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ECZ advised to completely ban international observers from monitoring this year’s Elections amid the Covid-19 pandemic

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ECZ advised to completely ban international observers from monitoring this year’s Elections amid the Covid-19 pandemic

A Coalition calling itself the Democracy and Motherland Defenders Coalition (DMDC) has advised the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to completely ban international observers from monitoring this year’s General Elections amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Coalition’s spokesperson Andrew Ntewewe said it will only be responsible to protect the citizenry from any further calamity due to the escalated number of the Covid-19 infections.

Mr. Ntewewe, who is also Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) president said during a press briefing in Lusaka today that the devastating effects of the third wave of the pandemic are a source of concern.

“We wish to reiterate our earlier call that the ECZ must collaborate with the ministry of foreign affairs to limit the number of international observers. Given the evolution of the pandemic we now wish to advise that the commission must completely ban international observers,” he said.

“This is extremely crucial if we are to curb the escalating levels of Covid-19. Already various countries are on lock down, hence it will only be responsible to protect our citizenry from any further calamity.”

Mr Ntewewe also mentioned that the health care system is already overwhelmed and soon may not take any more numbers of people needing health support.

He said it is therefore incumbent on all Zambians to act responsibly so as to save lives.
The Coalition’s spokesperson implored citizens to ignore political players underplaying the devastating impact of the Pandemic.

“We also wish to state that we find insinuations by some political players underplaying the devastating impact of Covid-19 preposterous and retrogressive to the wellbeing of our motherland,” he said.

“We urge citizens to ignore such leaders for they do not mean well for our motherland and the citizenry in general! They are hypocritical and hell bent on persuing State House at the expense of the greater majority of the people of Zambia.”

Nyambe Mulenga Salutes Zesco United’s League Triumph

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Ex-Zesco United defender Nyambe Mulenga has hailed his old team for winning their ninth FAZ Super Division title.

Zesco won the 2020/21 Super Division title with three matches to spare after Sunday’s 2-0 win over Napsa Stars at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

Former Chipolopolo defender Mulenga said it is important for players to aim high.

“It feels nice to see the team win the ninth title,” he said from his Ndola base.

“In life people only remember champions. In football there is nothing like we played well and came out second, people will always remember the champions.”

Mulenga added:”The best thing in football is winning trophies. Each player must aim to finish number one in a competition.”

The retired defender won over three league titles at Zesco where he played for ten years.

Mulenga was forced to retire in 2017 by a leg injury sustained in a 2014 fatal road accident in Kabwe.

Mighty Making Final Push For Promotion

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Mighty Mufulira Wanderers are challenging Chambishi for the last promotion spot in the National Division 1 with just two rounds of matches left in the season.

Konkola Blades, Kafue Celtic and Kansanshi Dynamos have already grabbed the first three promotion spots.

Going into the last two fixtures, fourth placed Chambishi are on 54 points, just one above fifth placed Wanderers, after playing 32 matches each.

Even though, sixth placed City of Lusaka and seventh positioned Nchanga Rangers have slim chances of winning promotion, Wanderers remain in pole position to challenge Chambishi.

Mighty are confident as they enjoy a six match unbeaten run punctuated by last weekend’s 4-0 win over Zesco Malaiti Rangers at Shinde Stadium.

Chambishi on the other hand, are smarting from a frustrating 1-1 home draw against Kansanshi.

Chambishi’s last two matches are against Kabwe Youth Soccer Academy and Zesco Malaiti Rangers.

Coach Elijah Chikwanda’s Chambishi will first travel to Kabwe Youth on June 19 in the penultimate match before hosting Rangers on the final day of the season.

Wanderers’ last two fixtures will see them face FC Muza away in Lusaka on June 20 prior to hosting already promoted Konkola at Shinde seven days later.

Ngonga Earns Nkana Big Draw At Zanaco

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Alex Ngonga earned Nkana a precious three points away at Zanaco on Wednesday in a 1-1 draw at Sunset Stadium in Lusaka.
Both goals came in a dramatic last four minutes of the game after a lifeless 87 minutes.

Zanaco took the lead in the 88thminute through striker Baba Basile who headed-in an Evans Katema cross just two minutes after the Cameroonian striker replaced Abraham Sinakombo.

But Ngonga stomped-in a cheeky back-heel with his back to Zanaco’s goal from a Gilroy Chimwemwe throw-in to see the two sides share the spoils.

