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Message For Today: Shouts of Praise

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Message For Today: Shouts of Praise

Today’s Scripture

“But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. I will say, ‘Salvation comes from the LORD.’”
Jonah 2:9, NIV

Shouts of Praise

Friend, today’s Scripture was spoken by the prophet Jonah while he was inside the huge fish that God sent to spare his life after he had disobeyed God’s command. You can imagine how it reeked almost unbearably inside the fish’s digestive system. For eight verses, Jonah had talked about how bad his life was, how he was in the depths of despair, how he didn’t see a way out. All that was true, but it didn’t change his situation. Then in the midst of the stink and difficulties, he suddenly offered up a sacrifice of praise and surrender. That’s what caused God to go to work and have the fish put Jonah back on dry ground to fulfill his destiny.

You may be in a stinky situation today. You could describe what you’ve done wrong, how you aren’t treated right, or how you’re not getting well. But that creates an atmosphere of doubt, defeat, and negativity that keeps you where you are. Be a Jonah and send up a shout of praise. Send up faith. Send up hope. You’re about to see that negative situation turn around.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that when I make a mistake and bring trouble upon myself as Jonah did, You cover me with mercy and give me second chances. Today I will offer up a shout of grateful praise to You and declare You as my Lord. I believe You will get me to where I’m supposed to be. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

President Hichilema Graces Nsakwa Ya Ba Kaonde Traditional Ceremony in Kasempa

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President Hichilema Graces Nsakwa Ya Ba Kaonde Traditional Ceremony in Kasempa


President Hakainde Hichilema on Saturday attended the 2024 Nsakwa Ya Ba Kaonde Traditional Ceremony, held in Kasempa District of North Western Province. The event celebrated the cultural heritage of the Kaonde people and provided a platform for dialogue between government leaders and traditional authorities on national development efforts.

In his address, President Hichilema emphasized the importance of traditional ceremonies, describing them as essential to preserving cultural identity, promoting national unity, and engaging with communities and Royal Highnesses on the country’s development agenda.

“National unity remains a key imperative in our government’s drive to accelerate national development,” the President said. He reassured attendees of the government’s commitment to equitable development, highlighting the use of Constituency Development Funds (CDF) and other programs to benefit all regions of Zambia.

The President announced plans to return to North Western Province in the coming days to commission the Kalengwa Mine. Once operational, the mine is expected to generate employment and contribute to economic growth in the region.

In addition, President Hichilema outlined several ongoing development projects in the province, including the construction of the Solwezi Hospital, which is now fully funded. He also confirmed that work on the long-awaited Kasempa-Mutanda-Kaoma Road will begin soon, addressing a key infrastructure priority in the region.

Before the ceremony, the President held discussions with the Nsakwa Ya Ba Kaonde, a council of Kaonde chiefs, and other Royal Highnesses in attendance. He urged the traditional leaders to assist the government in curbing illegal mining activities, emphasizing that such actions could hinder development efforts.

“We will not allow anyone to stand in the way of progress that is meant to benefit our people and the nation at large,” President Hichilema warned.

The event concluded with the President expressing gratitude to the people of Kasempa for their warm reception, saying, “Twasanta bingi ba Kasempa!” (Thank you very much, people of Kasempa).

The 2024 Nsakwa Ya Ba Kaonde ceremony showcased the strong ties between the government and traditional leaders as they work together towards national unity and sustainable development.

Veep Attends Independence Carnival

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Veep Attends Independence Carnival

Vice President Mutale Nalumango was among hundreds of residents who attended the third annual Lusaka Province independence carnival.

The colourful event which took place at Nkholoma Stadium was characterised by a display of cultural and traditional dances from all the ten provinces of the country.

Bands such as Amayenge Asoza and Green Labels were also at hand to provide entertainment to the crowd.
Other dignitaries like Lusaka Province Permanent Secretary, Robert Kamalata and Zanaco Chief Executive Officer, Mukwandi Chibesakunda witnessed the occasion.

Different institutions including Zambia National Service (ZNS) and Zanaco exhibited during the carnival.
The Vice President also took time to tour the stands to appreciate the various exhibitors.

With Zambia’s Diamond jubilee less than a week away, the event provided a perfect curtain raiser for independence day celebrations which will be held on October 24.

One at a time: How Zambia is falling apart

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One at a time: How Zambia is falling apart

By Sishuwa Sishuwa

The fall from grace of any country does not happen abruptly or even in a big way at once. It happens slowly, and often in ways that seem small,random, or unconnected. One victimised group. One compromised profession. One captured institution. One abused individual. One at a time. In the end, it is the silence, inaction, and indifference of many that makes all the difference.

