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Remembering Dora Moono Nyambe: A Legacy of Love, Sacrifice, and Hope

Lusaka Times Editor
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Remembering Dora Moono Nyambe: A Legacy of Love, Sacrifice, and Hope
Remembering Dora Moono Nyambe: A Legacy of Love, Sacrifice, and Hope

Dora Moono Nyambe, a name that has echoed in the hearts of many, was a woman whose life was marked by boundless love, compassion, and sacrifice. At just 30 years old, Dora passed away in the early hours of the morning, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the lives of over 500 children whose futures she transformed. Dora’s story, largely unknown to many until now, is one that deserves to be shared, honored, and remembered.

A Life of Selflessness and Dedication

As a mother of 16 adopting 13 children and fostering 3 Dora was no stranger to the demands of parenthood, but she chose to take on even more. She made the courageous decision to move to Mapapa, a village in Zambia, with the vision of giving back to those in need. What she found upon arrival was staggering poverty and a staggering number of children who were unable to access education.

A Teacher’s Mission: To Make a Difference

A trained teacher by profession, Dora couldn’t stand the sight of so many children with no future. But instead of just lamenting, she rolled up her sleeves and got to work. Initially, she held makeshift classes for the children under a tree, using whatever resources she could gather. Her passion and determination led her to establish Footprints for Hope, a school for underprivileged children.

The turning point came when Dora began documenting her efforts on TikTok, sharing her experiences with the world. What started as a way to show her daily life as a foster mother and teacher quickly grew into a global movement. Her account garnered millions of followers, and through the power of social media, Dora raised over £350,000 (around $450,000). This incredible feat allowed her to expand her school, build classrooms, provide food, and offer shelter to the children. At the time of her death, Dora had helped over 500 children and employed 35 staff members to ensure that the school continued running smoothly.

The Painful Loss: A Life Taken Too Soon

Dora’s death has left a void that words cannot fill. While her work has been acknowledged by the community, it is disheartening that this remarkable woman, whose selflessness changed the lives of so many, has only gained widespread recognition posthumously. Her passing, though shrouded in grief, should serve as a call to action for us all, especially the government, to honor her work and ensure that her legacy endures.

There have been unfounded rumors suggesting that Dora’s death may have been the result of witchcraft. Such speculation, however, should not detract from the truth of the matter: Dora was a vibrant soul who dedicated herself to helping others. It is the pain of a beautiful soul lost too soon that should be felt, not the distractions of baseless claims. It is time for us to focus on the immense good that she did for her community, for the children, and for society as a whole.

Dora’s Message: An Inspiration to Us All

Dora’s life is a lesson in what true generosity and compassion look like. She didn’t have to take on the challenges she did she could have lived a life for herself, but she chose a life that was far bigger than her own. Through her tireless work, Dora proved that one person can make a tremendous impact on the world.

Her story teaches us the value of perseverance, the power of community, and the importance of giving, even when it seems like there’s little to give. Dora didn’t just raise funds; she raised hope. She gave children who had none of the privileges we often take for granted the chance to dream, to learn, and to succeed. Her legacy is now ours to carry forward.

A Call to the Government and Society

It is time for the government to recognize individuals like Dora Moono Nyambe, whose work uplifts entire communities. Dora’s efforts should not be in vain. We must honor her legacy and continue the work she started. This isn’t just about celebrating her life after death it’s about ensuring that her work remains alive. The government has the responsibility to support the programs she established and to ensure that the school she founded continues to serve future generations.

Furthermore, the media must take responsibility for highlighting such remarkable individuals while they are still alive. We can no longer allow stories of people like Dora to be overlooked in favor of politics and scandal. Let Dora’s story remind us that there are heroes among us heroes whose names we may not yet know, but whose actions will forever leave their mark on the world.

The Heartfelt Legacy of Dora Moono Nyambe

Dora’s death is a painful reminder of how precious life is, and how often the most beautiful souls are taken from us far too soon. While we mourn her passing, we must also celebrate the incredible impact she had on the lives of those she touched. She will never be forgotten, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Rest in peace, Dora Moono Nyambe. Your selfless love and dedication have left an indelible mark on the world. You may be gone, but your spirit lives on through the children whose lives you changed forever.

