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Functions Of Three Ministries Devolved Into Local Authorities

Chief Editor
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Functions Of Three Ministries Devolved Into Local Authorities

Five functions from three sector ministries have been devolved to the Local Authorities across the country.
These are from the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, and the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services.

The Provincial Local Government Officer (PLGO) Adam Jere explained that the five devolved functions include agricultural services, community development, social welfare, and fisheries and livestock services, respectively.

Mr Jere noted that the devolution of five functions from 3 sectors will be effective by 1st January 2025.
He disclosed this development during a joint Provincial Constituency Development Fund Committee and the Provincial Devolution Committee briefing held in Chinsali.

The Provincial Local Government Officer stated that the tentative budgets for the recently devolved functions in 2025 have already been completed by the local authorities and are awaiting final approval.

Mr Jere further said eight functions under the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, Youth, Sport and Arts, Tourism, Home Affairs and Internal Security, Health, Fisheries and Livestock which devolved to the Local Authorities in 2023 in a phased manner, sector grants started flowing in the first and second quarter this year 2024.

Meanwhile, the Provincial Devolution Committee members observed the need for strengthened capacity and accountability systems in the districts, especially monitoring of devolved functions.

They emphasised the need to establish a comprehensive, multi-sectoral, and interdisciplinary monitoring mechanism at the provincial level to oversee the four developmental pillars.

In response, the Provincial Local Government Officer said the Permanent Secretary’s office and secretariat for the Provincial Devolution Committee may secure some funding for a planning meeting and execution of the proposed activity.

Lake Tanganyika Authority Approves Measures to Tackle Rising Water Levels – Mposha

Chief Editor
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Lake Tanganyika Authority Approves Measures to Tackle Rising Water Levels – Mposha

Lake Tanganyika Authority Conference of Ministers Chairperson Mike Elton Mposha has announced that the Conference has approved measures to address rising water levels including early warning systems, water level regulation, and an emergency plan.

Hon. Mposha, Zambia’s Minister of Green Economy and Environment, announced this after the Member States approved and signed the Declaration of the Third Extraordinary Meeting of the Lake Tanganyika Authority Conference of Ministers in Dar es Salaam.

The LTA is a sub-regional group comprising the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, Burundi, and Zambia, all of which share Lake Tanganyika.

“We have approved the following proposed actions to be implemented in the short-term in order to address the impact of the rise in water levels of Lake Tanganyika:
(i) Setting up of community based early warning systems and development and implementation of local early warning system to quickly alert communities to potential flooding or other risk;
(ii) Carrying out an urgent feasibility study to ascertain the possibility to construct a dam on Lukuga river [in DRC] in order to regulate water levels in Lake Tanganyika;
(iii) Dredging of the Lukuga river twice a year for flood control and water security;
(iv) Assessment of the hydro meteorological, hydrological, hydrogeological and other environmental related data at country and regional levels
(v) To put in place an emergency plan in response to disasters,” the Declaration read in part.

The proposed dam at Lukuga River will be designed to manage Lake Tanganyika’s water levels by increasing outflow when levels are high and reducing outflow when levels are low.

According to the Declaration, the Conference also approved medium-term measures that include the development of a comprehensive report on the status of the Lake basin and initiation of a programme to restore degraded areas through reforestation, soil conservation and erosion control in catchment areas.

The other medium-term measures will be to map sensitive areas of flooding and drought, harmonisation of the legal and regulatory framework of the buffer zone for the four riparian countries, considering the alert levels and harmonise water quality monitoring procedures and standards and conducting socio-economic and other scientific studies.

On long-term measures, the Declaration stated that the Conference of Ministers approved the promotion of sustainable land use practices that including reforestation in the lake catchment areas to reduce erosion and improve water retention and promote sustainable livelihoods such as climate smart agriculture, fish caging, eco-tourism.

Other long-term measures are inclusion of a component relating to restoration of degraded areas and infrastructure in all new projects, and restoration of degraded ecosystems and construction of a dam on Lukuga river guided by the result of a feasibility study.

The Third Extraordinary Meeting of the Lake Tanganyika Authority Conference of Ministers was held following the request from the Government of Burundi to deal with the rising of water levels in the Lake Tanganyika.

The floods due to rising water levels in Lake Tanganyika have affected human lives, health, and socio-economic wellbeing of riparian communities in Burundi, DRC, Tanzania and Zambia.

Issued by:
Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, Communications Unit

President Hichilema Projects 3 year Economic Growth

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Projects 3 year Economic Growth

President Hichilema during the Commissioning of the Zambeef Products PLC wheat flour Mill Plant, Launch of the 2024 winter Maize Harvest and Commemoration of the 30th Anniversary of Zambeef in Mpongwe District on the Copperbelt.
President Hakainde Hichilema said his administration has put in place will help the economic status of the country to improve in two to three years.

Speaking when he met the Lamba chiefs in Mpongwe , President Hichilema said that despite some people being sceptical of the government’ s economic road map, the path of economic development will be achieved through hardwork.

