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Rachel Kundananji Launches Transformative Foundation

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Rachel Kundananji Launches Transformative Foundation

rachel kundananji

COPPER Queens’ striker Rachel Kundananji, who plays for American National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) side Bay FC, has joined the growing list of affluent Zambian footballers giving back to society.

Kundananji, who broke the women’s world record transfer fee of £625,000 when she joined Bay FC in February this year, has launched the Racheal Kundananji Legacy Foundation (RKF). The foundation is dedicated to using the beautiful game of football as a catalyst for positive change.

Kundananji hopes that through the Legacy Foundation, she can inspire and support other young girls in pursuing their dreams in football. She extolled coach Wisdom Kaira for influencing her career with the simple advice to avoid becoming rough during football games.

The Copper Queens striker, who became the world’s most expensive female footballer in history after signing a US$860,000 transfer fee with Bay FC from Madrid CFF in Spain, expressed her gratitude towards Kaira for his guidance and mentorship, stating that his advice has helped shape her into the player she is today.

Kundananji has experienced first-hand the benefits of football and wants to give young players the opportunity to excel by availing them with equipment she never had.

The launch of the RKF marks a milestone and a significant step towards empowering young people and enthusiasts through skills development, mentorship, and community engagement.

Speaking at the launch of the RKF at the Olympic Development Centre in Lusaka today, Minister of Sports Elvis Nkandu said what Racheal Kundananji and her team have done is exemplary. “We need successful athletes to give back to our community and country at large.”

“My ministry is delighted to note that this foundation will collaborate with local authorities to improve football facilities through safe pitches, changing rooms, and coaching centres. The goal must be to create spaces where dreams take flight,” Nkandu said in a speech read for him by his Permanent Secretary Chileshe Kangwa.

Nkandu noted that the government has recently devolved community sport to local authorities nationwide with matching resources. “As a government, we welcome initiatives such as this one, which not only supplement the available resources but are a true demonstration of individuals who have excelled in sports desiring to see others succeed,” he said.

Bernadette Deka-Zulu, the co-founder and Global Lead at the RKF, said the launch was the beginning of a movement, a promise to empower young girls in Zambia and worldwide through sport for change, particularly the beautiful game of football.

“In the lenses of our foundation, football is more than a sport; it is a vehicle for change, a catalyst for growth, and a beacon of hope for many young girls with dreams. This is a testament to our founder, her journey filled with dreams and hopes that have come alive,” Deka-Zulu said.

She stated that the RKF’s mission is simple yet powerful: to ensure that every girl, no matter where she comes from, has the chance to play, learn, and thrive through football.

“To us, every kick of the ball represents an opportunity for growth, resilience, and transformation. The Racheal Kundananji Legacy Foundation is committed to providing young girls who dream of following in Racheal’s footsteps access to mentorship and opportunities,” she said.

Deka-Zulu added that RKF’s programmes will focus on grassroots development, coaching clinics, and scholarships, ensuring that every girl knows the football world is open to her.

“We aim to create a world where every girl has equal access to football, fostering resilience, teamwork, and personal growth. We believe in the power of dreams and the potential within every girl,” she said.

Zambia Army Deputy Director General Sports, Commerce, and Community Services Branch Colonel Priscilla Katoba said that because Racheal’s success resonates far beyond the football field, the formation of the foundation will inspire young girls across Zambia to follow their passions, break barriers, and pursue excellence.

“Racheal’s journey reminds us that hard work, determination, and unwavering commitment can propel us to unimaginable heights,” she said.

In a speech read on her behalf by Director of Sports Colonel David Lungu, Col. Katoba said the RKF transcends boundaries and ignites hope in the heart of the country’s young generation.

She noted that Racheal’s journey from the sparse pitches of Zambia’s Copperbelt Province to becoming one of the best female footballers is nothing short of extraordinary.

“As Racheal embarks on this new chapter in humanitarian work, together with her co-founder and working partner Bernadette Deka-Zulu, they both carry with them the hopes and dreams of our nation,” she said.

The high-profile launch was attended by distinguished guests, including representatives from strategic partners such as the Global Observatory for Gender Equality and Sports, UNAIDS, OYDC, NOWSPAR, the Football Association of Zambia, and the National Olympic Committee of Zambia.