 

NAPSA Pays Over K4 Million to Society Business Park Tenants: What You Need to Know

Lusaka Times Editor
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NAPSA Pays Over K4 Million to Society Business Park Tenants: What You Need to Know

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Very Merry Christmas From Lusaka Times

Chief Editor
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A Very Merry Christmas From Lusaka Times

As we celebrate this festive season, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to you our Esteemed LT readers, for your unwavering support over the years.

Your trust and engagement have been the foundation of our journey, inspiring us to deliver with excellence and consistency even when the odds are stacked against us.

Thank you for being an integral part of our online community.

Your continued support is a gift we deeply cherish, and we look forward to many more years of connecting through news, stories, and shared experiences.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

May the Lord richly bless you.

The Lusaka Times Team

ERB Dispels Fuel Shortage Rumors, Assures Public of Adequate Supply

Chief Editor
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ERB Dispels Fuel Shortage Rumors, Assures Public of Adequate Supply

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

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

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

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

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

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

The country is at war with hunger; bring in the military!

Chief Editor
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The country is at war with hunger; bring in the military!

YESTERDAY, we churned out an article emphasizing the need for GBM and other former government officials currently languishing in prison for corruption or indeed pillaging our national resources to remain in prison so as to serve as a bitter lesson to those serving in the current administration that stealing is bad; we ruffled a few feathers, of course. Someone wondered why we should be ‘wasting’ our time writing about high profile prisoners instead of researching and sharing drought resistant crops that can still be planted given the impending drought staring right in our faces!

We must confess we are good listeners……we spent much of the day inspecting people’s fields and engaging our mental faculties for any practical solutions that may be applied to avert critical food shortages in the foreseeable future.

To say the country is suffering yet another drought is not a misnomer…..it’s a reality! Unless you are blind, crop failure is palpable in every direction. What were once acreage of promising maize fields are now a pitiful sight – wilting and dying slowly.

This immediately reminds us one Mundia Sikatana, the legendary and indefatigable Minister of Agriculture during the Mwanawasa regime. Presented with a similar challenge in early 2000s, Sikatana wasn’t one to confine himself to the comfort of his air-conditioned deluxe office drinking copious amounts of tea and enjoying a generous supply of imported cookies.

He immediately discarded his business suits for the not so fanciful work suits and gumboots and went into overdrive overseeing the winter maize project. No one went hungry that year as many of us would attest.

Agriculture minister Hon. Mutolo Phiri, what guarantee are you giving us that we won’t experience a scarcity of our much favourite staple food next year? It would be folly for us to wait for the water to get to our necks before we can act – kneeling before the international community with the proverbial begging bowl in our hands pleading for handouts. We don’t expect the minister to easily fit into Sikatana”s big shoes, but there’s definitely something he ought to be doing to mitigate the possible food crisis glaring at us.

The country is effectively at war with possible hunger. The same way we’d summon the mighty of the military to clean up our cities whenever there’s an outbreak of Cholera, we expect the military, particularly ZNS to come in and help the nation contain hunger.

Phiri must request Gary Nkombo, the Minister of Local Government to engage our traditional leaders to consider surrendering massive tracts of land, particularly in areas where they’ve vast water bodies. Once enough land has been secured, the Agriculture minister must further liaise with the Defence minister, Ambrose Lufuma to beseech the President who is of course the Commander in Chief of armed forces to give ‘marching orders’ to the men and women in uniform to take to the fields without further ado and grow more maize using irrigation methods.

As somebody once observed, during such a calamity such as the one glaring at us, the military shouldn’t just be relaxing in the barracks playing ‘nsolo’; we can always utilise them to wage war against possible starvation.

Salute!

Prince Bill M Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

What Question Would You Ask Jesus Christ If He Returned Today?

Chief Editor
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What Question Would You Ask Jesus Christ If He Returned Today?

