Saturday, May 17, 2025
Subscribe
Home Blog Page 474

Tayali calls on Zambians to be part of an Alliance

Chief Editor
-
15
Tayali calls on Zambians to be part of an Alliance

Economic and Equity Party – EEP President Chilufya Tayali has called on Zambians especially opposition political parties to be part of an Alliance that will lead to the formation of the Government of National Unity whose agenda is to put Zambia first.

Mr Tayali said that the unity of the opposition political parties is very real, as they have been having discussions and interactions on the Alliance, and he is happy that a lot of people have welcomed the idea of forming an Alliance where they put Zambia first.

“Things are going on very well, am encouraging Zambians to be part of the Alliance, as we are all gifted differently and some of you are intellectuals who are learned and understand things from a different perspective, am also encouraging the young people to be part of this Alliance and offer whatever they can. Let us all unite by putting Zambia first,” Mr Tayali said

He mentioned that looking at the agenda of the Alliance which is to put Zambia first, people should forget about the political party affiliations which they belong to but everyone at this point in time should come together irrespective of the different political ideologies, and affiliations.

“From my point of view, am very grateful with a number of opposition party leaders who have shown positivity in this and are willing to work together, am so humbled and praying that we succeed in this Alliance,” he said

Mr Tayali has urged members of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) who have seen that President Hakainde Hichilema doesn’t mean well for this country are free to come and join the Alliance as the Alliance is not excluding the UPND but rather including reasonable UNPND members to come forward.

“I know in UPND there are some people that mean well for this country, and those who are indoctrinated by not thinking properly should continue staying in UPND,” Mr Tayali said

“Whether President Hichilema likes it or not, his going as he has failed and the UPND is gone,” he added

He explained that the independence that we are celebrating now means that, this country belongs to all Zambians who are supposed to be part of the leadership of this country, the independence that the fore father won meant that people have attained that self-rule, as they were being ruled by the colonizers the British but the forefathers fought by saying they want to rule themselves and 58 years ago they lifted the flag of independence to say they have attained self-rule, that is what independence means.

Mr Tayali said that because of this independence that was attained, young people should not relegate the responsibility of running this country to only a few individuals, all the young people are supposed to be part of the governance of this country.

“Am emphasizing that all the young people are supposed to be part of the leadership of this country, don’t seat back and wait for President Hichilema to appoint you or give you a join in the government and now you will feel like you are part of the governance, no, by the fact that you are born Zambian, you are supposed to be part of the leadership of this country, don’t allow a few individuals to take this country into oblivion and disaster,” Mr Tayali mentioned

He disclosed that young people can be part of governance by making sure that they speak out on the issues relating to the governance of this country, young people should not shun away from this by stating that they don’t talk about politics or anything related to politics, everyone should talk about the governance of the country as politics affects everyone including the church.

“All of us are supposed to talk about politics and the affairs of this country,” he said

Mr Tayali has since called upon all church leaders not to sit back and let the affairs of the country to only be in the hands of the politicians as the church is also a part of this country and therefore leaders in the church should also contribute in the affairs and the running of this country.

“The issues of politics should not be relegated, even the church and Pastors should be free to discuss politics,” he stated

He noted that the intervention of the church through prayers and advice will help the politicians to come up with ideas that will be of great benefit and work for the country.

“Am encouraging church leaders to come forward to talk to politicians and pray for us, we need to heal, and unite this country which is highly broken,” Mr Tayali said

TIZ calls on all political players to jealously guard the peace and democracy

Chief Editor
-
2
TIZ calls on all political players to jealously guard the peace and democracy

Transparency International Zambia – TIZ has called on all political players, both in the ruling party and the opposition, to jealously guard the peace and democracy that Zambians have enjoyed for many years, and to ensure that their political discourse and practice do not polarize the country along narrow partisan interests.

Transparency International Zambia Executive Director Maurice Nyambe stated that TI-Z is particularly calling on the United Party for National Development – UPND, being the ruling party, to exercise lots of restraint and lead by example in its political discourse and practice, by virtue of being the party in power, there is a greater scrutiny and expectation that has been placed on it, and TI-Z is urging them to rise to the challenge and deliver on those expectations.

Mr Nyambe said that the fact that the country has had three peaceful changes of regime in the last three decades is testament of the maturity of the democracy, TI-Z is cognizant to the fact that there remain real threats in the quest for democracy to thrive, as many of which have emanated from the conduct of political players over the years.

“TI-Z commends the many gallant Zambians who have contributed to the growth of our democracy over the years,” he said

“As TI-Z, we also see Independence Day as an opportunity for us as a country to look back on our anti-corruption efforts in order to ascertain how far we have come in fighting a scourge that has the potential to claw back many of the gains that we have made in the 58 years that we have been politically independent,” he added

Mr Nyambe has since urged the UPND Administration to enhance its anti-corruption agenda and make the fight against corruption more coordinated and broad-based.

“We therefore wish to repeat our challenge to the UPND administration to develop and implement a comprehensive country strategy for the fight against corruption, we are convinced that such a strategy will not only provide a clear strategic focus for fighting corruption, but will also help to free Zambia from the devastating effects of the scourge,” he explained

He has commended the efforts that the Anti-Corruption Commission, Drug Enforcement Commission and other law enforcement agencies are making in fighting corruption, but TI-Z believes that the fight would be even more effective if it was anchored on a clear, comprehensive country strategy.