The event successfully garnered increased support and engagement from various stakeholders, enhancing the foundation’s ability to impact young lives positively.

By Benedict Tembo

Zambia to Benefit from €4.5 Billion Global Fund for Sustainable Development from Italy

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Zambia to Benefit from €4.5 Billion Global Fund for Sustainable Development from Italy

Zambia is set to benefit from a €4.5 billion Global Fund for Sustainable Development from Italy, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Sustainable Development Cooperation between the two countries.

The MoU was signed yesterday in Lusaka by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Mulambo Haimbe and Italian Ambassador to Zambia Enrico De Agostini. The agreement will be implemented bilaterally, involving Zambia’s Ministry of Green Economy and Environment and Italy’s Ministry of Environment and Energy.

During the signing ceremony, Minister Haimbe emphasized Zambia’s appreciation for its longstanding bilateral relations with Italy. He highlighted the importance of this agreement in fostering sustainable development and further strengthening the ties between the two nations.

Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Development Cooperation Director General, Stefano Gatti, also spoke at the event, underscoring the significance of the MoU. He noted that the agreement is crucial for deepening bilateral relations and advancing sustainable development initiatives in Zambia.

The €4.5 billion fund aims to support various sustainable development projects, enhancing environmental protection, and promoting green economy practices in Zambia and other beneficiary countries. This cooperation marks a significant step towards achieving sustainable development goals and fostering international collaboration.

ZICB/BOZ Enter Purchase And Asumption Transaction Over InvestTrust Bank PLC

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ZICB/BOZ Enter Purchase And Asumption Transaction Over InvestTrust Bank PLC

Zambia Industrial Commercial Bank Limited (ZICB) has entered into a Purchase and Assumption (P&A) Transaction with the Bank of Zambia (BOZ) as part of the resolution of Investrust Bank Plc.
And customers who had outstanding deposit balances at Investrust Bank Plc will have new accounts opened and be able to access banking services as new customers of ZICB.

Speaking after the announcement of the P&A Transaction in Lusaka, ZICB Acting Chief Executive Officer, Louis Kabula said the Bank is pleased to have concluded the transaction with the Central Bank in record time.

Dr Kabula said this will reduce the challenges especially on the part of customers who are able to continue their lives under ZICB, with as little disturbance in banking needs as possible.
Dr Kabula advised that, while the new customers are free to start engaging with ZICB, they allow the bank to put in place operational processes in readiness for the opening of the branch locations on 15th July 2024.

He indicated that before that date, the bank will share as much information as possible with the customers to ensure a smooth transition process.

“We are thrilled that we have been able to create a new home for them at ZICB and we want to assure them of our dedication to a high standard of service delivery”, Dr Kabula said.

Further, Dr Kabula commended the government, through the Bank of Zambia, for providing funding support to primarily safeguard financial system stability and protect banking sector depositors.

ZICB is now in possession of 16 branch locations of Investrust Bank Plc, which include seven branches and agencies in Lusaka, an agency in Lumwana, as well as branches in Livingstone, Choma, Luangwa, Chipata, Kabwe, Ndola, Kitwe, and Chililabombwe.

With its existing six locations, plus a new branch to be opened in Solwezi before the end of July 2024, ZICB will now be operating a total of 23 branch and agency locations across the country after this transaction.

Health Minister Updates National Assembly on National Health Insurance Scheme Implementation

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Health Minister Updates National Assembly on National Health Insurance Scheme Implementation

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo addressed the National Assembly, presenting a comprehensive update on the implementation of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIMA).

Key Highlights of the NHIMA Update:

1.Registration Access:

  • Citizens and established residents must register to access NHIMA services.
  • Individuals between 18 and 64 years should register as contributing members from both formal and informal sectors.
  • Children under 18 should be registered as beneficiaries under a contributing member, while those 65 and above are exempt from contributions.
  • Persons classified as poor, vulnerable, or disabled are also exempt from contributions.

2.Informal Sector Contributions:

  • An average fee of K50 per family per month covers up to seven members.
  • Access to services is uniform regardless of contribution amount.

