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ERB Maintains Petroleum Products For September

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ERB Maintains Petroleum Products For September

The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has announced that the pump prices for petroleum products will remain unchanged for the month of September. ERB Board Chairperson, James Banda, confirmed that the prices of petrol, diesel, kerosene, and Jet A-1 fuel will stay at their current levels until further notice.

According to the ERB’s statement, petrol will continue to be sold at K33.47 per liter, diesel at K30.05 per liter, kerosene at K27.52 per liter, and Jet A-1 at K30.53 per liter.

Mr. Banda explained that the decision to maintain the current pump prices is due to minimal changes in the wholesale prices of petroleum products during August. The variations were less than the 2.5% threshold required to trigger a price adjustment.

During the review period, global oil prices saw a decline, while the Zambian Kwacha depreciated against the United States Dollar. The reduction in international oil prices was largely driven by production uncertainties within the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC+), unclear global economic conditions, and fluctuating demand forecasts from major oil-consuming nations.

However, Mr. Banda highlighted that the gains from lower international oil prices were offset by the depreciation of the Kwacha against the Dollar. The local currency weakened by 1.88% in August, falling from K26.01/USD to K26.50/USD. This depreciation, coupled with increased import cash premiums for petroleum products, contributed to the decision to maintain pump prices.

“The gains from the fall in international prices were negated by the depreciation in the exchange rate between the Kwacha and the United States Dollar and also the increase in import cash premiums of petroleum products,” Mr. Banda stated.

The ERB emphasized that the current pump prices will remain in effect until any further revisions are made.

Legal Practitioner Advises Public On Governance

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Legal Practitioner Advises Public On Governance

A certified paralegal practitioner, Emmanuel Hazemba has urged Zambians to clearly understand the distinctive roles that Members of Parliament (MPs), District Commissioners (DCs), Civic leaders and other public office bearers play in the broader governance system.

Mr Hazemba explained that these mentioned public office bearers play different but complementary roles in ensuring that development is delivered in their respective areas.

He has since expressed great concern with the seemingly lack of genuine desire by some members of the public to understand the distinctive roles and the jurisdiction of public office bearers and the now established Sub-District in the development of their respective areas.

ZANIS reports that Mr Hazemba observed that despite the remarkable strides made in the implementation of the Decentralisation Policy by the government, some communities seem not to understand the ‘Bottom –UP’ approach in the development processes of their areas.

The certified paralegal practitioner has since implored local authorities across the country to effectively use their Public Relations Units at their disposal in the dissemination of information on the existence of the Sub-District structures.

He cited the formation of the Ward Development Committees (WDCs), Community Welfare Assistance Committees (CWACs) and the recently reconstituted Zonal and Satellite Disaster Management Committees (SDMCs) as crucial in actualising the Decentralisation Policy.

Mr Hazemba pointed out that sub-district structures are key in spearheading development, enumeration of vulnerable households on various social protection programmes and addressing minor disasters in their localities.

He has since implored members of the public to take keen interest in the prudent utilization of the expanded Constituency Development Fund (CDF) especially the disbursement criteria of loans and grants to cooperatives.

Message For Today: The Tree of Life

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Message For Today: The Tree of Life

Today’s Scripture

Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life.
Proverbs 13:12, NLT

The Tree of Life

Friend, one definition of hope is “the happy anticipation of something good.” If you’re anticipating something good, for a dream to be fulfilled, it brings you joy and gives you passion. When you believe that God is arranging blessings in your favor, you’re going to be excited about life. It will affect your attitudes, your relationships, and your productivity. But if you’re not anticipating anything good, if you think you’re stuck, that a problem is permanent, that you’ve reached your limits, that mind-set will drain your energy, stifle your creativity, and take your joy. You’ll just drag through the day as you endure life.

God created you to have something to look forward to. Faith is all about believing that God has good plans for you, that He’s taking you where you’ve never gone, and that the best days of your health, finances, and relationships are still in front of you. That’s not just being positive; that’s getting in agreement with God. That’s what allows Him to do amazing things and bring your dreams to fulfillment as a tree of life.

A Prayer for Today
“Father, thank You for the hope rising in my heart that You have good things in store for me. Thank You that my hope is secure in who You are, that You never fail, and that You will bring my dreams to fulfillment. I expect to see You do amazing things. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Joel Osteen Ministries

Zambia to Establish Investment Company for 30% Stake in Critical Minerals Production

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Zambia to Establish Investment Company for 30% Stake in Critical Minerals Production

Zambia plans to create an investment company that will hold at least a 30% stake in the production of critical minerals from future mining projects, Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe announced on Thursday. This move is part of a broader strategy to ensure the country maximizes the benefits from its rich deposits of metals essential for the global energy transition.