There is quote that is attributed to the prominent German pastor Martin Niemöller that best illustrates this point:

“First, they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist.Then, they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a trade unionist.Then, they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew.Then, they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.”

Niemöller is today rightly remembered as the pastor who defied Nazism.His words have enduring resonance and appeal in today’s world. What many do not know is that he started off as one of its greatest supporters and was therefore its enablers. His quoted words reflect not just his later change of heart and breakup with the party and leadership he supported

but also his guilt and responsibility. The lesson from his experience and the essence of his message is that it is never too late to change course,for the better.

I hope that many of us in Zambia today will have no need to wake up tomorrow and adapt his words to our situation:

First, they came for the Archbishop and a priest, and I did not speak out — because I was not an Archbishop or a priest.

Next, they came for a former president, and I did not speak out—because I was not a former president or his supporter.

Then, they came for the judges, and I did not speak out—because I was not a judge.

Then, they came for opposition leaders, members of parliament, and a civil rights campaigner, and I did not speak out—because I was not an opposition leader, MP, or a civil rights campaigner.

Then, they came for members of other ethnic groups and regions, and I did not speak out—because I did not come from those ethnic groups or regions.

Then, they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me,because they had, by then, succeeded in co-opting several news media outlets, the church, civil society, the intellectuals, and other actors and institutions.

Were that to happen, then I pray that we too will soon experience or have a moment that will inspire a change of heart so that we can point to that specific experience or moment as our turning point.

Each one of us would then be able to say that it was at that point when I realised that I was complicit in our continued fall from grace, in nurturing the hate, the division, the intolerance, the injustice, the corruption, the constant violations of human rights, and the erosion of our democracy.

Each one of us would then be able to regret to ourselves that I chose to remain silent when I should have expressed outrage at the ill-treatment of others including those who drew public attention to these ills.

Each one of us would then be able to regret to ourselves that I remained quiet when I should have spoken out on behalf of others whose plight I ignored simply because I was not affected.

Each one of us would then be able to tell ourselves that it was at that point when I realised that I secure my rights by standing up for the rights of others, including those I neither like nor support.

That it was at that point when I realised both the cost and the danger of silence, inaction, and indifference.

For when all the bad things were happening or being done to others, I,without much thought, identified with the perpetrators, saw absolutely nothing wrong with their actions, and easily called the victims all sorts of names. Now I can see clearly that I was wrong all along.

Now I can see clearly that my silence, inaction and indifference have helped to create a country whose character I no longer recognise. Now I understand why there is no certainty about our future with regard to any of our known challenges. Now I understand why Zambia continues to fall apart, to drift into a deplorable, dangerous, and unacceptable situation.

It is because of the acute lack of empathy and awareness of people like me. It is because of my indifference to what is happening around me, to the plight of others. One victimised group. One compromised profession.One captured institution. One abused individual. One at a time.

It is hard to not give up on us. One of my greatest anxieties over what is going on in our country is that we have created a world of extremes or polarity: it is either black or white – no shade of grey or even other colours; either wrong or right – no complexities of the in-between determined by the context; either true or false – without the attendant perspective. We have created a world of extreme viewpoints in which sacrifice for the greater good, collective responsibility, and the capacity
to defend the rights of even those we do not support or who opposes us are frowned upon.

We must be more deliberate in putting in place a perspective, an idea, a people and a system that will address the root cause of our past and continuing failures. I know this is hard to do, very hard, but if we do not re-imagine a better way, we are doomed because we will just keep going in circles.

Konkola Copper Mines Reports Fatal Accident at New East Mill Operation

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Konkola Copper Mines Reports Fatal Accident at New East Mill Operation

Konkola Copper Mines Plc (KCM) has confirmed the occurrence of a tragic mining accident at its New East Mill operation on Saturday, October 19, 2024. The accident, which took place around mid-day, claimed the life of a KCM permanent employee, Mr. Lawrence Ndalama.

Mr. Ndalama was rushed to Nchanga South Mine Hospital, where he was sadly pronounced dead. In response to the incident, KCM has initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the fatality.

In a statement, the company conveyed that the relevant authorities and Mr. Ndalama’s next of kin have been notified.

“KCM management sympathizes with the family of the deceased and extends its deepest condolences during this difficult time,” the company’s Corporate Affairs Department stated.

The incident is a reminder of the inherent dangers associated with mining operations.

National day of prayers; is it really necessary?

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National day of prayers; is it really necessary?