3.Membership Growth:

  • NHIMA membership increased from 1.6 million before the 2021 elections to over 4.6 million by June 2024, representing 23% of Zambia’s population.

4.Low Contribution Rates:

  • NHIMA’s average contribution is K50 per family of seven per month.
  • The benefits package includes outpatient and inpatient services, surgery, maternity and neonatal care, eye and oral health services, pharmaceutical drugs, and physiotherapy.

5.Nationwide Registration Exercise:

  • Government and NHIMA are conducting a nationwide registration drive.
  • Registration is available at public hospitals, NHIMA offices, and online.
  • A toll-free line, 8000, is available for assistance.

6.Special July Waiver:

  • From July 5th to August 4th, 2024, new registrants who make their monthly contribution will immediately access services without the usual four-month waiting period.
  • 7.Partnerships and Social Cash Transfer Beneficiaries:
  • NHIMA partnered with Global Fund and International Labour Organization to register over 100,000 Social Cash Transfer Beneficiaries.
  • 10,000 beneficiaries were registered in Ndola at the official launch.

8.Facility Accreditation and Policy Reforms:

  • NHIMA has 406 accredited facilities across Zambia.
  • Each district will have an NHIMA-accredited health facility and registration office.
  • Reforms include mass registration exercises, suspension of new private healthcare provider accreditations, revocation of fraudulent health facility accreditations, benefits package review, and financing modality enhancements.

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to providing accessible healthcare for all Zambians and urged continued support and participation in NHIMA to ensure the scheme’s success.

President Hichilema Calls for Probes into Grant Allegations in FIC Report

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President Hichilema Calls for Probes into Grant Allegations in FIC Report

President Hakainde Hichilema has urged law enforcement agencies to promptly investigate the suspicious transactions highlighted in the 9th Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Trends Report for 2023, released by the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC).

The report, which catalogs various suspicious transactions, has drawn the President’s attention. He emphasized the New Dawn government’s unwavering resolve and commitment to zero tolerance for corruption. President Hichilema expects the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), and other relevant agencies to thoroughly investigate all issues raised in the report.

“Illicit transactions undermine a country’s development agenda,” President Hichilema stated, underscoring the importance of addressing these financial irregularities. He reiterated the government’s determination to uphold transparency and accountability, ensuring that all allegations of financial misconduct are rigorously scrutinized and addressed.

Constitutional Court Allows New Petition Against Former President Edgar Lungu’s Election Eligibility

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Constitutional Court Allows New Petition Against Former President Edgar Lungu’s Election Eligibility

The Constitutional Court has permitted a new petition challenging former President Edgar Lungu’s election eligibility to proceed to a full hearing. The Court dismissed Lungu’s preliminary objection, which sought to quash the petition.

Lungu argued that the Constitutional Court lacked jurisdiction over the matter, citing a previous ruling in the case of Danny Pule and Bampi Kapalasa versus the Attorney General prior to the 2021 General Election. However, the Court ruled that under order 14 clause “A” of the Supreme Court rules, the petition raised issues that warranted a full hearing and determination.

The petition, filed by Lusaka businessman Michelo Chizombe, seeks the Court’s determination on Lungu’s eligibility to contest the 2021 General Election and his eligibility for future elections. Chizombe contended that his case differed from the Pule and Kapalasa cases and argued that Lungu is ineligible to run in future elections as he has already held office twice.

The ruling on the preliminary issues was delivered by Judge Mudford Mwanyisa, with Judges Palan Mulonda and Martin Musaluke. The hearing was before the full bench of the Constitutional Court, including Court President Margaret Munalula, Deputy Arnold Shilimbe, and Judges Annie Sitali, Mugeni Mulenga, Mathews Chisunka, Judy Mulongoti, Kenneth Mulife, and Maria Kawimbe.

2 Kalulushi Sisters In Hospital For Suspected Gassing

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2 Kalulushi Sisters In Hospital For Suspected Gassing

Two young women have been admitted at Kalulushi General Hospital for suspected gassing.

Copperbelt Police Chief Peacewell Mweemba who confirmed the incident to ZANIS, identified the two victims as Annie Kangwa aged 23 years and her young sister Mildred Kangwa aged 20 years of New Minsenga.