As Africa’s second-largest copper producer, Zambia is aiming to more than quadruple its copper output by early in the next decade. The country also boasts significant deposits of cobalt, graphite, and lithium, all of which are vital for the production of batteries and other clean energy technologies.

Under the new plan, the government will establish a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to invest in critical minerals. This SPV will operate under a “production sharing mechanism” that guarantees a minimum 30% of the output from new mining projects is reserved for the state, according to the framework document unveiled by Kabuswe in Lusaka.

Major international mining companies, including Barrick Gold Corp., First Quantum Minerals Ltd., and China Nonferrous Mining Corp., are currently investing in their Zambian copper projects. The government is also relying on the Konkola and Mopani copper mines, controlled by Vedanta Resources Ltd. and Abu Dhabi’s International Resources Holding, respectively, to significantly ramp up production.

To meet its ambitious goal of producing 3 million tons of copper annually by 2031, Zambia’s existing mines will need to double their output to about 1.4 million tons, according to a separate report from the Ministry of Mines. New exploration projects, such as the Bill Gates-backed KoBold Metals’ Mingomba project, are expected to contribute an additional 1.2 million tons per year.

The government also plans to mandate that investors in the critical minerals sector allocate at least 35% of procurement costs to local suppliers. Additionally, the country will review its policy and regulatory environment to limit the export of unprocessed minerals, aiming to boost local value addition.

The announcement comes as Zambia rejected a request to renew the exploration license for the Kazhiba target at Midnight Sun Mining’s Solwezi copper project, without providing an explanation. The rights have been awarded to another company, prompting Midnight Sun to suspend work on the project and consider an appeal.

This new investment strategy underscores Zambia’s commitment to leveraging its natural resources for national development and ensuring that the benefits of its mineral wealth are more broadly shared within the country.

Meanwhile shares of Midnight Sun Mining Corp. (TSXV: MMA) fell sharply on Thursday after the company announced that the Zambian government had rejected its request to renew the exploration license for the Kazhiba target at its flagship Solwezi copper project. The unexpected decision has raised concerns about the company’s future operations in Zambia.

The Zambian government, which also revealed plans on Thursday to establish a new state-controlled company to hold a 30% stake in all future mining projects, did not provide a reason for denying the license renewal. Midnight Sun Mining reported that the exploration rights for Kazhiba had been awarded to another company, though details on the recipient were not disclosed. As a result, the Canadian junior miner has suspended all work at Kazhiba but hinted at a possible appeal.

“While we are disappointed in the current situation, we do believe it will be rectified,” said Midnight Sun CEO Al Fabbro in a press release. “We are taking all possible steps to expedite a swift resolution so that we can resume our exploration at Kazhiba.”

The news sent Midnight Sun’s shares plummeting 11% on the Toronto Stock Exchange, closing at C$0.355 per share, bringing the company’s market capitalization to C$58.7 million ($43.5 million).

Kazhiba: A High-Potential Copper Target

The Kazhiba target is one of three key exploration areas on Midnight Sun’s 506-square-kilometer property in Zambia that have shown significant copper potential. The site is characterized by a previously undiscovered basement dome similar to those at the Kansanshi mine operated by First Quantum Minerals (TSX: FM) and the Lumwana mine owned by Barrick Gold (TSX: ABX; NYSE: GOLD), according to Midnight Sun.

Kazhiba is particularly notable for its high-grade 22 zone, located just 10 kilometers from the western gate of First Quantum’s Kansanshi mine complex. The zone was identified in 2012 through shallow drilling, which revealed a subtle copper anomaly beneath thick overburden. One of the initial discovery holes intersected 11.3 meters of copper grading 5.71%, a promising result for the company.

Midnight Sun had planned to conduct further exploration at Kazhiba this year, aiming to define its copper oxide resources and assess potential feed sources for the nearby Kansanshi mine. The company had applied to renew the Kazhiba license for a final three-year extension, as allowed under Zambian mining law.

No Formal Notice from Zambian Authorities

Despite submitting its application, Midnight Sun stated that Zambia’s mining licensing committee rejected the renewal in June without issuing a formal notice. Instead, the decision was quietly posted on the committee’s website. The company expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and clarity regarding which entity was granted the exploration rights.