The so-called national day of prayers, fasting, repentance and reconciliation which is usually commemorated on October 18th has finally come and gone. Obviously, it’s quite gratifying President Hakainde Hichilema stole the thunder from his adversaries, detractors and naysayers alike by gracing the occasion since he took over the reins of power otherwise they wouldn’t have spared him – they’d have gone to town crucifying him and calling him all sorrs of names!

Is it really necessary for us to continue maintaining this day on our calendar especially that we’re already worshiping God on days that are convenient for us – Sundays, Saturdays or even Fridays, one may wonder. In this offering, we shall seek to demonstrate the absurdity and hypocrisy of this day!

But how did it all get started?

Many at times, politicians tend to seek to ‘cloth’ their deficiencies and inadequacies into prayer, rest assured citizenry will easily fall for it given our extreme naivety and gullibility!

As our readers would recall, Frederick J. Chiluba, a very eloquent and dapper-dresser unionist turned politician, who successfully dislodged Kenneth Kaunda from the throne after 27 years at the helm in the 1991 scintillating elections was a fervent born-again Christian…..or at least that’s what he portrayed to the public.

In a country made up of 95.5% Christians, with a good chunk of them (75.3% at least) representing the protestant groups, Chiluba obviously enjoyed en masse support from Christians, particularly the pentecostals!

In a move seen as an attempt to probably appease his ardent followers, a few weeks after assuming office, he took to the hallowed grounds of the old-fashioned mansion that once housed Sir Evelyn Hone, the last Governor of Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) to make a declaration that would leave a gulf among adherents for a long time to come.

“Dear God…… As a nation, we come to the throne of grace; we humble ourselves and admit our guilt – we repent from all our wicked ways of idolatry, the occult, immorality, injustice and corruption and all other sins that have violated your righteous laws. We turn away from all this and renounce it in Jesus’s name,” he read from a written script as his audience boisterously affirmed, Amen! “I declare today that I submit myself as President to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. I likewise submit government and the entire nation of Zambia to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. I further declare that Zambia is a Christian nation!”

And as the race for the 1996 general elections heated up, the preamble to the Zambian constitution was promptly amended to declare the Republic of Zambia as a Christian nation. Chiluba would of course end up re-elected to a second five-year term despite a lawsuit questioning his birth place, and hence bringing his eligibility into doubt.

On one hand, the Evangelical/Pentecostal pastors generally welcomed the initiative, while on the other, the Roman Catholic Bishops and the Council of Churches in Zambia cried foul as they were never consulted.

The Catholic church which constitutes 20% of our country’s population asserted that the declaration was discriminatory to non-Christians and undemocratic! They further issued the following statement to buttress their position, “The Catholic bishops of Zambia are opposing a plan to identify Zambia as “a Christian nation” in the preamble to a new proposed constitution.
A country cannot practice the values and precepts of Christianity by a mere declaration.”

Did President Chiluba, his Cabinet ministers or indeed senior government officials lead exemplary lives after the declaration of Zambia as a Christian nation?

Father Joe Komakoma, Executive Director of the Catholic Commission for Justice & Peace at the time provided candid insights, “leaders are amassing wealth in dubious ways, leaving ordinary people uncared for. Lust for money, power and social privileges has been made to look like a virtue. This has resulted in the worsening of social indicators, high poverty levels, widening of the gap between the rich and the poor, endemic corruption and a sharp rise in plunder of our national resources.”

Archbishop John Mambo, former head of the Church of God in Zambia equally weighed in with the following observation, “there has been a rise in immorality and corruption in our country which puts a question mark on our being called a Christian nation.”

Edgar Lungu himself was never known to belong to any Church before he became President. He was actually said to be a frequent patron of some Casinos in Lusaka; enjoying his Jameson well into the night.

When he took over as Republican President in 2015 after of course the demise of Micheal Sata, he had to find a way of endearing himself to the quite sceptical and judgmental public, particularly the Christians. He re-proclaimed Zambia as a Christian nation stating thus, “The declaration is a sign of the country’s reverence to God and the acknowledgement of his sovereignty.”

He would further go ahead and declare October 18th as a Public Holiday in observance of the day of National Prayer, Fasting and Reconciliation

Reacting to this, the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops(ZCCB) stated that although they welcomed the national day of prayer, the Church had some issues concerning the organisation of this day as was more of a political event than religious.

“The position of the Church, especially to all priests, is that you are not to take part in the events of this day.

When called upon to preside over or just to preach don’t accept. If our Christians are to participate, they may do so in their individual capacity not in the name of the Church,” read the statement.

How on earth did ba Lungu, his Cabinet ministers and senior party officials conduct themselves whilst in office?

Whenever there were state functions, it was like a scene out of ‘Sodom and Gomorrah’ – there would be binge-drinking and Slay Queens would be invited to provide entertainment, of course!