He noted that the government has a mission to develop the country through hard work.

“People don’t know where we are going but in two to three years this country will improve,” Mr Hichilema said.

The President said the ongoing works on the Ndola/Lusaka road and Luanshya Fisenge road will contribute to the economic development of the country and the Copperbelt province.

He urged Zambians to develop the culture of hard work to ensure that the prevailing hunger situation is addressed.

Mr Hichilema noted that once the rainfall situation stabilizes this year and the young people engage themselves into agriculture the food deficit will be tackled.

“I was brought up in the culture of hard work and I hope young people will emulate it and start growing five to ten hectares of maize to root out hunger,” Mr Hichilema said.

The President who is in Mpongwe to launch the ZAMBEEF winter maize harvest said it is the first time winter maize is being grown at a large scale in Mpongwe district.

Mr Hichilema also said chiefs will this year be given fertilizer through the Farm Impute Support Programme (FISP) for them to show leadership among their subjects in growing crops.

Lamba Lima Deputy Chairperson Chief Machiya thanked President Hichilema for supporting the private sector such as ZAMBEEF to embark on winter maize production.
Chief Machiya also appealed to President Hichilema to consider building a district hospital and a police station.

Zambia’s UNGA Address Omits Human Rights Amid Rising Concerns

Chief Editor
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Zambia’s UNGA Address Omits Human Rights Amid Rising Concerns

Zambia addressed the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) without mentioning human rights, a notable omission given the current climate in the country. This decision deserves a debate: was it the right thing to do?

On Thursday, August 29, the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) published a report on its website titled “Zambia Must Halt the Downward Spiral of Infringements on Fundamental Freedoms: UN Experts.” The report, authored by special rapporteurs on the right to peaceful assembly and association, the working group on arbitrary detention, the special rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, and the special rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders, highlights serious allegations of human rights abuses in Zambia.

This report has been a source of relief and motivation for many pro-good governance and human rights advocates in Zambia, as it validates their longstanding concerns and indicates that the international community is paying attention.

The report details multiple allegations of arbitrary arrests and detentions on charges such as unlawful assembly, espionage, hate speech, and seditious practices. These charges have been levied against opposition political party leaders and members, parliamentarians, human rights defenders, and activists. Additionally, there have been restrictions on gatherings, meetings, peaceful protests, and rallies.

Since January 2022, at least 26 such cases have been brought to the attention of UN experts. Furthermore, since December 2021, there have been reports of 16 incidents involving journalists or media outlets, as well as 11 clashes, attacks, and cases of intimidation and assault, mostly perpetrated by ruling party members against opposition party members and supporters.

The church has also been affected, with reports of clergy arrests and disruptions of meetings by law enforcement.

The United Party for National Development (UPND) government has claimed inaccuracies in the UNHRC report. On Sunday, September 2, 2024, Chief Government Spokesperson Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa M.P. informed the nation that the government plans to file a formal complaint with the UNHRC regarding these allegations.

“If you take those allegations one by one, you are able to speak to them and see whether the allegation is correct,” Mweetwa, who is also the Information and Media Minister, stated in an interview with Voice of America (VOA) Nightline Africa English to Africa Service couple days earlier. Regarding clergy arrests, Mweetwa told host Peter Clottey that there is no known record of such arrests under the three years of President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration.

On incidents involving journalists, media outlets, clashes, attacks, and cases of intimidation and assault, mostly perpetrated by ruling party members against opposition party members and supporters, Mweetwa expressed shock at where the UN experts obtained such information.

“There is no single journalist in Zambia who has been intimidated or arrested by supporters of the ruling party,” the Chief Government Spokesperson argued. Critics, however, were quick to remind Mweetwa that evidence of human rights abuses in the country is too evident, fresh, and numerous for the new dawn administration to act defensively.

On August 21, 2024, the Committee to Protect Journalists reported the case of Thomas Allan Zgambo, a journalist in Zambia facing prison over his reporting. On August 6, Zgambo was arrested on allegations of publishing seditious material, which under Zambian law includes content advocating for the overthrow of the government or raising “disaffection” among the public. This arrest followed his July 28 commentary on the Facebook page of the online news outlet Zambian Whistleblower, which called on the government to be transparent about any links between a property it had rented and President Hakainde Hichilema, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).

On April 7, 2024, police in Ndola summoned a Catholic priest for questioning after he preached against load shedding and the high cost of living during his Good Friday message. In a call-out notice signed by Detective Inspector P. Chisala, the police demanded that Father Chewe Mukosa report to the Investigations Office at Copperbelt Division Headquarters in Ndola, according to Lusaka Times.

These incidents are just a few examples of the numerous human rights abuses reported in Zambia. On Saturday, September 28, 2024, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hon. Mulambo Haimbe SC, M.P., addressed the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly on behalf of President Hichilema. The theme was “Leaving no one behind: Acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development, and human dignity for present and future generations.”

