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Social Welfare receives over K31million in Muchinga Province

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Social Welfare receives over K31million in Muchinga Province

The Department of Social Welfare in Muchinga Province has received over K31million Social Cash Transfer (SCT) funds.

Provincial Social Welfare Officer Jacob Miti confirmed the development to Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) in a telephone interview yesterday.

Mr. Miti said the funds received by the department in all the eight districts in the province is for the July/August bi monthly payment.

He adds that the funds received will carter for the entire provincial case load which currently stands at 66,570.

“As a province we received funds amounting to over K31, 269,000 and payment of the same is on course,” he said.

Mr. Miti said so far four (4) out eight (8) districts of Muchinga Province are yet to complete paying beneficiaries while the other four districts completed paying by yesterday.

He named the remaining districts yet to disburse the funds as Kanchibiya which has four Community Welfare Assistance Committees (CWACs) remaining to be paid while Luvushimanda is yet to pay beneficiaries in six CWACs.

Other districts that are still paying include Shiwang’andu with four (4) CWACs remaining and Mafinga respectively.

The Provincial Social Welfare Officer says the payment process is running smoothly.

“We have not faced any major challenges from the time the payments begun last week and we appreciate Government for the timely release of funds,” Mr. Miti said.

Mr. Miti has since called on the beneficiaries of the Social Cash Transfer funds to ensure that they put the funds to good use.

He says the main objective of the SCT programme is to reduce extreme poverty and intergenerational transfer of poverty among beneficiaries can only be achieved if beneficiaries prudently utilize the funds through different business ventures.

Ministry of Local Government Disburses K43 Million to Accelerate Rural Development Projects

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Ministry of Local Government Disburses K43 Million to Accelerate Rural Development Projects

Forty-three (43) Million Kwacha has been disbursed by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development to facilitate the immediate construction of critical Crossing-Points and Road improvement works in selected rural Districts under the Rural Infrastructure Development component in the 2022 Ministry Budget.

The funding is earmarked on supporting the selected Districts in various Provinces to immediately embark on the construction and rehabilitation works of identified projects before the onset of the rains.

Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary (Administration) Mr Maambo Haamaundu announced that Chama District has received Eight (8) million Kwacha as part payment from the requested total amount of K8,645,691.12 for the construction and rehabilitation of selected crossing points.

Mr Haamaundu added that Seven (7) million Kwacha has been disbursed to Kasenengwa District, as part payment of K11, 474,738.12 which was requested to facilitate for the construction of three critical crossing points and five other identified points in the District.

He further noted that, Eight (8) million Kwacha has been disbursed to Mongu District, while in Vubwi District, Three (3) million Kwacha, which is a part payment towards the total requested amount of K 3,638,142.00, has also been disbursed.

“The funds are earmarked for immediate rehabilitation of critical crossing points in these two Districts,” he said

He stated that, of the requested amount of K6, 850,000.00 in Gwembe District, a total of K5 million-part payment, has been disbursed for the rehabilitation of damaged bridges and culverts on the Tobe-Sompani and Hanyombo-Bunyente Roads.

Mr Haamaundu said for Chadiza District, K3 million was disbursed as part payment from the requested total amount K3,436,854.96 for the construction of three critical crossing points in the area.

And out of the requested amount of K3, 053,300.00, a total of K3 million has been disbursed to Mulobezi District to facilitate for the rehabilitation of 10 kilometers of selected Township Roads, Mr Haamaundu highlighted.

He cited that K3 million was disbursed for Katete District as part payment from the total amount of K3,173,547.64, as requested for the construction of three critical crossing points.

He mentioned that in Mambwe District, K3 million was disbursed for the construction of three critical crossing points from the requested total amount K3, 968,023.60.

The Ministry further disbursed K4, 248,994.40 to Ndola City Council for the rehabilitation of Kapalala Market in Masala Township, this follows an inferno that swept through the trading area on 16th August, 2022 at about 20:30 hours.

The Permanent Secretary has also advised all the Local Authorities to utilize the funds for the intended purpose in order to achieve meaningful development.

Mr Haamaundu further implored them to submit progress reports and financial returns once funds are utilized.

Janza Jumps Straight into the Deep End of Tanzania Job

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Janza Jumps Straight into the Deep End of Tanzania Job

Ex-Chipolopolo trainer Honour Janza has started work as interim Tanzania head coach a day after his appointment.

The Tanzania Football Federation on Monday named Janza as new Taifa Stars coach in an interim capacity after firing Kim Poulsen.

Janza was until his appointment coaching Tanzania side Namungo FC.

On Tuesday, the former Zesco United and Red Arrows coach led Tanzania local players in training at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium ahead of this Saturday’s CHAN qualifier against Uganda.