Were they good stewards of our national resources as expected of believers?

Of course, not! They literally went on rampage looting the treasury at night while pretended to carry themselves as God-fearing during the day!

Look at the colossal amounts of money in foreign currency being discovered in garages of their side-chicks straight from the Bank of Zambia! Look at all those properties they acquired overnight – breathtaking mansions in posh neighbourhoods, helicopters and impressive fleets of limousines and trucks when most of them were actually paupers wandering about in flip-flops and drinking chibuku in shanty compounds! Look at the way they gassed us during our sleep in our homes! Look at the way they brutalized us……hacked-off our limbs, gorged-our eyes and opened gaping holes in skulls for simply belonging to the opposition! Was there anything Christian about that?

Kenneth Kaunda belonged to the United Church of Zambia, Levy Mwanawasa was a Baptist, Micheal Sata was a devoted Catholic while Hakainde Hichilema has been an elder in the Seventh Day Adventist for quite some time; these leaders neither ever scaled the mountain-tops at any given time and engaged in Christian rhetoric to proclaim their faith nor indeed abused the Church to gain political mileage.

In conclusion, we’d like to quote Mathew 7:15, “Beware of the false prophets, who come in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”

Should we continue turning up for prayers on this day or stick to Sundays, Saturdays and Fridays? Have your say…..

Prince Bill M Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Mposha Intensifies Efforts to Attract Green Investments to Zambia at Korea meetings

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Mposha Intensifies Efforts to Attract Green Investments to Zambia at Korea meetings

Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Hon.Mike Elton Mposha, has informed Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) Member States that Zambia is seeking strong international partnerships to scale up green investments into the country.

The Minister was addressing the joint sessions of GGGI’s 13 th Session of the Assembly and the 17 th Session of the Council at GGGI Headquarters in Seoul, Korea.

“Zambia looks forward to strengthening our relationship with GGGI and other member and partner countries to help us scale up green investments,” Hon. Mposha said.

The Minister highlighted that employing innovative instruments such as green bonds and debt-for-nature swaps would support funding for renewable energy and biodiversity conservation. He emphasized that Zambia’s ability to strategically utilize climate finance and its significant nature-based endowments would be crucial in becoming a low-carbon and green economy.
Hon. Mposha told the 48-member international grouping that Zambia is committed to utilising its abundant resources to develop a low-carbon, resource-efficient, resilient, and socially inclusive economy. “Our goal is to foster growth that is profitable, and environmentally and socially responsible,” he said. The Minister, however, expressed concern that despite Africa’s low
contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, the continent remains one of the most vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change.

Hon. Mposha noted that climate change poses systemic risks to African economies,infrastructure, water and food systems, public health, agriculture, and livelihoods, threatening to undo the continent’s modest development gains.GGGI President and Chairperson, His Excellency Mr. Ban Ki Moon, expressed gratitude to Hon.Mposha for conveying Zambia’s strong commitment to champion the interests of the African continent. “While working as Secretary-General [of the United Nations], I repeatedly said that without addressing the challenges of Africa, we will never be able to declare that we are living in a sustainable world. This is what I believe and what most member states believe, and we have to do much more for African development,” said Mr. Ban.

The GGGI, a treaty-based international organisation formed in 2012, is dedicated to promoting sustainable economic growth in developing countries and emerging economies. It has 48-member countries and is headquartered in Seoul, Korea. Zambia joined GGGI in 2023. Ministry of Green Economy and Environment permanent secretary Dr. Douty Chibamba, Zambia’s Ambassador to Korea His Excellency Andrew Bwezani Banda, and National Designated Authority (NDA) Coordinator Mr. Billy Katontoka are part of the Zambian delegation to GGGI’s 13 th Session of the Assembly and the 17 th Session of the Council at GGGI Headquarters in Seoul,
Korea.

Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, Communications Unit

CAMFED Zambia Wins US$50000 UNESCO Prize

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CAMFED Zambia Wins US$50000 UNESCO Prize

The Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED) Zambia, has won the UNESCO Prize for Girls and Women’s education comprising USD$50,000 United States Dollars for the organisation’s exceptional work in addition to innovative contributions towards girls plus women’s education in the country.

In a press statement issued by the Zambian Embassy in Paris France , First Secretary for Press, Naomi Mweemba, said the organization which is known for implementing a comprehensive support system targeting the most marginalized girls is being awarded for its all-inclusive support for girls to complete as well as succeed in secondary education.

Ms Mweemba stated that the organisation’s Association Development Executive Director, Fiona Mavhinga has since received the award on behalf of the organisation’s National Director, Namenda Malupande during a ceremony held at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris.