Mr Nyambe disclosed that Zambia is proud and free today because of the determination and sacrifice that was put in by the gallant men and women who were involved in the struggle of the country’s independence, and TI-Z has challenge today’s breed of politicians to take a leaf from the selfless contributions of the independence heroes, and ensure that they not only protect the peace and democracy that the country has enjoyed for so many years, but also do their utmost best to unite Zambians even in the midst of different political views.

“We have only one Zambia and the need for us to be good stewards of it cannot be overemphasized,” Mr Nyambe noted

“In celebrating the 58th anniversary of Zambia’s independence, it is commemorated under the theme “Zambia at 58: Promoting Inclusiveness towards a Sustainable Social and Economic Recovery.” As a country, we have risen above so many challenges to carve for ourselves a path to economic prosperity, premised on the peace that we have enjoyed for all these years. Some challenges remain, and it is our hope that we will come together as citizens to actualize our resolve to make Zambia a better place for ourselves and the future generations who will inhabit it long after we are gone,” Mr Nyambe stated

PF is dead and will never bounce back into power-Elisha Matambo

Chief Editor
-
28
PF is dead and will never bounce back into power-Elisha Matambo

Copperbelt Minister and ruling UPND Provincial Chairperson Elisha Matambo has said the Patriotic Front (PF) is dead and will never bounce back into power.

Mr. Matambo said the PF will be like other former ruling parties in UNIP and MMD that have never bounced back after losing power.

He said the UPND’s victory in the recent controversial Parliamentary by-elections in Kabushi and Kwacha Constituencies shows that the people of the Copperbelt have confidence in President Hakainde Hichilema and his New Dawn administration.

UPND’s Bernard Kanengo won last Friday’s controversial Kabushi Parliamentary by-election after getting 6,556 votes against his closest rival and independent candidate Richard Kalasa’s 4,607 votes.

Leadership Movement’s Osias Telela collected 226 votes and another Independent candidate Alfred Joseph Yombwe amassed 81 votes.

In Kwacha, UPND’s Able Mulenga scooped the by-election.

Mr. Matambo said the UPND will grab all the 22 Parliamentary seats in the Copperbelt Province in the near future.

“Firstly, I want to thank God, the almighty, the ancient of days, the giver of life. For sure he is not a man that should lie. I want to thank the people of Kabushi, the people of Kwacha, the people of Copperbelt for their confidence in President Hakainde Hichilema and the New Dawn administration. I also want to thank His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zambia, the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces for his resilience and being focused, for his unwavering support to the Copperbelt Province even when he was in opposition at that time under very difficult circumstances. Thank you for the support Mr. President. You are a true leader,” Mr. Matambo said.

He said Parliamentary seats are not personal to order.

“I have always said that there is time for everything. There was time for UNIP, UNIP went. There was MMD, it went, then there was PF. PF is gone and it will never ever come back. It will never ever come back. I have always said that PF’s time is over. I think all they need to do is apologise for what they did to the people of Zambia. This election has shown that nobody can say this is my constituency like the two brothers of mine (Bowman Lusambo and Joseph Malanji). One thought Kabushi was his constituency, it was personal to order. Even Kwacha was personal to order. There is nothing like that. I think I want to remind PF, I told them when we were in opposition that someday we will grab the entire Copperbelt Province. Out of ten (10) districts in terms of mayoral and council chairpersons we got eight PF got only two mayors,” Mr. Matambo said.

“We got nine MPs out of 22 under very difficult circumstances. What transpired in Kabushi and Kwacha is a sign that even in other constituencies which the PF won on the Copperbelt that is what they did. We never had a chance to campaign in other constituencies but we managed to get nine MPs. I am pleased to announce to the nation and to His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema that we have delivered two more constituencies on the Copperbelt. Mr. President, sir you now have eleven (11) constituencies on the Copperbelt. You now have two brand new Members of Parliament. The new Member of Parliament for Kabushi Constituency is Honourable Bernard Kanengo and from Kwacha the new MP is Honourable Able Mulenga,” he continued.

Mr. Matambo further thanked the UPND members and officials imported from other provinces during campaigns in Kabushi and Kwacha in the Copperbelt Province.

“I salute the officials of UPND starting with the polling station committees, the branches, the constituency, the district officials, the provincial officials. I salute all those who came in numbers, especially those who came from Lusaka Province and other Provinces. You came to assist the people of the Copperbelt and this is how it should be. I salute all the MPs, the Ministers who came to campaign with us on the Copperbelt. We have to hang in there and I also want to encourage all the officials that President Hakainde Hichilema is walking the talk. He is a true leader and we should be patient with him and I think this year he has promised that he will try his best to do something for the UPND and all the people of Zambia,” he said.

Constitutional reform agenda has many times been driven by a party in government with a motive to entrench itself in power

Chief Editor
-
3
Constitutional reform agenda has many times been driven by a party in government with a motive to entrench itself in power

The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) says the celebration of 58 years of independence provides Zambia with an opportunity to introspect and check the worrying tendency of crippling and destroying the opposition by hook or by crook.