Other Projects Unaffected

While the Kazhiba setback is significant, Midnight Sun assured investors that its other two Zambian licenses remain unaffected. One of these covers the Dumbwa target, which is under an earn-in agreement with KoBold Metals, the high-profile startup backed by billionaires Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos. The second license covers the Kansanshi-style Mitu target, part of a cooperative exploration plan with First Quantum Minerals.

Exploration activities will continue as planned at Mitu, a larger target than Kazhiba with near-surface oxide copper potential. Previous drilling at Mitu has returned encouraging results, including an intersection of 11.6 meters at 3.44% copper.

Source : Mining.com

ZESCO Begins Diesel Generator Installation in Lusaka Markets Amid Energy Crisis

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ZESCO Begins Diesel Generator Installation in Lusaka Markets Amid Energy Crisis

ZESCO Limited has commenced the installation of diesel-powered generators at key markets across Lusaka, including Soweto Market, Nyumba Yanga, and Chilenje Market, as part of short-term measures to address the ongoing energy crisis and ensure uninterrupted power supply to essential services.

This follows the announcement made by Ministry of Energy Permanent Secretary, Peter Mumba, on Friday, August 30, 2024, confirming the arrival of nine out of twenty-three diesel generators procured by the government. These generators are intended to mitigate the power shortages currently affecting the country.

“Citizens may wish to note that the first consignment of nine diesel generators has now arrived in the country, while the remaining fourteen are expected to arrive next week,” Mr. Mumba stated during the National Energy Briefing held at the Energy Regulation Board Head Office in Lusaka.

The Permanent Secretary further explained that the installation process would begin immediately, with two generators each being set up at Chilenje and Nyumba Yanga markets, and another two at Soweto Market. The installation of all 23 generators is expected to be completed by September 30, 2024.

The initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to manage the current energy crisis and maintain essential services in key areas of the capital.

President Hichilema Arrives in Beijing for China-Africa Forum Summit

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President Hichilema Arrives in Beijing for China-Africa Forum Summit

President Hakainde Hichilema has arrived in Beijing, China, to attend the China-Africa Forum Summit. The summit will focus on key issues of mutual interest, including energy and food security, smart agriculture, water harvesting, and railway transport.

During his visit, President Hichilema will participate in discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation between China and Africa. The president is also set to engage in bilateral meetings with fellow Heads of State and will hold discussions with industry leaders from various sectors on the sidelines of the summit.

“We are here to discuss critical matters that impact both our continent and our nation. Our focus will be on fostering partnerships that will drive sustainable development in areas like energy, agriculture, and infrastructure,” President Hichilema said upon his arrival.

The summit is expected to reinforce China-Africa relations and explore new opportunities for collaboration in addressing the pressing challenges facing the continent.

Water Crisis deepens in Luanshya

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Water Crisis deepens in Luanshya

Former Luanshya Mayor Nathan Chanda has appealed to Kafubu Water and Sanitation Company (KWSC) to address the water crisis in Luanshya district on the copperbelt province of Zambia.

Mr Chanda said water blues have hit Luanshya for almost a week especially in the areas such
like Roan and Mpatamatu townships where there is also bad and poor quality of water in some cases.

“Am very much aware that the permanent solution to water challenges in Luanshya is the coming on board of Kafulafuta dam a project which we started and is near commissioning.

But in the intermediate we had Kafubu Sustainable Water and Sanitation Improvement Project / DANIDA funded project progresses in Luanshya.

The $104 million Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA)-funded Kafubu water project and was completed in Luanshya and Ndola,” Mr Chanda said.

Mr Chanda said load shedding could be one of the reasons for erratic supply of water but President Hakainde Hichilema guided ZESCO not to loadshed important institutions such us hospitals and water utilities.

“Water is Life and something must be done immediately to solve the Shortage of water to avoid putting the lives of the residents of Luanshya at risk,” he said.

Mr Chanda further appealed to Kafubu Water and Sanitation Company to explain the problem and assure the residents of Luanshya the way forward in addressing the water crisis that residents are currently experiencing instead of just receiving same water bills at the month end when water was not even supplied to the customers.

Efforts to get a comment from Kafubu Water and Sanitation Company Public Relations Manager Misheck Moyo failed as his phone went unanswered.