Ms Mweemba also disclosed that CAMFED Zambia which operates in 1, 408 schools across 50 districts in the country supports about 617,875 girls and young women in rural areas by equipping them with skills needed to transition into leadership roles in their various communities.

She highlighted that the nomination that was submitted by the Permanent Delegation of Zambia to UNESCO highlights how CAMFED revolutionizes girls’ education delivery through a three-tier model that supports girls’ empowerment in addition to life opportunities.
“The organisation’s second level focuses on enabling girls to transition from school into further education or meaningful work. The third level involves CAMFED partnering with governments to embed their proven approaches for supporting marginalized girls into national school systems,” she noted.
Ms Mweemba further added that the prize which was established in 2015 is being supported by the Government of the People’s Republic of China who present the prize to two winners dubbed laureates every year to enhance their work.
Meanwhile, Ms Mweemba stated that UNESCO Director General Audrey Azoulay, in a speech read for her by Assistant Director General for Education Stefania Giannini commended the laureates’ nominations in highlighting the power of girls education as a channel for equality plus enduring change.

President Hichilema Calls for Unity and Economic Development at National Day of Prayer

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President Hichilema Calls for Unity and Economic Development at National Day of Prayer
Children performing during the 2024 National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation held at Nkana Stadium in Kitwe.

President Hakainde Hichilema has called on Zambians to unite in prayer, love, and dialogue to build a stronger nation, during the 2024 National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation held at Nkana Stadium in Kitwe. The event brought together believers from across the country, reflecting Zambia’s identity as a Christian nation and reaffirming faith as the foundation of national unity and development.

Addressing thousands of attendees, President Hichilema emphasized the importance of anchoring Zambia’s future in prayer, unity, and God’s guidance. “Prayer, love, and unity must remain the foundation upon which we build a strong, resilient Zambia,” the President said. He thanked the organizers and participants for their commitment to seeking divine intervention in the nation’s affairs, encouraging citizens to remain steadfast in prayer for peace, prosperity, and righteousness.

The President also used the occasion to challenge the church to take an active role in economic development. He urged religious leaders to preach social justice and engage in constructive dialogue, noting that collaboration between the church and government is essential for national progress. However, he stressed that the church should not act as a competitor to the government but rather as a partner in service to the people.

“The church should help us in the fight against corruption, and the government must participate as well. Those in government who support corruption do not deserve to be in office,” President Hichilema stated, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to accountability.

To further support the church’s efforts in poverty alleviation, President Hichilema donated 60 cows and two bulls to the church, emphasizing the need for practical interventions to improve the well-being of communities. The President expressed hope that this contribution would help reduce poverty in the province.

Former Vice President Nevers Mumba also spoke at the event, praising President Hichilema for continuing the tradition of commemorating the National Day of Prayer.

The President reaffirmed the Christian values upheld by Zambia, including the recognition of marriage as a union between a man and a woman, which he vowed to continue defending with conviction.

As the gathering concluded, President Hichilema encouraged Zambians to remain faithful and united, trusting that God would guide the nation toward a future of peace and prosperity.

The 2024 National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation held at Nkana Stadium in Kitwe.
Attendees at the 2024 National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation held at Nkana Stadium in Kitwe.
during the 2024 National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation held at Nkana Stadium in Kitwe.
during the 2024 National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation held at Nkana Stadium in Kitwe.
during the 2024 National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation held at Nkana Stadium in Kitwe.
during the 2024 National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance, and Reconciliation held at Nkana Stadium in Kitwe.

Zambia and USA Sign US$491.75 Million Farm-to-Market Grant to Boost Agriculture

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Zambia and USA Sign US$491.75 Million Farm-to-Market Grant to Boost Agriculture

The governments of Zambia and the United States of America have signed a landmark US$491.75 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Zambia Farm-to-Market Compact to enhance agriculture and agro-processing sectors across the country. The signing ceremony took place in Lusaka, with President Hakainde Hichilema highlighting the importance of the grant in driving Zambia’s economic recovery and transformation agenda.

This debt-free grant consists of US$458 million from the MCC and US$33.75 million from the Zambian government. It is designed to strengthen food security, reduce the cost of transporting goods to markets, and increase access to farming equipment and financing for agricultural infrastructure. The initiative also aims to catalyze policy reforms to attract more private investment in Zambia’s agriculture sector.

Upgrading Roads to Enhance Market Access

Key infrastructure projects under the Compact include the upgrading of major roads, such as the Chipata-Lundazi road to Magodi and the Mumbwa to Landless Corner road. These improvements are expected to enhance market access for farmers and unlock the agricultural productivity in those regions.