However, Hon. Haimbe avoided mentioning human rights. Standing before an almost empty UN hall, Hon. Haimbe appeared uneasy, though he maintained good eye contact for someone addressing the assembly for the first time. Despite the trending nature of the issue, human rights failed to secure a place in his address. Was this the right decision?

By Venus N Msyani

Mission Accomplished: How doctors conducted heart surgeries on 30 children

Chief Editor
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Mission Accomplished: How doctors conducted heart surgeries on 30 children
The 17-member specialists comprised Italians, Tanzanians and Zambians who converged on the National Heart Hospital in the heart of Lusaka from September 21 to 28, 2024.

…giving a second chance of life to kids who had limited natural timeframe to live

By Benedict Tembo

A team of specialised doctors conducted heart surgeries on 30 patients, giving a second chance of life to children whose clock was fast ticking out.
The 17-member specialists comprised Italians, Tanzanians and Zambians who converged on the National Heart Hospital in the heart of Lusaka from September 21 to 28, 2024.
In the end, successful was the underlining word. But not as easy as that.
Chabwela Shumba was an integral member of the team from Congenital Heart Academy (CHA) in Italy that performed the heart procedures.
The procedures included 15 minimally invasive surgical procedures and 15 open heart surgeries.
“The experience has been great and with capacity building, mentorship and exchange of best practice,” Dr Shumba said of the phenomenal medical mission to Lusaka.
The 30 heart procedures on children were the outcome of the medical mission last month which was a joint mission between NHH, the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) and the Congenital Heart Academy of Italy and Save a Child’s Heart (SACH) of Israel.
Italian surgeon who works with SACH Dr Salvatore Agati led the team to Lusaka.
Dr Agati said the all children treated had less than six months of natural survival and surgery or intervention was the real second chance of life.
He said the medical mission has positioned NHH as one the referral centres in Africa.
Dr Agati said the experience at NHH confirmed the work done by the international training programme managed by Save a Child Heart in Tel Aviv to build a professional Zambian team composed of Dr Ziwa (cardiac surgeon), Felix Kamuchungu, the perfusionist and one anaesthesiologist.
“Particularly the work done by Dr Lior Sasson represents a real investment in healthcare of Zambia. It’s so difficult to train a congenital cardiac surgeon because this job is full of challenges, technical difficulties, mindset and difficult morale moments,” he said.
Dr Agati said Dr Sasson with the training of Dr Ziwa demonstrated amazing capacity of teaching a cardiac surgeon and mostly a man and this is unique in the medicine world.
Dr Mudanizo Ziwa, trained by SACH in Israel and Agati were the two lead paediatric cardiac surgeons.
Others were Dr Paulo Guccione and Dr Evans Mulendele pediatric cardiologists who participated in undertaking the cardiac intervention in Catheters Laboratories.
Others were Felix Kamuchungu, a Heart Lung Machine technician trained in Israel who worked with his Italian counterparts and Dr Vivienne Mlawi, paediatric intensive care specialist from JKCI.
Dr Mlawi, who travelled with doctors and nurses from JKCI to work with NHH team, also trained in Israel for three years in pediatric intensive care. She was joined by a team of doctor and Intensive Care Unit nurses from Tanzania and Italy and also by Anasthesilogist Dr Alex Loth from JKCI Tanzania who also trained in Israel.
Dr Loth worked hand in hand with Zambian anaesthesiologist Dr Michael Kangwa who also trained in Israel for two years through SACH.
The Italian team came from two Italian hospitals Centro Cardiologico Pediatrico del Mediterraneo “Bambino Gesu” Ospedale San Vincenzo – Taormina.
Seven NHH nurses trained with Vivienne at JKCI over the past year funded by SACH
Dr Alex Loth, a Cardiac anaesthesiologist trained in Israel from JKCI came to work with Dr Michael Kangwa from NHH who also trained in Israel with SACH
The medical mission came on the heels of a major fundraising event in Toronto, Canada and much of the funds raised were being directed to covering SACH activities in Zambia including flights for JKCI and CHA experts to Lusaka.
The medical mission was firsthand experience by Zambian patients how Israeli knowledge shared with Zambian medics is now saving the lives of Zambian children.
Simon Fisher, SACH Executive Director said all the catheter devices that were implanted in Catheters during the medical mission to Lusaka, including echo machines SACH ordered for NHH and Zambian medical staff being trained in Israel and in Tanzania were raised from donors who intend continue to support future missions.
Kamuchungu, a Heart Lung Machine technician trained in Israel based at NHH, was trained at Edith Wolfson University Medical Centre in Holon, Tel Aviv Israel.
The Edith Wolfson University Medical Centre has a state of the art cardiac centre for both children and adults.
“My area of specialisation is Paediatric Cardiovascular Perfusion as Save A Child’s Heart is a non-profit making NGO that is responsible for facilitating life-saving heart surgery to children, especially those in vulnerable countries and also capacity building by training the medical personnel in super specialised fields that make up the comprehensive cardiac care team,” Kamuchungu says.
Kamuchungu says despite the centre being a paediatric centre, he also spent some time with some adult cardiac surgical patients owing to the fact that in Zambia, there is no one who has ever specialised in this field of Extracorporeal Technology (blood circulation outside the body by-passing the heart and lungs either for reparative procedures or to give either the heart and or lungs some time to recuperate owing to either illness or organ failure).
“In a nutshell training in Israel was a full package that offered me hands on skills and knowledge befitting international standards with the world’s best infrastructure and equipment coupled with highly qualified and seasoned educators and mentors under the unparalleled stewardship of Save A Childs Heart ( SACH),” Kamuchungu says.
Kamuchungu says as a Cardiovascular Perfusionist, his roles are not limited to operating the heart and lung machine during open heart surgery but also managing patients on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), Intra Aortic Balloon Pump ( IABP), Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) among others.
“I am privileged to be the first Zambian to be trained in this rare specialty. This privilege though comes with a multitude of responsibilities and pressure,” he says