Nkana are  unmoved at number  15 but now have 38 points ,tied with Indeni above them while Power Dynamos and Young Green Eagles have 41 and 52 points respectively with two games left each in the battle for survival.

Meanwhile, Zanaco must now beat Prison Leopards away this Sunday to confirm their second place finish and qualify to the 2021/2022 CAF Champions League.

Zanaco have 54 points, five points ahead of Red Arrows with two matches each left to play.

In Kabwe, Prison Leopards dented fifth placed Kabwe Warriors continental hopes after a 2-0 Kabwe derby victory.

Junior Zulu gave Prison a halftime lead with an 18th minute goal and Francis Zulu converted an 84th minute penalty to complete the derby triumph.’

Fifth placed Warriors have 47 points, three ahead of seventh placed Prison.

Warriors host third positioned Red Arrows this Sunday in a make or break continental decider.

And at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, sixth placed Buildcon’s continental ambitions also took a hit when they lost 2-1 to visiting Nkwazi .

Stephen Mutama put Nkwazi ahead in the 6th minute, Brian Mwila equalized via a 37th minute penalty for Buildcon but Eric Choomba won it for the visitors in the 55th minute.

Buildcon have 46 points while Nkwazi are ninth on 44 points heading into the penultimate weekend of the season.

Powerful forces pushing Zambia into instability-Wina

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Powerful forces pushing Zambia into instability-Wina

Vice President, Inonge Wina, says there are powerful forces that are pushing the country into instability but the government will not allow that to happen.

Mrs. Wina said this could be seen from the escalating cases of political violence that has filled the political space in the recent past.

Speaking when she met the members of the clergy in Kabwe today, Mrs. Wina challenged Christians and political party leaders to help stop the escalating cases of political violence in the country ahead of the August 21 presidential and general elections.

She said the fight against political violence should be a responsibility of everyone especially the clergy, in order to save the youths from destruction.

“We felt it was important to meet with you and hear from you on issues of the church development and development of Kabwe. It is up to you pastors to share ideas that will stop the political violence and propel the country to development after the elections,” she said.

And speaking to members of the Kabwe Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Mrs. Wina said there was no country in the world that can develop without partnering with the private sector.

The Vice President said government was there to create an enabling environment for businesses to flourish while jobs are created by the private sector.

“Therefore, the government depends on the private sector for job creation while it creates an enabling environment for sustainable business prospects,” Mrs. Wina said.

She observed that Kabwe is strategically located and KCCI could easily transition into a trade leader in the region.

Vice President Inonge Wina addressing civil servants during the meeting at Kabwe trust School in Kabwe yesterday. Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
Vice President Inonge Wina addressing civil servants during the meeting at Kabwe trust School in Kabwe yesterday. Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

Meanwhile, Patriotic Front (PF) running mate, Nkandu Luo, said the clergy has a bigger voice to condemn political violence in the country.

Prof. Luo said Zambia would not want to see citizens fleeing the country as refugees as a result of violence.

She thanked President Edgar Lungu for again nominating a woman for the running mate position which she said has given leverage to women.

She also paid tribute to Mrs. Wina for serving the country with integrity and transparency saying this has given dignity to the female-folk.

Prof. Luo has observed that the PF led government has done a lot in the last ten years, adding that the infrastructure development is the benchmark of any sustainable development.

Prof. Luo said the 2021-2026 PF manifesto empowers the people to be in charge of their resources and gives them hope through an effective education sector, health care services and commerce, trading and industry.

And Central Province Chairperson for the Clergy, Hector Sinyangwe, said the church is concerned about the high youth unemployment in Kabwe district.

Bishop Sinyangwe said the government should woo credible investors to invest in the various sectors of the economy in order to address the challenge of unemployment especially among the youths.

“We are concerned as a church with the levels of unemployment and we would want the government to woo credible investors that will turn around the economy and create jobs,” he said.

Meanwhile, Kabwe Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) president, Christabel Ngongola-REINKE, said it was the desire of the trade body to see industries like Kabwe Industrial Fabrication Company (KIFCO) being revitalized.

Vice President Inonge Wina addressing civil servants during the meeting at Kabwe trust School in Kabwe yesterday. Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
Vice President Inonge Wina addressing civil servants during the meeting at Kabwe trust School in Kabwe yesterday. Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

DMMU to meet funeral expenses for Mungwi accident victims

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DMMU to meet funeral expenses for Mungwi accident victims

The Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) will take up funeral expenses for all the 18 people who died in an accident today in Mungwi district in Northern Province.