JCTR Executive Director Fr. Alex Muyebe, S.J said for democracy to thrive in Zambia, a healthy and vibrant opposition is needed.

Fr. Muyebe said:”We end by quoting a renowned and respected politician in this country: ‘Winning an election without your main competitor is no election at all. That is why ruling parties that we have seen before, have won by-elections and when the general elections come they lose because of creating uneven playfield in the by-elections.’’

He said the 58th independence anniversary celebration should be used to advocate democracy in the country.

“As long as the constitutional reform process continues to be driven by the Executive, a perception that “the current administration is manipulating the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) and the judicial process to increase their number of MPs in parliament for the purpose of amending the constitution to entrench themselves in power” will persist. We all know too well that this will inevitably have a negative impact on our budding democracy. This celebration of 58 years of independence provides the nation an opportunity to introspect and check the worrying tendency in this country of crippling and destroying the opposition by hook or by crook. For democracy to thrive in Zambia, we need a healthy and vibrant opposition,” Fr. Muyebe said.

Fr. Muyebe has since called for credible and people centered constitutional reforms.

He said the executive arm of the government should not interfere with constitutional reforms.

“Over the past 58 years, the nation has made some strides in realizing the true potential of democracy through a democratic system of government in which supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation usually involving periodic free elections. Some of the characteristics of a good democracy which successive governments have been entrenching to varying degrees include respect for basic human rights, a multi-party political system paired with political tolerance, a democratic voting system, respect for the rule of law, democratic governance, and citizen participation. One outstanding issue in Zambia’s democratic architecture is the on-going process of refining the Constitution of the Republic. Zambia has had the constitutional reforms of 1972 and 1991 under President Kaunda, the reforms of 1996 under President Chiluba, and the reforms of 2016 under President Lungu,” Fr. Muyebe said.

“All these attempts to refine the constitution have struggled to give Zambia a solid legal foundation which expresses the hopes and dreams of the people. Unfortunately, the constitutional reform agenda has many times been driven by a party in government with a motive to entrench itself in power. It is not clear if the current administration will be any different and avoid the pitfalls of the past by ensuring that the constitutional reform process really does result in a document that the people have participated in drafting by considering the input of different interest groups in the country. The Problem of a Process Driven by the Executive A major problem with past amendments of the Constitution has to do with the process of amendment. Previous presidents have opted to establish either commissions of inquiry under the Inquiries Act, or have used their executive powers to establish committees to prepare draft constitutions.1 Therefore, we have had drafts prepared by such commissions as the Mung’omba Commission under President Mwanawasa in 2003, and by the Technical Committee on Drafting the Zambian Constitution, instituted by President Sata in 2011,” he said.

Fr. Myebe said in order to ensure a people-driven constitution Zambia needs a legislative framework, the amendment of Article 79 of the Constitution and getting input from different stakeholders.

“In order to ensure a people-driven constitution the following three components to constitutional reform need to be in place: A Legislative Framework The first component involves legislation. To avoid the Executive branch of government being able to exert a disproportionate influence on the process, and to give all stakeholders a chance to provide their input, a legislative roadmap needs to be enacted. When South Africa was preparing its draft final constitution, this was done by following the roadmap set out in the Interim Constitution. When Kenya was preparing its draft constitution, the process to be followed was stipulated in the Constitution of Kenya Review Act of 2008. Therefore, in South African and in Kenya, legislation was needed to carefully set out the procedure to be followed. This legislative framework is crucial to a successful constitutional reform process,” Fr. Muyebe said.

“Amendment of Article 79 The second component involves the amendment of Article 79 of the Constitution of Zambia. Article 79 deals with situations where the text of the constitution is modified. In particular, it stipulates that if any provisions of the Bill of Rights are to be modified, a national referendum would need to take place. However, the wording of this section needs to be amended in order to avoid the injustices of the past. The wording indicates that in order for a successful national referendum to take place, not less than 50 percent of the registered voters need to vote. This formulation of the provision led to an injustice in the 2016 referendum. According to the results of that referendum, 71% of people voted in favour of the referendum. However, because only 44% of those entitled to vote actually voted on the day, the referendum failed,” he added.

Fr. Muyebe continued:”Getting the Right Balance of Input Between Different Interest Groups The third component involves getting the right balance of input between three key players in the reform process: namely, the politicians, the legal professionals, and the public. As much as one would advocate avoiding a disproportionate influence by politicians over the reform process, one needs to provide space for their input. They are the elected representatives of the people. As such, their ideas will be important in producing a solid constitutional draft for the people. Additionally, the views of legal professionals are required, since the constitution is essentially a legal document. Finally, submissions from the public are indispensable, since we desire a people-driven constitution.”

“The only problem is how to justly deal with the input from each of these players and arrive at a reasonably representative document, without allowing input from politicians to trump over input from other interest groups to ensure that the document enshrines the aspirations of the people and thereby providing the much needed legitimacy and ownership,” he concluded.

Govt. committed to transform Zambia

Support Editor
-
0
Govt. committed to transform Zambia

Luapula Province Minister, Derricky Chilundika says government is determined to transforming the country.

Mr. Chilundika says the empowerment of over 200 settlers in Kasenga Resettlement in Mansa District with land and grants, and loans given to youths, women and other empowerment programmes are some of the interventions government is putting in place to transform the province.

