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Holding rallies is risking people’ lives-Lubinda

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Holding rallies is risking people’ lives-Lubinda

Patriotic Front Presidential vice campaign manager Given Lubinda says political leaders advocating for campaign rallies amidst rising cases of COVID-19 must be condemned.

Mr. Lubinda said those politicizing the restrictions to hold public rallies are risking people’s lives.

He said Zambians should not be misled by those purporting that the third wave of COVID-19 is politically engineered.

Mr. Lubinda, who is also PF Member of the Central Committee, said this when he addressed officials and candidates in Kasama yesterday.

Mr Lubinda implored the PF leaders and members to strictly adhere to COVID-19 prevention guidelines.

And Mr. Lubinda also called on the PF candidates in Northern Province to highlight the developmental achievements of the ruling party since 2011.

Earlier, PF Provincial Chairperson Chomba Chipili also urged party members and candidates to tirelessly campaign while observing COVID-19 measures.

Ministry of Health to recruit 766 health workers by next week

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Ministry of Health to recruit 766 health workers by next week

The Ministry of health has assured that it is doing everything possible to save lives and to ensure learning institutions and other economic activities are sustained, as the number of COVID-19 cases continues to escalate.

In yesterday COVID 19 update, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Kennedy Malama observed the anxiety arising from the increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases,

Dr Malama noted the complacency in adherence to public health guidelines and new variants detected in the country and called collective efforts to curtail the surge in COVID-19 cases.

“It is clear that the escalating COVID 19 cases we continue seeing are being fueled by; Laxity in adherence to public health guidelines, Super spreader events of various forms and of course the effects of the SARS COV 2 variants of concern detected in our country namely B.1.1.7, B.1.351, B1.617.2,” Mr Malama said.

He also implored leaders from all sectors in the country to take the lead in ensuring the safety of the people they lead by encouraging them to adhere to set public health guidelines on COVID-19.

“Today we call upon our Traditional, Religious, Political, Civic and Cooperate leaders to take pole position in the response to COVID-19,” Dr. Malama urged.

Dr Malama also commended health workers for their tireless efforts to serve lives and dedication to duty, amidst swelling numbers in hospitals.

He further announced that the recruitment of 766 health workers to strengthen the system would be concluded this week.

“We are delighted that the recruitment of 766 health care workers is being completed this week and expected new staff to start reporting from next week,” he said.

Further, Dr Malama announced that the Ministry will be receiving 108,000 additional AstraZeneca and 100,00 Sinopharm Vaccine doses to supplement the vaccines assigned for the second dose recipients and those that are yet to receive the first dose.

Mr Malama added that the Vaccination for the second dose will resume on June 23, 2021.

The Country has recorded 1,231 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 giving a 12% positivity with the cumulative total of confirmed cases now 101,996 and six deaths.

In the breakdown of the new cases announced by province, Lusaka tops at 562, Southern Province is next on 211 cases, Eastern province is on 183 cases, followed by Central province on 118, Western Province with 84 cases, North-western province 32 cases, Luapula 26 , Muchinga 9, Copperbelt and Northern province on 3 cases respectively.

Social Cash Transfer payments underway in Nabwalya chiefdom

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Social Cash Transfer payments underway in Nabwalya chiefdom

Government has paid more than seventy Social Cash Transfer Beneficiaries in Nabwalya Chiefdom in Mpika District of Muchinga Province.

Mpika District Commissioner Sampa Muswema who flagged off the payments assured beneficiaries of government’s commitment to alleviate poverty among vulnerable groups of society.

Mr Muswema noted that government managed to pay beneficiaries in Nabwalya chiefdom despite the area being located in the hard to reach.

“The Social Cash Transfer programme is for all Zambians who are eligible and the people of Nabwalya are not an exception,” said Mr. Muswema.

The District Commissioner further outlined the beneficiaries as the aged, people living with disability, child headed households among others, all from Kazembe and Kapangula areas in Nabwalya.

“I would like to urge you to be praying for the President for the continued implementation of this program,” he said.

And Community Welfare Assistant Committee (CWAC) Secretary Peter Chibesa, said the programme has helped to alleviate poverty among beneficiaries.

He said beneficiaries have been able to build houses, pay school fees for their children and are able to afford at least three meals a day.

