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Current conditions of service for Councillors in the country are heartbreaking-Sunday Chanda

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Current conditions of service for Councillors in the country are heartbreaking-Sunday Chanda

Kanchibiya Member of Parliament Sunday Chanda has described the current conditions of service for Councillors in the country as heartbreaking.

And the Kanchibiya MP has since requested the acting Clerk of the National Assembly that he on October 12th 2022 move a motion on the floor of the house for Parliament to urge government to improve conditions of service for the councillors, a move he says cuts across all parties.

“This is not a partisan motion, it is a motion that cuts across partisan rank and file, the conditions of service for our councillors is something that is heartbreaking.” He said.

The Kanchibiya Lawmaker said this is especially for Councillors from rural constituencies such as Kanchibiya and Shiwang’andu among others from both the opposition and ruling parties including independents.

He hopes that the Executive will be magnanimous enough to agree to the equitable distribution of resources.

“We hope that government will be magnanimous enough to agree that in terms of equity, because we are making this argument on the basis of equity that thee ought to be equitable distribution of resources,” he said.”

“And our councillors have families to run, they’re doing a great job serving our country, ” he added.

Hon. Chanda further said that the issue of councillors’ conditions service should be given attention with the Emoluments Commission in place.

“With the Emoluments Commission operationalised, their issue must be given the significance it ought to be given.” He said.

500 teenage pregnancies recorded to date in Chipata

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500 teenage pregnancies recorded to date in Chipata

Over 500 teenage pregnancies were recorded in the first and second quarters of 2022 in Chipata City, health authorities in the area have said.

Acting District Adolescent Focal Point Person (DADH-FPP) Seth Chongo said his office captured a total of 596 teenage pregnancies from January to June this year.

Mr Chongo in an interview Friday said 323 teenage pregnancies were recorded in the first quarter of 2022 while 273 were recorded in the second quarter.

“So you are aware that our district has been battling teen pregnancy for a while now. There are a lot of interventions that have been put up by the district health office while working with various stakeholders,” he said.

Mchini Health Post was leading in terms of teenage pregnancies among urban facilities in the the country’s fifth city.

To this effect the Mr Chongo’s office has held a field day on reproductive health aimed at curbing the problem in the area.

“So we organised the adolescents of Mchini to conduct various adolescent-friendly activities in Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR),” he said.

He said during the field day, held under the theme: “Together For A Teen Pregnancy Free Mchini” addressed issues affecting adolescents in that community.

As a whole,1,120 adolescents were reached while 3,549 condoms were distributed.

“The young people used poetry, cultural dances and sketches to communicate messages. After the performances, people visited various booths where information and services were offered such as HIV testing services, contraceptives, information on mental health, GBV, alcohol and substance abuse,” Mr Chongo said.

FQM Trident Ltd Donates Animals to Lunga West National Park

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FQM Trident Ltd Donates Animals to Lunga West National Park

By SOLWEZI TODAY REPORTER

FQM Trident Ltd is restocking animals at West Lunga National Park in North-Western Province at the request of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife.

The company has through its Wildlife Management Team of Trident Foundation Ltd (TFL) conducted a capture and restocking operation for the Park.

Through TFL and following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2014 with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), FQM is a private management partner of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) in Zambia.

The MoU was for the protection and rehabilitation of the West Lunga Management Area whose animal population had been depleted due to massive poaching.

Speaking during the release of the first consignment of the animals into the West Lunga National Park, FQM Trident Programme Lead for Wildlife and Forestry Management Dr David Squarre said the initiative by the mining firm to promote wildlife conservation was a unique one.

“The idea is to form within this area a wildlife economy and a community that is aware of the importance of conserving wildlife. We are actually demonstrating that apart from the mining activities, the mining company can support wildlife conservation by bringing together two opposite extreme players. This is a clear demonstration and I think it is the first of its kind where we are actually bringing in two players, that is the mining and wildlife conservation,” Dr Squarre said.

He said supporting wildlife conservation would help local communities optimize the social and economic benefits realized from the mining and ecosystem services from wildlife.

“The decision was actually to bring in animals here so that we can restock the national park as a request from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife. What FQM would like to see in future is that this national park becomes sustainable and supported by the community to demonstrate as an example of what public-private partnership would bring,” he said.

Dr Squarre said FQM Trident had incorporated the West Lunga National Park as part of its corporate social responsibility and was providing technical support to the law enforcement officers such as provision of equipment, uniforms, food rations and fuel among others.

FQM Trident has donated 40 impala to the DNPW which were released into the West Lunga National Park in North-Western Province. The team also restocked the Ntambu Community Game Ranch with three male eland and six sable antelopes.

The animals were captured from the Trident Wildlife Sanctuary which is adjacent to the Mine, harbouring 13 animal species that were introduced for breeding purposes.
Dr Squarre said the mine, working together with DNPW had established adequate security around the 11,000 square metre-plus national park so that the animals could multiply as part of the restoration programme for the West Lunga National Park to restore its ecological function.

And DNPW representative, Michael Phiri who is a wildlife police officer stationed at Jivundu Wildlife Camp, thanked FQM Trident for its support in terms of law enforcement at one of the biggest national parks in the country.

“The national park was depleted and we are very grateful to the mine for conceiving the idea of bringing in animals for restocking,” Phiri said. Story courtesy of Suma Systems.

Saboi Imboela writes to HH over Chellah Tukuta’s remarks against her

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Saboi Imboela writes to HH over Chellah Tukuta’s remarks against her

National Democratic Congress (NDC) President Saboi Imboela has written to Republican President Hakainde Hichilema to complain over alleged blatant disrespect for women by people serving in the New Dawn government and UPND cadres.