PF Leader Emmanuel Mwamba Endorses Zimbabwean Minister’s Vicious Assault on President Hichilema

Lusaka Times Editor
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PF Leader Emmanuel Mwamba Endorses Zimbabwean Minister’s Vicious Assault on President Hichilema

Better late than never. I took my time to reflect on Emmanuel Mwamba’s logic and considered the video (click to view) of the Zimbabwean minister he shared on social media. My takeaway is that the Patriotic Front (PF) is lost with leaders like Mwamba leading the charge in spreading a negative narrative about their own country.

Emmanuel Mwamba’s enthusiastic response to Zimbabwean Minister Ezra Chadzamira’s unprovoked attack on Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema reveals the PF’s true agenda: a party that thrives on denigrating its own nation for political gain. This shameless embrace of foreign insults is not only undignified but a direct betrayal of the patriotic duty any political organization should uphold when serving the interests of Zambia. Mwamba, as a senior figure in the PF, has clearly shown the extent to which the party is willing to go, even if it means allowing foreign voices to mock Zambia, all in a desperate attempt to regain political relevance.

This behavior, endorsed by the PF, highlights a concerning trend within the party, where personal and partisan interests take precedence over national pride and unity. Instead of offering constructive opposition or alternatives, the PF engages in mudslinging, delighting in foreign criticisms that degrade the country. Such reckless behavior is a shameful betrayal of Zambia’s sovereignty and its core values.

Since losing power, the PF has adopted a mindset of chaos and disruption rather than constructive opposition. Figures like Mwamba, who invite foreign criticism of their own president, are celebrated within the party. This conduct not only undermines Zambia’s international reputation but also exposes a party that lacks the maturity and integrity to lead.

The PF’s legacy of indiscipline, violence, and political thuggery is well-known, and Mwamba’s actions are just the latest chapter in this sordid tale. From orchestrating violent clashes during elections to fostering lawlessness, the PF has repeatedly shown that political scheming is more important to them than peace or development for the Zambian people. Their refusal to evolve has only deepened divisions in the country.

It is imperative that Zambians, the church, and civil society collectively condemn this opportunistic behavior. Allowing Mwamba and other PF members to echo foreign insults and undermine national pride shows the party’s willingness to betray their country for cheap political points. How can they expect the trust of the people when they so eagerly ally themselves with foreign critics to gain short-term political leverage?

This incident should remind Zambians of the PF’s true nature. They have not learned from past mistakes and continue to rely on divisive and destructive tactics to stay relevant. Mwamba’s celebration of Chadzamira’s remarks reflects not just his own poor judgment but also the wider culture within the PF that prioritizes political gamesmanship over patriotism. Their leadership cannot be trusted to protect Zambia’s dignity on the global stage.

Zambians must question the motivations behind this behavior. The PF’s willingness to court foreign actors who have no stake in Zambia’s success is a sign of their desperation. As elections loom, Zambians should remember this moment: the PF, led by figures like Mwamba and Edgar Lungu, has consistently chosen self-interest over national unity.

Minister Chadzamira’s remarks, though inappropriate, should be addressed diplomatically. His public criticism of President Hichilema was not only a breach of diplomatic norms but an unwarranted intrusion into Zambia’s domestic affairs. Zambia and Zimbabwe share a long history of cooperation, dating back to their liberation struggles. The actions of one minister should not tarnish this relationship. However, Zimbabwean authorities should reprimand Chadzamira for his undiplomatic conduct, as his words do not represent Zimbabwe’s official stance a nation that respects the sovereignty of its neighbors.

The bond between Zambia and Zimbabwe remains strong, based on mutual respect and historical ties. It is crucial that this relationship is not damaged by reckless comments like those made by Chadzamira. Zimbabwe has consistently honored its commitments to regional peace and stability, and it is likely the government will address the issue appropriately.