Meanwhile, one of the beneficiaries, Josephine Nkope, praised President Lungu for the programme which has managed to change her living standards.

Ms. Nkope said that the funds have enabled her build a house and buy food for her children and grandchildren.

“There has never been a president in Zambia who has been able to implement a program such as this, President Lungu should be commended,” said Ms. Nkope.

UPND dismisses reports it will scrap the Social Cash Transfer Program, but promises to increase it to over 200%

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UPND dismisses reports it will scrap the Social Cash Transfer Program, but promises to increase it to over 200%

The United Party for National Development (UPND) has dismissed claims that the party intends to suspend the delivery of the Social Cash Transfer (SCT) programme once elected into power.

In a statement released to the media by the party’s Presidential Spokesperson, Anthony Bwalya, UPND said that contrary to the reports, the party intends to increase the Social Cash Transfer from K150 per month to K500 once elected in power.

“On the contrary, the UPND is disappointed that the PF regime has continued to swindle social cash transfer recipients by delivering K150 per recipient per month, when recipients will be entitled to at least K500 per month under the UPND administration,” read the statement.

Below is the full statement

We have noted with concern the continuous culture of deception by the PF government around the management of social cash transfer remittances to vulnerable groups in our country.

We wish to refute the desperate claims by the PF regime that the UPND intends to suspend the delivery of social cash transfers to those who need this crucial social lifeline.

On the contrary, the UPND is disappointed that the PF regime has continued to swindle social cash transfer recipients by delivering K150 per recipient per month, when recipients will be entitled to at least K500 per month under the UPND administration.

We wish to warn social cash transfer recipients, that the PF have no ability or capacity to continue paying the K150 per month beyond August, as this is a mere stunt meant to hoodwink those on social cash transfer into voting for the poor PF leadership.

We further wish to remind social cash transfer recipients, that the reason the PF government cannot pay them a minimum K500 per month is because donor support towards social cash transfer was withdrawn after the theft of over $4m of donor money by PF government officials – a matter which went to court and ended in the conviction of a former government Minister.

We wish to assure social cash transfer recipients, that the UPND administration will commit itself to uplifting the welfare of the most vulnerable by expanding the social cash transfer safety net for those who need it the most.

Issued: Anthony Bwalya
UPND Presidential Spokesperson
8 June 2021.

The UPND Messaging has been Chaotic; Is HH Ku Wire Come August 12?

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The UPND Messaging has been Chaotic; Is HH Ku Wire Come August 12?

By Kapya Kaoma

Since taking Anderson Mazoka’s mantle as the UPND President, HH’s palm has pointed forward, but every election cycle is reversed to rest on his cheek and wipe his tears, wondering what just happened. The man boasts of being the best business executive, but if his running of UPND is something to go by, fate and not strategic thinking make one a billionaire. Just ask Donald Trump!

The UPND has been in opposition for two decades, but since 2006, the Party has lacked a sustainable strategy of taking power from the two most corrupt and incompetent regimes. Surely Mazoka is in tears wondering how his Party that came so close to winning the December 27, 2001 election (won by Levy Mwanawasa’s MMD) lost to PF–the Party that came from nowhere. Mazoka could understand the 2006 defeat, but the 2008, 2011, 2015, and 2016 defeats were simply illogical. Yet in 2021, UPND is begging Zambians to give HH another chance!

The UPND messaging has been chaotic; “HH knows the business world”,  “the economy”, “workers,” corruption”,  “chimbwi has no plan”, “free education”, “Bally will fix it” and now “HH will rescue Zambia” are among the many messaging problems that characterize UPND. The Party has failed to sell HH to Zambians with a sustainable message. Sata had one; HH has none but everything.

The UPND lacks political strategy; repeating the same plan over and over again but expecting a different outcome. The alliance with PF and MMD vomits like GBM and Nevers Mumba didn’t deliver either, so why do the same thing over again? Under his leadership, the Party has had many years to build sustainable alliances but failed; confirming accusations that UPND is a one-man Kantemba. The number of high-profile UPND members leaving him is not helping either.