By Field Ruwe EdD

“Field, if Jesus Christ returned to earth today and held a press conference and you were among the chosen few to ask him a question, what one question would you ask him?” A White dear friend asked primly.

Silence stretched out for a few seconds and with it I felt the twinges of pain at the base of my skull. Hot tears fought for room in my eyes. I pondered with a deliberation that came not only from my soul but also from the souls of the countless black individuals on earth.

For a flash moment, I heard hundreds of my ancestors on the lower deck of the slave ship shackled in pairs, in unsanitary conditions singing; “Why was I born a man…to make a brute!

Why am I a slave? O God, save me…deliver me! Let me be free! [I shall not live and die as a slave.] I will not stand it. Get caught, or get clear, I’ll try it…I had [rather get] killed running as die standing.” All the while sharks followed the ship to feed off those thrown aboard, shouting“Let me be free! Is there any God? Why am I a slave? O God, save me! God, deliver me!” I envisioned their bodies scavenged by marine organism; their bones dissolved at deep at the end. I
wondered what I would ask Jesus.

How about you? What would you ask Jesus?

To be continued in the new year.

Memories of a Simple Christmas

Chief Editor
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Memories of a Simple Christmas

Christmas is always a hectic time as we prepare for family get-togethers, make travel arrangements, gift buying, decorating Christmas trees, parties, and attending church events. Both the welcome excitement and stress have become unavoidable. The decades-old annual debate about whether the holiday season comes too early and has been commercialized has long been put to bed. The whole world seems to have given up and embraced Christmas commercialization. The old adage is now true: if you can’t fight them, join them. To remind myself that Christmas can be simple, happy and relatively painless, I go back to memories of my first earliest Christmas which I always remember with nostalgia.

It was 65 years ago in 1959 at Chipewa village in Lundazi district of the Eastern Province of Zambia in Southern rural Africa. I was one of more than 15 grandchildren in the Tembo clan. My grandfather and grandmother were great farmers who provided us with abundant food, including delicious red kidney beans, corn or maize, pumpkins, cassava, sweet potatoes, peanuts, chicken, and an occasional goat meat. But this year there was an air of excitement. Christmas was coming and word got around that we were going to eat something special on that day.

My grandmother had saved 12 cents during the year. My aunt NyaMsuzghika walked all afternoon to the store and came back in the rain that evening. Whatever she had bought was dry and had been obviously carefully concealed all through advance contingency planning. I could barely sleep with anticipation about Christmas and whatever my grandmother was keeping secret.

Early the following morning, as the grandkids jostled for position around the open fireplace, a large clay pot of water was boiling. From a small brightly colored aluminum foil packet, my aunt sprinkled half of some black dry floating substances never seen before. She then poured a whole three cents worth packet of sugar into the pot. She stirred it. The children sat near the pot as adults – uncles, aunts, older cousins – sat a little distance waiting and making a running commentary among themselves on how excited we kids were.

My grandmother handed each a small rusty metal cup. Adults and larger metal mugs. She carefully and slowly poured a little bit of the dark steaming liquid into the cups enough so that the liquid could go around the many cups. My grandmother unwrapped pieces of golden brown, white and soft edibles which were known locally as scones; pronounced as masikono. She split each piece among four children while adults split halves.

I proceeded to slowly take a sip of the sweet dark liquid followed by a small deliberate bite of the sikono. The whole experience was known as drinking tea with a small piece of a bun and it sent all us kids bananas with profound sheer joy, pleasure, and brag ado. As kids this experience could not simply be bottled away.

Soon after most of this exhilarating event was over, I clutched a rather small piece of bun I had saved in my hand and ran outside the house to brag to other admiring friends in the village. “We drank tea and ate scones for Christmas!” I yelled at the top of my lungs as I pranced around. The other kids in the village begged for a piece of the Christmas. I gave each of them a smitten bun. Just enough to wet their mouths. But the kids were thrilled all the same.

That was my happiest Christmas ever. Later that morning we went to church and in the afternoon watched traditional dances.