Immediate past State House Photographer and UPND supporter Chellah Tukuta this week issued negative remarks against Ms. Imboela that borders on sexual harassment.

Mr. Tukuta was responding to Ms. Imboela’s remarks against him suggesting that President Hichilema recently transferred the photographer from State House to the Embassy in Brazil because of making homophobic remarks relating to the recently held controversial Lusaka July.

“An elderly woman like you is embarrassing the University of Zambia with your kind of reasoning and makes us wonder if there’s another UNZA because most UNZA graduates are so intelligent and their reasoning top class. If you want me kulandafye not passing mumbali.The way you are doing politics is dangerous and I feel pity you won’t go anywhere with that approach. Whenever you dream ghosts on top….You suddenly begin to act very strange maybe you need a man in flesh to service your needs otherwise mwalapena,” Mr. Tukuta told Ms. Imboela in a Facebook post.

In a letter to President Hichilema which has also been copied to the international community, Ms. Imboela said she has a right to provide checks and balances without being insulted by UPND leaders.

Ms. Imboela said the trend of insulting female opposition political party leaders by the UPND is worsening.

“The UPND has been in office for a year now and while there are a few areas were your party has scored, the issues of gender, women and blatant disrespect of women by your officials, UPND cadres and people that surround you is becoming a huge source of concern. As a member of the opposition and a President of a political party for that matter, I have a Right to provide checks and balances in whatever way I see fit, without being insulted by your party leaders. The UPND is not the first party to be in office and there were no insults like this from all your predecessors, at least not to this extent.I wonder why criticisms by female leaders are said to be due to sexual starvation by your party members and yet we do not hear them say the same about the men. We never say that men are making bad political decisions due to impotence, low libido, homosexuality and other staff,but stick to politics and not deteriorate the political discourse to assume bedroom issues of male leaders, as they do with women,” Ms. Imboela wrote.

She charged that insults being targeted at female opposition political party leaders by the UPND seem to have government blessings.

“So I urge you, Mr. President, to bring sanity to our politics because if we hit back, the Zambian political discourse will be filled with bedroom assumptions and not real issues, like we see in other countries. Or as it was before your party ascended to power. I write this letter to bring to your attention the latest insults that one of your appointees has written against me. Kindly find enclosed my article on Chellah Tukuta’s diplomatic appointment and his response on the same. I know that anyone who insults in your name or is a UPND supporter has immunity for such despicable behavior, but I want to put it on record that these are the kinds of insults that most of your officials hurl at women just in case you never see them. These are people that are working for you and supported by you, all because the insults are against the opposition, they seem to have government blessings,” Ms. Imboela stated.

She continued:”I have also copied the international community so that they know what is going on in the Country and the levels of abuse that women are undergoing under your watch, by people that are so close to you. And also the same way we run to the IMF and other institutions for our economic decisions, maybe politically we are also unable to govern ourselves with civility.For this reason, I call upon your office, the international community and all well meaning Zambians to help stop this kind of discourse because when it deteriorates further, no one will be spared. Even the Sedition law will not work for you as President because you will not manage to jail everyone and people will begin to insult you without defaming you.”

Ms. Imboela said insulting female opposition political party leaders by the UPND is totally unacceptable and has to stop.

“Your people and probably even you,justify that it is in order to attack and insult the female opposition leaders like that. Any political comment we make ends up in our bedrooms and you are watching that. That is totally unacceptable and has to be brought to a stop,otherwise no one’s bedroom will be safe. We criticize you and your government based on the policies, pronouncements and decisions you make. We also always try to go beyond the reasons you give to the public and analyse, as well as give the public the reasons we feel you make certain decisions. You were in the opposition for a long time sir, you know how this works.So to always receive insults that leave the political platforms and enter our bedrooms as women is totally unacceptable. You need to bring a stop to this otherwise, I repeat,no one’s bedroom will be safe.Be it that of men and women, or even yours Mr. President. And let me emphasise that bedroom Affairs are private and so people make all these disgusting remarks towards women based on assumption.So there will be nothing stopping us from making assumptions about men also. So if all women that comment on politics are sexually starved, then maybe Zambia is being poorly governed due to impotent men. Such levels of discourse will continue to make this country look and get filthier and civility in our politics will continue to elude us,” she said.

“I wonder why your people think that sex
and politics are one and the same thing and that they can openly discuss women’s sexuality like that. We are some times insulted by boys and girls young enough to be our children and as long as they call them selves praise singers and insult us for your benefit they feel protected.Some times it is big people with wives, daughters and mothers that feel comfortable insulting someone else’s daughter, wife, mother, spouse or sister.As a mother of 3 children, it really pains me to see a Zambia that has lost so much direction and respect for women in just one year of your presidency. Sadly, most opposition and ruling parties in Zambia never have good relationships, but not what we are seeing under your leadership. This is totally unacceptable. I look forward to your urgent guidance in this matter and hearing from you soon,” Ms. Imboela concluded.

Last June, UPND Presidential Advisor William Banda issued insulting remarks against New Heritage Party President Chishala Kateka for staging a solo protest in Lusaka.

Mr. Banda, a former UNIP Vigilante, accused Ms. Kateka of being sexually starved after her lone protest over high cost of essential commodities earlier this week.

Interesting and yet unproductive discourse on Sodomy & Homosexuality!

Chief Editor
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Interesting and yet unproductive discourse on Sodomy & Homosexuality!