Tanzania is preparing for the second round CHAN qualifier against Uganda to be played on September 3, 2022 in Kampala, Uganda.

Janza is being assisted by Mecky Mexime and goalkeeper coach Juma Kaseja.

He was the last coach to qualify Chipolopolo to the Africa Cup in 2014.

This is what happens when a Nation Loses its Compassion

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This is what happens when a Nation Loses its Compassion

By Fred M’membe President of the Socialist Party

The destruction of our people’s homes in Chingola is not a small thing and shouldn’t be played down. It shouldn’t be hidden in the afterthought of DMMU small reliefs of foodstuffs and promises of new land reallocations.

Without compassion, everyone is worse off.

What happened in Chingola is what happens when a government loses its moral footing, when elected officials seem to be operating without compassion. This is what happens when our politicians and their officials lack any semblance of compassion. Destroying more than 300 homes inflicts terrible and needless trauma and stress on families, especially on young children and that hampers and damages their development, causing long-term damage.

This destruction of people’s homes is morally unconscionable. That such egregious actions be employed in a nation that calls itself Christian and is supposed to put human beings above all other considerations is unjustifiable on any level. When compassion is absent, all suffer, including those who withhold it. What happens to us when there is such an extreme deficit of compassion in certain quarters of our country? I am convinced that harm results for all.

We know that compassion enhances the welfare of those who receive compassion and benefits those who are compassionate. It even benefits those who simply observe an act of compassion. Compassion is one of those experiences that deeply affects us —whether we give it, receive it, or observe it. When compassion is absent, all suffer, including those who withhold it.

We also know that being compassionate upholds our moral principles. When we restrain compassion we feel that our moral identity is compromised. That’s because compassion is central to being fully human. It is the key to reducing systemic oppression and nurturing a culture of respect, civility, and belonging.

Please know that I am not a moral philosopher. Yet understanding the nature of integrity and morality has been an important part of my life.

When I was an undergraduate university student, I discovered that there are many moral platforms. Ideas of what is right and wrong vary from culture to culture, even from person to person. But the Catholic social teachings have also given me a different way to understand human dignity, and integrity, one that looks at it through the lens of suffering. When we cause suffering to others or ourselves, our integrity is violated. When we alleviate the suffering of others, our integrity is affirmed.

At this time in our country, when we are witnessing an unbridled capitalist approach to life, we need strong moral sensitivity. We need the ability to recognise moral violations and discern which government actions are morally justifiable and which are not. We also need a large dose of moral nerve, a term used to describe someone who has non-negotiable virtue when standing above the abyss of harm.

If we do not take action against these abuses, if we hide out in apathy and do not manifest moral nerve, we will experience profound moral suffering. This is the harm caused by actions taken in our name that transgress the tenets of basic human goodness. Whether we uphold our values and ethical principles or not is what affirms or destroys our integrity, and thus our character.

As I consider what is happening in our country now, I believe our standing as a Christian nation is being seriously compromised by a serious deficit of compassion and a pervasive absence of integrity. We are facing a moral crisis that is reprehensible. We need to manifest moral nerve and compassion, now, for the sake of all.

The 75 Motor Bikes Contract was signed during the PF Government-Community MInister

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The 75 Motor Bikes Contract was signed during the PF Government-Community MInister

The Minister of Community Development and Social Services Doreen Mwamba, has clarified on the ongoing speculations surrounding the alleged contract to supply 75 Motor Bikes at a total cost K9,885,010 to the Ministry.

Ms Mwamba disclosed that the said contract which is currently under investigation was in fact awarded in April 2021, but was unfortunately extended by a Ministry official without seeking guidance.

Ms Mwamba stated that she personally looked at the file and raised concerns, after which she forwarded the said contract to the Secretary to Cabinet Mr Patrick Kangwa and Justice Minister Mulambo Haimbe for further advice on the matter.

“It was during this period that the said document leaked to the public and set a different narrative away from the true facts of the matter,” she said

She has since made an assurance that the matter will be thoroughly investigated, and a consolidated report will be made available.

Meanwhile, Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) has noted with disappointment the misleading information on the 75 Motor Bikes shared by Mr Thabo Kawana, a Director and Spokesperson at the Ministry of Information and Media.

On today’s Red Hot Breakfast Show on Hot FM Radio, Mr Kawana informed the nation that the K9.885 million contract for the supply of 75 Motor Bikes to the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services was signed during the Patriotic Front (PF) Regime.

In a statement issued, TI-Z Chapter President Mr Sampa Kaungu explained that the information is misleading since the Ministry’s Procurement Committee meeting which awarded the contract was held on 6th May, 2022 and the supplier was consequently informed through a letter dated 9th May, 2022.