More than 65 years – thousands of cups of tea and loaves of bread, pizzas, hamburgers – later, I have never really forgotten that Christmas. The majority of people in rural parts of the Third World today still celebrate Christmas by eating something special in the whole large family – often a cup of sweetened black tea and a slice of bread or a bun spread with a touch of margarine or sweet fruit jam.

So, during the Christmas day, never mind if you do not get any gifts at all. Be grateful to share these happy moments with family and friends, especially over a simple meal.

By Mwizenge S. Tembo, Ph. D.

Emeritus Professor of Sociology

2024 Grade 7 AND 9 Examinations Results Impressive – Syakalima

Chief Editor
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2024 Grade 7 AND 9 Examinations Results Impressive – Syakalima

Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima, has released Grade 7 and 9 results with both recording an increase in the pass rate of two-point three percent pass rate compared to 2023.

Mr Syakalima disclosed out of 302,870 who sat for the 2024 Grade 9 examinations, 169,280 pupils have obtained the Junior Secondary School Leaving Certificate.

The Minister also disclosed that 350,116 candidates obtained the Primary School Leaving Certificate, representing a pass rate of 71.19% percent points out of the 491,785 candidates who sat for the examination, of which 234, 097 were boys, and 257,688were girls.

Mr Syakalima said that the progression rate from primary school to secondary school which will now be form one has slightly improved to 71.19 percent in 2024 from 69 percent in 2023.

“This is further confirmation that despite the increase in the numbers of learners, quality has not been compromised, based on the measures the New Down Government has implemented over the three years, as earlier stated,” said Mr Syakalima.

And Mr Syakalima has further disclosed that the Ministry of Education will implement the 2023 Zambia Curriculum using a phased approach, commencing with Early Childhood Education – ECE (Level 1), Primary Education (Grade 1) and Secondary Education (Form 1), in 2025.

He said that ECE (Level 1), Primary Education (Grade 1) and Secondary Education (Form 1) will open on Monday, 10th February, 2025, in order to allow enough time to print and distribute the teaching and learning materials and orientation of the teachers.
ZANIS

Why GBM And Others Must Remain In Jail !

Chief Editor
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Why GBM And Others Must Remain In Jail !

It’s obviously not in our nature to celebrate or rejoice when others have hit their lowest ebb in life; but we must, of course, endeavour to remain true to ourselves at all times, no matter what station we seem to occupy in life.

From the onset, we must confess we are ardent and fervent sympathisers of Hakainde Hichilema and his party, the United Party for National Development (UPND). We shall therefore seek to remain truthful and factual in our discourse. Yesterday, the lawyer representing jailed former Defence minister Geoffrey Bwalya Mwamba otherwise popularly known as GBM, Charles Changano, intimated that his client is having challenges settling down in the hell-hole known as prison!

“ He is now unwell after he was denied the request to go for medical treatment abroad,” claimed Changano.

Mwamba is of course serving a five-year jail term for defrauding the Zambian government for goods, worth billions of Kwacha, he purportedly supplied to the ministry of defence when in fact not.

Apart from this, former Chifunabuli PF MP Ponde Mecha is literally ‘ordering ‘ President Hichilema to consider pardoning Emerine Kabanshi on compassionate and health grounds.

Mecha is wondering why there hasn’t been any advocacy for the former community development minister’s release from imprisonment for being found wanting for squandering the funds meant for the social cash transfer!

What do we make of all this?

We are privy to the fact that a few of our leaders – ministers, permanent secretaries and other senior government officials have gone into overdrive betraying the President and the Zambian people by conniving with hard-core crooks to defraud and dispossess our people of the national cake for their own selfish benefit!

What’s the best remedy of taming such characters?

If GBM and others are simply let off the hook today for whatever reasons; our current leaders will continue stealing from the Zambian people knowning that all that they’d need to do when the the time of reckoning comes with is to pretend they are grabbliing with life-threatening illnesses and voila……they are out to enjoy their ill-gotten wealth!