Zambia Cracks Down on Social Media Misuse: Government Invokes Cyber Security Act

Lusaka Times Editor
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Zambia Cracks Down on Social Media Misuse: Government Invokes Cyber Security Act

In a joint press briefing, the Zambian government has announced a significant crackdown on the misuse of social media, invoking Section 54 of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act No. 2 of 2021. The announcement was made by the Honourable Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, alongside the Honourable Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Jack Mwiimbu, who emphasized the government’s commitment to curbing online hate speech, propaganda, defamation, and the abuse of children.

Tough Stance on Cyber Crimes

The Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act No. 2 of 2021, particularly Section 54, provides for a stringent penalty of up to five years imprisonment for individuals found guilty of such offenses. Minister Mutati stressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “The government will not tolerate any form of online misconduct that threatens the peace and security of our nation. The law is clear, and those who flout it will face the full wrath of the law.”

This section of the Act, which is central to the government’s current efforts, addresses crimes related to online communications, including the spread of hate speech, dissemination of propaganda, and other forms of cyber-related misconduct. The law empowers the government to take decisive action against those who misuse online platforms, with Minister Mwiimbu warning, “There is no place to hide for wrongdoers online; we will find you and bring you to justice.”

Implications for Social Media Users and Group Administrators

The government’s crackdown extends beyond individuals to include administrators of WhatsApp groups and other social media platforms. These administrators are being reminded of their legal responsibilities and the potential consequences of allowing illegal or harmful content to be shared within their groups. “WhatsApp group administrators must curtail postings that are illegal and in bad faith, as they will be held responsible for the publication of such information,” cautioned Minister Mutati. This move aims to curtail the spread of misinformation and illegal content at its source.

The government’s stance is clear: those who manage online groups must actively moderate content to ensure compliance with the law. Failure to do so could result in legal action against them, potentially leading to imprisonment under the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act.

Investing in Cyber Infrastructure

To bolster its efforts, the Zambian government has heavily invested in cyber infrastructure designed to detect and track down individuals who engage in spreading falsehoods or scamming others online. This investment underscores the seriousness with which the government views cybercrime and its determination to protect citizens from digital harm. “Scammers cause emotional and physical harm to their victims, and the government is doing everything possible to protect the public from such abuse,” said Minister Mwiimbu.

This advanced cyber infrastructure allows for real-time monitoring of online activities, enabling the government to swiftly identify and apprehend those involved in illegal activities. The ministers reassured the public that these measures are not only punitive but also protective, aimed at ensuring that Zambia’s cyberspace remains safe and secure for all users.

A Call for Responsible Use of Cyberspace

The government is also calling on all Zambian citizens to become champions of responsible online behavior. In his address, Minister Mutati urged citizens to be vigilant against fake news, misinformation, and propaganda, encouraging them to report any such content to the authorities. “We urge all citizens to be impassioned advocates of responsible use of cyberspace. Let us all play our part in maintaining a safe and respectful online environment,” he said.

This call to action reflects the government’s broader strategy of fostering a culture of responsibility among social media users. By encouraging citizens to take an active role in safeguarding the digital space, the government hopes to create a more informed and respectful online community.

In conclusion, the Zambian government’s invocation of Section 54 of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act marks a significant step in its efforts to regulate online behavior and protect citizens from cyber-related harms. As the government continues to enhance its cyber infrastructure and enforce the law, Zambians are being urged to adhere to legal guidelines and contribute to a safer, more secure online environment.

UN Experts Highlight Human Rights Abuses Under President Hichilema: GPZ Calls Out Government’s Tyranny

Lusaka Times Editor
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UN Experts Highlight Human Rights Abuses Under President Hichilema: GPZ Calls Out Government’s Tyranny

The Golden Party of Zambia (GPZ) has expressed strong support for the recent observations made by United Nations experts regarding the increasing human rights abuses and the shrinking democratic space in Zambia. The GPZ, led by President Silavwe Jackson, believes that these concerns, as highlighted by the UN, accurately reflect the deteriorating state of fundamental freedoms under President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration.

In its report, the UN Special Rapporteurs revealed that at least 26 cases of arbitrary arrests, intimidation, and harassment have been brought to their attention. These incidents, according to the GPZ, are a testament to the continuous erosion of civil liberties since the United Party for National Development (UPND) assumed office in August 2021.