By Prince Bill M. Kaping’a Political/Social Analyst

Interesting discourse has taken center stage lately in the nation about no other than sodomy and homosexuality! As expected in the era of internet, social media has obviously been set ablaze with conflicting views from everyone who reckons they ought to add their voice to the debate, somehow…….from the clergy in both established and struggling Churches, individuals attempting to cut their teeth in politics and activists trying to assume the role of heroes, senior citizens watching life fast pass by and individuals eager to prove that they remain morally upright in this SINFUL world!

While some people have argued it’s only now that the practice has notoriously become prominent, others have insisted it would be hypocritical to pretend it’s only now such a phenomenon is being introduced in the nation. It has been there for ages, they insist……only that society has talked about it in muffled tones.

One such interesting discourse we were able to capture was on Facebook was on Andrew Sakala’s page! Readers might be keen to learn that Mr. Sakala is a veteran scribe with many years of experience under his belt having plied his trade at the Times of Zambia, ascending to a coveted position as editor, and most recently as president of the hitherto influential Press Association of Zambia.

“Truth be told, ” he wrote. “While some including some Church leaders are pointing fingers at the state for the rise in LGBTQ cases, the truth is promotion and normalization of this culture is taking place right in our homes. How? Check the movies, reality shows and even cartoons on pay TVs such as DStv, Gotv and Top Star.”

Alderman Patrick Tembo who once served as Mayor of the city of Kitwe had a contrary view. He argued that it is unfortunate that our society has become a dumping ground for what he termed, “filthy, immoral and strange practices which are tied to the aid we are receiving from the imperialists!” He somehow hinted that there didn’t seem to be sufficient political will on the part of the current administration to curb the vice.

In agreeing with Alderman Tembo, Joseph Phiri argued that the curse upon us is poverty. He felt that It’s like we have no choice but accept the practice lest we will not get additional loans.

This was, however, immediately shot down by David M Mwanangombe. He couldn’t help but wonder what the so-called Lusaka July which was introduced during the PF regime was all about. “Tasila Lungu and Miles Sampa have prominently graced that event in the past, long before UPND got into government. Can they shed some light on it?” he asked.

Charles Lukonde weighed in arguing that one had to be nuts to think that some of our people have become gay within a space of 12 months! He contended that thieving ex- ministers……nay, a clique of thieves, PF criminals and their surrogates were hellbent on derailing the new government buoyed up by a rotten judiciary and the corrupt police service where a deputy IG was a thief! “The New Dawn Administration has on several occasions stated that they do not support gay rights, both before and after they came into power. Who is on record having pardoned a gay couple when the courts found them guilty?” he wondered.

On the other hand, Innocent Daka revealed that they grew up alive to the fact that ‘bazungu’ priests in Anglican and Catholic had abused boys associated with their churches. “In the 1980s when we were young, we used to hear whispers in our community how alter boys and priests had developed some peculiar strong bonds. Alter boys, some of them who are priests today would confess having been molested by priests!”

Patrick Kabanshi insisted that these things have always been a part of our society. He argued that, “We gain absolutely nothing by wishing them away! I think the solution first lies in admitting that this is here to stay and we then figure out how best we can strike some balance of living with it.”

Given the forgoing, it is quite clear homosexuality has always been very much part of our society just like your other list of “SINS” as highlighted in the Bible no matter how much we try to pretend and condemn it or turn some people into eunuchs.

Even if we round up all those we consider as ‘queer,’ dump them in the dungeon and throw away the keys, the walls of prison won’t change their sexual orientation. They’d still continue enjoying themselves in there, and once they come out, they’d carry on as if nothing happened to them. As Kabanshi seems to suggest, the best is to get to know these folks and understand them. If it is something that requires prayer, let us pray for them but if it something that we can’t change such as hereditary, let us stop hiding in the so-called culture and accept them as they are!

Let us avoid emotions or insults and debate intelligently…….

Mwape Names Provisional Shepolopolo Team For Holland Friendly

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Shepolopolo Zambia coach Bruce Mwape has named his 32-member provisional squad for next month’s international friendly match against Netherlands.

Zambia will face the Orange Lionesses in a friendly on Thursday, October 6 at the NAC Breda stadium in Breda.

Mwape has recalled the Europe-based trio of Rachael Kundananji, Rachael Nachula and Prisca Chilufya.

Zambia and Netherlands are preparing for the FIFA Women’s World Cup to be jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand in July 2023.

According to FAZ, the team will enter camp this weekend.

FULL SQUAD:

GOALKEEPERS
Hazel Nali (Fatih Vatan Spor-Turkey), Catherine Musonda (Indeni Roses), Eunice Sakala (Nkwazi Queens), Mwila Chishala Mufute (Police Doves)

DEFENDERS
Esther Banda (BUSA), Esther Siamfuko (Queens Academy), Margaret Belemu (Hakkariguku Spor FC -Turkey), Bertha Imponene (Police Doves), Vast Phiri (Zesco Ndola Girls), Martha Tembo, Lushomo Mweemba, Agness Musesa (all Green Buffaloes), Pauline Zulu (Elite Ladies FC)

MIDFIELDERS
Misozi Zulu (Hakkariguku Spor FC -Turkey), Ireen Lungu (Green Buffaloes), Esnard Shuko Mambwe, Mary Wilombe, Mary Mambwe (all Red Arrows), Evarine Susan Katongo (ZISD Women), Avell Chitundu (Zesco Ndola Girls), Rhoda Chileshe (Indeni Roses), Maweta Chilenga (BUSA), Prisca Chilufya (FC Tomiris Turan-Kazakhstan), Ochumba Oseke Lubanji (Red Arrows

STRIKERS
Rachael Kundananji, Grace Chanda (both Madrid CFF-Spain), Xiomara Mapepa (Elite Ladies FC), Barbara Banda (Shanghai Shengli-China),), Eneless Phiri (Police Doves), Jessy Zulu (Pataaki FC), Natasha Nanyangwe (Green Buffaloes), Rachael Nachula (Zaragoza CFF-Spain)

HH threatens to fire Procurement Officers Frustrating the New Dawn government’s efforts

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HH threatens to fire Procurement Officers Frustrating the New Dawn government’s efforts

President Hakainde Hichilema has warned that unrepentant procurement officers frustrating the New Dawn government’s efforts in bettering Zambia will be fired.