Zambians must reject the influence of divisive figures like Emmanuel Mwamba, who attempt to damage relations between our two great nations. We must resist external and internal forces that seek to destabilize our region. Let us protect Zambia’s sovereignty and dignity while strengthening the bonds that unite us with our neighbors.

Zambia deserves better than a political party that celebrates foreign attacks on its leadership. The PF’s dangerous gamble with Zambia’s reputation must be condemned. Churches, civil society, and all Zambians who care about the country should reject the PF’s toxic politics and its willingness to sell out the nation for political gain.

It is vital that the Zimbabwean government reaffirms its respect for Zambia by disciplining Minister Chadzamira and ensuring that any future disagreements are handled through diplomacy. The future of Zambia and Zimbabwe lies in cooperation, not division, and it is in both nations’ interests to ensure that our relations remain strong.

Let this incident be a wake-up call for Zambians: we need leaders who are loyal to our country and respectful of the shared history we have with our neighbors. The PF’s willingness to support those who insult our president proves they are unfit to lead. As we move forward, Zambians must reject the politics of negativity and division and focus on building a united and prosperous nation.

Clive Haagwamu

GBM Sentenced To 5 years Imprisonment With Hard Labor

Chief Editor
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GBM Sentenced To 5 years Imprisonment With Hard Labor

Former Minister of Defence Geoffrey Bwalya Mwamba has been sentenced to five years imprisonment with hard labour of 13 counts of conflict of interest, possession of money deemed proceeds of crime and money laundering by the Lusaka Magistrate’s Court.

More details to follow…

UPND Has No Plans For Social Sectors – Mmembe

Chief Editor
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UPND Has No Plans For Social Sectors – Mmembe

…as he warns of potential seed crisis due to inadequate planning by the government
Lusaka, Zambia— Socialist Party President Dr. Fred M’membe says UPND government’s 2025 budget, neglects the pressing needs of Zambians.

In his State of the Nation address, earlier today, he highlighted the budget’s shortcomings across several critical sectors, including energy, mining, agriculture, and health.
Dr. M’membe painted a grim picture of the energy sector, criticizing the shift to higher tariffs under the guise of “cost-reflective tariffs.”

He argued that this move would only benefit a few at the expense of the majority.
He also noted that despite the government’s push for solar alternatives, high demand and costs, coupled with high-interest rates, make these solutions inaccessible to ordinary Zambians.
“Every bank wants a payslip to get a loan. The majority of Zambians are in the informal sector. Where will they get these payslips?” he questioned.

The Socialist Party leader expressed skepticism about the UPND’s plans to revive and expand the mining sector, pointing out that mining taxes remain unchanged, and there is no credible plan for increasing copper production.
“Scaling up copper production is largely dependent on the availability of reliable and sufficient energy supply. Mining consumes a lot of power, so where will this power come from?” he asked, dismissing the government’s proclamations as empty rhetoric.

Dr. M’membe also criticized the government’s approach to agriculture, particularly the focus on efficiency in distributing the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) while neglecting the broader needs of small-scale farmers.
He warned of a potential seed crisis due to a poor farming season and inadequate planning by the government.
“The UPND government has been clueless on agriculture from inception. Poverty alleviation will not be dealt with under the UPND government,” he stated.

Regarding the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), Dr. M’membe argued that increasing CDF allocations will not solve the country’s pressing problems due to corruption and inefficiency.
He also lamented the inadequate budget allocation to the health sector, which he linked to poor health outcomes exacerbated by energy and drought crises.
“Our people are dying every day, and the political leaders we have today don’t seem to care,” he said, emphasizing the need for a substantial increase in health funding.

Of ‘alendo’ in our political dispensation

Chief Editor
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Of ‘alendo’ in our political dispensation

After the reintroduction of multi-party democracy in our country early 1990s, we’ve witnessed ‘alendo’ of different shades and hues occupying our political space. Such characters do not stand for or believe in anything at all! Niba muselela kwakaba……political nomads!

Who exactly are these ‘alendo’ ?

They don’t subscribe to any political ideology per se…..their main preoccupation is to “chew” and chew big time for that matter!

‘Alendo’ have got no permanent political habitat…..Today, you’ll see them holding the clock aloft and shouting, “the hour has come” to the heavens above! Tomorrow, you’ll find them besieging the boat, boisterously chanting, “pamaka” like those possessed by evil spirits. And before you know it, they’d have abruptly switched to red worksuits, energetically marching the streets reminding everyone it’s, “Zambia, forward!”

Are they opportunists, these ‘alendo’ ? Of course, they are, 100%. They’re like bees flocking to where the honeycomb is! They harbour no semblance of any shame at all. Did you see what transpired August 2021?

No sooner they realised there would be change of government, the later ‘alendo’ abandoned the sinking ship and joined the frenzy! They aren’t the ones to be left-out of the epoch-making event in our political history where the incumbent was to be ‘whitewashed’ by 1million votes!

“We were part of those that brought about change in this country…..” you’ll hear them brag once in a while ignoring the Ostrich egg of their faces.

