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Home Affairs launch digitalised NRC system

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The Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security through the department of National Registration, Passport and Citizenship in Muchinga province has launched the Integrated national Registration Information system (INRIS).

Muchinga Province Minister, Henry Sikazwe who graced the launch said implementation of the integrated national registration system is timely.

Mr Sikazwe said the current manual-based system lack mechanisms to prevent foreigners from registering as Zambians.

He said this is so because of the during outreach programmes that the Government implements such as mobile issuance of National Registration Cards (NRCs) across the country and especially in border areas, registration officers solely depend on the use of affidavits to register a person.

The Provincial Minister added that the digitalized system will help curb the problem of ghost workers in the public service as Government has prioritized enrollment of all public service workers.

Mr Sikazwe also said the new systems will overcome some of the challenges that the department face.

He said INRIS will make it difficult for ineligible persons to register as a Zambian citizen as it will assign a national identity number at birth as opposed to when a citizen is 16 years old.

Mr Sikazwe said the new system will provide wider services beyond the issuance of biometric enabled digital NRCs and civil registration.

The Minister highlighted some of the benefits of the new system as enhanced security system through proper identification of citizens.

He said individuals will not easily change their identity as the case maybe for some re-offenders

Mr Sikazwe pointed out another benefit saying the biometric identification system will contribute towards promotion of good governance and reduce cost of voter registration.

’‘The system will enhance the electoral process by facilitating effective voter registration and identification,’’ said Mr Sikazwe.

And Acting Principal Registration Officer for Muchinga, Sekai Mwanza said the system is aims at providing biometric enabled national registration cars and issuance of birth and death certificates.

Ms Mwaza said the requirements of the process are duly completed form II by the applicant and the National Registration Card.

“The process starts with verification of information on the NRC adding that once the applicant is authorized by officers in charge , demographic and biometric information is enrolled in the system,’’ Ms Mwanza added.

DIV 1 Wrap:Lumwana Open 3 Point Lead

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Promotion contenders Lumwana Radiants have opened a three point lead at the top FAZ National Division table with five matches officially remaining before the season ends.

Lumwana on Sunday edged Napsa Stars 1-0 at home in Lumwana to move to 57 points after playing 29 matches.

Kapambwe Musonda scored the goal in the 39th minute as Lumwana consolidated their stay at the top.

Lumwana returned to the top of the table last Thursday after beating Police College 1-0 at home just four days after receiving three points from their disputed fixture against Kabwe Youth.

Meanwhile, Napsa stayed third on the table with 50 points in 29 matches played.

Toppled FC MUZA are second on the table with 54 points after forcing a 1-1 draw at home to Young Green Buffaloes at the weekend.

Nchanga Rangers maintained fourth place following a goalless draw against Kitwe United at home in Chingola.

Brave have 47 points, just one ahead of fifth placed Mighty Mufulira Wanderers, as at Week 29.

FAZ National Division 1 – Week 29 Results

Mufulira Wanderers FC 1-0 Young Green Eagles

Kabwe Youth FC 0-0 Luapula Green Eagles

MUZA FC 1-1 Young Green Buffaloes

Livingston Pirates 0-0 Zesco Malaiti Rangers

Nchanga Rangers 0-0 Kitwe United

Lumwana Radiants 1-0 Napsa Stars

Trident FC 0-0 Police College

Jumulo FC 0-1 Gomes FC

Quattro Kalumbila 0-2 City of Lusaka

Table (Top 6)

1. Lumwana 57 points

2. MUZA 54

3. Napsa 50

4. Nchanga 47

5. Mighty 46

6. Young Eagles 44

Government extends the suspension of issuance of mining licenses by 14 more days

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Government extends the suspension of issuance of mining licenses by 14 more days

The government has extended by 14 more days, the suspension of the issuance of mining licenses.

Last month, the ministry of mines imposed a one-month suspension on the issuance of mining licenses to conduct an audit of the cadaster department following concerns by the general public on the manner in which the licenses were being issued.

Addressing the media in Lusaka today, Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe however said there will be no further extension once the issuance commences on April 11.

Meanwhile, Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Paul Kabuswe has said that the government has discovered a number of anomalies that had characterized the Zambian mining cadastre system following an audit.

Mr Kabuswe says the development comes after the Process Audit that was commissioned to deal with the concerns that were raised by the public about the cadastre department, particularly the issuance of mining licences.

Speaking at a media briefing today, Mr Kabuswe disclosed that according to the initial audit findings, there are some people who are owning as many as 50 mining licenses which are hindering effective investment in the mining sector.