“A Betrayal of Promises

The GPZ has consistently voiced concerns over the government’s conduct, accusing the UPND of abandoning the very principles it once championed while in opposition. “In the last three years, the nation has witnessed a complete U-turn from what the UPND stood for in opposition,” said Jackson. He pointed out the widespread arbitrary detention of opposition leaders, human rights activists, and even clergymen who dared to speak out against issues like the high cost of living and load shedding.

The GPZ leader also expressed alarm over the government’s plans to repeal and revise the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act of 2021, under the pretext of enhancing the protection of private citizens in the digital space. Jackson argues that this move is a thinly veiled attempt by the New Dawn administration to stifle dissent and silence critics on social media. “While we do not support the abuse of social media, any laws enacted should conform to the country’s status as a constitutional democracy,” he added.

A Call to Address Pressing Issues

Rather than focusing on limiting citizens’ rights, Jackson urged President Hichilema and the UPND to direct their efforts toward resolving the nation’s pressing issues. He listed critical areas requiring immediate attention: fixing the economy, upholding the rule of law, reducing the cost of living, and addressing the crippling power deficit that is severely impacting businesses and the general population.

The GPZ president emphasized that these challenges are far more deserving of the government’s attention than attempts to curtail freedom of expression. He called on the government to reverse its course and respect the democratic principles that Zambians fought hard to achieve.

Appeal to Civil Society and Traditional Leaders

Jackson also called on other key stakeholders, including the church, civil society organizations, the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ), and traditional leaders, to continue speaking out against the human rights abuses occurring under the current administration. “We urge the church, civil society, LAZ, and traditional leaders not to be cowed into submission but to remain steadfast in their advocacy for human rights and democratic governance,” Jackson stated.

The GPZ’s stance comes at a time when many Zambians are increasingly frustrated with the direction the country is taking under President Hichilema. The government’s response to the UN report has been widely criticized as indicative of a regime more interested in entrenching itself in power than in addressing the legitimate concerns of its citizens.

In conclusion, the GPZ has welcomed the UN experts’ report as a necessary intervention that exposes the true state of human rights in Zambia. The party remains committed to advocating for the protection of fundamental freedoms and ensuring that the government remains accountable to the people.

LAZ Urges Government to Heed UN Report on Fundamental Freedoms

Lusaka Times Editor
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LAZ Urges Government to Heed UN Report on Fundamental Freedoms

The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has strongly urged the New Dawn Government to take immediate and serious action in response to a recent report by United Nations Special Rapporteurs. The report expresses grave concerns over increasing infringements on fundamental freedoms in Zambia, including allegations of arbitrary arrests, detentions, and restrictions on peaceful gatherings.

LAZ, in a statement dated August 30, 2024, expressed deep sadness over the findings of the UN report, noting that it mirrors the association’s repeated calls for government intervention to safeguard citizens’ rights. “The Constitution requires that those in power ensure the enjoyment of rights and freedoms by all citizens, not just their supporters, but also those with divergent views,” LAZ emphasized.

The report highlights a concerning pattern of violations, including charges of unlawful assembly, espionage, hate speech, and seditious practices levied against opposition leaders, parliamentarians, human rights defenders, and activists. The restrictions on gatherings, meetings, protests, and rallies have also been cited as major issues.

LAZ pointed out ongoing instances that exemplify these concerns, mentioning the cases of three youths Jason Mwanza, Chanda Chikwanka, and Ezekiel Thomas Zulu currently in police custody for merely exercising their constitutionally guaranteed right to protest. “These actions are a direct affront to the rights enshrined in our Constitution’s Bill of Rights,” the statement asserted.

In alignment with the UN report’s recommendations, LAZ called on the government to “deescalate tensions by upholding constitutionally guaranteed rights, creating a safe and enabling environment for civic space, and expediting legislative reforms, including those related to the Public Order Act, the Penal Code, and the State Security Act.” Furthermore, LAZ emphasized the need for the government to ensure that state actors, including the Zambia Police Service, protect human dignity and rights.

LAZ reaffirmed its commitment to supporting all progressive remedial measures aimed at ensuring that Zambian citizens can freely enjoy their rights as guaranteed by law. The association’s statement underscores its mandate under Section 4 of the Law Association of Zambia Act No. 31 of the Laws of Zambia to promote the rights and liberties of citizens.

Government Disappointed with UNHRC Inaccurate Report

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Government Disappointed with UNHRC Inaccurate Report

Government has expressed concern and disappointment regarding the inaccuracies and misrepresentations contained in the United Nations Special Rapporteurs of the Human Rights Council (UNHRC) report.