Today, ‘alendo’ are scaling mountaintops professing their outpouring love for Kachema. The legendary Nigerian novelist, Chinua Achebe has a perfect description of their actions, “crying more than the owners of the funeral….” as he puts it in his book, Things Fall Apart.

But is their genuineness in what they do, these ‘alendo’ ?

Negative! Like the August whirlwinds, ‘alendo’ aren’t stable. They’d pretend to owe their allegiance to you when everything is nice and all rosy, but should the coin flip……oh boy, oh boy, oh boy, they’ll make a 360 degrees about-turn and burn the mid-night candle scouring the Oxford English Dictionary for the worst adjectives to apportion you in order to please their new masters.

What motivates ‘alendo’ to conduct themselves in the manner they do, one may wonder.

Well……most of these ‘alendo’ choose to deeply entrench themselves into politics to either cover-up their tracks (they may be involved in some dubious activities) or indeed to simply prop-up their businesses.

This brings us to one politician who is currently trending on Social media, Kelvin Sampa. For those that may not be in the loop, Sampa is former PF National Youth Chairman and immediate past Kasama central member of parliament under the same ticket.

Before ‘ba buju’ closed in on him and two of his accomplices, and arrested them for defrauding a Japanese national US$80, 000 in a gold deal that has since gone sour, there was a video doing the rounds on Social media whereby some elderly brave women are challenging Sampa over a portion of land which is under dispute in court as he brandishes a firearm. This doesn’t look good at all.

Typical of the aggressive PF propaganda machinery, they’ve totally disowned one of their own and have gone in overdrive reminding the public Sampa is a UPND party official just to tarnish the good image of the ruling party.

All in all, it’s quite gratifying that party spokesman, Cornelius Mweetwa who also doubles as government spokesman has clarified that if anybody associated with the party comes into conflict with the law for whatever the reason, they’re on their own. Stop doing illegalities in the name of the party or President Hichilema; you’re on your own!

Prince Bill M Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

President Hichilema Hosts Saudi Delegation for Mining and Investment Discussions

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Hosts Saudi Delegation for Mining and Investment Discussions

President Hakainde Hichilema hosted a delegation from Saudi Arabia, led by Abdulrahman bin Khalid Albalushi, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Mineral Resources Management, at State House. The delegation is attending the ongoing inaugural Mining and Investment Insaka in Lusaka.

President Hichilema expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s support, including the King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Hospital under construction in Lusaka. The discussions focused on joint investments in sectors like mining, energy, tourism, and agriculture, with a commitment to ensuring that Zambians benefit from natural resource endowment through value addition.

The President highlighted Zambia’s eagerness to learn from Saudi Arabia’s successful management of its natural resources, such as oil and gas, to improve the welfare of its citizens.

Zambia Hosts 2024 Mining and Investment Insaka, Celebrating 100 Years of Mining

Chief Editor
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Zambia Hosts 2024 Mining and Investment Insaka, Celebrating 100 Years of Mining

The inaugural 2024 Zambia Mining and Investment Insaka took place Monday evening, attracting over 2,500 delegates from across the globe. This event coincides with the celebration of a century of mining in Zambia, a cornerstone of the nation’s economy.

President Hakainde Hichilema emphasized the importance of collaboration, encouraging stakeholders to explore sustainable growth in the sector. He highlighted the potential beyond copper and called for partnerships to introduce advanced technologies, ensuring long-term progress for Zambia’s mining industry.

“We must work together to secure a shared future,” President Hichilema stated, underscoring the need for joint ventures to maximize the industry’s potential. The Insaka offers a critical platform for discussion and action, aimed at shaping the future of mining in Zambia for the benefit of all, especially its citizens.

President Hichilema assured the investors attending the insaka to consider investing in the mining sector in Zambia, reiterating the right policies and reforms that government has put in place to make sure that there is sustainable growth and development in the sector.

President Hichilema also expressed concern on the rising numbers of people dying due to illegal and unsafe mining.
He said government is putting in place a number of measures to ensure that small scale miners operate legally and in a safe way, adding that so far over 500 licences have been issued to Zambians to embark on mining operations.

Minister of Mines and Minerals Development Paul Kabuswe said currently there is an active 10 billion dollar investment in the mining sector in Zambia which has been attained in the last 3 years due to good policies and reforms that have revived the mining industry in the country.

He explained that the government’s aspiration of achieving 3 million tons of copper production calls for robust infrastructure development, hence the need to attract more investments to the sector.
He further pledged government’s continued support towards stable and predictable policies that will attract more investments to the mining sector, in order to contribute to the attainment of the 3 million tons of copper production by 2031.

And Konkola Copper Mines Chief Executive Officer, Chris Griffith pledged KCM’s continued support to the 3 million copper production, citing government’s commitment that has so far been shown in growing the mining sector.
Mr Griffith said KCM is targeting to grow its investment to 1 billion dollars in the next 5 years with copper production of 300,000 tons.