Mr Kabuswe said that to cure this problem, a Statutory Instrument will be issued in due course to restrict the number of active mining rights that the same beneficial owners can hold at a given time.

Mr Kabuswe further said that the findings also revealed that some mining firms on the cadastre system are holding mining rights but have never been registered with PACRA which may be a result of corruption and fraud, hence government will seek to address the problem through an initiative called Know Your Customer (KYC).

Mr Kabuswe added that through the support of Smart Zambia, the government will link the mining cadastre system to other authentic government databases in order to avoid fraud.

Meanwhile, Mr Kabuswe disclosed that in order to address the key weaknesses in the cadastre system that have led to a damaged reputation for the department, a Business Process Re-engineering Exercise is already underway spearheaded by Smart Zambia Institute.

Msoni complains of being sidelined in the UPND Alliance

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Msoni complains of being sidelined in the UPND Alliance

All People’s Congress president Nason Msoni has cried foul that some UPND Alliance partners are being sidelined by the ruling UPND.

Mr Msoni, whose party is a member of the UPND Alliance, has said that it is obvious that they have been living a lie in the Alliance for far too long as Seven months in government is long enough to demonstrate honesty and fair play.

Mr Msoni said that he did not risk his life and that of his party members for nothing, adding that he did not join the UPND Alliance to be a political spectator, but a partake and as such he is entitled to lay claim to positions in government.

Mr Msoni stated that those who stayed home and played safe when it had mattered most cannot be the first to benefit from the sweat of others.

Meanwhile, Mr Msoni said that he feels that Political Alliances and political mergers are the future of Zambian politics.

Mr Msoni said that going forward; no single political entity will unilaterally form a government without reaching out or soliciting partnerships with other political parties. Mr Msoni has, however, noted that political Alliances must be real both in terms of character and shared responsibilities and should be mutually beneficial to all political parties if they are to genuinely serve their intended purpose.

WEEKEND SCORECARD: Asanovic Takes Positive From Friendly Tour

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Chipolopolo coach Aljosa Asanovic says there is a lot of optimism after his teams’ two friendlies in Turkey.

Zambia won one and lost one friendly match over the weekend against Congo-Brazzaville and Benin respectively at the Antalya Cup in Turkey in what where Asanovic’s second and third games in charge since his appointment in January.

Chipolopolo put up a convincing performance in the first game on March 25 beating Congo 3-1.

Two days later, Chipolopolo went toe-to-toe with Benin who rallied from one-down, plus had a goal disallowed, to beat Zambia 2-1.

“We conceded two goals and maybe the reaction from team was not good but we will continue working but I am so optimistic after what I have seen and how we were training here,” Asanovic said prior to departure from Turkey.

“We have not had too much time to prepare but don’t forget we played two games in 36 hours so for the players it was not easy.

“But I am not really happy about the result but happy with what I have seen. The atmosphere between the players and all the staff is all great and we will continue from there.”

The Turkey dates come a week after Asanovic’s debut game on March 18 in another away friendly this time against Iraq that his home-based players Chipolopolo team lost 3-1 in Baghdad.

Chipolopolo are due to regroup in May ahead of the 2023 AFCON group stage qualifiers that kickoff in June.

WEEKEND SCORECARD

FAZ SUPER LEAGUE
WEEK 27
23/03/2022
Prison Leopards 1(Francis Zulu 62′)-Indeni 1 (Clement Mulenga 15′)

Buildcon 1(Christone Jere 19′)-Kabwe Warriors 1(Tresor Ndaya 46′)

24/03/2022
WEEK 27
Green Eagles 0-Zesco United 0

Power Dynamos 0-Red Arrows 0

Forest Rangers 2(Quadri Kola 20’pen, Clifford Mulenga 84′)-Chambishi 0

WEEK 28
Green Buffaloes 1(Harry Milanzi Jnr 40′)-Kafue Celtic 1(Maxwell Mulutula 62′)

WEEK 28

26/03/2022

Nkana 1(Diamond Chikwekwe 32′)-Konkola Blades 0
27/03/2022
Zanaco 2(Moses Phiri 45′ 70′)-Nkwazi 0

30/03/2022
WEEK 27
Konkola Blades-Kansanshi Dynamos
WEEK 28
Zesco United-Prison Leopards

FAZ NATIONAL DIVISION 1
WEEK 27
23/03/2022
Quattro FC 0-2 Napsa Stars 2
(Bornwell Silengo 29′, Daniel Adoko 83′)

24/03/2022

Lumwana Radiants 1-0 Police college
(Muleta Mubiana 66′)

WEEK 29
26/03/2022

FC MUZA 1-1 Young Buffaloes
Mandra Muleya 28′ | Jairos Tembo 50′

Mufulira Wanderers 1-0 Young Green Eagles
(Joseph Mumbi 79′)