Mr Kaungu said that in light of the above, TI-Z has called upon Mr Kawana to exculpate himself in the eyes of the public through retracting his statement.

He added that the interest of the public in this tender is anchored on the unit price of the Motor Bikes in question and it is therefore pretentious to shift blame while failing to address the main concern.

Mr Kaungu cited that speaking on the same program, Mr Kawana failed to inform the public of the exact model and specifications of the Motor Bikes, which information is critical in ascertaining if indeed one Bike can cost over K130,000 and therefore, TI-Z is calling upon the Minister of Information and Media Chushi Kasanda who is the official Government Spokesperson, to issue a comprehensive statement on this matter.

“Furthermore, we wish to bring to the attention of Mr Kawana and the general public that government recently cancelled some contracts because they were deemed not to be in the national interests, this shows that government has the power and right of cancelling any questionable contracts,” Mr Kaungu said

Mr Kaungu mentioned that in line with President Hakainde Hichilema’s promise to Zambians with regards to the prudent utilization and management of resources, TI-Z is calling upon all Government Ministries to actualize this promise through promoting transparency and accountability.

Brief facts of the matter are that on 9th May, 2022 the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services issued a letter to Kafelix Limited as the best bidder in the supply of 75 Motor Bikes.

The letter’s subject stated that the contract number MCDSS/GEWEL/001/21 for the supply and delivery of seventy-five (75) Motor Bikes for the Social Cash Transfer (SCT) and supporting women’s livelihoods (SWL).

In the letter it was further stated that following the Ministry Procurement Committee recommendations to award the contract in the meeting held on Friday 6th May, 2022, your Bid for execution of the supply and delivery of Seventy-Five Motor Bikes – contract number MCDSS/GEWEL/001/21 for the Accepted Contract Amount of Zambian Kwacha Nine Million, Eight Hundred and Eighty Five Thousand and Ten inclusive (ZMW 9,885,010.00) as corrected and modified in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders is hereby accepted by the Ministry.

In the letter it was further requested for the, Renew the performance Security within 28 days in accordance with the Conditions of Contract, for the purpose of the Performance Security.

It was also requested that, The additional information on beneficial ownership in accordance with BDS ITB 45.1 within eight (8) business days using the Beneficial Ownership Disclosure Form, included in Section X, Contract Forms of the Bidding Document.

Contract placement shall be in accordance with the Public Procurement Regulations of 2020.

The letter was signed by the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Head of Procurement and Supplies at the Kalimukwa Mutumba on 9th May, 2022.

And the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Permanent Secretary Angela Kawandami said that Kafelix Investment Limited, which will supply 75 Motor Bikes at a contract sum of K9,885,010, was actually the best-evaluated bidder with a better rate than Honda.

Ms Kawandami added that some individuals who are aggrieved after not being awarded contracts in the supply of fertilizer are the ones trying to label the Ministry corrupt.

This has however led to a social media uproar with various individuals questioning how one (1) Motor Bike can be procured at the cost of K130, 000.

Some foreigners deny access to census enumerators-Kamalata

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Some foreigners deny access to census enumerators-Kamalata

Lusaka Province Census Chairperson Robert Kamalata is concerned that some foreign nationals are resisting to provide information to enumerators in the ongoing census for population and housing.

Mr Kamalata who is also Provincial Permanent Secretary said this may compromise the purpose of the exercise which is intended to collect data required for planning of development in the country.

Mr Kamalata revealed this during a media briefing in Lusaka, that some foreign nationals are denying the enumerators entry into their homes while others close their shops for fear of arrest because their stay in the country is allegedly illegal.

Mr Kamalata explained that government has engaged their embassies and their associations to encourage them to comply with the enumerators stating that such actions may affect development planning.

He observed that resistance among residents has also been reported in areas such as Kabulonga, woodlands and Kamwala despite sensitization programmes that were carried out.

Mr Kamalata appealed to the residents to find time and meet the enumerators if the exercise is to be successful.

“Some of the people in such areas leave home early and get back late after the enumerators have knocked off,” he said.

He however observed that the census is going on smoothly in areas where the government had anticipated resistance.

“We are not having problems in areas such as Chibolya and Kanyama,” he said.

Mr Kamalata also announced that two enumerators were attacked by unknown people who stole tablets that were being used to capture data.

Mr Kamalata said police have been informed about the matter and that investigations are ongoing.

“I would like to warn those behind such activities that they will be arrested as the tablets are installed with GPS and it will be easy to locate them,” he said.

And Provincial Census officer Kennedy Chimpa said some foreigners have been referring the enumerators to their embassies, a move which he said is difficult.

Dr. Chimpa who in the company of police officers visited long acres following reports of resistance by some residents found a Chinese national who resisted to open the gate claiming that the owner of the house had gone out with the keys leaving the gate closed.