President Hakainde Hichilema was responding to various concerns raised by members of the UPND National Votes Protection WhatsApp chat platform on Thursday night.

According to the conversation published by State House Press Analysts – Fredrick Misebezi and Brian Mwiinga, President Hichilema responded to issues ranging from UPND government neglecting party supporters to job creation.

“This year, we are focusing on removing those who do not want to change for better, just watch the next steps. We gave them chance to change to reform but they are resisting. Nothing and nobody will be allowed to stand in the way of change to better lives of Zambians. Kwasila, Kwamana,” Mr. Hichilema responded.

On suggestions that Chawama Member of Parliament Tasila Lungu’s Security Company has a running contract with ZESCO Limited, President Hichilema responded:”Things must be done properly to avoid litigation in some situations.
Thanks.”

One member of the group told the Head of State that UPND members needed contracts to supply goods and services in various sectors but were being prevented by people from the procurement who are just giving contracts to PF.

“More jobs and small businesses are coming as we bring more investments from our marketing efforts and as we continue rebuilding the economy ravaged by PF.Your Government is trying hard to clean the PF mess so we can improve people’s lives.Your Government will support you within what is possible and over time things will continue to get better,” President Hichilema stated.

The Republican President highlighted some of the successes his government has recorded so far.

“Please list the specific benefits you as members of UPND are expecting which are not part of those your Government is delivering. Examples of what your Government is doing include freedom from the PF violence, free education, school desks, more classrooms in schools, teacher’s houses, provision of water and sanitation, more clinics, 30,000 teachers, 11,000 medical staff, payment of retirees, freedom in bus stops/markets to use and to trade in, freedom of speech, employment of DCs and others in government/councils/quasi-government institutions, improved kwacha against dollar, some prices of commodities going down (cement, sugar, cooking oil, mealie meal, soap, fuel, etc), access to increased social cash, women and youth funds in the much increased CDF, availing fertiliser and seed fairly across the country. The list is long of what your Government has done and continues to do (in one year).The IMF programme and restructuring of the huge debt acquired by the PF will bring more relief to the economy and will make it easier for Government to support you the people.When we re-open mining licences soon, we will give you citizens licences to mine on your own or in partnership with others. We are working on a programme to make more land available to you the citizens. Many more benefits are on the way.So please tell your servant, HH, what other things do you want your Government to do for you and we will look at them if they are within reach. What your Government will not do is to distribute stolen money (tantameni, ka ‘somefing’) as PF was doing. The PF corruption destroyed our country and we should not go in that direction,” he wrote.

President Hichilema added:”Soon we will be recruiting more of our citizens in the Police, Army, ZAF, Correctional Services, National Service, etc. As we bring more investments, private companies will also be employing more people. Let us correctly read the positive direction the country is going in.Shouting at your Government everyday and fighting among yourselves is not the way to rebuild a rundown country.”

He told UPND members that they should not expect handouts like it used to happen in the PF regime.

“Some (UPND members) have been recruited as teachers, medical staff, others will be recruited in military, police, etc as I have already said above. But not all can be recruited at the same time. My advice to all members is that let us not destroy that which we worked hard to build. Let us stop abusing each other, let us have respect for each other, let us work as one big family. Mwiinde, you cannot run or manage anything without a system or order, nothing at all. Chipantepante is what led to the PF destruction of our country. Let us not go that way.Any successful country in the world today is run in a methodical and orderly manner, China, Singapore, Malaysia, USA, Norway, etc. In Botswana next door there is order, you poach wild animals you are shot at sight, you steal you are jailed, you are corrupt you go to jail, throwing litter all over is a crime, you beat someone innocent you go to jail, no illegal mining, you are employed because you qualify,” President Hichilema said.

UPND members took the opportunity to express their concerns.

“UPND members we’re still very poor your excellency kulibe vabwino panja pano incase pipo deceives you to say your members are benefiting,” a member lamented.

“Thanks Mr President for your time to chat with us.Some of us we may not physically meet you.My concerns:(1) The gap between party and government must be reviewed knowing that you are the party president and republican president always find time to do politics.(2) Mr President your (our ) supporters expected something so different when in opposition and what is happening now.We need to share the vision to the grassroots.Tantameni has spoiled the minds of Zambian hence we are called a government/party ya KASO let’s find alternatives to make people benefit off course beyond CDF.(3) Mr President the party is not in good form, some are frustrated,some were appointed in government and some lost direction immediately NO caderism was declared.Work on that cause people are being deceived.(4) Mr President those PF caders in government offices are remitting six percent of their salaries to PF and hence the stubbornness you see.Please change the system or else it will change you.Mr President it’s my sincere hope that this message will reach you,” another member wrote.

President Hakainde Hichilema sets perfect example for economic recovery in Africa

Chief Editor
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President Hakainde Hichilema sets perfect example for economic recovery in Africa

Zambia has made substantial strides in driving macroeconomic recovery from a challenging economic situation compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic

President Hichilema’s plan for kickstarting the economic recovery in Zambia included taming inflation, job creation for the youth, restoring the confidence of international investors and addressing external debt.