Livingstone Pirates 0-0 ZESCO Malaiti Rangers

Nchanga Rangers 0-0 Kitwe United

KYSA 0-0 Luapula Green Eagles

27/03/2022

Trident 0-0 Police College

Lumwana Radiants 1-0 NAPSA Stars
(Kapambwa Musonda 40’pen)

Jumulo 0-1 Gomes
(John Manda 70′)

Quattro Kalumbila 0-2 City of Lusaka
(Anos Tembo 3′, Clement Simonde 90+2′)

FAZ SUPER LEAGUE TOP SCORERS
27/03/2022
Friday Samu (Green Buffaloes):14

Ricky Banda(Red Arrows):12

Moses Phiri (Zanaco):11
Albert Kangwanda(Kafue Celtic):11

Jimmy Ndhlovu (Kabwe Warriors):9
Alex Ngonga (Nkana):9

John Chingandu (Zesco):8
Hosea Silwimba (Green Eagles):8

Clifford Mulenga (Forest Rangers):7
Jesse Were(Zesco2/Kansanshi 5):7
Martin Njobvu (Green Buffaloes):7
Lubinda Mundia(Buildcon):7
Conlyde Luchanga (Prison Leopards):7
Godfrey Ngwenya (Power Dynamos):7

Clement Mulenga(Indeni):6
Quadri Kola(Forest Rangers):6
Tapson Kaseba (Buildcon/Konkola Blades 3):6
Derrick Bulaya (Green Eagles):6
Christopher Zulu(Nkwazi):6

Timothy Sakala (Buildcon/Kansanshi 1):5
Cephas Handavu(Indeni):5
James Chamanga (Red Arrows):5
Thomas Chideu (Forest Rangers):5

Jacob Ngulube(Nkana):4
Ronald Kampamba (Nkana):4
George Ngoma (Green Buffaloes):4
Joseph Phiri (Red Arrows):4
Kilo Mwepu (Power Dynamos):4
Stephen Mutama (Nkwazi):4
Junior Zulu (Prison Leopards):4
Kelvin Mubanga(Zesco):4
Jacob Kaunda(Chambishi):4
Brian Mwila(Buildcon/Power Dynamos):4

Maxwell Mulutala (Kafue Celtic):3
Ackim Mumba (Zanaco):3
Thabani Kamusoko(Zesco):3
Twiza Chaibela(Kabwe Warriors/Arrows 1):3
Bruce Musakanya(Kansanshi):3
Luka Chamanga (Power Dynamos):3
Ernest Mbewe (Zanaco 1/Green Eagles: 2):3
Warren Kunda(Green Eagles):3
Alidor Kayembe (Arrows):3
Owen Tembo (Konkola Blades):3
Joshua Mutale (Power Dynamos):3
Patrick Ngoma(Buildcon):3
Emmanuel Chabula (Lusaka Dynamos):3
Edward Mwenya(Konkola Blades):3
Fred Mulambia (Power Dynamos):3
Marvin Jere (Lusaka Dynamos):3
Akakulubelwa Mwachiyaba (Kabwe Warriors):3
Eric Chomba (Forest Rangers):3
Langson Mbewe (Nkwazi):3
Matthews Maleka (Kansanshi Dynamos):3

Kamanga Backs Shepolopolo For 2023 FIFA Womens World Cup Qualification

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FAZ President Andrew Kamanga says Football House has set 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification as the ultimate target for Shepolopolo.

The Zambia Women have already qualified to 2022 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AWCON) coming up in Morocco in July.

The AWCON will be used as a FIFA World Cup qualifier with the top four nations earning automatic qualification to the 9th edition of the World Cup to be jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

Writing in his Weekly Column, Kamanga repeated that Shepolopolo will embark on an international camp preceding the Africa Cup that will be staged from July 3-23 in Morocco.

The team has commenced preliminary preparations in Lusaka under coach Bruce Mwape.

“As for our Copper Queens, we staged a Zone A versus Zone B clash for players from our local league as part of talent identification. The best talents from this exercise will play an All Stars (national team) versus The Rest clash that will culminate in final selection for the Morocco 2022 Africa Cup of Nations for Women. The final selection will embark on an international camp preceding the tournament that will be hosted from July 3-23 in Morocco,” Kamanga stated.

Mwape named his 30-member squad for next month’s fixture against a combined FAZ Women’s Super League select team.