Speaking during the Independence Celebrations at Mansa Teachers College in Mansa, Mr. Chilundika assured the residents that government will continue to fight for its peoplee in order to better their lives.

He disclosed that 150 youths have been empowered in Luapula with fuel tankers while K150,000 has been spent on micro grants to empower youths.

Mr. Chilundika has appealed to people in the province to adopt practices that promote innovation if the region is to develop.

And Mansa District Commissioner, Ireen Chivweta has applauded the efforts of freedom fighters in ensuring that Zambia attains its independence.

Mrs. Chivweta observes that without the efforts of the freedom fighters Zambia would not have been enjoying its freedom today.

Earlier, Mansa District Freedom Fighters Association Chairperson, Cyprian Mulonda recalled the hardship that freedom fighters went through to gain  the country‘s independence.

Mr. Mulonda has since called on government to create a data base for freedom fighters and take care of them as they have been struggling despite their contribution towards the country.

This year’s independence celebrations is being held under the theme “Zambia at 58 : Promoting Inclusiveness towards a Sustainable Social And Economic Recovery.“

UK congratulates Zambia’ 58th independence anniversary

Support Editor
-
1
UK congratulates Zambia’ 58th independence anniversary

British High Commissioner to Zambia Nicholas Woolley says the United Kingdom joins Zambia in commemorating its 58 years of independence.

Mr. Woolley congratulated the country for celebrating 58 years of liberty and freedoms attained at a great cost.

He noted that Independence Day gives Zambians an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters in the quest to liberate the country.

And commenting on the independence theme “Promoting Inclusiveness towards a Sustainable and Economic Recovery, Mr. Woolley said the British government is working closely with the Zambian government in promoting equality in sectors of the economy.

He explained that the cooperation that Zambia and UK is enjoying is aimed at improving the welfare of the people through provision of improved healthcare services, education, water and sanitation among others.

Mr. Woolley stated that the economic transformation agenda being advanced by the government is cardinal in uplifting the living standards of the people.

President Geingob praises Zambia for helping its neighbours

Support Editor
-
0
President Geingob praises Zambia for helping its neighbours

Namibian President, Hage Geingob has praised Zambia for fostering the freedoms of other countries in the region.

Speaking when he officiated at the country’s 58th Independence anniversary at  State House in Lusaka today, Dr. Geingob noted the role played by Zambia in helping to liberate neighboring countries from colonial rule while fighting for its own independence.

 Dr. Geingob said Zambia will always remain home for Namibians who sought for refuge before attaining its independence.

The Namibian President who was accompanied by First Lady Monica Geingos said his visit reinforces the two countries mutual relations especially in the areas of trade and business.

He further called on Zambians to maintain the peace and freedom they have continued to enjoy, which is a path towards economic transformation.

“We are happy to celebrate with Zambia on its 58th Independence from oppression and foreign rule,” Dr. Geingob stated.

And President Hakainde Hichilema thanked the Namibian government for granting Zambia a strategic port facility in Western Province to increase trade relations between the two countries.

President Hichilema explained that the move will enable the two countries to work together and improve the livelihoods of people.

The Head of State assured his Namibian counterpart that Zambia is coming up with measures on how the port facility can be functional and beneficial to both countries.

President Hichilema further said the two countries have had good relations since time immemorial, disclosing that Zambia had hosted the Namibian President before the country’s liberation for freedom.

President Hichilema thanked his Namibian counterpart together with his wife for joining the country during this year’s Independence anniversary saying it will tighten bilateral relations between the two countries.

Meanwhile, United National Independence Party president, Trevor Mwamba commended President Hichilema for building on the values of the founding government.

Bishop Mwamba cited the promotion of free education policy which was being propagated by UNIP which was in government at that time.

He further said he was happy that President Hichilema has shown political will to lead Zambia towards economic transformation.

Zambia commemorates this year’s independence under the theme, Zambia at 58: Promoting Inclusiveness towards a Sustainable Social and Economic Recovery.’’

Dr. Mumba advises Zambians to uphold peace

Support Editor
-
1
Dr. Mumba advises Zambians to uphold peace

Former Vice president in the Movement for Multiparty Democracy(MMD) administration, Nevers Mumba has urged Zambians to preach peace, love and unity as demonstrated by the fore fathers during the independence struggle.

Dr. Mumba said there is need to preserve the peace that the country is currently enjoying by preaching peace, love and unity.

Dr. Mumba said no meaningful development can take place in the absence of peace, love and unity.

He said this in an exclusive interview with ZANIS during the Investiture Ceremony to mark this year’s 58th independence anniversary which was graced by Namibian President Hage Geingob at State House today.

Dr. Mumba said Zambians should take a leaf from the fore fathers who sacrificed their lives to ensure that Zambia is liberated.

“Through peace, love and unity, there is a lot that we can achieve as Zambians,” said Dr. Mumba.

And Dr. Mumba said national events such as independence anniversary should not be politicised.

” We should not politicise national events such as independence but fully participate during  such events, ” Dr. Mumba said.

And former Vice president in the Patrotic Front (PF) Government, Guy Scott has called on the Zambians to support President Hakainde Hichilema and his new administration.

Dr. Scott said President Hichilema is delivering on the promises he made to the Zambian people.

