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Government Reaffirms Commitment to Social Welfare Funding for Economic Growth

Chief Editor
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Government Reaffirms Commitment to Social Welfare Funding for Economic Growth

Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane has reaffirmed government’s commitment to funding social welfare programmes aimed at reducing vulnerability and driving inclusive economic transformation.

Speaking on the government’s fiscal priorities, Dr. Musokotwane emphasized that sustained investment in social sector programmes such as Cash for Work, Social Cash Transfer, the Food Security Pack, and the School Feeding Initiative underscores the government’s resolve to ensure no citizen is left behind in the fight against hunger and poverty.

“In March alone, the government disbursed K333.3 million for the Cash for Work Programme, while K200 million was allocated to the Food Security Pack, ensuring continued support for vulnerable households across the country,” Dr. Musokotwane revealed.

He noted that the Ministry of Finance and National Planning released K12.4 billion to finance public service delivery. Of that amount, K4.9 billion went toward the public service wage bill, while K2.9 billion was directed to both domestic and external debt servicing.

Dr. Musokotwane stressed that President Hakainde Hichilema expects all government officials to prioritize the needs of the Zambian people in implementing the country’s economic transformation and growth agenda.

“The President’s vision is clear: economic growth must be people-centered, leaving no one behind. Every ministry must work with dedication to achieve this goal,” he stated.

The Minister’s remarks come at a time when Zambia continues to balance fiscal discipline with social protection to build a resilient and inclusive economy.

Constitutional Amendments Not Meant to Divide – President Engages Chiefs

Lusaka Times Editor
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Constitutional Amendments Not Meant to Divide – President Engages Chiefs

Lusaka, Zambia – President Hakainde Hichilema has moved to allay public concerns about the government’s proposed constitutional amendments, assuring Zambians that the changes are being made in good faith to strengthen governance, not to create division.

Speaking during a high-level engagement with the House of Chiefs at State House yesterday, the President emphasized that the delimitation process and other proposed amendments should not be politicized or seen as sources of conflict.

“Let me be clear – these reforms come with no malice or hidden agenda,” President Hichilema stated. “Delimitation is long overdue and essential for ensuring equitable development across all regions of our nation.”

The Head of State revealed that Zambia has failed to conduct constitutionally mandated delimitation for over a decade, creating imbalances in resource distribution and political representation. He stressed that the current exercise aims to correct these historical disparities.

On the contentious issue of nominated Members of Parliament, President Hichilema provided new details, confirming the government would introduce percentage-based caps to ensure fairness in the nomination process.

The meeting saw robust discussions between the executive and traditional leaders, with House of Chiefs Chairperson Chief Choongo of Monze District confirming their active engagement with the reform process.

“We have studied the proposals carefully and will be making comprehensive written submissions to guide the amendment process,” Chief Choongo announced, underscoring the critical role of traditional leaders in constitutional matters.

The President’s assurances come amid growing public debate about the reforms, with some opposition groups expressing concerns about potential gerrymandering. Government officials maintain the changes will enhance democratic representation when implemented.

Political analysts suggest the inclusion of traditional leaders in the consultative process lends credibility to the reforms, though they caution that transparency in the delimitation exercise will be crucial to maintaining public trust.

The constitutional amendment bill is expected to be presented to Parliament in the coming weeks, following completion of the ongoing nationwide consultations.

Zambian Leaders’ Overseas Medical Trips Expose Healthcare Divide-Vomo

Lusaka Times Editor
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Zambian Leaders’ Overseas Medical Trips Expose Healthcare Divide-Vomo

Lusaka, Zambia – A growing pattern of Zambian government officials seeking medical treatment abroad while the nation’s healthcare system crumbles has sparked outrage among citizens and health advocates. The trend highlights a troubling disparity between the privileged access of the political class and the daily struggles of ordinary Zambians to obtain basic medical care.

Concerned citizen Alexander Vomo voiced the frustrations of many, stating: “When our leaders fall ill, they immediately fly to South Africa or India for treatment, yet they expect nurses and doctors to work miracles in our understaffed, underfunded hospitals. This hypocrisy must end.”