  • Hakainde Hichilema has guided Zambia towards economic recovery and stability since taking office in August last year.
  • COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, high debt portfolio and other headwinds decimated Zambia’s economy in 2021 to less than 3% of GDP.
  • The proven stability approach sets an example for other African nations looking to bounce back from a raft of economic and inflationary pressures.

The dawn of hope for Zambia

When Hakainde Hichilema got elected as President of Zambia, the country was in economic turmoil. Zambia has faced massive economic challenges as one of the world’s most indebted countries. In 2020, the nation became the first one to default on its sovereign debt, with the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbating the impact

Well aware of the assignment before him, Hichilema unveiled several economic policies to solve the deep-rooted economic challenges of the mineral-rich country. Zambia, Africa’s second-largest producer of copper, has struggled as the price of copper, the country’s main export, fell amid the crippling impact of its debts.

President Hichilema’s plan for kickstarting the economic recovery included taming inflation, job creation for the Zambian youth, restoring the confidence of international investors and addressing external debt. Hichilema remained committed to improving Zambia’s system of education. This way, every young Zambian has an opportunity for government assistance to embark on a productive career. This enables them can make a decent living to provide for their families and contribute to the growth of the Zambian economy.

Zambian citizens were hopeful that the longstanding business tycoon and opposition leader would usher them into a new period of economic recovery and prosperity. Neighbouring African nations closely watched Zambia’s transition hoping for better diplomatic and economic relations.

The road to economic recovery in Zambia

Many people have watched Zambia’s economic performance in the last year. Many have wondered how the country’s economy has managed to shine in areas where almost every nation in the world has struggled.

COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, high debt portfolio and other headwinds decimated Zambia’s economy in 2021 to less than 3% of GDP. This represented a low from 4.9% in 2020 and another 4.0% in 2018.

According to Zambia’s Policy Monitoring and Research Centre, the current leader has overseen a raft of fiscal and monetary measures toward economic recovery.

After taking over the government’s reign, President pledged to implement a robust reform program. The program would reestablish macroeconomic stability and promote a private sector-led economic recovery. The government prioritized social sector spending in line with these reforms.

The President also set Zambia towards improved transparency in debt management and reporting. This was a clear commitment to increasing budget credibility, which remains essential to restoring fiscal sustainability. Consequently, Zambia has made substantial strides in driving macroeconomic recovery from a challenging economic situation compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Addressing inflation in Zambia

Various African countries, including Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, have failed to tame rising inflation and plummeting currencies. However, Hichilema’s government has managed to reduce Zambia’s inflation from 24.4% in August 2021 to 9.7% in June 2022.

Part of President Hichilema’s vision was to quadruple Zambia’s growth through agriculture and upscaling production in all economic spheres. In keeping with the promise to support agriculture, President Hichilema’s government abolished 5% customs on chicken and cattle breeding imports. The government also offered technological and monetary incentives to farmers.

Further, Hichilema’s administration provided a market for various crops and other commodities to reduce post-harvest losses. Moreover, the government also sought to encourage commercial banks to offer low-cost credit to farmers to foster productivity.

These policies have led to a sustained fall in food prices. Notably, the prices fell from 12% in July to 11.3% in August. Consumer prices have also remained steady in the last year. However, challenges persist in Zambia’s mining sector, which accounts for up to 10% of the country’s GDP.

During a meeting in November last year, Zambia’s monetary policy committee boldly raised the monetary policy rate to 9%. This rate, equivalent to 50 basis points, has since remained unchanged.

The government under Hakainde Hichilema had the ultimate target of inflation reduction to between 6% and 8% by June 2023. The monetary committee has since revised this goal to the first quarter of 2024. Nevertheless, Zambia’s inflation rate has decreased as the growth in food costs eases.

Achieving currency stability through debt restructuring

Zambia has dealt with the legacy of years of economic mismanagement, with an especially inefficient public investment drive. Zambia has been in debt distress. Therefore, the country needed a deep and comprehensive debt treatment to place public debt on a sustainable path.Zambia’s bilateral creditors, including France, the UK and China, agreed on July 30 to provide the financing assurances that Africa’s first pandemic-era sovereign defaulter needed to secure a final economic bailout.

After months of negotiations, Zambia agreed with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to restructure its debt. On August 31, 2022, the IMF approved a $1.3bn loan to Zambia. This was in addition to another $1.3 billion special drawing rights apportionment from the fund it received in August 2021.

The bailout package has helped contain the rising prices due to supply-chain disruptions emanating from the war in Ukraine and the ravages caused by the covid-19 pandemic. This has seen Zambia’s national currency, the Kwacha, strengthen against the US dollar. Consequently, the Zambian kwacha is the best-performing currency in the world, rallying over 18.5% from January to September this year.

When he initially took office about a year ago, Zambia’s current leader was mocked by critics. Many dubbed him “the calculator lad” because of his strong emphasis on the economy and career as an accountant.

Looking back, it is clear that Zambia needed these abilities to get out of the economic quagmire it was in at the time. Hakainde Hichilema has guided Zambia towards economic recovery and stability since taking office in August last year. The proven stability approach sets an example for other African nations looking to bounce back from a raft of economic and inflationary pressures.

Source: The Exchange

President Hakainde Hichilema concludes UN mission

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President Hakainde Hichilema concludes UN mission

President Hakainde Hichilema has concluded his attendance of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

During his visit, the President addressed the United Nations General Assembly, held bilateral talks with various political and business leaders and engaged companies and partners that are considering investing in Zambia.

President Hichilema highlighted progress made during the first year in Office citing free education for all Zambian children and achieving strong macro-economic stability despite strong global economic pressures.