“The AWCON will be used as a FIFA World Cup qualifier which is the ultimate target; we have set for our senior women national team. Top four teams at the AWCON will automatically qualify to the Australia/New Zealand FIFA World Cup while the fifth and sixth placed nations will engage in an intercontinental play-off. Having been to the AWCON in the previous two editions and capped it with Olympic qualification we are not losing sight of World Cup qualification,” Kamanga wrote.

According to FAZ Media, the game against a joint Zone A and B select team will act as part of preparations for the 2022 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AWCON).

Thirty nine players comprising 19 from Zone A and 20 players from Zone B will face-off on Saturday and the top performing players will be named in the squad against the Copper Queens to be played on the weekend of 16-17 April.

Government appeals to Japanese government to help Zambia restore debt sustainability

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Government appeals to Japanese government to help Zambia restore debt sustainability

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Stanley Kakubo has appealed to the Japanese government to support Zambia restore her debt sustainability.

ZANIS reports that Mr Kakubo made the appeal when he virtually addressed the ministerial meeting of the eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD8).

The virtual TICAD meeting was held from March 26 to 27, 2022, under the theme “Achieving sustainable and inclusive growth with reduced economic inequalities.”

Mr Kakubo assured the Japanese government that Zambia has devised measures and remains committed to restoring debt sustainability and achieving economic transformation and diversification.

“Our Government is firmly committed to the implementation of the measures it has put in place for the restoration of our debt sustainability. I am confident that Zambia can count on the support of the Japanese government to this issue of debt” said Mr Kakubo.

The Minister urged TICAD to urgently find ways of helping countries restore economic growth and improve general living conditions following the impact of the Covid 19 pandemic.

“Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a great need to build more resilient economies and reduce inequalities” pointed out Mr Kakubo.

He observed that private sector and public-private partnerships are critical in a post COVID era to help unlock and mobilise resources that can accelerate economic recovery and foster socio-economic development.

Mr Kakubo said the mobilized resources under the private sector and public-private partnerships can be used to support industrialization and generate employment, income and reduce socio-economic inequalities.

The minister acknowledged that Official Development Assistance has been instrumental in providing additional resources from cooperating partners like Japan to support the private sector to increase their productive capacities and open up market access opportunities.

Mr Kakubo further urged African countries to take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to deepen regional integration by promoting trade and investment.

“The African Continental Free Trade Area is an appropriate window for deepening regional integration through trade. The promotion of trade and investment is key in enhancing participation in regional and global value chains” said Mr Kakubo.

The minister expressed optimism that African leaders when they meet at the eighth TICAD summit will collaborate to reduce global inequalities and strengthen promotion of international cooperation and solidarity in mitigating climate change.

The Eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD8) will be hosted in Africa by Tunisia later in 2022.

TICAD8 will be the first TICAD to take place since the world experienced the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Tokyo International Conference on African Development is held every three years, and TICAD7, was held in Yokohama in 2019.

Iconic medical practitioner Professor Lupando Munkonge Eulogized

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Iconic medical practitioner Professor Lupando Munkonge Eulogized

President Hakainde Hichilema has led several people in eulogizing iconic medical practitioner Professor Lupando Munkonge.

Prof. Munkonge died on Saturday in Lusaka aged 85. He had been practising as a Medical Doctor since 1970. Prof. Munkonge was the co-founder of Lusaka’s Apex Medical University.

Professor Mary Ngoma, the council chairperson of Apex Medical University Council, officially announced Prof. Munkonge’s death in a statement.

Meanwhile, President Hichilema has received the passing away of Prof. Munkonge with sadness and sorrow.

President Hichilema acknowledged that Prof. Munkonge is credited for having significantly contributed to the growth of Zambia’s Healthcare industry as a scholar, surgical specialist and administrator.

The Head of State has conveyed his condolences to his family and the entire medical fraternity on the death of Prof. Munkonge.

“Fellow citizens, we received the news of the passing of Professor Lupando Munkonge with great sadness and sorrow. Professor Munkonge is greatly credited for having significantly contributed to the growth of Zambia’s Healthcare industry as a scholar, surgical specialist and administrator. We convey our deepest condolences to his family and the entire medical fraternity on this untimely death. May His Soul Rest in Peace,” President Hichilema posted on his official facebook page.

The Health Professions Council of Zambia (HPCZ) says Prof. Munkonge will be remembered for his contribution to the health sector as a renowned Specialist Surgeon who made use of every opportunity to improve his knowledge of Medicine in order to mentor other health practitioners at both national and global levels.

HPCZ Senior Public Relations Officer Terry Musonda stated that Prof. Munkonge also diligently served as the Chairman of the then Medical Council of Zambia (MCZ) and the Examination Council of Health Sciences (ECOHS).