Minister of Information and Media, Cornelius Mweetwa said the assertion that members of the clergy have been arrested by government is false, misleading and also alarming, especially coming from a body such as the UNHRC.

Mr Mweetwa said government has no record of any such arrests and it is perplexed as to the source of the erroneous information.

He stated that Zambia has always upheld the freedom of religion and expression, and any claims to the contrary are baseless.

The Minister said the government is committed to ensuring that the rule of law is upheld, and any actions by the police are conducted within the bounds of legality and respect for human rights contrary to what the UNHRC states.

“It is also important to address the report’s suggestion that there is no democratic space left for the opposition in Zambia. The UPND Government has made significant strides in upholding and protecting the democratic values of our country. We have initiated a consultative process for the review and possible repeal of the Public Order Act, a move that underscores our commitment to enhancing democratic governance and expanding the democratic space for all Zambians,” he added.

And on the claims relating to journalists, Mweetwa also indicated that government is committed to ensuring that the media operate freely and without intimidation and journalists are free to criticize the Government without fear of retribution as they play a crucial role in the country’s democracy.

The government’s Spokesperson expressed disappointment that the UNHRC has not acknowledged the progress made by Government in removing draconian laws, such as the defamation of the President law, the death penalty, and the enactment of the Access to Information Law.

“Human rights cannot be fully enjoyed in a state of lawlessness. The very concept of rights inherently creates duties for rights holders to exercise those rights responsibly and within the boundaries of the law. In this regard, we have always encouraged the police and other law enforcement agencies to exercise careful judgement when cautioning citizens who commit offences in the exercise and enjoyment of their freedoms,” he explained.

Mr Mweetwa clarified that contrary to the claims made in the report, the UNHRC Special Rapporteurs have not been in touch with the Zambian Government regarding these concerns.

He added that open and constructive dialogue is essential in ensuring that accurate and fair assessments are made, adding that UNHRC has missed the opportunity.

The Minister said the Government will engage with the UNHRC to reaffirm its commitment in upholding and protecting human rights and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of political affiliation or social standing, enjoy their rights and freedoms in a safe and democratic environment.

Lake Kariba’s Water Levels Plummet, Forcing Hydropower Shutdown in Zambia

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Lake Kariba’s Water Levels Plummet, Forcing Hydropower Shutdown in Zambia

Kariba Dam with the lowest levels of water in its history
Climate change-related droughts have caused a significant drop in water levels on Lake Kariba, severely impacting hydropower generation in both Zambia and Zimbabwe. The lake, shared by the two countries and situated on the Zambezi River, is experiencing its lowest water levels in history due to ongoing droughts exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon.

Zambia’s power utility, ZESCO, announced that the critically low water levels, now down to just 8% of usable storage, will force the shutdown of the Kariba North Bank Power Station on September 14, 2024. The lake’s live water storage, essential for hydropower, has dwindled to just 1.26 meters, leaving Zambia and Zimbabwe with no choice but to scale back electricity generation drastically.

The crisis has led to severe power cuts across Zambia, with outages extending up to 20 hours daily, while Zimbabwe faces cuts of up to 12 hours. Both nations, heavily reliant on hydropower, are now rushing to diversify their energy sources. Zambia is exploring emergency power imports and investing in new coal and solar power plants to mitigate the energy shortfall.

Experts warn that the situation could worsen before the rainy season, expected in three months. The ongoing drought highlights the urgent need for southern African nations to adapt to the impacts of climate change and expand their energy portfolios to ensure stability and security.

Zambia Police Mourns the Passing of Deputy Public Relations Officer, Mr. Danny Mwale

Lusaka Times Editor
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Zambia Police Mourns the Passing of Deputy Public Relations Officer, Mr. Danny Mwale

The Zambia Police Service deeply regrets to announce the untimely passing of Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mr. Danny Mwale, who served as the Deputy Public Relations Officer. Mr. Mwale passed away today, August 30, 2024, following a brief illness.

Mr. Mwale was a highly respected and dedicated officer, whose professionalism and commitment to duty earned him widespread admiration within the Service and beyond. His significant contributions, particularly in the realm of public relations, have left an indelible mark on the Zambia Police Service.

The Inspector General of Police, representing the entire Zambia Police Service, expresses profound condolences to Mr. Mwale’s family during this time of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they cope with this deep loss.