The President emphasized that Zambia will continue to position itself as a top investment destination on the African Continent.

Among those engaged were UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres,IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva ,President of the World Bank David Malpass and USAID Administrator Samantha Power.

The President is confident that the engagements will ensure widespread support for Zambia’s current reform agenda and help Government deliver on its vision of a better future for all Zambians.

Anyone Found Practicing Or Promoting Homosexuality Will Be Liable For Presecution – Mwiimbu

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Anyone Found Practicing Or Promoting Homosexuality Will Be Liable For Presecution – Mwiimbu

Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security says his Ministry is working in close collaboration with the Zambia Police Service in addressing issues pertaining to the rising homosexuality acts in the country.

In a ministerial statement read in the National Assembly, the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwimbu mentioned that Zambia is a Christian nation whose governance is anchored on Christian values and morals.

“The government stands firm that Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBTQ) practice is illegal in Zambia,” Mr Mwimbu stated

Mwimbu disclosed that the Zambia Police Service have so far recorded a total number of 18 cases of sodomy country wide as from the 1st of January 2022 to the 20th of September 2022.

He added that Lusaka province has recorded seven (7) cases of sodomy with five (5) arrests made and two (2) are under investigation, and on the Copperbelt seven (7) cases have been recorded, with six (6) arrests and one (1) case still under investigation, while Muchinga province has recorded one (1) case and one (1) arrest.

Mr Mwiimbu further added that the Tazara division in Mpika recorded one (1) case and with one (1) person arrested, which resulted in a conviction and sentencing to seven (7) years imprisonment with hard labour, while Eastern and Western provinces recorded one (1) case and one (1) arrest each respectively.

“And currently the Police are investigating four (4) suspects, two (2) of which are from Lusaka one (1) from the Copperbelt and one (1) from Western province,” Mr Mwiimbu revealed

The Minister has since warned that anyone found practicing and promoting any unnatural offences shall be liable to prosecution in the court of laws.

Mr Mwimbu reaffirmed the government’s position on the need for citizens to uphold the moral values and principles of society in line with the declaration of Zambia as a Christian nation.

And stating firmly the government’s stance on the recent controversial Lusaka July event which was characterized by homosexuality expressions and the recent cases of sodomy recorded in the country, Mr Mwiimbu disclosed in Parliament that any acts of homosexuality will not be condoned in the country.

Mr Mwiimbu noted that the government did not sponsor the Lusaka July event as purported in some sections of the media, but merely participated in the launch after the organizers asked the Ministry of Tourism and Arts to partner with them to market the event as a fashion show, with the aim to promote fashion tourism.

The Minister cited that in accordance with the law, homosexuality is a criminal activity that should be treated as such, adding that the government will ensure that such behavior and conduct are prevented to ensure national morals and values are adhered to.

Mr Mwiimbu described the acts of sodomy as a criminal act that has the potential to destroy the country’s moral fiber hence, the need for leaders across political, religious and community divide to work at rooting out this vice, and morals of the country are not eroded.

He further urged the public to desist and be careful when passing comments on the issues surrounding the LGBTQ rights as it has international ramifications.

Mr Mwiimbu explained that President Hakainde Hichilema has on many occasions made pronouncements on this matter, that the government does not and will not accept any acts of homosexuality.

The Minister stated that the issue of homosexuality should not be trivialized by bringing in political connotations, as he has heard of mischievous leaders who have been stating that the United Party for National Development (UPND) has not been condemning the acts of homosexuality, when it has been done on several occasions.

“We have made commitments that this country will not condone homosexuality,” Mr Mwiimbu said

Statement made by the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security is Malicious- Emmanuel Mwamba

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Statement made by the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security is Malicious- Emmanuel Mwamba

Patriotic Front Deputy Chairperson Information and Publicity Emmanuel Mwamba has expressed dismay over the statement made by the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu that the government has unearthed a ploy in which some political parties, media houses, individuals, and pressure groups are sponsoring sporadic incidences of men and boys being sodomized by force.

At a press briefing held yesterday, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu mentioned that the government is aware that there is a long-term organized scheme to introduce gayism in Zambia’s culture and some political parties have brought some foreign nationals to organize and train the LGBTQ community to champion the homosexuality agenda.

The Minister added that this is a ploy carefully couched to induce negative sentiments on the Zambian human rights record for the donor community to be compelled to withhold aid.

Mr Mwiimbu stated that the motivation behind this scheme is to expose the government to social and economic challenges and to incite people to rise against a legitimate government.

But Emmanuel Mwamba who is also the Patriotic Front Member of the Central Committee cited that the claims made by Mr Mwiimbu as shocking because he merely repeated the earlier United Party for National Development (UPND) propaganda claims that an Opposition plot existed to make Zambia ungovernable.

Mr Mwamba mentioned that Mr Mwiimbu also repeated the false assertions that there is a scheme, using the so-called gay agenda, to threaten President Hakainde Hichilema’s government standing with cooperating partners and donor community so as to prevent them from extending to Zambia loans and grants that have been pledged so far.

“It is rather shocking that the UPND can conjure up conspiracy theories just to attempt to injure Opposition leaders and other stakeholders,” Mr Mwamba said

“This has now been affirmed by the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security that the UPND/New Dawn Government are engaged in carrying out a similar scheme against the Opposition as was seen in the Black Mamba Plot of the 1990s,” he said

Speaking on behalf of the Patriotic Front, Mr Mwamba categorically stated that as an Opposition party, they are engaged in a democratic process of checks and balances as they did while in opposition, in government and now in the opposition again.