Prince Bill M Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Protect welfare of the elderly in communities, urges Central Province Minister, Hon. Mwabashike Nkulukusa

Chief Editor
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Protect welfare of the elderly in communities, urges Central Province Minister, Hon. Mwabashike Nkulukusa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

President Hichilema and the Witch Doctor Conundrum

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema and the Witch Doctor Conundrum

“Zambia Police Thwart Plot Against President Hichilema, Arrest Two Suspects”

This headline jumps off the page as a mix of tension and incredulity. The Lusaka Times alerts us to a serious threat against the president. In contrast, the BBC adds a whimsical twist, portraying him as an unwitting target of witchdoctor. And who thought Zambian politics could blend a mix of fear and farce?

I can’t help but chuckle at the thought of our police casting a net wide enough to include witch doctors as bodyguards for our fearless president. It’s impossible not to see the absurdity in it all—what could be more modern than surrounding a leader with a group of witch doctors? But this isn’t just a joke; it’s a serious situation wrapped in intrigue and satire.

How could the president work without someone like Seer 1 by his side? Our beloved President is vulnerable, like a lone candle flickering in untold darkness. For years, whispers have echoed among UPND supporters about the need to protect the president against witches—they believe a supernatural touch could really make a difference. Only an army of witches could fend off the darker forces.

Let’s not gloss over the gravity of this situation—there’s a palpable air of desperation among those seeking to undermine President Hichilema. Our police force are heroes; they’ve shown remarkable skills in this high-stakes game. Treason is a lurking beast, and we’ve narrowly escaped its clutches. This is indeed satire, but one that feels all too real.

The revelations are striking: our nation’s struggles may stem from a sinister malevolence aimed at distracting and destabilizing our leader. It’s not just confusion; he’s caught in a web spun by unseen enemies. We now have an answer—the president’s countless promises cannot be fulfilled when he is under a spell! Only experienced witches will ensure his protection.

Now, let’s not ignore the awkward truth: the president’s challenges may be more than mere coincidences, possibly tangled up in the chatter of dark magic. So, to all the witches out there, take heed! The Zambia Police have no intentions of playing games; they’re charging forward, determined to confront these supernatural threats head-on—witch arrests might just become the new norm.

Praise God, witch doctors now surround the president; no witch will get away with it. Shouldn’t we add a specialized unit of “witch doctors”—yes, I mean exactly that—ready to stand as a formidable line against any encroaching danger? Without Seer 1 and his powers, President HH is vulnerably exposed like a dying flower in malignant heat. Having an office of witches at the State House is not a bad idea after all.

So let’s rally our spirits! It’s time to approach witchcraft with the seriousness it deserves—not as a punchline but as a vital component of safeguarding the president. Going forward, we must ensure the safety of our president with “abracadabra.” This unpredictable tale must serve as a reminder to all UPND politicians—beg Seer 1 again; or else the president is in danger!

By Kapya Kaoma

Kawambwa: A New Chapter of Progress and Leadership

Chief Editor
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Kawambwa: A New Chapter of Progress and Leadership

As I reflect on the recent by-election in Kawambwa, I am filled with pride at the way our party, the MMD, has remained a pillar of stability, trust, and progress in Zambia’s political landscape. This by-election was not just another contest—it was an opportunity to answer long-standing questions, clarify our position, and reassure the people of Kawambwa about the future of their constituency.

One of the most impactful moments of this by-election was our radio program. It gave us the perfect platform to address the questions that had lingered in the minds of the people for years. From the MMD’s future, to our partnership with the UPND, we had the chance to speak directly to the citizens of Kawambwa.

The program allowed us to clear the air about our political alliance, reassuring the people that this partnership is built on mutual respect, progress, and shared goals for the future of Zambia. We also used this platform to reassure the people of Kawambwa that, despite the changes, they would continue to see the same level of commitment to development and service.