The occupant of the house near JCS foods who spoke to the team through the closed gate said he could not open the gate saying the census team should go back another time.

Dr Chimpa said though the census may not include the foreign nationals, the infrastructure is supposed to be captured as the exercise includes housing.

And one of the enumerators, Christabel Manyoma saidin Long acres that the process was difficult because some of the residents, especially the foreigners, were not willing to comply and rejected entry to their homes in some cases.

Zambian bonds most attractive-ZANACO

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Zambian bonds most attractive-ZANACO

The Zambia National Commercial (ZANACO) has described Zambia’s bonds currently as the most attractive in the world.

ZANACO Chief Risk Officer, Mutisunge Zulu says this is because of the sound political environment, reduced inflation rate and the continued stability in the local currency among other factors.

Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka today, Mr. Zulu said the country has in the  recently recorded an increase in investment appetite with the business confidence growing up to 50.5 percent.

He explained that the attractiveness of the bonds has also been created because of the huge returns of about 23-25 percent that investors are likely to get after locking their money for five years.

“Single digit inflation and stable currency continues to make kwacha bonds very attractive in returns both in local and foreign currency real terms. The government bond index is at its highest 95 percent firmer in Zambian kwacha and 13.3 percent stronger in United States Dollars terms,” he explained.

Mr. Zulu added that the debt restructuring legislation presented before Parliament is historical for the country as it tries to control the uncontrolled expenditure.

He stated that government has continued to open investment doors to external partners through key platforms such as the African Union, European Union, World Bank and local private sector partnership through initiatives such as the Private Public Partnership Dialogue Forum.

Mr. Zulu further noted that the country’s mining sector is also poised to record growth with the increased demand for copper products and other minerals worldwide because of the decarbonization drive as measure for climate change mitigation which has resulted in initiatives such as the electric car battery and cleaner energy.

Meanwhile, ZANACO Chief Executive Officer, Mukwandi Chibesakunda reaffirmed the Bank’s continued support to the country’s key economic sectors in order to attain sustainable economic development.

Ms. Chibesakunda explained that to this effect the bank has invested over K1 billion in the agriculture sector to help improve farming activities for both the commercial and small-scale farmers across the country.

She said there is a need for farmers in the country to take advantage of the support and cease the increased World demand for grains which has been caused by the Russia and Ukraine conflict to grow more for export.

The New Dawn Government has a lot to do for Zambians

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The New Dawn Government has a lot to do for Zambians

Caritas Zambia – Executive Director Gabriel Mapulanga has said the New Dawn Government has a lot to do for the Zambian people one year after coming into power.

Reviewing the first year in office of the UPND Government, Fr. Mapulanga pointed out some positives and negatives Caritas observed in the way the government under UPND has been functioning.

The Catholic Priest cited re-introduction of free education, recruitment of teachers, legal reforms, the rebirth of fundamental freedoms and restating the country back to its socio-economic development trajectory for prosperity as some positives the government has scored.

“Over the last year of the UPND government, we have observed some progress in key sectors, as follows: Restating the country back to its socio-economic development trajectory for prosperity: During the past one year, Government has kept its promise and assurance that it was in the process of restating the country back to its socio-economic development trajectory. This effort has been seen in the way the government has handled the debt crisis. The heightened debate on debt and the opening of pathways towards its dismantling are positive economic signs. The previous government did not accept the fact that Zambia was experiencing a debt crisis and so they committed themselves to downplaying this fact. As a result, there was never an honest dialogue,” Fr. Mapulanga said.

“The UPND government has made a lot of progress in opening up dialogue and moving towards the dismantling of both the domestic and international debt. By bringing together Zambia’s debtors and making them realise the crisis so as to establish the best way of helping Zambia to make its debt sustainable, is a huge achievement. Caritas Zambia is also happy that a Public debt management bill is being considered by Parliament and will soon be enacted into law. In addition, the government has been sharing information on the status of the debt and have also come up with a debt dismantling strategy. This is commendable because Zambia needs order, transparency and accountability in the manner debt is contracted and used in the country. Parliament should have a significant role in this respect,” Fr. Mapulanga said.

On the fight against corruption, Fr. Mapulanga said the New Dawn government should ensure that the fight against corruption is not used as a tool to oppress and fight political opponents.