“Let’s support President Hakainde Hichilema and his new dawn administration. He is doing very fine,” said Dr. Scott.

And in line with this year’s independence theme ” Promoting Inclusiveness Towards Sustainable Social  Development and Economic Recovery,  Zambian artist, Mutale Monde aka Nguzu from the Zambian popular soap Mpali, said the Zambian film industry has capacity to contribute positively to the economic development of the country if well supported.

Mr. Monde said Zambians need to see more of local productions from across the country and that this can be possible if Government provided more money to ZANIS and ZNBC.

“So far so good in terms of  the performance of the Zambian soaps in the film industry but we need to see more of local productions and this why we are appealing to the Government to give ZANIS and ZNBC more money to enable them go out in the rural areas and bring out more local productions from there,” said Mr. Monde.

The investiture ceremony saw Zambian Artist and activist Chama Fumba aka Pilato being honoured with the President’s Medal for Gallantry.

Fumba who is also People’s Action for Accountability and Good Governance Executive Director said he is grateful to President Hichilema for the recognition he has received.

Several other people were honoured and received various awards that also imcluded the Presidents Insignia of Honour, the Presidents Insignia for meritorious achievement,  the order of the Grand Companion of Freedom -2 Division to the Grand Commander of the Grand Companion of Freedom,  the order of Grand Companion of Freedom 3rd Division to the Grand member of the Grand Companion of Freedom , among other honours and awards.

President Hakainde Hichilema and his Namibian counterpart Hage Geingob lay wreaths at the freedom statue

Chief Editor
-
5
President Hakainde Hichilema and his Namibian counterpart Hage Geingob lay wreaths at the freedom statue

President Hakainde Hichilema and his Namibian counterpart Hage Geingob yesterday led members of the diplomatic corps, defense chiefs and Zambians in laying wreaths at the freedom statue in remembrance of the independence fallen heroes and heroines.

The president arrived at the freedom statue at 09:40 hours while president Geingob who was guest of honor at the 58th commemoration of Zambia’s independence arrived five minutes later.

President Geingob was first to lay wreaths followed by president Hichilema, defense chiefs, Ambassadors and High Commissioners.

And in his homily, Zambia Army Chaplain Brigadier General Henry Matifeyo said independence calls for discipline and that Zambia would do better to maintain the respect she commands from other countries owing to its love and peace.

General Matifeyo also urged Zambians to uphold the tenets of Ubuntu adding that Zambia has also matured thereby bringing to reality the One Zambia One Nation motto.

And the Southern African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes-SACCORD- says this year’s Independence Day celebrations must be taken as an opportunity to reflect on some of the challenges the country faces and to devise solutions to the current problems.

SACCORD Executive Director Boniface Cheembe says the day must also be used to reform pieces of legislation that seek to contribute to the nation’s maintenance of peace considering that some of them have been a serious source of conflict as well as human rights violations.

In his independence message, Mr. Cheembe is of the view that going forward, all independence celebrations must consist of some progress made in reforming colonial pieces of legislation and should equally take stock of some other progressive pieces of legislation that the country enacts in the interest of citizens and the country.

Meanwhile, Transparency International Zambia–TIZ-through its Executive Director Maurice Nyambe has called on all political players, both in the ruling party and the opposition, to jealously guard the peace and democracy that Zambians have enjoyed for many years, and to ensure that their political discourse and practice do not polarize the country along narrow partisan interests.

Mr. Nyambe says TIZ is cognizant that there remains real threats in the quest for democracy to thrive, many of which have emanated from the conduct of political players over the years in Zambia.

Still in independence news, Governance Activist Wesley Miyanda has called on all political parties to put aside their differences as the country celebrates Independence Day.
Mr. Miyanda says with the current happenings surrounding the recently held controversial by-elections in Kabushi and Kwacha, others may be demoralized from taking part in today’s activities.

The 58th anniversary of Zambia’s independence is being commemorated under the theme “Zambia at 58: promoting inclusiveness towards a sustainable social and economic recovery.”

Zambia at 58 Looks Lost and Unsure of Itself Than it was at 18, 28 and 48 years old

Chief Editor
-
27
Zambia at 58 Looks Lost and Unsure of Itself Than it was at 18, 28 and 48 years old

By Saboi Imboela President- NDC

As National Democratic Congress, NDC, we today take time to briefly reflect on Zambia’s political and economic trajectory from birth, the time it was a teenager, all the way to adulthood at 58 years old today.

Born on 24th October, 1964, Zambia only had 100 graduates at independence and our forefathers were left with Western systems that their own people could not effectively run unless they embarked on an ambitious program to educate their people, get expatriates and also use whatever home grown talent or expertise that they could find. Our GDP in 1964 was $0.84B, Per Capita income was $242 and our growth that year was an amazing 12.21%. This was further pushed to 16.65% growth just the following year in 1965, but sadly a good number of the UNIP years were characterised by negative growth after that.

At 18 years old in 1982, Zambia was a teenager that had just reached adulthood.The party in power then was still the liberation party called the United National Independence Party, UNIP, led by our first President Dr. Kenneth Kaunda. The GDP of Zambia was $3.99B, Per Capita income was $638 and unfortunately the percentage of growth in this year was -2.81%. This was despite the fact that the economy had grown by a whooping 6.17% just the previous year in 1981 and 3.04% in 1980.