“The Management and Staff of the Health Professions Council of Zambia (HPCZ) wishes to express its condolences to the family, medical fraternity and the entire nation on the death of Professor Lupando Munkonge. The Late Prof. Munkonge qualified as Medical Doctor from the University of Greifswald in Germany on 18th December, 1970 before proceeding to the University Teaching Hospital in 1971 as a Junior House Officer in the Departments of Surgery and Medicine. The late Prof. Munkonge was first licensed to practice as a Medical Doctor in Germany on 9th September, 1970,” Mr. Musonda wrote in a media statement.

“HPCZ will remember the Late Prof. Munkonge for his contribution to the health sector as a renowned Specialist Surgeon who made use of every opportunity to improve his knowledge of Medicine in order to mentor other health practitioners at both national and global levels. He also diligently served as the Chairman of the then Medical Council of Zambia (MCZ) and the Examination Council of Health Sciences (ECOHS).May God comfort the Munkonge family during this difficult time,” Mr. Musonda added.

Immediate past Health Minister Dr. Jonas Chanda has also paid tribute to Prof. Munkonge.

Dr. Chanda, a Medical Doctor himself, has described Prof. Munkonge as a man with a great sense of humour who simplified surgery.

“I’m greatly saddened to learn of the death of Professor Lupando Munkonge, my former General Surgery lecturer and Consultant at UNZA Medical School, Ridgeway Campus (1996-98) and University Teaching Hospital (UTH). Prof Munkonge also previously served as Dean of School of Medicine, UNZA, he is also the founder and proprietor of Hilltop Hospital in Lusaka and Ndola, and a co-founder and Vice Chancellor of the private Apex Medical University,” Dr. Chanda said.

“This was a man with a great sense of humour who simplified Surgery. It’s just about 1 year and 8 months ago when we lost his son and my friend Hon. Mwenya Munkonge, former Lukashya MP,” Dr. Chanda added.

Lawyer and Lukashya Member of Parliament George Chisanga has recounted Prof. Munkonge’s contribution to the Bemba Royal Establishment and to the entire nation.

“To the Republic of Zambia he was the renowned Professor of Medical Sciences, the Dean of the University of Zambia, the Medical Entrepreneur for Hilltop Hospitals and the pioneer of the first private Medical University Apex University. To us in Lukashya he was a Royal, a parent, an elder, a respected advisor, a mentor and a man given to the pursuit of Excellency. We mourn the passing of the patriarch Professor Lupando Munkonge. Thank you for being of service to your family, to the Bemba Royal Establishment, to the Republic of Zambia and the world beyond,” Mr. Chisanga stated.

Prof. Munkonge is well known for having headed the only medical school as Dean of the University of Zambia Ridgeway Campus and successfully led teams during complex surgeries such as the separation of Siamese twins on Zambian soils.

Most of the senior doctors currently practicing have gone through his lecturing and medical leadership days at UNZA.

He was also famous for being among the first Zambians to open a private hospital (Hilltop) and was among the first to open a private medical school (Apex medical university).

As Dean of the UNZA Medical school, he led the school of Medicine and its academic staff to produce high quality doctors, some of whom have gone ahead to become renown global and regional citizens.

The funeral gathering is at House Number 16 Chita Road in Kabulonga, Lusaka.

A book of condolences is open at the funeral house for mourners to sign.

Consider re-introducing subsidies on fuel, Government told

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Consider re-introducing subsidies on fuel, Government told

The Civil Society Scaling Up Nutrition Alliance has called on government to consider reintroducing subsidies on fuel in order to avert the possible increase in fuel prices.

Matthew Mhuru, the CSO-SUN Country Coordinator says this is because any further increase in fuel prices will have a negative impact on the cost of living especially for low income earners.

He said the impact of the Russia – Ukraine war might result in the cost of fuel being beyond the reach of most Zambians hence the need to bring back the subsidies.

And Energy Expert Boniface Zulu has said that the decision by the new dawn government to only import finished petroleum products through the TAZAMA pipeline will not be sustainable in the long run because of the anticipated high demand of the commodity.

Recently government through energy minister peter Kapala disclosed its resolve to import only finished petroleum products through TAZAMA pipeline and that Indeni Refinery in Ndola on the Copperbelt will no longer refine crude petroleum products.

Commenting on this development, Mr Zulu is suggesting that going forward, the Angola-Zambia pipeline must be worked on to ensure sustained availability of the commodity.