“The New Dawn government raised many expectations regarding the fight against corruption. They promised an increased number of cases to be dealt with, especially those reported after the 2021 general elections. The Government committed to a zero-tolerance to corruption. In order to make sure that people accused of financial crimes are tried quickly, a fast-track specialised court has been established. This court is also aimed at recovery of stolen assets from those who will be found guilty. This deserves commendations from us as Caritas Zambia. However, Caritas Zambia implores the New Dawn government to ensure that the fight against corruption is not used as a tool to oppress and fight political opponents. This fight should be done in a very impartial and non-partisan manner with no sacred cows. Corruption is the same whether committed by any member serving in the current administration or others before or outside in the private sector. The; law should be applied equally. Thus, Caritas Zambia strongly caution the Executive arm of the Government not to initiate arrests on the people suspected of having been involved in corrupt practices. This will negatively affect this noble fight and the law enforcement agencies will not carry out their work professionally and independently,” he said.

Fr. Mapulanga further urged the government to quickly resolve the impasse in the mining sector, accountability of the Mukula exports and the pending access to information bill.

“Issues that need Urgent Attention: We ask the UPND government to urgently attend to the following issues: Sanity in the mining sector: bring back sanity and order in the mining sector, develop a country mining vision urgently and revise the mines policy and also the mines and minerals act. These should provide for the benefit of local communities and Zambia while encouraging Lack of natural resource account – let’s learn from past Governments, let’s create a resource fund whose main aim will be to cushion any price reduction in metal prices and also to provide for reserves for future generations. We cannot continue consuming revenues from natural resources like there is no tomorrow or future generations; let’s not be selfish; let’s keep some resources for the future generation. Other parts of Zambia should not be mined now but in the future.”

“Accountability of the Mukula exports- We need not remind the Government that Zambia still awaits a report on the financials on the Mukula logging and transactions that have happened over the past 7 years. One year later, we still don’t have an account of the Mukula trees and the proceeds of the sales and exports that happened before the Government came into power. A lot of illegal logging and exports of this precious commodity happened. Access to Information Law Access to information bill has been pending for the past 10 plus years. The Government needs to enact this bill as one of the pillars to promote accountability in the country. This was supposed to be the first priority to give hope to the citizens as promised for people to enjoy. Road map on constitutional reforms – The government should agree with stakeholders for a clear road map and timeframe for constitutional reform. We expected that this would be done in the first 100 days of government as this is an urgent matter,” Fr. Mapulanga said.

He concluded:”In collaboration with other Civil Society organisations, Churches, and other non-state actors, we are carefully monitoring your promises to the people and the ones made during the campaigns. We will hold you to them with fearless honesty. That is the least we can offer as patriots.”

Mposha calls for investment in the water and sanitation sector

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Mposha calls for investment in the water and sanitation sector

Minister of Water Development and Sanitation Mike Mposha says Zambia seeks to mobilize 5.75 Billion Dollars to improve water security and sanitation investments by 2030 through the implementation of the Water Investment Programme.

Mr Mposha highlighted that once the funds are mobilized, they will be channeled towards the Water Investments Programme aimed at supporting economic transformation, enhancing resilience through water, while strengthening water and sanitation governance.

Speaking during the World Water Week Session on governing values and benefits of water being held in Sweden, Mr Mposha called on its partners to consider working with the government to implement the Zambia Water Investment Programme.

“We hope to make good progress in the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) number six (6) focused on Clean Water and Sanitation and other related SDGs,” Mr Mposha added

He cited that the development of the Water Investment Scorecard is a key component that will enable the successful implementation of the Water Investment Programme and the government is ready to work with various stakeholders to ensure a conducive environment is created for the Programme to thrive.

The Minister explained that President Hakainde Hichilema and his Government are committed to ensuring that a conducive environment is created for such investments to thrive thus enabling it to contribute to economic transformation and job creation.

He stated that the New Dawn Government will ensure transparency and the rule of law is in effect so that water resources management is undertaken efficiently and effectively so as to attain national water security.

“Zambia has made progressive strides in increasing the water and sanitation coverage across the country but more still needs to be done,” he said

Mr Mposha further stated that the Ministry has also strengthened good corporate governance for all water institutions in the country so that there is proper water management which will ensure the attainment of water security.

He added that one of the biggest challenges being faced as a country is that some of the citizens are without adequate access to basic water and sanitation services as only cover about 71% of the citizens are covered while sanitation coverage stands at 54%.

“We are also still struggling with the issues of water pollution, high non-revenue water because of dilapidated water infrastructure and limited financing, and the encroachment of water bodies because of the increase in population and urbanization are all among the challenges,” he said

Mr Mposha mentioned that working with various partners will however enable the government of the Republic of Zambia in resolving and addressing these challenges thus ensuring that water resources management is effective and efficient within the tenets of good governance.

And Stockholm International Water Institute Chief Operating Officer Karin Gardes said that her institute is undertaking academic and technical water research that will help developing nations in the making of sound political decisions in the water sector.

“We are trying to bring a more academic and technical water research to use for political, practitioners, and hands on decision makers,” Ms Gardes said

Ms Gardes added that this will be done by providing capacity development in training of trainers in the field of water and water governance in particular.