The crisis in Zambia’s healthcare system manifests in heartbreaking ways. Mothers give birth in overcrowded wards without proper equipment, cancer patients die waiting for chemotherapy that never arrives, and kidney failure patients miss life-saving dialysis sessions due to broken machines. Meanwhile, public records show millions of kwacha being spent annually to fly officials overseas for medical care.

“This isn’t just about health – it’s about justice,” Vomo continued. “The same politicians who cut ribbons at new hospital wings won’t trust those same hospitals with their lives. What does that tell us about their real commitment to healthcare reform?”

Health professionals report worsening conditions across the country. Dr. Sarah Mwewa, a physician at the University Teaching Hospital, revealed: “We regularly lose patients to conditions that are treatable elsewhere. Our leaders know this reality yet choose to escape it rather than fix it.”

The Ministry of Health maintains that some specialist treatments require overseas referral, but critics note these privileges are rarely extended to ordinary citizens. Transparency advocates demand publication of all medical evacuation expenditures, arguing these funds could transform local facilities if properly invested.

As public anger grows, calls intensify for legislation requiring officials to use Zambian hospitals except when treatment is truly unavailable locally. “We need leaders who believe in our healthcare system enough to use it themselves,” Vomo concluded. “Until then, these medical evacuations will stand as painful symbols of a broken social contract.”

The issue promises to dominate political discourse as Zambia approaches its next election cycle, with opposition parties pledging to make healthcare equity a central campaign issue.

Where is Lungu? Activist Demands Answers on Former President’s Health

Lusaka Times Editor
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Where is Lungu? Activist Demands Answers on Former President’s Health

Lusaka, Zambia – Prominent governance activist Gregory Chifire has issued an appeal to government authorities, calling for regular and official updates regarding the health condition of former President Edgar Lungu. This comes amid growing public concern and speculation about the former leader’s wellbeing following his reported medical trip abroad over two months ago.

Chifire expressed deep concern about the current lack of clear information from official channels. “The Zambian people deserve to know about the health status of their former president,” he stated. “When there is no official communication, it creates room for rumors and unnecessary anxiety among citizens.”

The activist highlighted that the only statement released so far – from the Ministry of Information’s Permanent Secretary – was later disowned by government officials. This contradiction, according to Chifire, has only added to the confusion and speculation surrounding the matter.

“Former presidents are not ordinary citizens,” Chifire explained. “They continue to play important roles in our national life and their wellbeing is a matter of legitimate public interest. This doesn’t mean invading their privacy, but rather providing basic information to reassure the nation.”

Chifire warned that the current information vacuum could have negative consequences. “When people don’t get official information, they start believing all kinds of rumors. This isn’t healthy for our democracy,” he said. The activist suggested that a simple, regular update from authorized officials would help maintain public trust while respecting the former president’s dignity.

The call for transparency comes at a time when many Zambians are questioning the government’s communication policies, particularly regarding matters of national importance. Political analysts note that in many democracies, there are established protocols for sharing information about the health of current and former leaders.

“Zambia needs to develop clear guidelines on this issue,” Chifire added. “We’re not asking for medical details, just basic confirmation about whether our former leader is well and when we might expect him back in the country.”

As of press time, government officials had not responded to these calls for greater transparency. The continued silence has only intensified public curiosity and concern about the former president’s condition and whereabouts.

Zambia’s Climate Response “Not Sustainable,” Warns NGO

Lusaka Times Editor
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Zambia’s Climate Response “Not Sustainable,” Warns NGO

The Citizens Environmental and Social Concern (CESC) has expressed disappointment over Zambia’s persistent struggle to secure sustainable financing for climate change initiatives. Executive Director Conwell Hakapya noted with concern that the country continues to rely heavily on donor funding, a situation he says undermines Zambia’s ability to build long-term resilience in the face of worsening climate conditions. He stressed that it is time for the government to take a more proactive and strategic approach in addressing the critical gaps in climate financing, warning that failure to do so will have serious implications for Zambia’s socio-economic stability.