Further, Mr Zulu says it is anticipated that the price of crude oil will remain high above 100 dollars per barrel beyond March 2022 hence the need for government to implement a long lasting plan on energy

Man wants compensation after being hit by a Ministry of Youth and Sports Vehicle

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Man wants compensation after being hit by a Ministry of Youth and Sports Vehicle

A 55-year old accident victim of Nkwazi Compound in Ndola on the Copperbelt is claiming for compensation after being hit by a vehicle belonging to the Ministry of Youth and Sports last year.

Christopher Ng’ambi has been left with two amputated legs by the accident which occurred on 25th April, 2021 on Twapia Road when a Higer Bus hit him near Twapia Market around 19: 00 hours.

According to a medical report in his possession, Mr. Ng’ambi sustained fractured legs and general body pains.

He sustained an open ankle fracture on the left side and a crushed right leg resulting in amputation of both legs.

Speaking in an interview with Radio Icengelo news from his home, Mr. Ng’ambi, who is confined at home, said he wants the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Art to quickly process his compensation.

He said the compensation process has taken longer than necessary without a clear explanation from the Ministry.

Mr. Ng’ambi, who is married with children, says life has become unbearable for him and the family after the accident.

“I am a male Zambian aged 54, who resides in Nkwazi Compound, Ndola, who suffered a road traffic accident on Twapia Road on 25th April, 2021 involving a Higer Bus of Registration Number BAD 3196 for the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Art which was being driven by Christopher Siuluta Kameta.

According to a report from Ndola District Police, Mr. Ng’ambi was hit when standing off the road.

Driver Kameta of Kabanana Township in Lusaka was charged with dangerous driving and fined the admission of guilt.

“The bus hit me as I was standing alongside the said road. As you can see, this accident left me with both legs crushed and led to amputation. From that moment to today have not been able to walk in order to fend for my family because I am now permanently disabled,” Mr. Ng’ambi said.

“I have never received any support from the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Art or anyone connected to this accident. The issue of pursuing compensation has been very slow.

The driver in question has not shown concern. What I know is that the driver should have been helping even to take this case to his superiors at the Ministry,” he said.

“I am appealing to the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Art through Honourable Elvis Nkandu and the Permanent Secretary Mr. Chileshe Kangwa to kindly see to it that I access compensation which will enable me to have a reliable source of income. Accessing compensation will eventually help to restore the well being of my family. I always look for a positive response from the Ministry,” he said.

Mr. Ng’ambi has officially complained to the Ministry and is now waiting for a response.

Meanwhile, in a letter to Mr. Ng’ambi dated 28th January, 2022, acting Copperbelt Youth Development Officer Kangwa Mubanga said this case has been referred to the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Art.

Without specifying, Mubanga promised to contact Mr. Ng’ambi after receiving feedback from the Ministry Headquarters over the issue.

“I write to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated 27th January 200 in which you are claiming compensation for the Road Traffic Accident in which you were involved on 25th April, 2021, I wish to inform you that the matter has been forwarded to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth, Sports and Arts for further guidance. My office will contact you once feedback is received regarding this matter,” Mubanga wrote to Mr. Ng’ambi.

Mr. Ng’ambi has further appealed for a wheelchair from well wishers as he awaits compensation.

“I am struggling with movements. When I am going inside or outside the house it is my daughter who usually helps me and I am not comfortable with that. Let good people assist me with a wheelchair,” Mr. Ng’ambi pleaded.

Security agencies commended for intercepting illegal immigrants hidden in Trucks

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Security agencies commended for intercepting illegal immigrants hidden in Trucks

Muchinga Minister hails security agencies for being alert

Muchinga Province Minister, Henry Sikazwe has hailed security agencies in the Province for being alert in the prevention of crime.

Mr. Sikazwe says no meaningful development can take place in the absence of peace and security, saying security agencies should at all times remain alert and ensure all criminal elements are dealt with accordingly.

He told the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) in Chinsali yesterday that continued interception of illegal immigrants at Mpika by the security agencies is highly commendable.

Mr. Sikazwe said illegal immigrants are a risk to the security of the country.

Mr. Sikazwe was reacting to the interception of Thirteen (13) Ethiopian nationals two days ago who attempted to enter the country illegally by hiding inside a goods container of a Scania truck.

At the same spot last year, security agencies intercepted 5 illegal immigrants who were found hidden in a compartment improvised on the chassis of a truck.

In the latest incident the 13 illegal immigrants who entered Zambia through Nakonde border were intercepted at Mpika on Wednesday by a combined team of Immigration, Zambia Police and Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) officers.

Mr. Sikazwe has since appealed to the security agencies to remain vigilant and alert at all times to ensure bad elements who can destabilise the peace and security of the country are dealt with accordingly.