Each election cycle, we are swamped with large crowds of UPND cadres in HH-styled red attires. Social media has magnified these gatherings in cities; but is this new? In addition to its traditional strongholds, the UPND has been competitive on the Copperbelt, Lusaka, and Central Province. This year the Party believes it has gained extra support in urban areas, overshadowing the PF. The popular city slogan, “We want Change, ” however, is generic and not UPND’s–every opposition party has a claim to it. Zambians sympathetic to the opposition cause are apt to join the chant on the streets. To UPND supporters, such chants translate in HH votes; they don’t.

But so is the power of mob psychology; people are likely to shout “Forward” when surrounded by UPND cadres, and “Pamaka” or “Alebwekelapo” when surrounded by PF cadres. It is a survival strategy in the nation where two well-known violent political parties are engaged in bloody campaigns. Since opposing voices are victimized, when PF is in Matero, Zambians will shout Lungu. When UPND is in Matero, the same people will shout HH. In addition to poverty, the ugly UPND, PF, and other political attires can be found in the same household; why buy if I can get it for free? The real gauge of popularity will only be known on election day when people cast their votes in secret.

In their wisdom, UPND strategists are counting heavily on the urban vote–it is a wrong strategy. This election will be won in rural Zambia–the reason Lungu and PF have abandoned the cities for rural areas. Economic stress impacts urban dwellers the most. Besides, the city vote is shared by many parties–almost all presidential candidates are counting on getting a share.

Belatedly, UPND strategists are sorely focused on dislodging PF from power. PF is a major player, but not the only player. It is like competing in the World Cup. Of course, you can focus your strategy on beating Brazil or France. But you must first qualify by knocking off smaller teams. Even then, you must study all teams. Soccer is unpredictable–even big teams can be knocked out in the first round. Like soccer, the electorate is unpredictable.

HH shouldn’t assume all Zambians are set to only vote for Lungu or him–rather he must campaign against Mumba, M’membe, Mwamba, Kalaba, and many others. He must also respond to their attacks on him as a tribalist, loner, and greedy as Socialist Party President and UPND founder Mazoka’s in Law Fred M’membe recently told Zambians. According to M’membe, HH is a greedy politician who should not be entrusted with power. As we move toward elections, HH should expect such attacks to increase since these parties want to win too. HH has never run in an election of this nature before, thus he needs to return to the drawing table.

Nonetheless, there is something to be said about smaller party cadres willingness to go door to door and even match the streets. They are awkwardly aware that they have the mountain to move, yet they are determined to fight to win. In the sociological theory of religion, I would compare them to members of religious sects. They are highly united to their cause and are most likely to show up on election day. In this regard, Socialist Party, Democratic Party, and other small party Presidential candidates are likely to be competitive in this election to an extent that they may shatter UPND’s dreams to enter Plot 1.

Alas. When my people dance akalela and shout “Forward,” they mean “Backwards.” Come August 12, is UPND ku Wire?

Benin Deny Zambia Victory

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Zambia made a slight recovery on Tuesday away in Benin where they finished 2-2.

The result in Cotonou was an improvement after losing 3-1 away to Senegal on June 5 in Thies.

But Zambia wasted a great opportunity to leave Benin with a victory after coming from behind to take a two-one halftime lead.

Cebio Sokou put Benin ahead in the 12th minute but Polokwane City midfielder Salulani Phiri equalized for Zambia in the 19th minute.

TP Mazembe defender Tandi Mwape then put Zambia ahead into the break on the rebound after Prince Mumba failed to convert the initial effort.
 
However, Yohan Roche denied Zambia a victory when he bundled in the ball in the 79th after goalkeeper Mwenya Chibwe felt the pressure of making a double-save.

Meanwhile, Zambia now head East on their final leg to play Sudan on June 11 at Omdurman

COVID-19 cases continues to rise with 1, 231 positive cases recorded in the last 24 hours

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COVID-19 cases continues to rise with 1, 231 positive cases recorded in the last 24 hours

The country has recorded a sharp rise in the number of Covid 19 cases with 1,231 positive cases being detected out of 10,115 tests conducted in the last 24 hours representing 12% positivity.

Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Dr Kennedy Malama said the increase in the number of cases has been fuelled by laxity in adherence to public health guidelines, super spreader events and the effects of the SARS COV 2 variants.

Speaking during a briefing today, Dr Malama said there is need for collective efforts at all levels to change the tide of the COVID 19 landscape in the country.
“The infection we are now seeing is more contagious (spreading very fast) and is causing more severe disease.