In recent years, Zambia has experienced a dramatic increase in climate-related shocks. From prolonged droughts to devastating floods, the country’s agricultural sector, energy supply, and food security have all come under severe pressure. This year alone, the nation recorded one of its worst dry spells in over four decades, prompting the declaration of a national disaster by President Hakainde Hichilema. The drought has affected over nine million people, reduced crop yields drastically, and significantly impacted hydroelectric power generation as water levels at Lake Kariba fell to historic lows. The resulting power shortages have crippled industries and disrupted livelihoods across the country.

Despite the severity of these climate impacts, Zambia’s response efforts continue to be constrained by financial limitations. It is estimated that the country will need upwards of $50 billion by 2030 to effectively implement climate mitigation and adaptation strategies. However, the bulk of funding currently comes from external sources such as international donor agencies, the Global Climate Fund, and bilateral arrangements. This dependence has created vulnerabilities in planning and execution, often delaying projects and limiting the government’s ability to act swiftly in the face of environmental emergencies.

Mr. Hakapya believes that Zambia must begin to take ownership of its climate agenda by developing a robust domestic climate financing framework. Such a framework would involve both public and private sector investment, creating opportunities for local innovation and long-term planning. He argues that only by investing in its own resilience can Zambia begin to break the cycle of donor dependency and build a future that is environmentally and economically secure.

Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of effective coordination among government ministries, civil society, and international partners to ensure resources are used efficiently and transparently. The current fragmented approach, he said, often leads to duplication of efforts and weakens the overall impact of climate initiatives.

As climate change continues to pose serious threats to Zambia’s development goals, the urgency to act has never been greater. Strengthening domestic financing mechanisms, streamlining implementation strategies, and fostering inclusive partnerships must become key pillars of the country’s climate response. Citizens Environmental and Social Concern remains committed to supporting efforts that ensure environmental accountability and long-term sustainability for all Zambians.

Response to ZESCO’s Statement on Load Shedding

Chief Editor
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Response to ZESCO’s Statement on Load Shedding

ZESCO Board Chairperson Vickson Ncube’s admission that load shedding will only be “managed, not eliminated” highlights a critical failure in our national energy strategy. The structural error of over-relying on southern river hydro stations has left the nation vulnerable to droughts and climate variability.

However, this is not the end of the road. Countries with fewer natural resources than Zambia have achieved reliable power through diversification, innovation, and political will. If ZESCO and government, truly want to end load shedding, they must adopt a multi-pronged, bold strategy.

Detailed Solutions to Eliminate Load Shedding in Zambia.

1. Diversify the Energy Mix

ZESCO’s overdependence on hydroelectric power is outdated and risky in a climate-uncertain world.

• Invest in Solar Energy: Zambia has abundant sunlight. ZESCO should partner with the private sector and local innovators to build large-scale solar farms and incentivize rooftop solar in urban areas.

• Wind Power Potential: Northern Zambia and certain plateaus have strong wind corridors that can support wind energy projects.

• Waste-to-Energy and Biogas: Encourage industrial and agricultural zones to develop waste-to-energy systems to power their operations independently and sell excess to the grid.

• Geothermal Exploration: Start assessing geothermal potential, especially in the rift valley zones.

2. Encourage Decentralized Power Generation

• Promote mini-grids and off-grid systems for rural communities, especially in areas far from the national grid.

• Allow private sector and independent power producers (IPPs) to supply power directly to consumers or to the national grid with reduced bureaucracy.

3. Reform Policy and Regulatory Frameworks

• Remove bottlenecks that delay the licensing and operationalization of independent power producers.

• Offer incentives (tax breaks, subsidies) for companies and households that install solar and other renewable technologies.

• Set a clear energy diversification policy target, e.g., 30% of electricity from renewables (non-hydro) by 2030.

4. Improve Grid Infrastructure and Management

• Invest in modern smart grid technology that can better manage supply and demand and reduce losses.