DMMU National Coordinator Chanda Kabwe said government is saddened by the loss of lives of people in an accident that happened on Kasama-Mungwi road.

According to a press statement issued to ZANIS in Kabwe by DMMU Senior Communications Officer Mathews Musukwa, about 18 people are reportedly to have died while 13 other have been injured in an accident involving a truck on Kasama-Mungwi road.

Mr. Kabwe sympathised with paramount chief Chitimukulu in whose chiefdom the accident occurred and with the families of the deceased for the huge loss.

He said government is concerned with the increased number of road traffic accidents that have continued to claim precious lives in large numbers.

“I wish to convey government’s deepest condolences to the families of the deceased for the untimely death of their beloved ones. As government, we will stand with all the families and ensure that all the funeral expenses are taken care of,” said Mr. Kabwe.

DMMU has since dispatched a team of officers to visit the funeral homes and facilitate logistical support.

Mr. Kabwe has meanwhile appealed to motorists and the general public to exercise caution as they travel from one point to another in order to avoid traffic accidents.

Continued political violence worries NATMAZ

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Continued political violence worries NATMAZ

The National Traders and Marketeer Association of Zambia (NATMAZ) has expressed disappointment with the continued political violence that has characterized some parts of the country.

NATMAZ Secretary General Henry Kashiki said it was very disheartening to continue hearing about political violence in Zambia.

Mr. Kashiki said violence was retrogressive as it derails the country’s efforts to thrive.

“As an association, we are very much disappointed with what is happening on the ground. For our country to thrive in business, there is need for peace,’’ he said.

He told ZANIS in an interview that the political violence activities witnessed around the country have had an effect on business.

“The current happening has an effect on business in that when people hear or see cadres near the markets, they shun the markets for fear of being victimised, hence affecting the marketeers and our business,’’ he said.

And Mr. Kashiki has also expressed sadness at the involvement of youths into political violence.

He observed that youths are the future leaders hence their involvement into political violence is shameful as it can spell doom to their future.

“It is shameful to see youths getting involved in political violence because youths are the future leaders and if they are physically involved in these activities their future will be doomed because others may die or be jailed,’’ he said.

Mr. Kashiki has since appealed to government and various political party players to avoid using markets for road shows and campaigns.

He said political activities only result in scaring away customers and affecting business.

After seeing the numbers HH pulled on nomination day, they decided to ban rallies- Sylvia Masebo

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After seeing the numbers HH pulled on nomination day, they decided to ban rallies- Sylvia Masebo

United Party for National Development member Sylvia Masebo has charged that the move to ban political rallies and roadshow is a reaction by the ruling Patritic Fromnt to the popularity of UPND leader Hakainde Hichilema.

In a statement on her facebook page, Ms Masebo said that after seeing the massive crowd that HH pulled on nomination day, PF got headaches and decided to ban rallies and used COVID-19 as a scapegoat, of which theUPND has obliged, before opting for roadshows with they thought would block HH from showing the Nation how much of a huge following he has, but backfired.

Ms Maseba further said that at it turned out, the roadshows are what the UPND actually needed and this further exposed just how popular HH had become in Lusaka and the Copperbelt, giving PF the great fear and the reality of losing.

“So out of desperation, they decided to use an old trick in the bag, Violence. This too backfired miserably as Citizens joined hands with the UPND in defending themselves against violence and further dwindled their chances at victory, ” she said.

“Out of further desperation, they have now decided to ban rallies, roadshows and any manner of campaigns in Lusaka, Mpulungu, Nakonde and Namwala and have even gone further to restrict door to door campaigns in other places, we will oblige, ” she said.

“Now watch the space as HH calls on all Zambians to turn themselves into foot soldiers for the UPND. People will now join UPND footsoldiers in campaigning door to door. This is already going on in all parts of Lusaka and the Country at large. This election is a personal matter for every Citizen, she added.

Ms Maseba ended by saying that PF will get a rude shock come 12th August as they cannot influence the people’s resolve to vote for change and that Zambians are voting for change.

“Zambians are voting for HH come 12th August 2021. Zambians want prices of cooking oil, sugar and fuel to come down.The answer is HH, ” she concluded.