When Hon. Elizabeth Chitika served as the Member of Parliament for Kawambwa, she was a force of development. Roads, schools, electricity, and agricultural support were her hallmark, and her work is still evident in every corner of the constituency. The people of Kawambwa made it clear that they wanted her to return, but Hon. Chitika, in her characteristic selflessness, stepped aside to support Eng. Nason Musonda. She reassured the people that Musonda would continue from where she left off—ensuring the same progress, commitment, and service that marked her tenure.
What made this by-election so special was the civility, transparency, and focus on issues. No violence, no intimidation—just honest conversations about the future. This peaceful environment allowed us to connect directly with the voters, ensuring they felt informed and empowered to make the right decision for their future.

Congratulations to Eng. Nason Musonda on his well-deserved victory. The people of Kawambwa have shown that they believe in progress, and with his leadership, we are confident that they will see the continuation of the development Hon. Chitika initiated.

To the people of Kawambwa, thank you for your faith in us. The MMD will always stand with you, advocating for real change, progress, and a brighter future for all.
Together, we move forward!

By Dr. Nevers Mumba

NAPSA plots mineral value addition to drive Zambia’s economic rise

Chief Editor
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NAPSA plots mineral value addition to drive Zambia’s economic rise

By Benedict Tembo
The National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) intends to venture into mineral value addition.

To this effect, NAPSA has made the first call for proposals for consultants to help it venture into mineral value addition.

NAPSA believes this is an important step towards achieving its goal of driving the growth of the local manufacturing industry and deriving maximum value from the country’s natural resources while creating jobs both in the formal and informal sectors.

“This is the NAPSA formula to assure the sustainability of the scheme,” NAPSA director general, Muyangwa Muyangwa said today at the 2024 NAPSA stakeholders’ forum in kitwe.

Mr Muyangwa envisages that the mineral value addition will be high impact on NAPSA’s investment front.

“We have made significant strides in refocusing our energies and investments to high impact economic sectors that help to respond to the current economic challenges and contribute to the achievement of the broader national economic transformation agenda of reviving the manufacturing industry and increasing copper production,” he said.

Mr Muyangwa said NAPSA’s recent a US$500 million investment in the expansion of the Lusaka-Ndola dual carriageway and the phase two of the Maamba Energy Power plant speak to its determination to support national development and drive economic growth in real terms.

On penalty reduction and penalty waiver, Mr Muyangwa said that beginning January, 2024 NAPSA implemented a Government initiative to reduce the penalty rate for paying contribution late to 10 percent from the 20 percent.

“We also implemented a government plan to support business growth through a penalty waiver programme that will run for two years, during which employers can get penalty relief for penalties incurred as far back as 2000 when the scheme started and for penalties incurred under specific conditions going forward.

He said NAPSA has todate approved a total of 5,704 penalty waiver applications amounting to over K1.2 billion.

“This has enabled us to collect contributions totalling about K43 million. Through this process, we are also cleaning up employer details. We are glad to report that over 35,000 employers have signed on our new online system meaning that we have clean employer details for those employers. This is very important for our communication and engagement as well as to our drive to improve compliance,” Mr Muyangwa said.

Regarding online compliance certificate, the NAPSA director general said the NAPSA compliance certificate is now online.

“This is another milestone in our quest to improve the experience of obtaining services from NAPSA. Today, employers do not need to visit NAPSA offices to get their compliance certificates because they can do this from the comfort of their homes or offices. This development is also helping us to keep employer details up to date because employers are required to update or confirm their details before getting their compliance certificates,” he said.

On system integration with other key players, mr Muyangwa said NAPSS has continued its drive to integrate its systems with those of other key players in the social security space to enable seamless information exchange for improved service delivery.

He also said biometric identification is one of the most important aspects of pension administration is correct and accurate identification of individual members.

“Currently we are supporting the government-led biometric ID project that will help to improve member identification. this will open new opportunities in service delivery as it will enable us introduce more self-service products that will bring services closer to our customers and improve overall the customer experience that we can offer. We trust that this project will gain traction and be completed as soon as possible,” Muyangwa said.

Reflections – is 2024 another dream deferred?

Chief Editor
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14
Reflections – is 2024 another dream deferred?

We can’t lament bad governance in silence. Silence creates an opening for bullies, cadres and praise singers to shout out loudest and the danger is that these louts have the ability to drown out reason and logic if left unchecked.