Meanwhile, the Government of Netherlands noted with concern the rising pressure of too little or too much water because of climate change, and the degradation of water which has put billions of people’s lives in danger.

Ms Karin Roelofs who is the Head of the Water Team, for the Minister of Foreign affairs Trade and Development of Netherlands stated that climate change and the degradation of nature, population, economic growth, urbanization, shocks of Covid-19, and food prices increase have further complicated things.

“In the next decade societies across the globe will face major transitions in energy, food, eco-systems regeneration and in infrastructure and water is affected under constraint in all of these transitions,” Ms Roelofs stated

Ms Roelofs has since called for a more integrated approach to water governance in order to advance good implementation of policies by the governments.

Local authority calls on women, youths to form cooperatives and benefit from CDF

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Local authority calls on women, youths to form cooperatives and benefit from CDF

The local authority in the Chinsali District of Muchinga Province has called on women and youths to form cooperatives in the constituency in order to benefit from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Chinsali Municipal Council Town Clerk Sombo Kawilila told the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) in an interview today that Government has deliberately designed various empowerment programmes for women and youths under the CDF so that they can be empowered.

Ms. Kawilila says women and the young people are key and equal players in national development and empowerment programmes.

“Our desire as a municipality is to at least have a big number of women and youth groups accessing these grants if we want to see development in our constituency,” she said.

And Ms Kawilila added that so far a total of 33 community projects have been identified but are yet to be approved by the ministry.

She added that a sum of K500, 000 has been approved for both 135 Skills bursaries as well as 160 boarding schools bursaries adding that disbursement of the same funds has already started.

“These 135 skills and 160 boarding schools bursaries are both from the first and second quarter CDF while the empowerment project is for the whole year,” she added.

She further called on residents to come on board and form cooperatives and submit their application forms so that they can also benefit from the increased CDF.

“This is people’s money, residents should form cooperatives and apply for this money for them to venture into various businesses that will change their livelihood,” she said.

Ms. Kawilila said government wants to see each Zambian citizen benefit from the national cake and no one should be left behind.

She further commended the Ministry Of Local Government for the timely feedback as it has helped the local municipality to process the applications in good time.

Ms. Kawilila expressed hope to see an increase in the number of residents accessing the CDF.

Nakonde residents urged to cooperate with census enumerators

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Nakonde residents urged to cooperate with census enumerators

Residents of Nakonde District in Muchinga Province have been urged to cooperate with the census enumerators as they conduct the exercise.

Nakonde District Commissioner, Marvelous Sikapizye, said it is important that people give factual information when they are being interviewed.

Mr. Sikapizye, who was speaking in an interview with the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) in Nakonde today, stated that providing accurate statistics will give a clear picture of the district.

“Those people that are passing through your homes, please give them the right information because when you cheat them, do not think that you are cheating them, you are cheating yourself. Give them the right information so that the government can have the right information from our homes,” he said.

He also appealed to enumerators to work hard and ensure that they correctly capture each and every household in the border town.

“You know people differ, we have different beliefs and opinions. So even as you go round collecting data, please try to reason with the different people that you will meet so that you can have the truth at the end of the day,” he said.

Meanwhile, one of the Nakonde residents, Thandiwe Banda, complained that most residents have resorted to reserving information because some of the questions being asked are inappropriate.

“How can they be asking if I sleep on the floor or not. I feel they should concentrate on just counting people. Also, questions about my future plans were really unnecessary,” she said.

She further pointed out that the organizers should consider reducing the number of questions in order to serve time for both parties.

“Some questions are pointless. So does it mean if they find out I do not have a wheelbarrow they will provide one for me? The people responsible for conducting the census need to recheck some of the questions honestly,” she said.

Prayer alone is not a solution to poverty-Clergy advises Christians

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Prayer alone is not a solution to poverty-Clergy advises Christians

A clergyman has advised Church leaders in the country to encourage their members to apply for various government empowerment funds.

Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia (EFZ) Executive Director Andrew Mwenda has noticed that many believers shun government empowerment programmes at the expense of just praying against poverty.

Bishop Mwenda says prayer alone is not a solution to poverty because God expects every believer to also take action towards uplifting their livelihoods.

The bishop said this during the Pastors’ Ordination ceremony held at the Reconciliation Ministries International Church in Chibombo District.

He says it is disheartening that many believers are living in poverty when government is giving out loans and grants aimed at improving people’s livelihoods.

“Do not just pray and do nothing when Government is giving out loans and grants under CDF, go and apply,” he said.

Bishop Mwenda says government has allocated enough funds under the Citizens Economic Empowerment (CEEC) and the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) that church members should take advantage of.