Formalisation of over 15,000 artisanal gold miners advances in Lusangazi

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Formalisation of over 15,000 artisanal gold miners advances in Lusangazi

The formalisation process of over 15,000 artisanal gold miners in the Lusangazi District of the Eastern Province has advanced into its finalisation stage.

Migodi-Auric Limited Chief Executive Officer Cletus Mwiinga says that the finalisation stage involves environmental regulatory approval of the artisanal mining operations.

Mr Mwiinga says a series of meetings, involving Migodi-Auric, are scheduled to take place this week that will see Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) and Lusangazi Town Council finalise modalities of issuing cooperative-based Environment Project Briefs to artisanal miners.

ZANIS reports Mr Mwiinga in an interview explained that by standard environmental briefs are supposed to be developed by environmental consultants, but Migodi-Auric has presented a model that will fit the artisanal miners who cannot afford to hire consultants.

“What we will be resolving is that these artisanal miners do not have the capacity to hire consultancy. The sustainable way of doing this is that, the local authority has the capacity, with a subject matter specialist who is an environmental specialist, sitting in there, who will work with artisanal miners to draft these environmental briefs,” he said.

Mr Mwiinga noted that the approach of allowing the council to do environmental project briefs will benefit a regulated growth of the artisanal gold industry.

“Yes, environmental consultants are important, they are critical to the industry. But for now, since we are trying to grow this artisanal sector, the local authority has to provide that oversight in drafting the environmental project briefs and then they come to the ZEMA office here in Chipata, who will do their preliminary works for final approval in Lusaka. Then this will be good to go,” he added.

Mr Mwiinga disclosed that once the ZEMA approval is done, Government will issue mining licenses to formalise the miners, putting to an end illegal gold mining in Lusangazi that has over the years seen government lose millions of Kwacha in unaccounted for gold revenues.

The Migodi-Auric CEO says the artisanal gold miners will also register with Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and NAPSA for tax compliance and mandatory pension fund.

“If we get the environmental aspect sorted out, the artisanal miners will pay taxes and start contributing to their pension,” he said.

He added that: “People talk of the exchange rate and think the economy is not doing well, but there is that informal sector producing rich quantities of gold.

“ So the benefit to the economy is that once this gold is trapped in the Bank of Zambia as reserves, it stabilises the Kwacha, it stabilises the economy.”

Migodi-Auric Limited is an intermediary company that has signed an Off-take Agreement with ZCCM Gold Company (ZGC) Limited to operationalise the formalisation of the artisanal gold miners being piloted in the Eastern Province.

The company also has an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA) with GRZ through the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), establishing it as a venture capital firm tasked with raising 3.6 billion United States Dollars of Development Capital for the formalisation of close to 600,000 artisanal gold miners in Lusaka, Central and Eastern Provinces.

So far, the company has installed a centralised 700,000 United States Dollar gold wash plant in Lusangazi through which all formalised artisanal miners will process their gold ore for onward sale to ZGC, the government gold company.

Vice President asks church to pray for peace

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Vice President asks church to pray for peace

Vice President Inonge Wina has appealed to the Church to pray for the country so that it is not engulfed in political violence. Mrs. Wina said there is need for the church to continue praying for peace and engaging political players to desist from violence.

The Vice President said this when she paid a courtesy call on Kabwe Diocese Bishop Clement Mulenga at Stephen Luwisha House in Kabwe today.

Mrs. Wina said government continues to appreciate the role the church plays in supplementing government efforts in the provision of socio-economic services especially in the health and education sectors.

Responding to Bishop Mulenga’s declaration that there’s rampant poverty in Kabwe in Central Province and across the country, the Vice President said government has been scaling up social protection to vulnerable Zambians through increased social cash transfer and provision of empowerment funds to women.

Vice President Inonge Wina, Presidential running mate Prof. Nkandu Luo flanked by Central Province Permanent Secretary Bernard Chomba on arrival at Kabwe trust School grounds the Vice is in the province for the two day visit. Yesterday, Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
Vice President Inonge Wina being welcome by Provincial Security Chiefs at Kabwe trust School grounds the Vice is in the province for the two day visit. Yesterday, Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

And President Lungu’s running mate Nkandu Luo urged the church to help change the mindset of Zambians. Professor Luo said time has come for Zambians to wait for government to work for them while they (public) take the initiative to manage the country’s resources.

Prof. Luo said there is need to put the economy of the country into the hands of Zambians.