Mr Mweemba said the incident happened around 01:30 when Annie was studying in her sitting room when she suddenly started smelling some strange smell which caused her to start having difficulties in breathing and loss of energy.

He further explained that Annie called for help and her young sister Mildred came but as soon as she entered the room she suddenly fell down and also started complaining of the same problem.

Mr Mweemba stated that the victims were rescued by their father who came and managed to open all the windows in the house and took them outside adding that the matter was reported to Police.

He further said the victims complained of severe headache, difficulties in breathing and loss of energy and are currently receiving medical treatment at Kalulushi General Hospital.

Mufulira Mayor Applauds Town’s Cleanliness

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Mufulira Mayor Applauds Town’s Cleanliness

Mayor Tanaeli Kamanga expressed his delight at seeing the streets of Mufulira’s Central Business District (CBD) free of litter, praising the town’s dedication to cleanliness and civic pride.

“I am thrilled to see Mufulira Town receiving the recognition it deserves for its cleanliness and civic pride,” Mayor Kamanga stated. He attributed the town’s exemplary condition to the collective efforts of the municipality, community members, and stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

The Mayor emphasized the town’s commitment to continuing these efforts, ensuring a pleasant environment for both residents and visitors. He also encouraged other towns to follow Mufulira’s example.

“Together, let us build a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous Mufulira for all,” he concluded.

Ex-Kawambwa School Students Plan A Farming Project

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Ex-Kawambwa School Students Plan A Farming Project

Kawambwa Boys Technical Secondary School Association (KABOTESSA), has unveiled plans to acquire land in the district for a mega farming project.Newly elected association president Moffat Nsofwa explained that the initiative is aimed at harnessing the agricultural potential in the region.

Mr Nsofwa said the association is currently in discussions with traditional leaders in the area so as to secure land for the project which will ultimately result in a successful launch and establishment of the agricultural venture.
He highlighted that once the land is allotted, the association plans to cultivate a variety of crops, such as tea, maize and cassava with a view to maximizing agricultural productivity.

Mr Nsofwa explained that the alumni aim to leverage the network to drive economic growth in the area by creating economic opportunities for many former students of Kawambwa Secondary School and outside the district as the initiative.

“To ensure the project’s success, the school alumni association intends to engage all Chishinga Chiefs, the local authority and elected leaders on this approach which is designed to foster community support and involvement in the agricultural venture.

The Problem of Africa and Zambia

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The Problem of Africa and Zambia

By Professor Kavwanga Yambayamba

The problem of Zambia and Africa is not:

  • Hunger,
  • Poverty,
  • High food prices,
  • High fuel prices,
  • Load shedding,
  • Theft or Corruption,
  • Unemployment,
  • Bad leadership,
  • Lack of financial and other resources, or indeed
  • Any other adverse situation being experienced.

These are merely symptoms of an underlying fundamental problem. There is one and only one problem. The fundamental problem of Zambia and Africa is inadequate human capacity – human beings who are competent; human beings who have the knowledge, the skill and positive attitude or growth mindsets; human beings who are critical thinkers; human beings who can create and innovate; human beings who see a broader picture and welcome new ideas; human beings who are resilient, have the courage, do not give up, and can solve problems from different perspectives; human beings who embrace challenges and turn possibilities into realities… the inadequacy arising from inadequate investment in the entire human capital development value chain – the most important being the formative years between zero and five years, generally referred to as the programming phase, when the cognitive function is open to receive all the great ideas for use in the future.

Unless Zambia (or Africa in general) heavily invests in human capital development and in particular the first five years of human life, the symptoms will continue and will get worse. The current prevailing situation in Zambia and Africa has been created over the past several decades, and each one of us (individually and severally), knowingly or unknowingly, has played a part in this unfortunate situation. But the current government has a great opportunity to plant a new seed, a seed whose fruits they may never grow to see, but will be remembered forever by future generations. Invest in human capital development, and the rest will fall in place.

The author is a Fellow of the Zambia Academy of Sciences and also Vice Chancellor of the Zambian Open University.