By the age of 28 years in 1992, Zambia was led by the second ruling or governing party the Movement for Multi- party Democracy, MMD, led by the second Republican President Dr. Frederick Titus Jacob Chiluba, popularly known as FTJ. The MMD took over power from UNIP after a 27 year reign of the first President. So at 28, Zambia was more optimistic and ready to concur the world. The MMD embarked on very ambitious liberalisation and privatisation programnes to try and deal with the stagnation that had been caused by some of the One Party State policies of UNIP. Despite the adverse effects of the Structural Adjustment Programmes, SAPs, that came with privatisation, people were able to own private properties like houses and it also dealt with the issue of many retirees becoming destitute due to lack of home ownership and the like.

Politically, Zambia, in 1991, also moved from Socialist policies to Democratic or capitalist ones. The GDP of the country by 1992 was $3.18B, the per Capita income was $376 and the growth that year was at -1.73%. By 1993, MMD had pushed the growth to 6.80%.

Zambia at the age of 48 years old had another ruling party the Patriotic Front, PF under Michael Chilufya Sata who was the 5th President of the country. Power had just changed hands the previous year in 2011. So at 48 years in 2012, Zambia’s GDP was $25.50B, Per Capita income was $1,763 and growth was 7.60%.

Last year in 2021, the GDP of the country was $21.20B, Per Capita was $1,121 and growth was at 3.57%. Zambia is now 58 years old and political and economic reform programmes that made us see the figures above are not very clear. It has to be mentioned that for us to develop, we need to have a constant or sustained growth of over 6%, China started growing at an average of 11% per annum and that is why it is the way it is today and a marvel to watch by other economies. So growing at less than 3% and in negatives is not good for Zambia.

The UNIP led government prioritised nationalisation, import substitution programmes, building infrastructure, giving its citizens good quality free education, etc. The MMD anchored its programmes on privatisation and allowing free market forces to run the economy. The PF embarked on an ambitious infrastructure development programme and direct empowerment programmes of some selected groups of women, youth and even men.

The UPND has made pronouncements that are yet to be verified. They claimed to have inherited empty coffers from the PF, but the very first budget they made just two months after forming government saw them increase Constituency Development Funds, CDF, which is given to all 156 Constituencies of Zambia. They increased it from K1.6B to K25.7B per Constituency in the 2022 budget and further increased it to K28B in the 2023 budget. They further claimed to have employed over 30,000 teachers and over 11,000 health workers. So much for empty coffers. But most importantly, their recruitments are something that no one can verify, as two months ago, the government announced that over 17,000 teachers have been put on the payroll and we are still waiting to see if all of them will be put on the payroll or if the 17,000 and 30,000 figures were genuine in the first place.

The UPND seems to be wholly dependent on the IMF for its economic recovery plan. The optimistic plans they shared while in opposition seem to have disappeared into thin air.

Some people, including their ministers, say that they need more time. But this is one year after they came into office and we do not know where we are going. Liz Truss in the UK had to resign just after 44 days on the job because our friends know that someone has to hit the ground running when they get into these jobs than asking for time even one year later. This is because they were voted for on account of ambitious programmes or manifestos that they pretended to want to implement for the country once sworn into office. We cannot get there in one day, but we need to be assured of the journey and how we shall get there, because currently the UPND seems not to even have a campus or direction for the journey.

For the Love of Zambia

Chief Editor
-
12
For the Love of Zambia

By Chainga Zulu

This year’s Independence Anniversary is commemorated under the theme: Zambia @ 58: Promoting Inclusiveness towards a Sustainable Social and Economic Recovery. However, a selected and anointed few will be invited to State functions where cakes decorated in the Green, Black, Orange and Red – bought using taxpayers’ money – will be cut and eaten live on TV so that the majority of Zambians can watch and just whet their appetites. Drooling over these cakes will be their patriotic contribution. Zambia is 58 years old. 58 years of self-rule and what do we have to show for it? In the immortal words of one famous politician: not much, not much. why? Because of our own failures to seize opportunities that are littered around our yard. And also because of the fact that we are just a single household in the global village, many of failures to realize the returns on independence are absolutely due to our neighbors’ orientation.

Can I leave for another country? Maybe yes. Maybe not. I think I’m in love with this country. Despite the dirty, dust, diseases and poverty marinated in corruption, lack of opportunities and bad politics. I am in an abusive relationship with my country and my body, emotions and socioeconomic status have plenty of scars to show for it

My seemingly irrational attachment to Zambia can be perplexing to the uninitiated. Psychiatrists have a name for this kind of behavior. They compare it to the wartime shell shock exhibited by soldiers and explained that the hostages became emotionally indebted to their abductors, and not the police, for being spared death, and dubbed the strange phenomenon “Stockholm Syndrome,” which became part of the popular lexicon in 1974.

Is there something wrong with me?

The answers are that there’s absolutely nothing wrong with me and even if I had a choice of hating this country, my umbilical cord was buried here. Forever attached to this country. In the words of Eric Donaldson, this is the Land of My Birth.
We need to develop a generation of patriots who will not just work for self-aggrandizement, but also realign the country on the development path. Patriots that will work to eradicate the vices that have confounded our beautiful country for the past 58 years. Friends, being Zambians has meant always that we need to perpetually navigate varying frontiers. Marking territories of successes, living in the present known and hoping for the better unknown tomorrow.