In this age, truth is in short supply. Social media has created a direct pathway for myth-making and second-guessing conjectures that are often used by those with malevolent minds to stretch facts. Against this background, we remain alive to the fact that there is a price for speaking truth to power and against autocratic tendencies.

To our critics, the vitriol, provocative rhetoric and the mud that is often thrown our way for expressing opinions that seek to enhance our political discourse hardly stick on our skin. For the record, we don’t affiliate to any political party and neither do we get a penny for contributing on this platform. For us,our motivation to elevate critical thinking is driven by a much bigger cause. It’s called patriotism.

Which reminds of one of Abraham Lincoln’s far most thought-provoking quotes. ‘ I must stand with anybody that stands right and stand with him while he is right and part with him when he goes wrong.’We stood right with the current dispensation when they were in the opposition. Many a times, we were able to project its leader as a voice of reason. HH’s Dilemma and Why 2021 is critical for ECL and HH are just some of the several write-ups we opined on this platform pre – the 2021 polls in support of the UPND’s bid for the Presidency.

Three years into its reign, it’s disappointing that that this government doesn’t seem to have a real grasp and extent of the biggest challenges facing the county. Just how easily they have detached from reality boggles the mind. Contrary to what the UPND pontificates, poverty, corruption and rising unemployment are taking root under their watch and these socio ills now rank as the biggest blight of their reign thus far.

The argument that these challenges were inherited from the PF government is inconsequential. This is HH’s government, he now owns the economy. Need we remind ourselves; he was elected to ameliorate the masses from these ills. Therefore, highlighting or confronting these challenges should in no way be misconstrued as an affront to the President’s persona or his government otherwise we would be guilty of wilful blindness for choosing silence. For those that care to know, wilful blindness is often a defence of the timid and is defined as the deliberate failure to make reasonable enquiry of
wrongdoing despite suspicion and an awareness of the high probability of its existence.

Our criticism is intended to keep this government in the straight and narrow. As a matter of fact, we maintain a great deal of respect for this President – this despite his many failings. It’s for this reason that we keep reminding him of our goodwill that he is carrying in his sails. That said, we should not hold the UPND government to a different set of standards. Put simply, it shouldn’t matter the affiliation of the perpetrator, we should call out corruption for what it is. We shouldn’t just shuffle errant government officials from one ministry to the other or merely drop permanent secretaries for suspected corruption, we should mete out the stiffest punishment to transgressors.

Haul them before courts like you have done to GBM or Bowman Lusambo among others. It shouldn’t matter who is in power, we should sound out government for failing to address rising poverty and its devastating impact on the general populace – poverty must be uprooted. It shouldn’t matter who is in power, they should protect the sanctity of our constitution. It shouldn’t matter who controls the purse strings, they should contract debt responsibly. Importantly, it shouldn’t matter which party the President belongs to, they should abandon their private residence and move into State House.By the way, the 7 th Republican President holds a dubious record as the only Zambian leader to have shunned State House for private residency. Can you imagine the rancour that former President Edgar Lungu would have caused by opting to commute daily from Chawama to State House? How about declaring your assets Mr President? It’s something that can be done at the stroke of a pen. Easily, this can help you to drown out murmurs and silence your detractors.

Try as one might, supporting this government is akin to clinging on to an abusive relationship. It’s these kinds of soft own goals that HH is scoring that have elevated Lungu and the PF to sainthood. I mean, you can’t weaponise the Justice system solely to asphyxiate and disqualify your main opponent hoping you will get away with murder – something will eventually have to give. Unless he changes tact, posterity will judge this Presidency harshly. And while HH will likely win the 2026 elections, it will come at huge cost to legitimacy and his credibility.

2024 – our annus horribilis
It’s fair to state that 2024 was Zambia’s annus horribilis – to borrow this Latin phrase coined to describe a year of misfortune. A debilitating drought is still causing untold misery. The cost of living has skyrocketed into an unimaginable stratosphere. Liquidity is in short supply and small businesses have crumbled due to inflation and inadequate power supply.