• Upgrade transmission lines to reduce technical losses and integrate new renewable sources effectively.

• Install energy storage solutions like lithium-ion batteries or pumped storage systems to store excess power from renewables for night-time use.

5. Promote Energy Efficiency

• Launch a nationwide energy efficiency program targeting households, industry, and government institutions.

• Replace old public lighting with energy-saving LED lights.

• Enforce building codes that mandate energy-efficient appliances and construction methods.

6. Tap into Regional Power Markets

• Strengthen Zambia’s position in the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) to allow better import/export balance during shortfalls or surpluses.

• Ensure financial stability so ZESCO can enter short-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) with regional suppliers during droughts.

Conclusion: Managing is Not Enough, We Must Eliminate Load Shedding

Managing load shedding is like managing a disease without curing it. It may reduce the pain but does not solve the problem. Zambia deserves better. With proper planning, investment, and political courage, ZESCO can transform itself from a reactive institution to a forward-thinking power leader in the region.

This is not just about keeping the lights on. It’s about powering businesses, hospitals, schools, and dreams. It’s time to build an energy future that works for all Zambians, not just manage our way around failure.

By Alexander Vomo

President Hichilema Meets House of Chiefs, Commits to Strengthening Traditional Leadership and Rural Development

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Meets House of Chiefs, Commits to Strengthening Traditional Leadership and Rural Development

President Hakainde Hichilema held a high-level interactive meeting Sunday afternoon with the House of Chiefs, reaffirming government’s commitment to working closely with traditional leaders in the implementation of national development initiatives.

The meeting, chaired by the newly elected Chairperson of the House of Chiefs, Chief Choongo of Monze, centered on strengthening collaboration between government and traditional authorities, particularly in the ongoing decentralisation agenda through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

“As custodians of our traditions and culture, traditional leaders play a critical role in the governance of our country,” President Hichilema said. “Their collaboration is essential to the success of our development programs, especially at the grassroots level.”

The President underscored the government’s dedication to improving the welfare of traditional leaders, pledging to expedite the construction of chiefs’ palaces and to provide farming inputs ahead of the 2024/2025 agricultural season. He noted that empowering traditional leaders to lead by example would reinforce food security efforts across the country.

During the dialogue, President Hichilema also called attention to the responsible management of Zambia’s natural resources, emphasizing that these resources belong to all citizens and must be preserved for future generations.

“We are grateful to Their Royal Highnesses for their support during the recent severe drought,” the President said. “We urge you to educate your communities on the importance of safeguarding harvests and ensuring household food security.”

The President further encouraged the allocation of land for irrigation-based food production as part of broader efforts to enhance agricultural resilience in the face of climate change.

Addressing concerns surrounding constitutional reforms, President Hichilema assured the chiefs that the proposed amendments are being approached with full transparency and with no hidden agendas. He reiterated that all citizens, including traditional leaders, would be actively engaged in the reform process.

In closing, the Head of State called on traditional leaders to continue fostering peace and unity, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to partnering with the House of Chiefs to advance inclusive national development.

“Together, we will ensure that no region or community is left behind,” President Hichilema said.

US pastor kidnapped during church service in South Africa

Chief Editor
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US pastor kidnapped during church service in South Africa

An American pastor has been kidnapped by armed men after they stormed his church service in South Africa, local authorities say.

Josh Sullivan had been conducting a service at Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell, a township in Gqeberra in the Eastern Cape, on Thursday evening when “four armed and masked male suspects entered”, police spokesman Captain Andre Beetge told the BBC.

The men stole two phones before fleeing the church in the 45-year-old pastor’s silver Toyota Fortuner. Police later found the vehicle abandoned, but there was no trace of Mr Sullivan.

A spokesperson from the US State Department told the BBC that they were aware of the kidnapping of a US citizen in South Africa.

They said there was no “greater priority than the safety and security of US citizens abroad”.

Capt Beetge told the BBC the case had been handed to South Africa’s elite police unit, known as the Hawks, which investigates serious organised and commercial crimes and high-level corruption.