Patriotism is important for the protection of a country’s culture and historical heritage. It is to take pride in representing one’s nation. Patriotism decides the fate of the nation and is critical building block for development and growth. Patriotism is self-reinforcing: if those who are in leadership were patriotic, they would be prioritizing Zambia and Zambians in all they do. In turn, we would all be proud to Zambian. But there is always a law of diminishing return in the application of patriotism.

Though patriotism has been eroding since 1964, it still smoulders.

Granted, we still have a lot to do to improve the lives of all Zambians. We should celebrate the progress made whilst at the same time incessantly work on the existing gaps. They are not mutually exclusive. Let us count our blessings. When the entire Southern Africa was in flames during the liberation movements, Zambia was a haven for South Africans, Zimbabweans, Mozambicans, Angolans including Namibians. And in almost 31 years, we have peacefully changed presidents 7 times and allowed ourselves to be superintended on by 4 political parties.

My Zambia is a beautiful country, she is the crown jewel of the SADC and our people are free, no oppression here apart from the self-inflicted by politicians we choose to put in power. We have our valorous women who are as pretty as they are hardworking. The men with an immutable responsibility of providing protection and livelihoods. The vigilant youths who will not hum and haw to kick out any acrimonious politician from power if they are deemed to have forgotten their mandate. With minor vicissitudes, this is homogeneous from Muyombe to Shang’ombo and Livingstone to Chiengi. From the top of the Mafinga Hills at 2329m above sea level to the bottom of the Zambezi river at 329m above sea level and the Liuwa plains, from the Kobompo river to the valleys of Chama and beaches of Samfya.

For me Zambia, is like the Eagle’s hotel California: I can check out any time I like but I (think) can never leave.

Today we cherish the ones who made our independence possible. We salute those who work tirelessly to perfect the Zambian dream.

Happy 58th My Zambia. I stand and sing for you, proud and free.

Lusaka to welcome five star resort

Chief Editor
-
14
Lusaka to welcome five star resort

Asian developer Hing Construction will bring a new five-star hotel resort to Lusaka.

The resort with around 150 rooms will be spread over 12 floors and situated on a podium.

The partners believe the project could offer a long-term solution for chains such as Kempinski, Fairmont, Marriott, or Hilton.

Construction is expected to start in August 2023 and will be fully financed through issuing medium-term institutional bonds.

Hotel investment advisor Barrows is providing guidance on the project using its African and Middle Eastern regional experience.

Both parties have signed into a capital acquisition agreement for the realisation of this project with a total project value of $110 million.

Barrows CEO Erwin Jager detailed: “Barrows will raise the funding within its institutional network of hedge funds and retirement funds. Both parties are focused on large-scale hotel developments in West and Central Africa.”

The rooms are spread over 12 floors and situated on a podium where the other facilities, such as a restaurant, meeting facilities, business center, Wellness, sports facilities and a vertical farm, will be realized.

Parking will be located in the basement.

Other Zambian hotel projects underway include two Radisson Hotel Group sites, the 200-key Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya Livingstone Resort arriving before the end of this year, and Park Inn by Radisson Lusaka Longacres, bringing 135 keys to the country’s capital this year too.

Parents, guardians urged to help curb examination malpractices

Support Editor
-
0
Parents, guardians urged to help curb examination malpractices

Northwestern Province Education Officer, Jennipher Banda has called on parents and guardians to help in combating examination malpractice in the province.

Ms. Banda said parents should play a critical role in eliminating examination malpractice in all schools by advising children to study hard and avoid such vices.

She said this in Kabompo today in her speech during the first grade 12 inauguration graduation ceremony at Kabompo boarding secondary school.

“I would like to advise our dear parents to help school authorities in combating examination malpractice in all our schools because some parents contribute to the vice,” Ms. Banda said.

The Provincial Education Officer said out of the 60 malpractice General Certificate of Education examination results recorded in the country, 33 were recorded in northwestern province and two were from Kabompo district.

“We would like to see such events organised in all schools as this acts as a motivating factor in improving pupil performance even in examinations,” Ms. Banda said.

Speaking at the same event Acting District Commissioner, Hendrix Solochi commended Kabompo boarding secondary school administration for organising the first ever graduation ceremony which has seen 66 grade 12s graduate since 1966 when the school was constructed.

Mr Solochi commended the school for successfully hosting the ceremony and pledged to support the school in its endeavour to provide quality education.

“Head Teacher congratulations for holding this wonderful first ever event at Kabompo school and as government we shall always support you in your endevours,” Mr Solochi said.

He further advised the graduating pupils to work hard in the coming examination as the graduation only symbolized the starting of life thus should not relax in pursuing their education.

And Province Senior Standard Education Officer for Examination, Vacster Katende said they have embarked on an examination malpractice campaign dabbed “eliminating examination malpractice in the province”.

Mr Katende said the previous recorded malpractice cases in the province not only painted a negative picture in the country but also poses a danger to the quality of education being delivered in schools in the province.

Meanwhile Kabompo Boarding Secondary School Head Teacher, Isaac Lijimu in his opening remarks stated that the school organised the event to help motivate the learners as they should be at the center of attention in the provision of quality education.