“I want to commend our security agencies for being alert in ensuring that there is peace in the Province and am also appealing to our security agencies not to relent in their quest to maintain peace and order in the province, “said Mr. Sikazwe.

And Mpika District Commissioner, David Siame who confirmed the interception of the illegal immigrants on Wednesday this week said that the 13 Ethiopian nationals were hiding in a Tanzanian Truck Registration Number T280 BFG from the port of Dar-es-salaam in Tanzania and was being driven by Gasper Pallangyo.

He further said those on board are aged between Fourteen (14) and Forty(40) years old.

The DC said the truck driver believed to be a Tanzanian national escaped the dragnet and disappeared in a nearby bush and a manhunt has been launched to bring him to book.

Mr Siame further said the incident happened at Mpika Weigh Bridge, where Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and Police officers are stationed to check details of motor vehicles especially trucks.

He added that around 14:00 hours, while the officers were checking this particular truck, they requested the driver to open the back of the container but was hesitant saying he had no keys, that was when they realised that he was hiding something.

Mr. Siame said that the officers heard some noise coming from the container and decided to open the container, they were shocked to find people sitting alongside boxes of goods.

The DC has since commended the officers for a job well done, adding that the District Administration will continue monitoring activities and movements of vehicles on the roads as it is a transit district to other areas.

The illegal immigrants are detained in custody for further investigations.

Render support towards the successful hosting of this year’s Kuomboka ceremony-Mweetwa

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Render support towards the successful hosting of this year’s Kuomboka ceremony-Mweetwa

Southern Province Minister, Cornelius Mweetwa says the new dawn government attaches great importance to traditional ceremonies as they help foster unity in the country.

Mr Mweetwa says it is important for the people in the province to attach value to traditional ceremonies because of the important role they play in fostering unity in the country.

The minister said this in a speech read on his behalf by Provincial Deputy Permanent Secretary, Yolantha Mutyambe last night at the fundraising dinner for the Kuomboka ceremony slated for April 9 in Mongu.

Mr Mweetwa has implored the people in the province to render their support towards the successful hosting of this year’s Kuomboka ceremony which he said brings people together from all walks of life, both local and foreign

And speaking earlier, Kuomboka Fundraising Committee Chairperson, Samuel Mukelabai thanked the people of Choma for their overwhelming support in raising funds that will be directed towards the necessary preparations for hosting the Kuomboka in Mongu.

Several Choma residents clad in Lozi traditional regalia attended last night’s event with many donating funds and pledges.

Isn’t Edgar Lungu entitled to an opinion?

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Isn’t Edgar Lungu entitled to an opinion?

By Chimwemwe Mwanza

Why do we always seem to run for the hills at the sight of a jackal, mistaken for a lion? Are we so consumed by crises that we sometimes neglect to interrogate critical issues in our midst for political expediency?

There is an acute shortage of drugs in health centers spread across the country. And the reaction from the state has been swift but furious. Disappointingly, it’s been nothing but a diversionary of sorts. A few bureaucrats have been suspended for facilitating the employment of a radiographer, an act deemed illegal. Suddenly, the health minister uncovers a staggering number of non-existent rural health centers – supposedly created by the previous regime. Thanks to all manner of diversions, here we are talking about illegal health centers instead of drug shortages.

This reaction by the health minister is totally unrelated to the crisis at hand. Let’s jog our memory to pre – 12th August 2021, doesn’t this level of subterfuge ring a bell? That the President took it upon himself to spend an entire day at the health ministry speaks to the depth of the crisis. A cautious reminder: descent to failure is never sudden but gradual. At this rate, these mishaps and anthills will have morphed into a mountain, come the next election cycle. While 2024 may seem too far, fact is that the next election cycle will be a referendum on the governing party’s record in power.

Which reminds, Rupiah Banda’s funeral was meant to provide a somber moment of reflection and unite the country, not until former President Edgar Lungu’s verbal gaffe detonated a political hand grenade. Lungu’s polite decision at the funeral gathering to accede to an interview – never mind the fact that he was ambushed by a journalist, elicited some consternation.

Notwithstanding his calm demeanor and delivery, his response to a question regarding his views on the country’s political temperature inadvertently pieced through the heart of the establishment. The rancor and epithets thrown in his way in the aftermath of his remarks smack of dishonesty if not hypocrisy. Put into context, whether Lungu was right or wrong in his responce is not the issue but the fact that we chastised him for his honesty is deeply troubling.

His assessment that hypocrisy was slowly eating at Zambia’s political fabric is an opinion to which he is entitled. For starters, the former President did not offer himself for an interview – a factor that makes it difficult to detect any ulterior motive in his remarks. To the contrary, he tried his utmost best to dodge the media so he could leave the spotlight to the incumbent President. Cornered, he volunteered an honest view – never mind whether we agree with him or not.