Chinese Mining Enterprise Association in Zambia Chairperson Zhanyani Li noted that the association has been operating in Zambia for the last 26 years and has so far invested about 3.5 billion dollars, which will be raised to 5 billion dollars in the next few years.

Mr Zhanyani noted that the association, which has about 20 companies operating in the mining sector in Zambia and has created more than 15,000 jobs, is committed to contribute to Zambia’s copper production with a target of 80, 000 metric tons in the next few years.

Lusaka Province Minister Sheal Mulyata expressed confidence that the insaka will present an opportunity for stakeholders in the mining sector to explore new and innovative ways that can be used in the industry for it to remain competitive.

Zambia Signs Landmark Agreement to Manufacture Cholera Vaccine, A First in Africa

Chief Editor
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Zambia Signs Landmark Agreement to Manufacture Cholera Vaccine, A First in Africa

Zambia reached a historic milestone by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and China’s JIJIA International Company Limited. This agreement positions Zambia as the first African country to manufacture the cholera vaccine, a major step forward in public health and disease prevention.

The manufacturing initiative is part of the Zambia Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Initiative, with key support from partners such as Shanghai United Cell Biotechnology Company. This breakthrough comes as Zambia continues its role as a Global Cholera Champion, having co-sponsored the Cholera Prevention and Control Resolution, which aims to eliminate cholera by 2030.

President Hakainde Hichilema emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating that it will not only save lives but also boost productivity and serve humanity, particularly in regions most vulnerable to cholera outbreaks. “Cholera remains a severe threat to the Global South, affecting 1.3 billion people worldwide, causing 2.86 million cases and nearly 95,000 deaths annually,” the President noted.

Zambia is among the high-risk countries, having experienced over 20,000 cases and nearly 700 deaths during the 2023-2024 cholera outbreak. The new vaccine manufacturing plant will not only cater to Zambia’s needs but will also serve the broader region and the African continent, providing a critical resource in the fight against the deadly disease.

“We are deeply grateful to President Xi Jinping and the people of China for their partnership in making this vision a reality,” said President Hichilema, praising the collaboration between Zambia and China.

The establishment of this vaccine plant marks a pivotal moment in Zambia’s public health strategy and solidifies its leadership role in the global campaign to eliminate cholera by 2030. This initiative is set to create jobs, stimulate the local economy, and significantly reduce the disease’s impact across Africa.

Nevers Mumba’s Appeal To The Family Of Former President Edgar Lungu

Chief Editor
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Nevers Mumba’s Appeal To The Family Of Former President Edgar Lungu

Following my recent statement expressing concern about individuals surrounding President Lungu, I’ve received varied responses – both supportive and critical. Some have misconstrued my warning as an attack on President Lungu, suggesting I harbour hatred for him. Absolutely not.

As a political and church leader who has seen it all from KK to RB and given the involvement of some of these individuals who were part of our party, the Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), I feel compelled to address you, the Former First Family, directly.

Beware of the vultures circling President Lungu! These opportunistic individuals, masquerading as advisors and friends, have a treacherous history:

1. These are the same faces who actively participated in ravaging and damaging the MMD to its current status.
2. These are the same faces who in their counsel and manipulation, exploited 2nd Republican President Chiluba’s trust and they never quit until his untimely death.
3. These elements championed and coerced President Rupiah Banda’s return from retirement. A feat that made the former president end up losing his immunity and arraigned for prosecution.
Now having wormed their way in, and embedded themselves in the Patriotic Front (PF), they have even gathered up the audacity to sideline historical PF members just in order to apply their highly skilled ways in manipulating President Lungu for their personal gain, disregarding his legacy and well-being. Unless curtailed, their greed will eventually drag him down the same destructive path.

I urge you as the family of President Lungu to stand up! Protect him from these individuals. Don’t let them sacrifice his integrity for selfish ambitions. Zambia deserves better. President Lungu deserves better.

The current path that former president Lungu has been placed on is heading the same way the other two late MMD presidents trod. This path only leads to the same destination. From where we stand, it appears He has already succumbed to this group and their treachery. But, we are hopeful that with much prayer and fasting, we can, together with the family, rescue President Lungu from a looming wreckage.

By Dr.Nevers Mumba

Nothing is Sacred for Trump

Chief Editor
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Nothing is Sacred for Trump

The classic definition of sacred is something that is so special that it has to be treated with reverence, respect, is inviolable, highly valued, important, and most of all, holy and often worthy of religious veneration. One of the inviolable rules in our society is that when you have a major tragedy that causes widespread death and destruction, we should pray, and behave with deep empathy, restraint, caution, sorrow, and offer heart-felt help to survivors. But this is hardly the case with Presidential candidate Trump.

Hurricane Helene caused widespread devastation in Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee in the United States of America. The death toll has risen to 227. The day after the storm, President Biden set the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) into action and said he would visit the area to survey the damage and so did Vice-President Harris. They expressed caution and restraint because they did not want their footprint during their short tours to get in the way of the very crucial, urgent and important work of first responders, rescue crews, the state, and local emergency officials. What did candidate Trump do?