The local bond market – which is a key metrics to measuring a country’s investment credibility has lost its shine. Simply put, the unstable and fast depreciating currency is now conspiring against hopes of a weary electorate that bet their fortunes of a better life on a change of government. And the Emmanuel Mwamba led PF communication apparatus is successfully tearing into the President’s credibility by replaying videos of HH’s pre-2021 policy positions which have since morphed in a chameleon-esque pose. Begs, a question. Could this be chipante pante reloaded unfolding before our eyes? You be the judge.

Does 2025 carry a dark foreboding? A recent economic outlook report prepared by the World Bank paints encouraging signs for the country. After the deceleration of the economy in 2024 due to the devastating effects of the drought on agriculture and a deficit in energy generation, Zambia’s economy is expected to rebound, with growth projected to average 6.3% annually in 2025/26. However, the caution to the wind is that the projected growth will only be possible if the country receives above normal rainfall in the current season.

At least, there is hope for optimism; all this government requires to do is to level the political playing field and create an enabling environment to attract both local and foreign investment. In fairness, this government has to a measure of degree scored notable successes since it assumed power, critical of which was the introduction of free education, employment of 30 000 new teachers, healthcare workers including some new defence recruits. However, chaotic the impact of these recruitments have been on the national fiscus, we should applaud a government that invests in education. Few would disagree that education should not be a preserve of few but is fundamental right of every global
citizen as enshrined in the UN charter.

Heading into the new year, citizens must become proactive in confronting their challenges. It remains our sacred duty to protect our democracy. We need to start asking our elected officials to account for the votes we cast in their favour. After all, a government which accounts to its people is what Abraham Lincoln envisaged for citizens of the free world pretty much like what Kenneth Kaunda envisaged in his quest to liberate the country from colonial rule. Woza 2025.

By Chimwemwe Mwanza
Mwanza enjoys reading history and philosophy.

Unashamed Stealing of Kawambwa Seat

Lusaka Times Editor
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29
Unashamed Stealing of Kawambwa Seat
Unashamed Stealing of Kawambwa Seat

Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba expressed deep dismay over the recently concluded Kawambwa Central by-election, describing it as a complete sham. He claims the people of Kawambwa
overwhelmingly supported Mwansa Danstan of the National Congress Party (NCP), but their will was subverted through rampant vote-buying, violence, and bribery,
as confirmed by Transparency International.

Mwamba lauded the gallant efforts of Mambilima MP Hon. Jean Chisenga and Lusaka lawyer Celestine Mukandila, who attempted to prevent violence on election day but are now
detained at Kawambwa Police Station on what he terms baseless allegations of robbery and theft. Similarly, he commended Hon. Mumbi Phiri, who courageously intervened
at a polling center where Minister of Green Economy and Environment Mike Mposha was allegedly engaged in electoral malpractices.

Mwamba also recognized the role of Kanele Radio Station in exposing electoral fraud. The station investigated and broadcasted live the illegal voter registration and
transportation of voters from Nchelenge to Kawambwa. He praised the spirited campaign efforts led by Hon. Anthony Kasandwe, Hon. Chanda Katotobwe, and others, but lamented
the failure to safeguard votes on election day, which he attributes to the absence of leadership at polling stations and the totalling center.

He accused the UPND, in collusion with the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), of orchestrating a blatant theft of the election through violence, manipulation,
and state machinery. According to Mwamba, the Zambia Police’s inaction and alleged bias further emboldened these malpractices.

Drawing parallels to past events, Mwamba likened this by-election to the Kabushi and Kwacha by-elections, claiming the same tactics of state-sponsored fraud and court
interference were at play. He urged his party and supporters to prepare for upcoming by-elections in Pambashe and Petauke, emphasizing the need to counter the UPND’s
alleged thuggery and manipulation.

Mwamba called for a strategic reevaluation to combat what he describes as a state-backed assault on democracy. “What shall we do? Just continue to cry?” he asked,
urging collective action to confront what he perceives as a determined state enemy.

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