It’s mind boggling that we are lambasting him for raising a fundamental issue that has potential to erode national reconciliation and unity. What’s so offensive about the big ‘hypocrisy’ remarks anyway? Shouldn’t we be interrogating whether there is merit to his claim as opposed to shooting the messenger? Would our reaction have been any different if it was Nevers Mumba or Harry Kalaba that issued such a remark?

Never mind the hate, are there extenuating circumstances that disqualify Lungu from commenting on issues of national importance? The challenge is that ours is a country in which we view critical issues through a narrow prism of partisan politics. The more things appear to change, the more they stay the same! It makes one wonder, aren’t we conveniently ignoring the gist of Lungu’s remarks for political expediency?

If that were the case, there is a real risk that we could be missing out on an opportunity to address ‘hypocrisy’ which is the elephant in Zambia’s political landscape. Just a thought.

About the Author: Mwanza enjoys reading Political History and Philosophy. The only thing he supports is Liverpool football club and Magnificent Kabwe Warriors. He enjoys goat meat. For feedback, email: [email protected]

Chipolopolo Fall to Benin in Friendly

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Chipolopolo wrapped up their March 2022 FIFA International Match Window engagements on Sunday with a 2-1 loss to Benin in a friendly played in Antalya, Turkey.

The defeat came after a promising 3-1 victory over Congo-Brazzaville in Antalya on Friday that handed Chipolopolo coach Aljosa Asanovic his first win in charge after starting his reign in another friendly with a 3-1 away loss against Iraq on March 18 away in Baghdad.

Benin tested Chipolopolo in a tense and evenly poised contest at Mardan Sports Complex that was also error-prone by both tests of defenders.

But it was Zambia who took the lead in the 23rd minute through Kelvin Mubanga who fired in a superb volley from the edge of the area.

Benin then thought they had an equalizer in the 25th minute but Anane Tidjani’s goal was ruled out for offside.

The equalizer did eventually come in the 34th minute when Cebio Soukou blasted in the ball from the edge of the box giving Toaster Nsabata no chance.

The war of attrition ensued heading into the halftime and Chipolopolo’s best chance thereafter came in the 64th minute but the outstanding Klings Kangwa just could not lose his marker Soukou inside the box.

Prince Mumba then tried from distance in the 65 minute but Benin goalkeeper Saturnin Allagbe was equal to the equal to the task.

Chipolopolo then had captain Lubambo Musonda to thank in the 70th minute when he threw himself in front of Steve Mounie’s goal-bound shot that had eluded Nsabata.

But Benin got the breakthrough in the 84th minute when Mounie rolled the ball into the path of fellow 64th minute substitute Rosin Aiyegun to fire in the winner to see Chipolopolo close their friendly tour with a loss.

Zambia now head home but regroup this June for the start of the Cote d’Ivoire 2023 AFCON group stage qualifiers.

SME Minister, Elias Mubanga in Riyadh for the 2022 Global Entrepreneurship Congress

Chief Editor
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SME Minister, Elias Mubanga in Riyadh for the 2022 Global Entrepreneurship Congress

Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Elias Mubanga is in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia attending the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) 2022.

In a press statement issued to the media yesterday the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Yvonne Mpundu said the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) is being held in collaboration with Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN).

Ms Mpundu said the congress participants will discuss economic challenges the global entrepreneurial environment is facing, exchange experiences, seize investment opportunities and extract the lessons learned from challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Permanent Secretary added that the Congress aims at establishing a sustainable and resilient unified global entrepreneurial environment for Zambia, Saudi-Arabia And Globe at large.

“While at the Riyadh 2022 Congress, the Minister is expected to join over forty (40) other Cabinet Ministers from across the globe to discuss the current global dynamics that SMEs face and how to exploit the potentials that the international markets present,” She said.

She noted that Zambia is expected to participate on various platforms and meetings aimed at discussing resource attraction for Zambia, strengthening the ecosystems and investment in the Zambian SMEs among other important topics scheduled, during the congress.

She stated that Zambia stands to benefit from the Congress through information exchange, possible signing of MoUs on development and growth of SMEs.

“In addition the Zambian delegation will gain experience on how SMEs across the global survive under tough conditions brought about by climate change, COVID-19 pandemic, socio-economic and political dynamics affecting the global economy,” she explained.

The 2022 Riyadh Congress is being held under a theme “Reboot, Rethink, Regenerate” the Global Entrepreneurship Congress is expected be a gathering for investors, policymakers and community leaders and will run from March 27 to March, 30, 2022.

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