He went to Georgia alright which he had the right to since he is a Presidential candidate. Then his conduct while he was there went sideways. I could see in the video online that he went to a brick building the hurricane had destroyed. He may have summoned what looked like 30 workers donned in emergency uniforms to collect bricks from the rubble to construct a makeshift press conference podium. His handlers had Trump read his speech which he read in a halting manner. All of this was alright and probably what any candidate would normally have done for the most part.

The press and other reporters these days tend to sane wash some of the things Trump says with a serving of both-sidism. They call them “untruths”, “disinformation”, and “misinformation” which are wrong terms. Trump simply tells lies.

After 9 years, lies are what we should say he tells. At that press conference he lied that President Biden and the Federal government were not doing anything to help the hurricane victims. He said Biden could not even contact the Republican Georgia Governor Kemp about providing help for the hurricane victims. Georgia Governor Kemp the following day had to correct the lies and said at a press conference that President Biden had contacted him and offered to help with anything the state needed. By that time, the damage from the lies had been done. This is characteristic of a narcissist sociopath; he has no regard for the the truth during this sacred moment nor the damage, the despair, and perhaps even death he might have caused to others because of his lies. During Trump’s January 6 insurrection, 5 police officers died and hundreds were wounded because of Trump’s big lie that he had won the 2020 election.

None of the terrible things I am saying about Trump bring me any joy. Like perhaps many millions of Americans, I am exhausted of Trump lies, numerous scandals, and vile things he unleashes, deepening the moral sewage on all of us every minute of each day as soon as his lips are moving or he posts something on his social media. But his lies not only harm many people like he did in Smithfield in Ohio about illegal immigrants eating cats and dogs, but we are now exactly 30 days to the Presidential elections on November 5. His lies could result in the tragedy of his being elected by accident like was the case in 2016.

For example, FEMA administrator Deanne Criswell pushed back on Trump lies.

Trump had lied that FEMA was running out of money to aid its disaster relief efforts, because the White House had misused the funds “on illegal migrants coming into the country.” Some of the numerous terrible things Trump has done might sound minor and picky to his MAGA supporters and some Republicans. Congress sent Covid pandemic relief checks to millions of Americans. Trump at the time insisted that when these government checks were printed, his name should appear on the checks as President. This was very unusual as any other normal Presidents would perhaps not have insisted on doing this. But since Trump is a cunning narcissist, he had to do it.

I have seen online at least 5 random interviews of voters who argue that they will vote for Trump because he wrote them the pandemic checks. These voters had looks on their faces that wrongly said Trump wrote the checks personally from his account since he is a billionaire. Are you kidding me? These 5 voters might represent millions of low information misled voters who might not be well educated but will be voting next month.

If you are a Republican and MAGA supporter, you might be thinking I will vote for Trump which will “trigger the libs”. You will be destroying your own country if you vote for Trump. If you are a diehard Republican or MAGA supporter, hold your nose and vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Waltz next month to save the country. We have to end this nightmare of hostile divisiveness that has been in our country since 2016.

By Mwizenge S. Tembo, Ph. D.

Emeritus Professor of Sociology

Stakeholders Welcome The ZESCO Tariff Adjustment Application

Chief Editor
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Stakeholders Welcome The ZESCO Tariff Adjustment Application

Various stakeholders have welcomed the ZESCO emergency tariff application adjustment, saying it will improve the power utility’s operations to provide a satisfactory service to its consumers.

Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) president Ashu Sagar notes that cost effective tariffs will boost the manufacturing industry whose full operations depend on sustainable power supply.
Speaking during the ZESCO emergency tariff application hearing in Lusaka today, Mr Sagar said the proposed adjustment will accelerate the economic outlook of the country.

He, however, expressed concern on the seven hours of power supply allocated to the manufacturing sector and called for an increase in the number of hours.

Mr Sagar also appealed to ZESCO to stick to the proposed load management timetable in order for the manufacturing industry to plan properly.

Business Coalition task force committee member, Mark O’donnel, called for a 100 percent support of the ZESCO emergency tariff application as it is far less what is trending in the SADC region.
“As a business coalition task force, we are 100 percent in support of ZESCO’s emergency tariff adjustment application, this move will increase power generation which in turn will foster productivity in all areas of the economy,” he said.

Africa Greenco group founder Ana Hajduka said the tariff adjustment application by ZESCO will enable it to stand on its own feet, and that the depreciation of the kwacha against other convertible currencies has severely affected the utility company’s operations.

And ERB Board Chairperson James Banda announced that it will make a final decision on whether or not to approve ZESCO‘s emergency tariff application adjustment on Thursday, the 10, 2024.
He explained that the decision to approve the tariff application will depend on the merits, and will not be influenced by external or political factors.

Earlier, ZESCO Managing Director, Victor Mapani disclosed that the power utility company had by 2021 reduced its debt from US$1.8 billion to k430 million, which it is currently servicing now.

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