She said the robust infrastructure development programme is laying the foundation for economic development in Zambia.

She noted that Zambia has lagged behind in terms of development due to lack of infrastructure development.

Prof. Luo said government has prioritised infrastructure development to support economic development through Zambian players in the private sector.

She has since asked Bishop Mulenga and the Catholic Church to bless and pray for her as she seeks to serve Zambia in a higher position of Vice President.

Vice President Inonge Wina being welcome by PF officials at Kabwe trust School grounds the Vice is in the province for the two day visit. Yesterday, Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
Vice President Inonge Wina being welcome by PF officials at Kabwe trust School grounds the Vice is in the province for the two day visit. Yesterday, Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

And Bishop Clement Mulenga bemoaned the high levels of poverty in Kabwe and the entire country.

Bishop Mulenga, who was flanked by his assistant Monsignor Rodgers Kabwiri, has since urged government to provide equitable development to Central province.

He however commended government for the massive infrastructure development taking place across the country.

The bishop said Kabwe General Hospital needs a facelift in order for residents to access quality health care services.

He noted that Central Province has several mineral resources but the region does not benefit from them.

Bishop Mulenga further urged government to coordinate the development and exploitation of mineral resources in the region for the benefit of people.

The bishop also appealed to government to find a permanent solution to the problems that have beset Mulungushi Textiles and Kafue Industrial Fabric Company in Kabwe.

Bishop Mulenga said there was need to recapitalise the two companies or find viable alternatives.

He said the church will continue to work with and supplement government efforts but will continue reminding the powers that be about the need to provide services to the public.

And Central Province Permanent Secretary Bernard Chomba disclosed that government has sourced investment for both Mulungushi Textiles and Kafue Industrial Fabric Company.

Mr. Chomba said the two companies will soon spring back to life and create employment opportunities for Kabwe residents.

He meanwhile revealed that ARZ Contractor, who was engaged to work on 34 kilometres of township roads in Kabwe has challenges with machinery.

Mr. Chomba said the Central province administration had secured K13 million for the township road works, promising that some roads will be done soon.

The Vice President is in Central province for a two-day working visit.

Mrs. Wina is expected to tour the Chibombo multi facility economic zone and engage cross border traders in Kapiri Mposhi district.

While in the province, the Vice President is also expected to hold talks with traditional leaders, meet Patriotic Front (PF) party officials and engage PF candidates at parliamentary, mayoral, council chairperson and councillor levels in the August 12 general elections.

She is accompanied by Prof. Luo, and PF Central Committee members Sylvia Chalikosa and Given Lubinda.

Catholic Bishops appeals to leaders to protect children from suffering the trauma and life-long effects of the humanitarian crises

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Catholic Bishops appeals to leaders to protect children from suffering the trauma and life-long effects of the humanitarian crises

The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) has appealed to leaders to do everything possible to mitigate the impact and protect the children from suffering the trauma and life-long effects of the humanitarian crises.

On the occasion to mark the day of the African Child which falls on the 16th of June every year, ZCCB Bishop Director for Education and Safeguarding of Vulnerable Adults and Minors, Rt. Rev. Patrick Chisanga O.F.M. Conv, said that civic, political, traditional, religious leaders as well as individual families leaders need to do everything possible to mitigate the impact and protect the children from suffering the trauma and life-long effects of the humanitarian crises such as floods, droughts, health crises as well as human-made disasters that are often brought about through armed conflicts and dictatorial political regimes.

Bishop Chisanga observed that it is in such situations that the abuse of children and violation of their rights are heightened and often unchecked.

Rt. Rev. Chisanga has further observed that abject poverty, limited access to education, poor health, food and nutrition, inadequate supply of clean water, poor housing, child labour and child marriages are other concomitant challenges that negatively impact on the welfare of the African Child.

Bishop Chisanga who is also the local ordinary for Mansa Diocese said that the vulnerability of the African Child has been worsened further by the current novel global health crisis of the covid-19 that has exposed child to more abuses and increased poverty due illness and death of the caregiver.

He reiterated Pope Francis’ appeal for “an all-out battle against the abuse of minors both sexually and in other areas, on the part of all authorities and individuals.” The Holy Father made this appeal to Presidents of Bishops’ Conferences in February 2019 on the protection of minors.

Bishop Chisanga also said that the Catholic Bishops in Zambia, on their part, have made a clear commitment to promoting an enlightened community where the rights of a child are upheld, respected and safeguarded.