President Hichilema emphasized that the grant fits perfectly into Zambia’s economic recovery program, especially following the successful restructuring of the country’s debt. “This compact comes at the right time and aligns with our transformation agenda,” said the President. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the United States and encouraged more US private sector investments in Zambia.

Collaborative Efforts and Sector Productivity

The President appealed to all stakeholders in the agriculture sector to increase their productivity to fully benefit from the Compact. He expressed gratitude to the American people and government for their continued support and underlined that this grant reflects the deepening ties between the two nations.

Speaking at the same event, Minister of Finance and National Planning Situmbeko Musokotwane highlighted that the Compact was developed through a consultative process involving academia, civil society, and other stakeholders. He explained that the roads selected for upgrading were chosen due to their high agricultural potential and productivity.

The Farm-to-Market Compact is expected to significantly boost Zambia’s agricultural sector by lowering transportation costs, increasing market access, and promoting private investment, laying a strong foundation for long-term economic growth.

This initiative signals a new chapter in US-Zambia cooperation, with both governments committed to building a more sustainable and prosperous future.

Legendary coach Roald Poulsen dies

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Legendary coach Roald Poulsen dies

DANISH coach Roald Poulsen, who won bronze with the Zambia national soccer team at the 1996 African Nations Cup has died aged 73.

Poulsen is a towering figure, having revolutionised Zambian football post the Gabon air crash that claimed the cream of national team players in 1993.

“He died this week. He has been sick for a long time. He worked as a coach in his spare tme up until last year. He died in Odense,” Jonas Dalgaard, a journalist with Danish tabloid, B.T, said.

Former Times of Zambia sports reporter Beauty Lupiya who is based in Denmark also confirmed Poulsen’s demise.

“Yes. Unfortunately. I heard on Danish TV news last night at around 8:30 pm. The last time I talked to him was three weeks ago when he said he was not getting better and was immobile. I had no idea it was the last time I would ever talk to him,” Lupiya said.

Poulsen took over the Zambia national during its reconstruction phase during the team’s month long camp in Denmark at the invitation of the Danish government in the aftermath of the Gabon Air crash in 1993.

He masterminded the Chipolopolo’s qualification to Tunisia ’94 but was replaced by Scottish Ian Porterfield who was in charge when Zambia finished runners-up to Nigeria.

When he returned, Poulsen blended the Chipolopolo with the Under-23 national team and guided the Chipolopolo to South Africa 1996 where Zambia were third finishers.
Following the suspension of Jan Brouwer for the 2002 Africa Cup, Poulsen was roped in for a short stint that ended with Zambia getting kicked out in the preliminaries of the biennial tournament.

It was his last time he was coach for Zambia.
His style was a blend of flair and attacking football that made Zambia one of the most feared teams in Africa.

Former Chipolopolo coach Patrick Phiri said Poulsen was instrumental in charting his coaching trajectory.

“Personally I would not be where I am today had it not been the help he gave me. He will always have a special space in my heart. He was not just a coach but a friend to humanity and to all the coaches in Zambia. He was never racist,” Phiri said.

He said Poulsen came to Zambia at the nation’s worst time when after losing the national team in a plane crash off the coast of Libreville in Gabon.

“He worked tirelessly to heal a broken nation. Above all, he is of the many noble people who helped Zambia overcome the nation’s darkest moment in living history when we lost our dear young heroes out there on the shores of Gabon. May His Soul Rest in Eternal Peace,” Phiri said.

Botswana-domiciled Zambian coach Mike Sithole said Poulsen was one of the best coaches who had graced Zambian football, especially after the Gabon disaster.

“I was privileged to have worked with him. A down-to-earth coach who was willing to listen to your views. I went to Denmark for a football coaching, he was always available to advise where necessary. A really great loss,” Sithole said.

He said the camping of the national team in Denmark before the resumption of the African Nations Cup and World Cup qualifiers was great blessing because there wasn’t much time to prepare.

“Hence we managed and participated effectively,” Sithole said.
National team goalkeepers coach Davies Phiri regretted the death of Poulsen.
“I just read. Very sad indeed. He played a very big role in Zambian football especially with the national team. He was part of the rebuilding of the squad after the Gabon disaster. Then again he came back and was part of the U20, U23 and the national team,” Phiri said
He added:” Personally he liked me very much. He transformed me and taught me alot to be a professional player. He groomed me to be a better goalkeeper. He believed in me and that’s how I became the national team goalkeeper.”
There is too much to talk about his work in Zambia.
Dalgaard said Poulsen will be hounoured at OB Odense’s next home match.
Poulsen is also credited for blending old and new players.
Strikers Mwape Miti and Douglas Mwamba, midfielders Andrew Tembo and Evans Sakala and defenders Elijah Litana, Hillary Makasa and Harrison Chongo and goalkeepers James Phiri and Davies Phiri all came to the scene during Poulsen’s era.
Those, with the likes of Kalusha Bwalya, Aggrey Chiyangi, Modon Maliti live and a few others formed a team that was revered across the world.
Such influence on the Zambian game immortalises the Dane.