Achieving Africa’s Financial Integration: The Role of African Multilateral Financial Institutions and the African Development Bank

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Achieving Africa’s Financial Integration: The Role of African Multilateral Financial Institutions and the African Development Bank

By Albert M. Muchanga

The foundations of the Pan African Stock Exchange and African capital market have been established with the operation of the African Exchanges Linkage Project.

The operationalization of the African Credit Rating Agency will contribute to the development of an African capital market.

In addition, a number of African multinational corporations are emerging as they increase and expand their investments across Africa.

We also have the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System. This is complemented with several African commercial banks and fintechs establishing branches in other African countries.

On African financial integration, we need to make them stronger.

For the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions, this strengthening also involves upholding the preferred creditor status as provided for in their enabling legal instruments.

For the African Development Bank, strengthening it also involves advocacy for replenishment of the African Development Fund as and when we advocate for replenishment of the International Development Association of the World Bank.

The 7th of July was adopted as Africa Integration Day by the Assembly of the African Union Heads of State and Government at their extraordinary session held in Niamey, Niger in 2019 during the rollout of the operational phase of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

On this day, which is not a holiday, we remember our journey of economic integration.

We started this journey in 1963, with the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU). One of the early acts of the OAU was to create the African Development Bank, which is this year celebrating 60 years of existence and is rendering remarkable service to Africans.

When we moved into the 1970s and 1980s, we started establishing Regional Economic Communities.

Today, we have eight officially recognised by the African Union and these are: Arab Maghreb Union (AMU); Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA); Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD); East African Community (EAC); Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS); Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS); Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD); and Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Our leaders continued the journey by adopting the Lagos Plan of Action for the Economic Development of Africa (1980–2000), which among others, called for the establishment of an African Common Market.

Building on this, our leaders in 1991 opened for signature the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community (Abuja Treaty), which came into force in 1994 and recognised Regional Economic Communities as building blocks.

On September 9, 1999, our leaders decided to establish the African Union, which among others, has the objective of accelerating the political and socio-economic integration of our continent.

In addition to the African Union, we have the African Continental Free Trade Area which started trading in 2021.

We also called upon to reflect on the lessons learnt, identify and address the challenges facing our vision of creating the African Economic Community.

From my perspective, there are two key lessons we have learnt in Africa’s journey of regional and continental economic integration.

The first one is that we created several institutions at the regional and continental levels to promote Africa’s economic integration.

The second lesson is that the linear approach to regional economic integration is not the only route. Against the background of this insight, we have before us the final report on readiness assessment towards an African Common Market/Common Market which is going to be considered at an extraordinary session of this Specialized Technical Committee in November this year. Related to this, the 2024 edition of the Assessment of Regional Integration in Africa (ARIA) report, which will be released next month, is also focusing on the issue of creating an African Customs Union. As we read these reports, the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) comes into the picture as a key institution in the establishment of an African Customs Union.

There are also several challenges. I will mention four.

The first one is that our Regional Economic Communities still face the challenges of overlapping memberships. Several of our Member States are still in more than one Regional Economic Community.

Second, we are behind in meeting the targets of the Abuja Treaty. For example, we were supposed to have an African Customs Union in 2023. This slow progress partially arises because of meeting the challenge of surrendering national sovereignty for collective sovereignty, a key requirement of deeper economic integration.

Third is the danger of fragmentation as a result of the suspension of some Member States from ECOWAS following unconstitutional changes of governments.

This fragmentation may extend to the African Continental Free Trade Area since the affected Member States are also suspended from the African Union.

Fourth is Africa’s permanent membership in the G20. To amplify our voice puts pressure on the African Union transforming into a supranational body.

When the ministers and Central Bank governors deliberated on the theme of the Specialised Technical Committee: Enhancing Macroeconomic and Sectoral Policies Coordination in Africa for Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development, there was an emphasis on the establishment of the African Monetary Institute, forerunner to the African Central Bank and single African currency, key benchmarks of supra-nationality.

The question that comes is how do we move forward against the background of the challenges? In other words, what are we to do?

I will offer a few proposals.

First, we need to recommit to deepening our continental economic integration. In this connection, it is my expectation that ministers and Central Bank governors will recommend endorsement by the Assembly of the findings and recommendations in the study on readiness assessment towards an African Customs Union/Common Market as well as the Statutes of the African Monetary Institute.