He added that as Africa celebrates the day of the African Child this year, the Catholic Church in Zambia would like to see an environment where every child is loved, safe and cared for.

“Every child in Africa should have access to good and quality education, in line with the aspiration number 6 of the African charter on the rights and welfare of the child. The church is fully aware that a lot of effort has been put in towards attaining this dream. however, there is a lot of work yet to be done, “he said.

“In order to complement the efforts of the government, the Catholic Church in Zambia pledges to continue providing quality education for all children, with particular focus on the most vulnerable in our urban as well as the remote parts of the country. The Church further commits to continue giving the children an integrated learning experience that maximizes their physical, emotional, social and spiritual qualities and abilities,” Bishop Chisanga added.

The day of the African Child celebrations date back to 16th June 1991 when it was institutionalized by the then organisation of African unity.

This year’s theme is: “30 Years after the Adoption of the Charter: Accelerate the Implementation of Agenda 2040 for an Africa Fit for Children.”

Zambia Airports Corporation Limited Awards Airport Lounge Tender at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport to NAS

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Zambia Airports Corporation Limited Awards Airport Lounge Tender at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport to NAS

Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL), in its effort to upgrade the four international airports in Zambia, has awarded a tender to National Aviation Services (NAS) (www.NAS.aero) and NAC2000 Corporation to operate an airport lounge in the new terminal at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) in Lusaka, Zambia.

According to the company statement released to the media by APO Group on behalf of National Aviation Services (NAS), the airport is the largest in Zambia and has plans to serve as a hub for the region. Currently, the airport has a capacity of two million passengers per annum, which is expected to increase once commissioned, to between 4.2 to six million over a period of time. The state-of-the-art terminal is scheduled for commissioning around August this year.

Leading international airlines including Proflight Zambia, Air Tanzania, Rwanda Air, SA Airlink, Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, CemAir, and KLM in partnership with Kenya Airways operate out of this airport. The national carrier, Zambia Airways once operational will fly from this airport as well. Other airlines are also expected to open routes into Zambia to tap into this growing market in the coming future.

The tender issued by Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL), is a part of its effort to upgrade the four international airports in the country. ZACL has committed US$360 million for the ongoing expansion at KKIA.

National Aviation Services (NAS) is a leading airport services provider in emerging markets while NAC2000 Corporation is a key ground services company in Zambia. The five-year tender includes building a 588 square meter exclusive departure lounge that will cater to all passengers travelling out of the airport in Lusaka. The lounge will offer a comfortable space for passengers to relax, enjoy a meal, or catch up on last-minute work before boarding their flight. The new Pearl Lounge will be part of more than 50 lounges operated by NAS across its network in Africa, the Middle East and South Asia.

Hassan El-Houry, Group CEO of NAS said, “We are proud to be trusted by ZACL for the first exclusive lounge at the new terminal in Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka. With the airport being the largest in the country, we will be serving at a hub for both domestic and international passengers travelling out of the country. Utilizing our lounge development and management experience, we look forward to delivering a lounge that will be on par with international standards around the globe.”

Offering ground handling to over 100 airline customers and operating lounges in more than 50 airports, NAS’s portfolio of services also includes comprehensive ground handling services, meet and assist, cargo management, airport technologies, fixed base operations, terminal management, aviation training and travel solutions. With its affiliation with leading industry organizations, NAS follows international aviation standards with certifications from ISO, EMS, RA3 and OHSAS practices.

One of the first ground handlers in the world to obtain the IATA’s Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO) certification, NAS continues to pursue it in each of its stations, illustrating the company’s commitment to providing high-quality services, with a focus on safety and security. With over 8,000 employees of 65 different nationalities at the core of its worldwide network, NAS is also committed to investing into the development of infrastructure, equipment, technology and human capital of its expanding geographies.

Jonathan Lewis, Managing Director of NAC2000 Corporation highlighted, “We are excited to work with ZACL and proud be the local partner with NAS, global experts in the airport lounge sector, to deliver a world-class facility the new KKIA”.

NAC2000 Corporation is the only ISAGO registered and certified ground services provider in Zambia. A Zambian company, it has been in operation for more than 20 years at all the international airports supporting airlines as well as ad hoc operators. The business, focussed on ground handling, warehousing, and cold storage, continues to evolve, becoming an industry leader in the service of support logistics relating to the movement of cargo and passengers.