“The police is currently following all possible leads to locate the victim and apprehend the perpetrators,” said Hawks spokesman Lt Col Avele Fumba.

Jeremy Hall, the Sullivan family’s spokesman, told local newspaper TimesLive that he was at the church with his wife and their children when the incident took place.

“They knew his name,” he said.

Mr Sullivan’s mother, Tonya Morton Rinker, wrote on Facebook that she was heartbroken over the news.

She added: “Our congressman and American embassy are working on finding him.”

No ransom has been requested, according to the privately-owned News24.

Mr Sullivan describes himself as “a church planting missionary” on his personal website.

On it, he says he moved to South Africa with his wife and children in 2018 to establish a church for Xhosa-speaking people.

Over the past decade, there has been 264% increase in kidnappings in South Africa, according to police statistics.

BBC

President Hichilema Commissions New Officer Cadets, Hails Progress in Gender Equality in Defence

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Commissions New Officer Cadets, Hails Progress in Gender Equality in Defence

President Hakainde Hichilema officiated at the Commissioning Parade for Officer Cadets Intake 25 of 2023 and Specialist Officer Cadets Intake 10 of 2024 at the Military Training Establishment of Zambia (MILTEZ) in Kabwe, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s defence and security sector.

The ceremony, described by the President as a “momentous occasion,” celebrated the successful completion of rigorous military training by the cadets, who were praised for their discipline, perseverance, and commitment to national service.

Notably, among the commissioned officers are 175 female cadets who underwent the same intensive training regimen as their male counterparts. Their graduation, President Hichilema said, is a powerful affirmation of his administration’s unwavering commitment to promoting gender balance and inclusion within the Defence and Security Services.

“Their accomplishment is not only a triumph of personal determination but also a national achievement in our collective journey toward equality,” President Hichilema stated in his address.

The President urged the newly commissioned officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and loyalty as they assume their duties in the service of the Republic.

“The flag you now salute must be defended with courage, honour, and a deep sense of duty,” he said.

He also commended the Zambia Army leadership and command structure for their dedication and patriotism, applauding their role in shaping the next generation of military leaders.

“To the newly commissioned officers, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and wish you strength, success, and steadfastness as you embark on this noble journey of service to our great nation,” he concluded.

The event reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening Zambia’s defence capabilities while fostering values of equity, professionalism, and national pride within the armed forces.

Kamanga Urges U17 Boys Reboot Before World Cup

Chief Editor
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Kamanga Urges U17 Boys Reboot Before World Cup

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has urged the Under-17 Men’s National Team to remain focused following their quarterfinal exit at the on-going Africa Cup of Nations.

FAZ president Andrew Kamanga saidthat despite the elimination at the quarterfinal stage, the team had broken new milestones like the historic FIFA World Cup qualification.“First congratulations to the team on the overall milestone of world cup qualification and reaching the quarterfinals for the first time for this age group.

We obviously could have done more but we have to pick ourselves up from this point,” he said

“The team has some time between now and the world cup in November to re-organize and ensure that we seal all the loopholes. The technical bench will expectedly provide a report which will guide on the next steps.”

Kamanga said FAZ will not lose sight of the need to expose the young players to more competitive football.
“While we are capturing these boys and girls at under-15 level, we are more compelled to accelerate our talent identification program that seeks to set up an under-13 and 11 national team. We need to strengthen our grassroots structure more going forward,” he said.

Kamanga says the association will now focus on preparing the team adequately for the FIFA World Cup.

The junior Chipolopolo were on Thursday evening eliminated from the AFCON after losing 6-1 to Burkina Faso in the quarterfinals.

Zambia however qualified for its debut FIFA under-17 Men’s World Cup,which will be held in November in Morocco.

For and on behalf of:
FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF ZAMBIA
Sydney Mungala
COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Selective Transparency? Concerns Rise Over Government’s Double Standards on Leaders’ Health Disclosures

Chief Editor
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Selective Transparency? Concerns Rise Over Government’s Double Standards on Leaders’ Health Disclosures

Recent statements made by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Media, Mr. Thabo Kawana, have reignited public concerns over the growing double standards being practiced by the current administration led by President Hakainde Hichilema.