Mr Lijimu said though schools are not reformatory institutions for children, teachers should help shape their aspirations and desires in their future life.

In a vote of thanks on behalf of all parents, Alex Kabamba thanked the school for awarding the pupils and involving them in the first ever graduation ceremony.

“We are happy that you have involved us and have organised this event for our children, as parents we are very thankful to the school administration and all the senior dignitaries who have travelled to witness this special event,” Mr Kabamba said.

Shiwang’andu swimming in development- Chief

Support Editor
-
5
Shiwang’andu swimming in development- Chief

A Traditional Leader in Shiwang’andu District of Muchinga Province has praised Government for the inclusiveness of all areas in its developmental agenda.

Chief Mwaba wa Nkulungwe of the bemba people in Shiwang’andu district says his chiefdom has not been left behind in terms of development which was not taking place before.

The Chief said he has taken it upon himself to educate his subjects in the two wards in his chiefdom on the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and the importance of education.

Chief Mwaba wa Nkulungwe who is also a member of the Ward Development Committee in the District, said the increase in CDF from 25.7 to 28.3 million kwacha in the 2023 national budget once approved by Parliament will create more employment opportunities through the many community projects that will be identified and implemented.

He said Mwaba wa Nkulungwe area is earmarked for development as seen by the inclusiveness stance taken by the United Party for National Development ( UPND) government.

He cited some of the developments that his subjects are benefiting from Government as the Social Cash Transfer Program, free education policy and  empowerment programs among others.

The Chief added that the free education policy coupled with the introduction of the school feeding program has contributed to the increased enrolment levels at various schools in the area.

The traditional leader, however, bemoaned the rapid increase in cases of Gender Based Violence (GBV) and early child marriages which he said the chiefdom has been struggling with for years.

He has since appealed to Government and Non-Governmental Organisation (NGOs) to work with the traditional leadership in the area in order to bring an end to these vices.

And Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises Development Elias Mubanga has assured the Chief of more development in the area.

Mr Mubanga said the government will ensure that the road network in the area is worked on including the expansion of Nkulungwe rural health center among others.

He said the purpose of his visit to the area is to ensure that people of Mwaba wa Nkulungwe access the Farmer Input Support  Program and empowerment funds for those who are in business already and those who desire to start up various businesses.

 The Minister said this when he paid a courtesy call on Chief Mwaba wa Nkulungwe at his palace yesterday.

Meanwhile, Shiwang’andu District Commissioner, Maureen Bwembya has applauded Chief Mwaba wa Nkulungwe for working with the government of day.

Ms Bwembya says the Chief has been instrumental and supportive of government programs saying his  influential on his subjects is impressive.

” We always run to the chief to help us each time we face difficulties during government programs for him to talk and convince his people on certain matters, he is  at our disposal each time and we are happy as district administration for his  open door policy,” She said.

The DC said the just ended COVID -19 vaccination campaign, 2022 national population census and awareness family planning programs among others are some of the programs the chief has been instrumental on.

President of Namibia arrives to grace Zambia’s independence day

Support Editor
-
14
President of Namibia arrives to grace Zambia’s independence day

President of Namibia Hage Geingob has arrived in Zambia for a one-day official visit.

The plane carrying the visiting Head of State, in the company of Namibian First Lady, Monica Geingob, touched down   at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, (KKIA) at 17:00 hours Zambian time.

The Namibian Head of State was received by President Hakainde Hichilema, accompanied by First Lady Mutinta Hichilema.

Others present to receive the visiting President included Minister of Justice Mulambo Haimbe, the Service Chiefs among other senior government officials.
Later the two Presidents went to the Presidential Dais after which the visiting President was accorded a 21-gun salute.

Dr. Geingob then inspected the guard of honour after which the two Presidents in the company of their spouses appreciated some Zambian cultural entertainment.

Later, President Hichilema and his Namibian counterpart held a closed-door meeting.

President Geingob accepted an invitation to be Guest of Honour at the 58th Independence Anniversary Commemorations scheduled for Monday, 24th October, 2022.

During his Visit, President Geingob will also participate in the Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Freedom Statue in honour of Zambia’s departed liberation heroes and heroines.

Zambia and Namibia enjoy warm and cordial bilateral relations underpinned by strong historical ties dating back to the years of the liberation struggle.

Based on shared values and principles, the two countries collaborate at regional, continental and global levels.

President Hichilema has continued to underscore the need for greater cooperation among countries in the southern African region to enhance intra-African trade and partnerships for meaningful joint ventures, which will help to accelerate the attainment of common development aspirations.

The President’s recent participation at the Swakopmund International Trade Expo in Namibia, among other high-level engagements, is testament of the government’s ongoing efforts to drive this development agenda.

To this end, the Visit by President Geingob serves to reinforce Zambia’s bilateral relations with Namibia and to strengthen partnerships directed at national and regional development, as well as cooperation at multilateral fora, for mutual benefit of the people in the two countries.

President Geingob is expected to depart Zambia after his engagements.

This year’s Independence Anniversary is commemorated under the theme: “Zambia @58: Promoting Inclusiveness towards a Sustainable So

1...473474475...5,629Page 474 of 5,629

Company

Trending

Categories

© Lusaka Times