National Aviation Services (NAS) is the fastest growing aviation services provider in the emerging markets. Established in 2003, NAS quickly transformed from a Kuwait based ground-handling company into an emerging markets leader in the industry. NAS is present in over 50 airports across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, handling seven of the world’s top 10 airlines and managing more than 50 airport lounges.

With an employee base of over 8,000 capable and experienced employees at the core of its worldwide network, NAS is committed to providing aviation services that benchmark to the best in the world.

The NAS portfolio of services includes ramp and passenger services, cargo management, engineering and line maintenance, airport technologies, fixed base operations, terminal management, aviation training, travel solutions, lounge management and meet-and-assist packages.

Affiliated with leading industry organizations, NAS follows international aviation standards with certifications from ISO, EMS, RA3 and OHSAS practices. NAS is one of the first ground handlers in the world to obtain the IATA’s Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO) certification illustrating the company’s commitment to providing high quality services, with a focus on safety and security.

19 perish in a road accident in Mungwi District, driver on the run after plunging truck into Chambeshi River

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19 perish in a road accident in Mungwi District, driver on the run after plunging truck into Chambeshi River

Nineteen mobile market operators locally known as ‘Munada’ traders have died after the truck they were traveling in overturned and plunged into Chambeshi River in Mungwi District.

ZANIS reports that Regional Police Commissioner Jestus Nsokolo confirmed the accident in an interview among the deceased includes fifteen men and three women.

“ The accident happened around 21:30 hours at Kalikeka village in Mungwi District involving a Benz Atego Truck registration number ACV 501 which was carrying fifty seven passengers and driven by Lewis Mutale believed to be a Kasama resident.

“ Five victims are nursing serious injuries and are admitted to Kasama General Hospital while 21 others escaped unhurt, “ said Mr Nsokolo.

He further disclosed that bodies of the deceased have been deposited to Kasama General Hospital mortuary where health officials and relatives are conducting the identification.

He attributed the accident to over-speeding and over-loading adding that the driver is currently on the run.

Mr Nsokolo has since urged transporters to strictly abide by traffic regulations to avoid accidents.

And Northern Province Permanent Secretary Royd Chakaba has described the accident as tragic saying government is saddened by the loss of eighteen lives.

Disclosing that government will take charge all the funeral expenses, Mr Chakaba has since wished the bereaved families God’s strength during the period of mourning.

And Northern Province Health Director Lawrence Phiri has advised bereaved families not to hold funeral gatherings owing to the rising cases of COVID-19 amidst the third wave.

Meanwhile, Northern Province Munada Association Chairperson Brandon Mwambazi called for calm among the bereaved.

Additional consignment of the COVID-19 dose of AstraZeneca vaccine expected in Zambia this month

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Additional consignment of the COVID-19 dose of AstraZeneca vaccine expected in Zambia this month

Zambia is expected to receive an additional consignment of the COVID-19 dose of AstraZeneca vaccine later this month and another consignment in August 2021, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Kennedy Malama has announced.

Dr. Malama says the government has already finalized the requirements under the COVAX facility and the donation of Sinopharm doses by the Chinese government.

Speaking during the COVID-19 update in Lusaka, Dr. Malama urged all those who have received their first dose of AstraZeneca not to worry as he guaranteed that the government has secured the second dose which will commence next week.

Keeping in mind the sharp rise of COVID-19 positive cases during the third wave, Dr. Malama explained that the vaccination programme remains a key pillar among the nine-pronged response.

“The pause in the vaccination campaign has given us ample time to prepare for the roll out. We are also aware of a number of key questions being asked by the public regarding the vaccine. Top most being the date when the second dose of AstraZeneca will be administered,” Dr. Malama stated.

The Permanent Secretary announced that Zambia has recorded the highest number of deaths at 28 cases in the last 24 hours.

He advised that with the alarming numbers, calls for people to put all their different opinions and beliefs aside and bind together to effectively respond to the current situation.

“The breakdown of the new deaths by Province and facility is as follows: Lusaka province 20, with Levy Mwanawasa hospital recording 10 deaths, University Teaching Hospital(UTH )three , Maina Soko two, Kanyama First Level two, Chelstone one, Chawama First Level one and Chirundu one.

He said Copperbelt province recorded six deaths where Kitwe Teaching Hospital had five deaths and Roan Antelope one.

He added that in the Southern province, Livingstone and Choma recorded one each.