“We also note that Hon. Mwiimbu made Emmanuel Mwamba a subject of his press conference,” Mr Mwamba said

And Mr Mwamba made reference to the inaction by the Zambia Police that has failed to stop cases of homosexuality and its promotion in Zambia, stating that there have been publicized meetings of gay activists held in Siavonga, Lusaka and Livingstone and the Police have done nothing.

He added that it is public knowledge that there is a coordinated campaign to decriminalize homosexuality in Zambia and certain NGOs have been engaged by some cooperating partners in promoting this advocacy as shown by details of their meetings.

“We are also shocked by the declaration by Hon. Mwiimbu that his government found nothing wrong with the Lusaka July that was recently held at the Lusaka Showgrounds, although some activities of the Lusaka July have alarmed and outraged most Zambians, Hon. Mwiimbu says they saw nothing wrong, asserting that in their understanding, this was a mere fashion show and his government found nothing wrong,” he stated

“Reports that men were wearing female dresses and make-up, and men were kissing men, according to him, doesn’t not constitute homosexuality as nothing against the order of nature has been violated,” he added

Mr Mwamba cited that such a statement coming from a lawyer and a Minister of Home Affairs, is very careless and rather irresponsible, as it has the potential to encourage abnormal behaviour as seen at the Lusaka July and regard them as normal, which will violate public morals and laws against homosexuality.

“We wish to emphasize that the rise in crimes, robberies, murders, and recently sexual crimes against boys and men is alarming and requires strong action from the Police and other Law Enforcement Agencies and must immediately be arrested,” Mr Mwamba stated

“We have noted that Government is engaged in blame game, shifting responsibilities and failing to attend to crises besetting the country, and this matter is one of them,” Mr Mwamba added

Mr Mwamba mentioned that it is imperative that the government leaders reject homosexuality and its promotion in all its forms and not pass the blame to the Opposition as for example, they have done with the fight against corruption.

Chipolopolo Suffers Mwepu and Patson Setback For Mali Friendlies

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Leicester City striker Patson Daka and Brighton midfielder Enock Mwepu are out of this weekend’s two friendlies against hosts Mali in Bamako.

FAZ General Secretary said in a statement released on Friday that the England-based duo has withdrawn from the friendly to Mali due to medical reasons.

Patson and Chipolopolo captain Mwepu have been training with the team since it arrived in Bamako on Tuesday.

And Kashala disclosed that goalkeeper Toaster Nsabata will miss Friday’s opening game against Mali as he continues to recover from a knee injury he sustained at his South African club Sekhukhune United over two weeks ago.

The Chipolopolo technical bench is banking on their first-choice goalkeeper recovering in time for Zambia’s final friendly against Mali on September 26.

Friday’s opening friendly match will kick off at 21h00 Zambian time.

LGBTQ Debate: Of Hypocrites, Philanderers & Slanderers!

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LGBTQ Debate: Of Hypocrites, Philanderers & Slanderers!

By Prince Bill M. Kaping’a Political/Social Analyst

The other day, a senior Catholic cleric issued a stinging attack on President Hichilema, accusing him of playing a blind eye to the burning issue of homosexuality in the nation!

“In the last 12 years, we have witnessed an increase in the number of incidents and events that promote LGBTQ tendencies contrary to the laws of Zambia and our Zambian culture. Additionally, there has been an increase in the number of incidents of sodomy where boys and men are raped by fellow boys and men with impunity,” he speculated.

The Bishop further expressed concern at the hosting of an event dubbed Lusaka July where pictures and videos emerged showing attendants double dressing in attires of the opposite sex and appearing to promote LGBTQ behaviour.

Curiously, a catholic priest, who is expected to be a paragon of good morals in society, is reported to have died in the bosoms of his girl friend in Ndola during the same time. Efforts to cover up this unholy union proved futile as the information had already leaked and spread like wild fire!

Isn’t it therefore hypocritical for the Bishop to rush into picking a speck in the eyes of the president, and conviniently choosing to neglect the log that has remained embedded in the eyes of the Catholic Church over the years – inter alia, sodomy, fornication and adultery, involving some very senior priests for that matter! What has the Church done about it?

If we may add salt to injury, did the Lusaka July begin last year or way before UPND formed government? Why then does the good Bishop want to drag an innocent soul all the way to Golgotha and crucify him?

Thank God, Bishop John Mambo has joined the fray and added his voice to the debate as reasonable as possible. He writes, “Like many other Churches that are grappling with sin, the Catholic Church has challenges that the Pope himself has acknowledged and in some cases has apologized to entire indigenous and vulnerable communities and victims, without looking for a president to blame!”

Interestingly, a medical Doctor who has no time keeping himself busy in the wards but rather jumping at every opportunity to entangle himself in protests of one sort or another, has written to the police informing them of his intentions to march to State House to present a petition to the president about what he deems to be the spiralling ugodly sexual acts in the nation – a so called Christian nation!

However, records will show that the president has on umpteenth times unequivocally clarified the position of the New Dawn Administration on this matter. How many times do you want the man to state his position on this matter? Do you want him to abdicate his other responsibilities and concentrate on tackling homosexuality? How do you even go about addessing this problem when it’s actually perpetrated behind the closed doors?

Although she has somehow been slow to respond, it’s gratifying that Information Minister and Chief Gvernment Spokesperson Chushi Kasanda has finally come out it in the open and reaffirmed that Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender practice remains illegal in Zambia. What more do you expect government to do?

Stop being hypocrites and slanderers when you are actually philanderers yourselves!

Persons living with disabilities advised to utilize govt’s empowerment opportunities

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Persons living with disabilities advised to utilize govt’s empowerment opportunities

The government has advised persons living with disabilities to ensure that they benefit from its various empowerment funds if they are to contribute meaningfully to development.