In the same vein, we need to recommit to the African Union functioning in accordance with the two key principles, which are in Article 4 of the Constitutive Act of the African Union, focusing on, among other principles, facilitating the participation of the African peoples in the activities of the African Union as well as the establishment of a common defence policy for the African Continent. Observing these principles is key to avoiding fragmentation of our economic integration processes at the regional and continental levels.

We also have to recommit ourselves to the signature and ratification of the Protocol of the African Economic Community Relating to Free Movement of People, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment. Doing so would remove a huge non-tariff barrier in intra-African trade in services.

In the same spirit, we have to recommit ourselves to the ratification of the Protocol on the Pan African Parliament so that it transforms from a deliberative to a legislative body.

Equally important, connectivity is key to the integration of Africa. In this connection, we also have to recommit ourselves to the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market.

Let me say that the future of Africa lies in deeper continental economic integration.

With deeper continental economic integration, we shall create a single market that is resilient to the shocks of geo-economics and geopolitics as well as give us harmonized policies which will enable us to speak with one voice on emerging global issues in global fora like the United Nations and the G20.

Just as the future of Africa lies in deeper continental economic integration, it also lies in the youth of our continent, our leaders of today and tomorrow. In this connection, I would like to suggest that the theme for next year focuses on the contribution of our youth to deeper continental economic integration.

The author is Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Minerals

The Pituitary Gland Shocker: Workshops to Be Held in Government Buildings

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The Pituitary Gland Shocker: Workshops to Be Held in Government Buildings

The announcement made by Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa regarding the cessation of unnecessary workshops has sent shockwaves through the ranks of Zambia’s civil service. For years, these workshops have been a source of contention, often seen as opportunities for unethical behavior and financial mismanagement. Mr Kangwa’s directive marks a significant shift in the approach to professional development within the government.

A New Era of Accountability

Mr Kangwa’s message was clear and unequivocal. “When you were being employed, you were employed to work in offices. All of a sudden, the public service believes that you can’t concentrate in the office. It ends today,” he stated. This strong stance underscores a commitment to ensuring that civil servants remain focused on their primary responsibilities within their designated workplaces.

Effective immediately, any necessary workshops will be held within government buildings. This measure aims to curb the misuse of resources and the inappropriate conduct associated with off-site workshops. The savings generated from this initiative will be redirected towards the purchase of solar equipment, reflecting a strategic investment in sustainable infrastructure.

Promoting National Unity and Integrity

Mr Kangwa also emphasized the importance of recruitment practices that reflect national unity. He called on service commissions to ensure that their hiring processes are inclusive and representative of the diverse population of Zambia. This approach not only fosters a sense of belonging and equality but also strengthens the fabric of the civil service.

Moreover, the secretary to the cabinet urged civil servants to remain vigilant and report any acts of corruption to the appropriate authorities. This call to action reinforces the government’s commitment to transparency and integrity, essential pillars for building public trust and effective governance.

The Dark Side of Workshops

While workshops are designed to enhance skills and knowledge, they have, unfortunately, become a breeding ground for unethical behavior among some civil servants. The misuse of these events for personal gain and illicit activities has not only tarnished the reputation of the civil service but also disrupted the personal lives of those involved.

Impact on Marriages

The unchecked proliferation of workshops has had a particularly damaging effect on marriages within the civil service community. The frequent travel and extended time away from home have provided opportunities for infidelity and promiscuity among some unethical individuals. This behavior has eroded trust and stability within families, leading to increased marital discord and, in some cases, divorce.

The misuse of workshops has also placed financial strain on households. Many civil servants have come to rely on the additional income generated from these events to balance their budgets. The sudden halt to unnecessary workshops has therefore sparked concern among those who have become dependent on this supplementary income. However, the long-term benefits of restoring integrity and reducing corruption far outweigh the short-term financial adjustments.

The decision to hold all workshops within government buildings marks a pivotal moment for Zambia’s civil service. It signifies a commitment to accountability, sustainability, and ethical conduct. While the transition may pose challenges for some, the overall impact on professional integrity and personal relationships will be profoundly positive.