Dr. Malama revealed that the country has continued to record a surge in COVID-19 cases with 2,690 new confirmed cases out of 11,999 tests conducted, giving a 22.4 percent positivity in the last 24 hours.

He indicated that the cases were reported from all the ten provinces with Lusaka recording the highest number of 869 cases, thereby, bringing the cumulative number of positive cases recorded to date at 115,824 cases countrywide.

Dr. Malama disclosed that there are currently 14,485 active cases, of whom 13,764 are under community management and 721 are admitted to COVID-19 isolation facilities of which 195 were newly admitted patients within the last 24 hours.

He said a total of 901 discharges were made from both the COVID-19 isolation facilities and home management, which brings the cumulative number of recoveries to 99,895.

Among those currently under admission, Dr. Malama stated that about 485 are on Oxygen therapy and 101 (14%) are in critical condition.

The Permanent Secretary, informed that health facilities are now operating at 100 percent bed occupancy and also still mobilising more bed space.

He however, noted that the 766 health workers who were recently employed by the government are now reporting to their respective stations to join the COVID 19 fight and in the provision of routine health services.

He said some multilaterals and organisations have also committed to supporting recruitment of extra health personnel to strengthen the response towards the virus.

Dr. Malama urged Health Care workers to focus on caring for those coming to the facilities during the critical period of the pandemic.

The Permanent Secretary has sternly warned some unscrupulous people in both the public and private sector who are taking advantage of people’s desperation and anxiety for their own personal gain, charging exorbitant amounts for COVID-19 testing among other malpractice.

He reiterated that a team of Permanent Secretaries met to review the current measures to curb COVID 19 in the country and appropriate recommendations have been made and the nation will be communicated to.

ZIFLP gives community forest group K800, 000 for bee-keeping

Chief Editor
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ZIFLP gives community forest group K800, 000 for bee-keeping

The Zambia Integrated Forestry Landscape Project (ZIFLP) has given 800,000 Kwacha subgrant to the Malambalala Community Forest Management Group in Kasenengwa District for bee-keeping.

The sub grant will be used to procure beehives for honey production as an alternative source of livelihood that is less destructive to the environment.

ZANIS reports that Chipata District Forestry Officer, (DFO) Emma Sakala, has confirmed the disbursement of the funds.

Ms Sakala said the community group has already procured 350 beehives after receiving 25 percent of the sub-grant from ZIFLP.

She disclosed that community members from 25 villages surrounding the 466 hectares of Malambala forest, were trained in forestry management and bee keeping, sensitised on the consequences of indiscriminate cutting down of trees and are now contributing to managing the forest.

She said following the ZIFLP empowerment, the community group is now promoting efforts to stop indiscriminate cutting down of trees and safeguard the 466 hectares Malambalala community forest.

Ms Sakala explained Malambala has in the past experienced a lot of tree cutting for charcoal burning and some agriculture practices that were harmful to the environment.

“Some of these activities that were done by the people from Malambalala area led to some wild animals running away from the forest,” she said.

She stated the training in forest management and bee keeping has somehow reduced destructive human activities in the local forest and that there are signs of some animals returning back to their repaired habitat.

“This safeguarding of the Malambalala community forest will greatly benefit the local people a lot,” Ms Sakala said.

The District Forest Officer is happy that the community members have adequately accepted the initiative that ZIFLP has undertaken in the area and they are protecting the forest reserve based on the best guidelines of forest management.

“The community is ready to take care of the forest in Malambalala area, the initiative of the forest management is backed by the Forest Act Number 4 of 2015. The benefits from the community forest will be divided among the members of the CFMG in Malambalala area,” she said.

And Emmanuel Banda, a member of the Malambalala Community Forestry Management Group, is happy about the drastic reduction in charcoal burning attributed to conservation efforts being undertaken by the forest management team.

He said the area is currently receiving good rainfall because the trees in the community forest are protected.

Mr Banda commended Chief Madzimawe of the Ngoni Speaking People in Kasenengwa District for his role to ensure the community forest is protected from any harmful human activities.

And Malambalala forest management group treasurer, Olipa Phiri, said 50 people were trained in bee keeping and are now ready to venture into the activity.

She said the community forest management group has a target to supply honey to all parts of the country and beyond, adding that bee keeping is a viable business that can earn someone a lot of money than charcoal burning which only contributes to destroying the environment.

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