the 10th Zambia International Mining, Energy Conference and Exhibition (ZIMEC) at Garden Court Hotel in Kitwe on Tuesday morning, President Hichilema said Government is committed to meeting the ambitious yet achievable target.

The Head of State said the New Dawn government is creating an attractive and competitive investment climate built on transparency, consistency, predictability and fairness while acting against corruption.

Mr Hichilema said the government has put in place favorable and predictable policies for investors to thrive and bring stability in the mining sector.

He charged that the mining sector was stagnant in the previous years because of what he termed as fights between the past government and the investors.

President Hichilema said time is right for Zambia to continue mining and ensure a win-win situation for the treasury, the investors and the community.

“I wish to reiterate our government commitment to reviving the Zambian economy anchored significantly by a robust mining sector that is amply supported by a vigilante energy sector. In marking over a year in office, our government continues to pursue a bold vision to usher in a new dawn for Zambia’s mining sector and indeed the rest of the economy including the essential energy sector. We are determined to deliver on our country’s mining and energy potential through a harmonised approach that optimally serves all stakeholders, Zambians and investors included. Premised on tenets of resilience and stability, will foster industrial development, create employment and grow national fiscal inflows for the equitable benefit of all,” Mr. Hichilema said.

“As a leading player in the global copper mining industry, we are striving to grow mineral output through new mines and expansion of existing ones in order to meet current as well as projected future demand growth. In this effort, I wish to implore all of you and emphasise our steadfast commitment to meeting the ambitious yet achievable goal of raising annual copper production levels from the current 830 metric tonnes to 3,000,000 metric tonnes in the next decade.We are creating an attractive and competitive investment climate built on transparency, consistency, predictability and fairness while acting against corruption in all its forms,” he said.

President Hichilema further appealed to investors to support local suppliers and contractors and work towards improving the communities hosting mining operations.

“Let me categorically state that investors in Zambia are assured of the rule of law guaranteeing security of tenure and investments. To this effect for example, good governance in the administration of mineral rights is being strengthened. A moratorium on the issuance of mining rights was affected while a systems audit was undertaken. We will soon launch the online payment portal that will enhance efficiency and integrity in the administration of the mining rights. We espouse collaboration and partnership as opposed to reducing nationalism. In this regard, Zambia welcomes investment that promotes local economic empowerment by allowing our people to participate meaningfully across the value chain. This reinforces the stability of your investments and fosters wide spread acceptance among our people. In the spirit of strategic engagement and partnership, Zambia recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo that will see two countries work closely to develop electric batteries and clean energy value chains,” he said.

Meanwhile Kitwe and District Chamber of Commerce President Emmanuel Mbambiko appealed to the government to bring sanity at Mopani Copper Mines and Konkola Copper Mines.

Mr. Mbambiko, a UPND official, said the business community in Kitwe district is affected by the dormant mine operations at KCM and Mopani.

Zambia Chamber of Mines of Zambia President Godwin Beene said the three-day conference which has attracted 300 delegates will entice investors to invest in the mining sector and help improve infrastructure, promote skills and develop communities.

Ministry of Energy Director incharge of Electricity Michael Mulasikwanda highlighted some of the plans the ministry is undertaking to grow the Energy Sector.

The 10th Zambia International Mining, Energy Conference and Exhibition (ZIMEC) that will run up to 3rd November 2022 is being held under the theme:”The Synergy between Mining and Energy, Developing sufficient sustainable energy to satisfy Zambia’s mineral production goals.”

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