Our Hospitals are filling up faster than we saw during the 1st and 2nd waves. We would like to assure you that Government is doing everything possible to save lives, livelihoods, learning institutions and the economy,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary said six deaths were recorded in the mentioned period of time, 3 from Lusaka and the other 3 from Southern Province.

Meanwhile, Dr Malama has disclosed that the vaccination Programme is set to resume for the second dose on 23rd June.

“We are pleased to announce that we will be receiving 108,000 additional doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine by 21st June, 2021. This will go towards supplementing the vaccines assigned for the second dose recipients as well as those yet to receive the first dose,” Dr Malama said.

He stated that the country is expected to receive 100,000 doses of sinopharm in the next 5 weeks.

Dr Malama said the Ministry of Health has continued making strides in mobilising more vaccines through the Africa Vaccine acquisition trust and other options as approved by Cabinet.

And Dr Malama has noted that Misinformation particularly through social media is part of the infodemic that needs to be fought on all fronts as it undermines efforts to control the pandemic.

Speaking at the same briefing, Director infectious Disease Professor Lloyd Mulenga said slightly over 40 covid 19 cases were recorded in schools countrywide in the last 24 hours.

“Over the last five days, about 400 cases have been recorded in schools. Fortunately, the learners have had mild symptoms. And we have managed to quarantine them in various facilities,” Professor Mulenga said.

Jimmy Carter Foundation sponsor youths and women to contest on political seats

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Jimmy Carter Foundation sponsor youths and women to contest on political seats

The Jimmy Carter Foundation under the Advancing women and Youths in Governance project has sponsored a total of 15 youth and women candidates who have since been adopted by different political parties.

The six months project has been funded at cost of five thousand united states dollars targeted at women and youths in the two Districts as part of its objective to promote participation of both youths in governance issues and thereby reduce the existing gender inequalities.

Speaking in an interview with ZANIS, Gender Justice Director Collins Mumba said the Carter foundation funded the organisation to advance women and youths in governance in the two Districts.

He explained that out of 16 wards in Gwembe a total of 13 youths and women were adopted to stand as councillors under the Patriotic Front (PF), United Party for National Development (UPND) and the Socialist Party.

“I must add that for the first time since 1964 in the history of Gwembe District, we now have four women who were adopted and contesting as councillors and for us that is a huge milestone and this has been made possible by the Carter Foundation,” he added.

He added that in Monze two women contesting for the National Assembly were also adopted under the Democratic Party and Socialist party.

“We have a total of 15 women and youths who were adopted from the PF, UPND, DP, and the Socialist party under the Advancing women and youths project funded by the Jimmy Carter Foundation at the tune of US$5,000 for 6 months,” said Mr. Mumba.

Mr. Mumba emphasized on the need for all political parties to realise that it was a constitutional right for women to be supported and stand as elective positions for an all-inclusive governance system.

He thanked the Carter Foundation for the financial support towards women and youths saying such projects have the potential to help the country attain the both Regional and International Protocols on reducing Gender inequalities in politics and governance systems.

Police warn and caution Dr Brian Sampa

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Police warn and caution Dr Brian Sampa

Police in Lusaka have warned and cautioned Dr. Brian Chota Sampa, aged 34, a Medical Doctor of Ngwayi village, Chief Kopa in Mpika District also of Lusaka South.

According to a statement by Zambia Police Spokesperson Esther Katongo, Dr Sampa has been cautioned for ‘Inciting persons employed in the provision of essential services contrary to section 107 subsection (5) and (7) Chapter 269 of the Industrial and Labour Relations Act of the Laws of Zambia.

This is alleged to have occurred between 12th May, 2021 and 31st June, 2021 in Lusaka.

Investigations have continued.

Vice President happy with China National Building Investment Project

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Vice President happy with China National Building Investment Project

Vice President Inonge Wina has expressed pleasure that the 200 million dollar partnership investment with the China National Building Materials group CNBM is contributing to the realization of the vision 2030 to transform Zambia into a prosperous middle income nation by 2030.

Ms Inonge Wina said the government appreciates the partnership with CNBM as it is the largest investment in Africa.

“Government appreciates this partnership. I must say that this investment is the single largest investment by the group in Africa” she said.

Mrs Wina said this when she toured the CNBM Zambia Industrial Park in Chongwe district today.