Details regarding the funeral arrangements will be shared in due course. The Zambia Police Service remains committed to offering full support to Mr. Mwale’s family throughout this period of mourning.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

*Issued by:

Zambia Police Service Public Relations Office

Response to Acquittal of Accused Mukula Exporters

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Response to Acquittal of Accused Mukula Exporters

We acknowledge the recent decision by the judiciary, respecting the judgment handed down by the Lusaka Magistrate’s Court, where former Industrial Development Corporation CEO Mateyo Kaluba and six others were acquitted of charges related to the alleged illegal export of Mukula logs. This outcome is a testament to the rule of law, where justice has been served based on the evidence presented.

However, it is imperative to highlight the increasing prevalence of forestry crimes, not only in Zambia but also across the region and globally. These crimes, often involving white-collar elements and associated with money laundering, have become alarmingly common, threatening the integrity of our natural resources and ecosystems.

In light of this, we call upon the government to consider the establishment of a fast-track court specifically dedicated to natural resources, environmental, and forest crimes. Such a court would serve as both a deterrent and a swift mechanism for resolving cases of this nature, ensuring that justice is meted out promptly and effectively.

We also observe a long-standing lack of professionalism in Zambia’s commercial timber processing and trade activities. To restore order and credibility within the forestry sector, we urge the government to mandate that all stakeholders in the timber value chain engage professional, registered foresters. These professionals should be responsible for managing trade and operational matters within the sector, ensuring compliance with regulations, and holding accountable those who violate the Forestry Act. Such measures would include revoking licenses and striking off offenders from the register.

Despite the Courts Judgement, It is also concerning that high-ranking government officials have been implicated in forestry-related violations. Such involvement not only damages the credibility of government institutions but also undermines public trust in the integrity of the forestry sector. We call upon all government officials to prioritize professionalism and ethical conduct in their dealings, supporting and promoting professional bodies to ensure that all stakeholders operate within the bounds of the law.

To achieve this, all stakeholders must embrace a culture of professionalism, accountability, and ethical conduct in forestry-related matters. This culture should be fostered through continuous training, awareness campaigns, and adherence to the highest standards of integrity and transparency. Government officials, in particular, must lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable forestry management and upholding the rule of law.

In summary and in no uncertain terms we advocate for:

1. Establishment of a fast-track court dedicated to natural resources, environmental, and forest crimes, ensuring swift justice and deterring future offenses.

2. Mandatory engagement of professional, registered foresters in the timber value chain, responsible for managing trade, ensuring compliance, and holding violators accountable.

3. Strengthening of disciplinary committees within professional forestry bodies to enforce regulations and maintain sector integrity.

4. Collective responsibility and adherence to the Forestry Act among all stakeholders, prioritizing transparency, accountability, and research.

5. Building capacity in the relevant regulatory organs such as the Forestry Department and to reverse functions that may have been taken away from their mandate.

6. Continuing professional development training and awareness raising to be conducted by professional bodies in the forest sector so as to draw best practices and lessons arising from the Court judgment as part of capacity building for all forestry, natural resources and environmental experts in Zambia.

Lastly, we urge all Zambians and stakeholders involved in the forestry value chains to respect and strictly adhere to the Forestry Act. Together, we can safeguard Zambia’s natural resources, preserve ecosystems, and uphold the rule of law. We thus commend the courts for their dedication to justice and urge improved efficiency in future cases of similar magnitude, as justice delayed is justice denied. Collective responsibility and commitment to the law are crucial in preserving our natural resources for future generations.


Chaliafya Katungula

Advocate General

Forestry Advocacy for Communities Communication Transparency Accountability and Research -F(A+C+T+A+R)

Government To Repair 14 Elevators At UTH And KCM

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Government To Repair 14 Elevators At UTH And KCM

GOVERNMENT has made available K2.8 million for the immediate repair of 14 elevators at the University Teaching Hospital UTH which have not been operational.

Minister of Health Elijah Muchima says government aims to improve health care services across the country.

The Minister regrets that the institution and its facilities were left to deteriorate over the years without any action.

Dr. Muchima said this when he visited UTH in the company of the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary for Administration Christopher Simoonga.

Meanwhile Professor Simoonga revealed that a further K2.5 Million has been set aside for health improvements at the Kitwe Central hospital.

The University Teaching Hospital has engaged ZAL Elevators Limited and Schindwe Elevators to carry out repair works at the institution.
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