The Bishop has since urged the newly ordained pastors to engage civic leaders in their respective wards and familiarize themselves with CDF guidelines in order to access funds.

He said the role of a pastor is not limited to feeding the church members with the word of God alone, but also to educate them on how they can be empowered and improve their livelihoods.

Bishop Banda has also urged the church members to recognize and respect religious, traditional and political leaders saying it is biblical to do so.

And in an interview Father Emmanuel Kabinga of Catholic Church, said church leaders have a duty to encourage their members to benefit from government empowerment programmes.

WEEKEND SCORECARD: Old Guard Gathers in Top 4

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Yes, it is still very early days but the top four after Week 2 of the 2022/2023 FAZ Super League campaign has a nostalgic tone.

Except for Kabwe Warriors and fallen Roan United, some old foes make a rare top-four tenancy of years gone by.

1980 and 1998 champions Nchanga Rangers who were promoted this season after four years away occupy second place.

Leading are six-time champions Power Dynamos are tied on 6 points with Nchanga but have underachieved since winning their last league title in 2011.

Five-time champions and perennial top four contenders Green Buffaloes are the other old guard trying to make an early statement this season.

It was the same situation for Buffaloes last season who led for over three months until the wheels came off in early January.

Just behind Buffaloes and sharing 4 points with them are the record champions Nkana.

Meanwhile, Zanaco and Zesco who have dominated Zambian football over the last decade are 9th on 3 points and 13th on 1 point respectively and already nursing wounds from defeats in Week 2.

Interestingly, Nchanga handed Zanaco their first loss of this season when the Chingola side came from one-down at halftime to beat the seven-time champions 2-1 at Sunset Stadium in Lusaka.

And all top four clubs have interesting Week 3 fixtures.

Nchanga is the only side with a top four date this weekend when they host Green Buffaloes on Saturday, Power Dynamos are away to Green Eagles on the same day while on Sunday Nkana awaits Zanaco in Kitwe.


WEEKEND SCORECARD

FAZ SUPER LEAGUE
WEEK 2
27/08/2022
Green Eagles 1(Amity Shamende 87′)-FC MUZA 0

Green Buffaloes 2(John Kosamu 56′, Jack Chirwa 63′)-Chambishi 0

Zanaco 1(Tshite Mweshi 31′)-Nchanga Rangers 2(Logic Chingandu 62′, Pedro Miguel 90′)

Napsa Stars 0-Nkwazi 0

Kabwe Warriors 0-Forest Rangers 1(Chitoshi Chinga 60′)

Kansanshi Dynamos 0-Prison Leopards 2(Lubinda Mundia 63′, Landu Miete 84′)

Buildcon 1(Davis Bwalya 66′)-Nkana 3(Patrick Gondwe 3′, Alex Ngonga 26′ 84’pen)

Zesco United 0-Red Arrows 1(Saddam Yusuf 39′)

28/08/2022
Power Dynamos 3(Kennedy Musonda 37′ 50′, Kilo Mwepu 90′)-Lumwana Radiants 1(Benjamin Mukanda 66′)


FAZ National Division 1
Week 2
25/08/2022

Konkola Blades 1-2 Zesco Malaiti Rangers

27/08/2022

City of Lusaka 0-0 Trident FC

Atletico FC 1-2 Aguila FC

28/08/2022
Mutondo Stars 2-0 Kafue Celtic
(Mwansa Mwamba 18’, Godfrey Chibanga 90+2’)

Young Buffaloes 0-1 Barts FC
(Isidore Banda 31’)

Jumulo 0-1 Mufulira Wanderers
(Evans Musonda 83’)

Indeni 2-1 Mpulungu Harbour
(Graven Chitalu 31’, Charles Yande 50’/ Jeffrey Sikapite 55’)

Kitwe United 1-0 Kafue Eagles
(Moses Lolozi 90’)

FAZ SUPER LEAGUE TOP SCORERS 2022/2023

28/08/2022
Benjamin Mukanda (Lumwana):2
Logic Chingandu (Nchanga Rangers):2
Alex Ngonga (Nkana):2
Kennedy Musonda (Power Dynamos):2

Davis Bwalya (Buildcon):1
Tshite Mweshi (Zanaco):1
John Kosamu (Green Buffaloes):1
Jack Chirwa (Green Buffaloes):1
Chitoshi Chinga (Forest Rangers):1
Pedro Miguel (Nchanga Rangers):1
Landu Meite (Prison Leopards):1
Lubinda Mundia(Prison Leopards):1
Saddam Yusuf(Red Arrows:1
Kilo Mwepu (Power Dynamos):1
Patrick Gondwe (Nkana):1
Amity Shamende(Green Eagles):1
Andrew Phiri (FC MUZA):1
Golden Mashata (Green Buffaloes):1
Abraham Kanyanga (Lumwana):1
Kapambwe Musonda (Lumwana):1
Hosea Silwimba (Green Eagles):1
Abraham Siankombo (Zanaco):1
Damiano Kola (Prison Leopards):1
Alfred Leku (Zesco United):1
Jacob Kaunda (Power Dynamos):1