During a press briefing held on April 8, 2025, Mr. Kawana openly revealed that former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu is undergoing chemotherapy treatment in South Africa, and even stated that he had personally spoken to him. This revelation, while well within the public’s right to know, has sparked widespread criticism over the selective application of transparency by the UPND government.

This comes in sharp contrast to the recent treatment of former Ambassador Emmanuel Mwamba, who was summoned by the police and accused of “spreading misinformation” after he publicly questioned the health and whereabouts of President Hichilema. Mr. Mwamba’s concerns were met not with clarification, but with intimidation.

This inconsistent approach raises serious questions:

• Why is it acceptable for a government official to disclose the medical condition of a former Head of State, but criminal for a citizen to ask about the current President’s health?

• Are all leaders equal before the law and media, or does the government protect its own while suppressing opposing voices?

• What happened to the principles of transparency, freedom of expression, and accountability, values that were central to the UPND’s campaign promises?

As a democratic nation, we cannot afford to selectively apply rules based on political affiliation or convenience. If transparency is to be a cornerstone of this administration, it must be universal, not conditional.

As a nation, we have the right to ask questions about our leaders whether past or present, without fear of retaliation. The health of national leaders, especially those in active service, is a matter of public interest, not taboo.

We call on the UPND government to uphold the values it claims to stand for: transparency, justice, and equal treatment under the law. Anything less would be a betrayal of the Zambian people’s trust

By Alexander Vomo,
MAFM, MProjMgt, PMP

Dollar confidence crisis as Euro soars to 3-year high

Chief Editor
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Dollar confidence crisis as Euro soars to 3-year high

The euro has surged to a three-year high against the dollar, marking a powerful signal that a full-blown crisis of confidence in the US currency is now underway — a moment that could, in time, be seen as the beginning of the dollar’s long-term decline, warns the CEO of one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory organisations.

The assessment from deVere Group’s Nigel Green comes as the dollar slid to $1.138 against the euro on Friday, forcing investors to confront a new reality: the world’s most trusted safe haven is no longer beyond question.

“It’s a major inflection point,” he says. “The dollar’s dominance has always rested on a foundation of trust — trust in US stability, trust in open trade, trust in responsible economic leadership. That foundation is cracking, and the euro’s strength is one of the clearest signs that global markets know it.”

The sharp move follows President Donald Trump’s dramatic rollout and then backpedal of universal tariffs on all US imports — an aggressive, inflationary policy shift that has stunned global markets and raised alarm bells about America’s economic trajectory.

At first, as global risk aversion took hold, investors instinctively moved into the dollar. But that instinct is rapidly giving way to recognition that the threat isn’t coming from abroad — it’s being manufactured in Washington.

“When inflation is stoked internally, when monetary policy is politicized, and when America’s commitment to open markets is abandoned, the basic premise behind the dollar’s safe-haven appeal falls apart,” explains Nigel Green.

He continues: “The dollar can mechanically rally in moments of panic, but it cannot indefinitely withstand policies that rot its core strengths.

“If the US weaponizes its currency and economic size, the rest of the world will respond — and the dollar’s unrivaled position will start to erode.”

Signs of that erosion are already emerging.

“Central banks across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond have been quietly scaling back their exposure to US Treasuries. Bilateral trade deals that bypass the dollar are gaining ground. Digital currencies are moving steadily toward the financial mainstream.”

The deVere CEO explains: “Global finance doesn’t change overnight, but we are clearly moving toward a less dollar-centric system.

“This current crisis could very well be seen in the future as the tipping point.”

The euro’s powerful move encapsulates this broader shift. It’s not just a bet against US policy — it’s a reflection of growing global appetite to diversify away from the dollar altogether.

“The euro’s breakout is not random — it’s a market referendum on the United States,” adds Nigel Green.

“It tells us that trust, once lost, doesn’t drift back easily. It requires extraordinary effort to rebuild — and right now, that effort is nowhere in sight.”