By Benedict Tembo

Find the Root Cause of the Kafue Accident

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Find the Root Cause of the Kafue Accident

The Zambian Roads and Highway Safety Group is urging those tasked with road safety to find the root cause of the Kafue accident involving a Juldan bus enroute to South Africa.

The Highway Safety Group feels we owe it to the families of the four passengers that perished in this accident to thoroughly investigate what transpired in this fatal accident, including the events leading to the accident so we come up with solutions to avoid future accidents.

The Highway Safety Group’s interest include the state of the road where this accident happened, whether this section of the road was well lit with proper road signage to warn of any dangers that may exist and whether the lanes were well marked to separate oncoming and going traffic? Were there potholes, broken down vehicles that could have distracted the Juldan bus?

The Highway Safety Group is therefore hoping to hear from the builders of the road, the Road Development Agency (RDA) whether their road was in a good working condition not to have caused this accident. RDA must also certify if this road can safely handle long distance and high speed vehicles such as the Juldan bus heading to South Africa on that fateful day.

The Group also wants to see hear from the Zambia Police what their conclusion on the accident is and whether a bus doing the speed that the Juldan Bus was doing would lose control if the road conditions and others were ideal for highway travel?

The Group also expects RTSA to review holistically their policy on night ban which forces buses with over 10 hours of travel to compete for space during the day when they could have travelled at night.

The Group wants to see a review of the insurance policies on fatal accidents to include compensations beyond funeral cover of persons that perish in these accidents. How much are insurance companies providing for families of accident victims killed on our roads?

Finally, the Group wants a review of the emergency services and if there was anything that could have been done to ensure that more lives were saved from the Kafue accident.

The Highway Safety Group is of the opinion that road safety agencies like RDA, RTSA and the Zambia police have for a long time glossed over causes of many fatal accidents in Zambia. Banning of bus companies, revoking of drivers’ licences and installing of GPS monitors does not stop accidents or save lives. Ensuring roads have no obstacles and are well marked with road signage does save lives.

Mthoniswa Banda

Group Admin – Zambia Roads & Highway Safety Group (ZRHSG)

Saudi Arabia Donates Dates To Zambia

Chief Editor
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Saudi Arabia Donates Dates To Zambia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has donated 25 tonnes of dates to Zambia to help address the hunger situation that has affected most households due to the drought that hit the country in the last farming season.

Saudi Arabia has since donated 25 tonnes of Dates to the Zambian people aimed at improving food security through the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit in Lusaka today.

Handing over the donation, First Secretary at the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia In Zambia, Mohammed Mosalim said his country is glad to help the Zambian government at this critical juncture of drought.

And receiving the donation, Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU)National Coordinator, Gabriel Pollen praised the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the donation.

Dr Pollen said the donation has come at a time when the country is experiencing drought which has threatened the food security and millions of households.

He disclosed that, at the moment the government is providing relief food to at least 6.6 million people in the country.

Small thieves equally sabotaging progress; cage them!

Chief Editor
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Small thieves equally sabotaging progress; cage them!

When announcing the increase of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), which is obviously one of the hallmarks of his leadership, from a paltry K1.4 million to the staggering K24.7 million, President Hakainde Hichilema famously declared, “we are taking money away from a small number of “big thieves” in Lusaka and disbursing it to provinces and constituencies countrywide for development. ”

Who are these small number of thieves in Lusaka, one may wonder.

These may have been Cabinet ministers or senior government officials such as Permanent Secretaries and Directors as well as senior party officials in the previous regime who had no qualms dipping their magnetic fingers into the ‘cookie jar’ and deprive our people of goods and services (development) for selfish reasons!

And today, most of these are overnight millionaires boasting of an array of asset portfolio – breathtaking mansions in posh neighbourhoods; highly mechanised farms; impressive fleets of state of the art vehicles and Bank accounts piling-up with enormous amounts of money, which they’d be forced to give to their side-chicks to stash in the garages for them at times!

And since most of them can not explain the source of their sudden wealth, they’re either rotting or destined to jail for lengthy prison sentences of course with their multiple properties forfeited to the state.