ECZ offside on Malanji and Lusambo-Sishuwa

Chief Editor
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43
ECZ offside on Malanji and Lusambo-Sishuwa

Respected Historian and Political Analyst Sishuwa Sishuwa has charged that the Electoral Commission of Zambia was wrong to have refused to accept nomination papers from Joseph Malanji and Bowman Lusambo as PF candidates for Kwacha and Kabushi Constituency respectively.

Dr Sishuwa noted that the ECZ made a mistake by issuing a mistake on the eve of nomination day that they will reject the nomination papers of the duo even before they filed in.

Dr. Sishuwa was speaking in an interview on the Red Hot Breakfast Show on Hot FM on Monday morning.

Asked to comment on the issue of the two by elections, Dr Sishuwa stated, “There are two separate issues here that we have to deal with, one is on the question of procedure and the other one is on the question of substantive.”

“On the procedure part, the ECZ made a mistake by issuing a statement to say that candidates or have done this or that will have their nominations rejected, if you read Article 52 of the Constitution, the power to reject the nomination of any candidate is vested in the Returning Officer after the candidate has presented his papers to the ECZ on the day of nomination because when the ECZ issued that statement, there was no way of knowing who would be the candidates, so it was wrong for them to actually do that because they ceased to be an impartial body,” he said.

Dr Sishuwa added, “They should have waited for the Returning Officer who had seen the nomination papers for Lusambo and Malanji and then reject them if they need to but that didn’t happen so on the procedure part, I think the ECZ was wrong.”

Dr Sishuwa further stated that the Constitutional Court had earlier in March ruled that the two candidates were eligible to recontest their seats.

“On the substantive part, I think the matter is before court so we are restrained on commenting on this matter but there was a judgement in the Constitutional Court which was issued in think in March this year to the effect that both Malanji and Lusambo or candidates in their positions are eligible to contest unless the Constitutional Court vacates that judgement, the ECZ is bound by that judgement as well. It would be interesting to see what the ECZ or the Constitutional Court does in relation to these cases that have been filed.”

ECZ acted within the law by rejecting Lusambo and Malanji nominations-Attorney General

Chief Editor
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19
ECZ acted within the law by rejecting Lusambo and Malanji nominations-Attorney General

Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha says the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) acted within the law by rejecting the nominations of former Kabushi Member of Parliament Bowman Lusambo and his kwacha counterpart Joseph Malanji because they are not qualified.

Mr. Kabesha has advised those that are not clear about the law regarding the eligibility of a candidate in the electoral process, to go to court and seek for interpretation of the applicable clauses.

The attorney general is subsequently urging the two that were disqualified from filing in their nominations in the upcoming kwacha and kabushi parliamentary by-elections not to relent but look for alternative ways to contribute to national development.

And New Heritage Party President Chishala Kateka says the patriotic front should have had alternative candidates for both the kabushi and kwacha constituency by-elections which would have allowed them to field candidates in the two areas.

Ms. Kateka tells Phoenix News that the failure by the party to successfully file in nominations for its two candidates, Mr. Lusambo and Mr. Malanji is unfortunate.

Meanwhile, various political parties that successfully filed in their nominations for next month September 15th, 2022 parliamentary by-election have begun making promises and committing themselves to work for the people.

United Prosperous And Peaceful Zambia (UPPZ) candidate Shadreck Mumba will tap into his president, Charles Chanda’s promise to adopt the 17 community schools in the constituency, create a parallel Constituency Development Fund –CDF- program, hand over 1 of his 6 emerald mines in Lufwanyama to the youths and hand over a 5 acres farm to Copperbelt University -CBU- students to supplement their feeding and create them wealth.

Former Copperbelt University Students Union –COBUSU- President Lawrence Kasonde is vying for the Kwacha seat as an independent candidate and has hinted that its time for Kwacha Constituency to have a youthful member of parliament that will bring fresh ideas to the table.

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) is Fielding Ashan Jayawardene who has promised to fight poverty through agriculture and women empowerment and further, infrastructure development including maternity wings at health facilities.
The Ruling United Party for National Development –UPND- has declared that it will increase the productivity of the youth population through agriculture and Charles Mulenga, the aspiring candidate, has promised to use the enhanced Constituency Development Fund –CDF- to solve various challenges in the area.
And Leadership Movement –LM-, candidate Professor Oliver Silumbe has vowed to create jobs through innovation and to ensure enhanced agriculture production.

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