As the government takes steps to eliminate unnecessary workshops, it is crucial for all civil servants to embrace this change and work towards a more transparent and efficient public service. By doing so, they will not only enhance their professional capabilities but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

By Chaliafya Katungula
F(A+C+T+A+R)

Kawana ,Matembo Condemn JJ Banda Unauthorized Recording

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Kawana ,Matembo Condemn JJ Banda Unauthorized Recording

Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana together with Home Affairs and Internal Security counterpart Dickson Matembo have strongly condemned the recording and distribution of the audio recording of their conversation with Petauke Member of Parliament JJ Banda.

The two have since disclosed that they are constituting legal action against the member of Parliament for recording their conversation without their consent.

Information and Media Minister Thabo Kawana stated that the two went to visit Mr Banda at the hospital upon invitation from Mr Banda and his uncle Chief Mumbi of Eastern Province.

Mr Kawana said the visit was made in good faith and regretted that the other party seemed to have otherwise intentions.

He disclosed that Mr Banda proposed to disclose the truth regarding his alleged abduction in exchange for an MoU to be signed with his lawyers and for all his charges to be dropped and that the proposal was rejected by the two Permanent Secretaries.

And Home Affairs and Internal Security Permanent secretary Dickson Matembo has tasked the media and the general public to question details of Mr Banda’s alleged abduction, which he said do not correlate.
Mr Matembo added that it was very unfortunate that some citizens including Mr Banda’s lawyers made false statements on the matter, which have a legal implication on the Member of Parliament and are causing alarm in the country.

ZANIS reports that the two Permanent Secretaries said this during a press briefing at the Ministry of Information and Media in Lusaka today.

Lands Minister Elijah Muchima Revokes Kafue Town Council’s Land Agency

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Lands Minister Elijah Muchima Revokes Kafue Town Council’s Land Agency

Lands and Natural Resources Minister Elijah Muchima has revoked the land agency of Kafue Town Council with immediate effect following reports of illegal land allocations in the Lusaka South National Park.

Dr. Muchima stated that the Kafue Town Council had been allocating land fraudulently to developers without adhering to the stipulated procedures. He disclosed that the Council used a site plan acquired fraudulently to carry out these allocations.

The Minister announced that the suspension would remain in effect until the Council complies with the administrative procedures outlined in Circular No. 1 of 1985. He emphasized that the Council must adhere to the proper procedures before the land agency can be reinstated.

Dr. Muchima also issued a stern warning to both former and current councillors, urging them to cease fraudulent land allocations. He advised the public to avoid procuring land from unauthorized individuals, commonly referred to as cadres, to avoid potential losses.

This decisive action aims to uphold the integrity of land allocation processes and ensure adherence to legal procedures.

FIC Reports 13.58 Billion Kwacha in Suspicious Transactions for 2023

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FIC Reports 13.58 Billion Kwacha in Suspicious Transactions for 2023

The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) recorded a staggering 13.58 billion Kwacha in suspicious transactions in 2023, a significant increase from the 5.85 billion Kwacha recorded in 2022.

FIC Director General Clement Kapalu announced that the centre analyzed 15,696 suspicious transaction reports and disseminated the findings to various law enforcement agencies. As a result of this information, the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) conducted tax assessments amounting to 1.2 billion Kwacha in principal tax, interest, and penalties, and by the end of 2023, the ZRA had recovered over 3.5 million Kwacha.

Mr. Kapalu highlighted that law enforcement agencies reported ongoing investigations and prosecutions, with some accused individuals already convicted and some cases resulting in non-conviction-based forfeitures.

According to the 2023 Trends Report, Mr. Kapalu noted a concerning trend in the use of cash to conceal the source of illicit funds and create anonymity in transactions, despite the availability of electronic payment channels. He also pointed out that some casinos had adopted a business model heavily reliant on cash transactions, which do not leave an audit trail. In this cash-heavy environment, some casinos facilitated bribes and potentially understated their income.

Additionally, Mr. Kapalu disclosed that certain casinos were involved in illegal cross-border cash courier businesses.

These findings were detailed in the latest 2023 Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Trends Report by the FIC.

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