While we remain for ever indebted to our President for such a brilliant initiative, it’s however sad to note that there’s still equally a legion of small thieves lurking in almost all the public offices intent on sabotaging progress……

They are like termites slowly eating up a building. Day and night, they pinch drugs from dispensaries in hospitals to stock up their pharmacies in the townships; they include fake names of beneficiaries on social cash transfer lists thereby depriving deserving individuals; they wantonly defraud the state by inflating costs of CDF projects and scheme how to keep government grants into their pockets.

These may be ‘small thieves’ pilfering minute amounts here and there as compared to the big thieves in Lusaka; however, they’re large in numbers and their combined efforts could literally paralyse service delivery! Imagine the DEBs conniving with school head to ‘chew’ the grants? Imagine WDCs colluding with council workers to inflate the cost of projects? Imagine Doctors conniving with nurses to steal medicines from hospitals? Imagine the DACOs conniving with agriculture extension officers to divert fertiliser?

Would the nation be guaranteed effective service delivery?

Negative! And everyone is going to conclude this particular government is failing to deliver according to the expectations of our people.
Can we please come up with measures to protect the resources we are disbursing to the districts and see to it that they are being utilised for the intended purpose other than giving birth to new millionaires in town.

Prince Bill M Kaping’a
National Coordinator – HH Mpaka 2031 People’s Alliance

President Hichilema Salutes Egypts High Tech Advancement

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Salutes Egypts High Tech Advancement

President Hakainde Hichilema has called for strengthened bilateral cooperation between Zambia and the Arab Republic of Egypt in many spheres of economic development.President Hichilema has also noted that Egypt is a leading State in high-tech advances on the continent, especially in the area of water harvesting.

President Hichilema further cited agriculture, water management, health and technological research as areas that Zambia wants to learn more from Egypt.

The Head of State was speaking when outgoing Egyptian Ambassador to Zambia, Moataz Anwar paid a farewell courtesy call on him at State House in Lusaka.

President Hichilema indicated that the credentials of Egypt on the economic front and technological research is impeccable.
“We are working towards deepening our partnership so that we can learn more from each other, “President Hichilema stated.
President Hichilema said Zambia is keen to learn how Egypt has managed to utilise water as a scarce resource prudently as the country has managed to move water to where it is needed for human consumption and industrialization.

President Hichilema stressed that there is also a need to exchange knowledge in the agriculture sector which is critical to Zambia’s ability to develop the sub-division.

The Head of State said it was admirable how Egypt has managed to efficiently utilize water to produce more crops and citrus fruits.
“Looking at what you have been able to do using the limited water that you have is admirable, your ability to produce so much crops, wheat and many other things that you are able to produce, citrus fruits with all these challenges. We have a lot to learn from Egypt and the way of doing things,” He said.
“Precision agriculture, I talk about this during cabinet meetings every now and then to my colleagues that we need to learn from Egypt on how to utilize this scarce resource called water, this is an area that we need to expand more because of climate change, we had a lot of rains over the years but this year we have had the waste drought in the living memory, we can only do better by deepening our cooperation in the area of water management.” He stated.
Meanwhile, President Hichilema has urged the outgoing Egyptian Ambassador to encourage firms in his country to invest in Zambia.

President Hichilema suggested that Egyptian construction companies must come to Zambia and invest in Public Private Partnership programmes.
The Head of State disclosed that the current model of PPP being applied in Zambia was picked from Egypt.
“As you go back to the headquarters, we want to deepen and broaden cooperation in the area of PPPs, apart from road infrastructure, we must look at other areas such as water harvesting, we want water harvesting as soon as possible.”
President Hichilema wished Mr Anwar good endeavors as he takes up a new role back home and thanked him for working well with the Zambian government.
Meanwhile, the outgoing, Egyptian Ambassador thanked President Hichilema and the Zambian people for hosting him well while in Zambia.

Mr Anwar commended President Hichilema for delivering to the expectations of Zambians.
The outgoing Ambassador explained that during his tour of duty as a diplomat, he has seen the development that the government has achieved since its assuming office.
“This government has lived up to the expectations of the Zambian people, I have seen the progress that you have achieved as a diplomat in Zambia.” He pointed.
He informed the Head of State that currently the two countries are working at bringing medical doctors to Zambia who are specialised in the field of kidney transplants, open heart surgeries and neurology.
Mr Anwar said once the process is actualized, it will help in fostering strong relations between Zambia and Egypt.
The outgoing Ambassador also disclosed that the Egyptian government is working with the Zambian team in finalizing President Hichilema’s visit to Egypt.
“We are currently assessing conducive dates at which you can visit Egypt,”he said.
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