Investors, he stresses, must urgently rethink old assumptions about dollar safety.

“The world is evolving. Smart investors must evolve with it — increasing exposure to non-dollar assets, real assets, and markets positioned to benefit from currency shifts.”

He concludes: “The euro’s surge is the canary in the coal mine. It’s a signal that the dollar’s era of unquestioned dominance is under siege — and the events of this week might ultimately be remembered as the beginning of the end.”

President Hichilema’s Tribute: A Call for Unity, Dialogue, and Honour to the Late Edith Nawakwi

Lusaka Times Editor
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President Hichilema’s Tribute: A Call for Unity, Dialogue, and Honour to the Late Edith Nawakwi

President Hichilema’s Tribute: A Call for Unity, Dialogue, and Honour to the Late Edith Nawakwi

During the funeral service of the late FDD President Edith Nawakwi, President Hakainde Hichilema delivered a heartfelt and unifying speech, paying tribute to the former minister, Member of Parliament, and long-standing opposition leader. His message emphasized national unity, the importance of political dialogue, and honouring the contributions of those who served Zambia with conviction, regardless of political differences.

President Hichilema began by offering his sincere condolences on behalf of the government, the Constitution, and the people of Zambia and the family of the late Nawakwi, describing her death as a loss not only to her family but to the entire nation. “We want to share with you the sorrow. We want to share with you the grief that you are going through,” he said, noting that this moment was one of reflection for the entire country.

Reflecting on Nawakwi’s legacy, the President honoured her for her significant service to the nation—as an elected Member of Parliament, a minister in various portfolios, and a vibrant voice in opposition politics. “Let me take the duty to thank our sister for her contributions to our country… for the role she played in moving our country forward, leading the way for us who are in leadership today,” he said.

In a particularly profound moment, President Hichilema acknowledged the presence of various political leaders, including those from the opposition, emphasizing the importance of unity in diversity. “Indeed, my colleagues in the opposition, all of you, we acknowledge your presence here today. I think this is the way to fix it,” he said, drawing applause from many who welcomed this spirit of togetherness.

Responding directly to FDD Vice President Chifumu Banda’s earlier call for increased national dialogue, the President wholeheartedly agreed. “Dialogue is the utmost way of expression of maturity,” he stated. He reminded the nation that differences in opinion and party affiliation do not equate to enmity. “Political party competition does not mean anything. It means competition… Dialogue is the way we should solve problems—at all times.”

President Hichilema also used the moment to reflect on the maturity of a society, stating, “Society is not measured by the number of problems that arise. Society is measured by the maturity in how we deal with the issues… not slagging each other down every day, but creating a window of maturity to do the right things.”

The President’s message was not only about politics but also about healing, respect, and shared humanity. He acknowledged the living family of the late Nawakwi, the traditional leaders, church representatives, members of government, and the media for their roles in supporting national values.

He concluded by calling on all Zambians to honour Nawakwi’s memory through unity, compassion, and dialogue. “Let us use this opportunity to honour our sister by reaching out to each other,” he said. In doing so, President Hichilema turned a moment of national mourning into a powerful call for peace, tolerance, and togetherness an enduring tribute to the woman who, in life and death, brought Zambia’s political family closer.

President Hichilema Accords Late Edith Nawakwi An Official Funeral

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Accords Late Edith Nawakwi An Official Funeral

Body of the late former Cabinet Minister, Edith Nawakwi, who died on Monday April 7, 2025 in South Africa will arrive in Zambia Thursday, April 10, 2025 at 12:40 Hours at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, aboard South African Airlines Flight.

And President Hakainde Hichilema has accorded an official Funeral to the late Ms Nawakwi.

Ms Nawakwi, former Cabinet Minister in the Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD) led government, died at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg at the age of 66, where she was evacuated by the government for specialist treatment.
She has been accorded an official funeral in recognition of her selfless contributions made towards national development when she served as Cabinet Minister from 1993 to 2001.