Provincial Cooperatives Officer Benjamin Mvula says the government is aware of the challenges facing the vulnerable in society hence it has created empowerment opportunities among them being the Constituency development fund ( CDF ) and the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission ( CEEC ) grants.

He was speaking when he handed over certificates to Persons Living with Disabilities and Albinism who have successfully completed a training in Farmers Business Simulation sponsored by the German Corporation in Choma.

The Provincial Cooperatives Officer has since urged Persons Living with Disabilities and Albinism to apply for empowerment funds adding that this will not only boost their household income but also enable them to contribute to job creation.

Speaking at the same event, Kezia Mwiinga, a Trainer , explained that the training in Agri-business and financial management, among others, is meant to build the capacity of marginalised groups in order to promote , and ensure prudent use of empowerment funds.

Ms. Mwiinga noted that some Persons living with Albinism have been lured into ritual attacks due to poverty, adding that economic empowerment therefore plays an important role in promoting their safety.

Meanwhile beneficiaries of the training have expressed gratitude for the knowledge received.

And Beene Mukulumwa, a person living with disability, says she has learnt how to keep financial records and that her clothing business should produce her salary.

Her counterpart, Prisca Masibinta, says with the knowledge imparted in her, she will apply for funds under C.D.F to boost her business of buying groceries for exchange with maize in rural areas of Choma.

Amos Chanda and Zindaba Soko Re-Arrested on corruption charges

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Amos Chanda and Zindaba Soko Re-Arrested on corruption charges

The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) through its Anti-Money Laundering Investigations Unit (AMLIU) has re-arrested former Presidential Press Aide Amos Chanda and former Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) boss Zindaba Soko on corruption charges following a nolle prosequi that was entered by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in 2020.

In May, 2020, the State entered a nolle prosequi in a case where Mr. Chanda and two others were dragged to court on allegations of corrupt practices.

DEC on Thursday announced that it had re-arrested the two for Corrupt Practices by a Public Officer Contrary to Section 19 (1) as read with Section 29 (1) of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012 and Money Laundering Contrary to Section 7 of Prohibition and Prevention of the Money Laundering Act No. 14 of 2001 as amended by Act 44 of 2010.

DEC Public Relations Officer Mathias Kamanga said Mr. Chanda and Mr. Soko are currently on Police bond and will appear in court soon.

“The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) through its Anti-Money Laundering Investigations Unit (AMLIU) has re-arrested Amos Chanda and Zindaba Soko following a nolle prosequi that was entered by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in 2020.The Commission has re-arrested Amos Chanda the former Presidential Press Aide of House No. 67 ELM Road, Woodlands and Zindaba Soko the former Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) Director of Plot No. 15345M Libala South for Corrupt Practices by a Public Officer Contrary to Section 19 (1) as read with Section 29 (1) of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012 and Money Laundering Contrary to Section 7 of Prohibition and Prevention of the Money Laundering Act No. 14 of 2001 as amended by Act 44 of 2010,” Mr. Kamanga said.

“Details of the matter are that between 1st August 2017 and 31st May 2019 the duo being public officers engaged in corrupt practices in which Mr. Amos Chanda was paid a total of $106,000.00 while Mr. Zindaba Soko was paid a total of $110,000.00 in their personal accounts as gratification by Mr. Walid El Nahas, Director of Intelligent Mobility Solutions LTD (IMS) for the award of a concession agreement for the provision of advanced Road Safety Management Solutions and Services through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) awarded by the RTSA to IMS Ltd. The two have since been charged for money laundering involving the respective amount each received,” he added.

This matter in which the state had entered a nolle had undisclosed reasons had Walid El Nahas, the former director of Intelligence Mobility Solutions (IMS) jointly charged with Mr. Chanda, and former Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) chief executive officer Zindaba Soko on allegations of corrupt practices and being in possession of 21,000 USD.

When the matter came up in May 2020 state prosecutor Sipholiano Phiri told Chief Resident Magistrate Lameck Mwale that the state was discontuing the matter against all three accused persons through a nolle prosequi.

“The matter was scheduled for continuation of trial. However, the court was informed that the state has discontinued the matter against the accused persons through a nolle prosequi. We are most obliged,” Phiri said at the time.

Chanda who had maintained a low profile since his resignation as State House Press Attache when contacted for a comment expressed relief.

And when asked on what next Mr. Chanda laughed away and would not give a response.

Mr. Chanda resigned as State House Spokesperson on June 6th, 2019 stating that he was considering pursuing other political careers.

His resignation came as a shock to many who speculated on reasons for his resignation.

On November 14th 2019 the Drug Enforcement Commission arrested Mr. Chanda and charged him with corrupt practices by public officer and receiving property suspected to be proceeds of crime all of which the state has today entered into a nolle

Meanwhile, Mr. Kamanga said has arrested a 31 year old man of Chilenje South in Lusaka for Theft Contrary to Section 272 of the Penal Code Act.

“In another incident, the Commission through its Anti-Money Laundering Investigations Unit (AMLIU) has arrested Vincent Sakala, a male aged 31 years of Chilenje South for Theft Contrary to Section 272 of the Penal Code Act, 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 as amended by Act 44 of 2010.Details of the matter are that Vincent Sakala, an Accountant at ZSIC Life Insurance, on dates unknown but between 1st January 2021 and 31st December 2021, jointly and whilst acting together with other persons unknown, did steal funds amounting to K999, 126.57 property of Z Village Banking Scheme, a village banking group of ZSIC Life Insurance employees in his capacity as Group Treasurer.The suspects are currently on Police bond and will appear in court soon,” Mr. Kamanga said.

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