The late Ms Nawakwi, who served as the first ever Zambia’s female Minister of Finance and Economic Development among other ministerial designations, will be put to rest on Friday, April 11, 2025 at Leopards Hill Memorial Park in Lusaka.

President Hichilema has therefore declared Friday, a day of national mourning in her honour.

The public has been therefore urged to observe national mourning from 06:00 Hours to 18:00 Hours, and all activities of entertainment nature on both radio and television should be suspended, while flags will fly at half-mast.

When Sympathy Rings Hollow: Nevers Mumba and President HH on Edith Nawakwi

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When Sympathy Rings Hollow: Nevers Mumba and President HH on Edith Nawakwi

By Kapya Kaoma

With the passing of Honorable Edith Nawakwi, Pastor Nevers Mumba’s statement on her death—calling on people to stop pointing fingers—raise a troubling question: Who is his audience? We know it’s President Hakainde Hichilema. Yet, Nawakwi’s loss proves one important truth: our nation has always failed its citizens in times of dire need. As Nawakwi grappled with declining health—a struggle well known to those in power—it became clear that we lack adequate healthcare. If anything, we have a divided healthcare system where the politically connected receive preferential treatment, while the rest of us are at the mercy of pseudo-medical institutions that often lack the capacity to address complex situations. Is it not an affront to human dignity that prominent figures are airlifted abroad for treatment, while countless others suffer in silence at inadequate facilities? After over six decades of independence, we should have built a state-of-the-art healthcare system good enough to meet our complex needs. Instead, we stand at a crossroads, marked by failures of governance. Like Nawakwi, many families are left with regrets—if only she had been evacuated, perhaps she would have seen another day.

Pastor Mumba’s unsolicited response hinges on whether the current administration did everything possible to provide the medical attention Nawakwi urgently needed. The answer is no; it did not. While she fought for her life, she was also engaged in politically motivated legal battles. In other words, she was battling not only her health crisis but also waging legal wars that overshadowed her health struggle. No doubt Pastor Mumba knows; the UPND government’s sympathy is simply political; it is disingenuous to express sorrow when the system exhibited indifference during her life. The truth is Hichilema held disdain for her, echoing the Shona saying, “wafa wanaka” (when you die, you become good).

It is heartbreaking that we are a country driven by political vendettas, often stripping individuals of their humanity and rendering political opponents mere caricatures of villainy. As we mourn Nawakwi today, will President Hichilema extend similar lamentations for leaders like GBM or Kambwili tomorrow? The President may proffer great condolences in response to similar tragedies, but such gestures cannot erase a history of neglect toward those who challenge him. If Nawakwi had been a member of the UPND, it’s unlikely her plight would have gone unnoticed. Let us call a spade a spade.

I am not against setting politics aside in the face of death. But why do we limit this compassion to moments of loss? Many recall former President Levy Mwanawasa’s decision to evacuate his opponent, Michael Sata, for medical treatment—an act celebrated as true leadership. I believe that he did what ought to be done. The safeguards for public servants should survive their time in office; a commitment to their well-being must extend beyond the political sphere. What value is there in celebrating Nawakwi’s groundbreaking role as Finance Minister while watching her die as a forgotten figure? We must create conditions of service that outlast political terms to dismantle the culture of vindictiveness that permeates our politics. Presidents enjoy such protections—shouldn’t ministers deserve similar benefits?

The passing of Edith Nawakwi reminds us that the vengeance that plagues our politics is not only wrong, but also shameful. It is time to embrace the spirit of ubuntu—to see one another as human beings first and political adversaries second. Every life is precious and irreplaceable—even our opponents want to live. As we pay tribute to Nawakwi, I hope President Hichilema can learn to view his opponents through this lens of ubuntu; the Zambian prisons where he loves packing his opponents are nothing but death chambers.

May Nawakwi’s legacy inspire us to heal the fractures within our society and build a healthcare system and political environment that prioritizes the welfare of all Zambians. In her honor, let us aspire to lead with compassion. May her courage give us the power to fight for dignity, and self-determination. May she rest in power!

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