She commended the company for choosing to invest in a place that has been isolated for a long time.

“I commend the company for choosing to invest and locate Sinoma Company in this area as part of rural development among the people, especially the qualified skilled youths who deserve a good start in life through employment opportunities” she said.

The Vice President called on the company management to also consider exploring other business opportunities in other parts of the country.

She also urged the traditional leadership to provide an enabling environment that supports development.

Brick factory process controller Mwala Paul welcomes Vice President Inonge Wina and her entourage during the tour of the Sinoma Cement factory in Chongwe District yesterday. Tuesday, June 8, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE ZANI
Brick factory process controller
Mwala Paul welcomes Vice President Inonge Wina and her entourage during the tour of the Sinoma Cement factory in Chongwe District yesterday. Tuesday, June 8, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE ZANI

CNBM Mpande limestone limited Managing Director, Zhang Yuanci said the company has created 400 direct jobs and has not laid anyone off despite the effects of the pandemic.

Mr Yuanci added that the company however put up measures to maintain production and operation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The company took all kinds of measures to maintain the operations and productions.

All employees were provided free masks and sanitation facilities were developed.” He said.

The Managing Director also mentioned that the company paid over six million kwacha in taxes per month and ten million kwacha in fees to municipalities and related organisations in 2020.

Mr Yuanci also called on the government to continue working on improving the business environment.

Meanwhile, Lusaka Province Permanent Secretary, Elias Kamanga has commended the government for their commitment in ensuring investment projects in the country are completed on time.

Mr Kamanga said investments like CNBM will put the country on the map and will reduce joblessness among the youths.

“It is gratifying to see this massive investment. It will not only boost cement production in the country but also attract sales on the international market, while creating massive job opportunities in line with the government’s desire to create jobs for the young people” the Permanent Secretary added.

Mr.Paikani Banda shows the Vice President Inonge Wina and her entourage the map of the Sinoma Cement factory during the tour of the Sinoma Cement in Chongwe District yesterday. Tuesday, June 8, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE ZANIS
Mr.Paikani Banda shows the Vice President Inonge Wina and her entourage the map of the Sinoma Cement factory during the tour of the Sinoma Cement in Chongwe District yesterday. Tuesday, June 8, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE ZANIS

MISA Zambia Chairman Fr. Ng’andwe’s dies

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MISA Zambia Chairman Fr. Ng’andwe’s dies

Radio Icengelo Chief Executive Officer and MISA Zambia Chairperson Rev. Fr. Benedict Mwelwa Ng’andwe has died.

Catholic Diocese of Ndola Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Benjamin Phiri has announced the death of Fr. N’gandwe this afternoon.

Bishop Phiri revealed that Fr. Ng’andwe, 52, who at the time of his death served as Our Lady of Africa Parish Priest, died today at Kitwe Teaching Hospital due to high blood pressure and diabetes.

Bishop PhirI has since offered words of condolences to the Board and Staff of Radio Icengelo.

And Radio Icengelo Board Chairperson, Priests, and employees have expressed shock and sadness at the death of Fr. Ng’andwe.

Fr. Ng’andwe was ordained Priest on 4th August, 2000 and served in several Parishes and Institutions of Ndola Diocese.

MMD President Nevers Mumba’s Full Campaign Launch Speech

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MMD President Nevers Mumba’s Full Campaign Launch Speech

THEME: A FRESH START

INTRODUCTION

On May 20th this year, I had the rare honor of filing in as Presidential Candidate in this year’s election. Many of our supporters have since asked as to when our nationwide campaign would begin in earnest. Today after thorough preparations, we are now confidently ready to launch a winning campaign towards the August 12th General Election. I also wish to re affirm that I am running for President of Zambia in these elections.

GOVERNANCE

The opportunity to change the governance system of Zambia has finally come. A system which shall finally create a government of National Unity In practice.
This new government will not favor a particular political party or particular tribe, but a government for all Zambians.
It is a government that shall have no unruly cadres as all Zambians shall be treated the same.
It is a government where bus stations and markets belong to all Zambians and not to one political party and its cadres.
It is a government where people from both opposition and ruling parties shall have equal access to government contracts. Such a government needs a unique, patriotic and tested citizen to be President.

With the current high levels of poverty and discrimination, the Zambian people are anxious as to who their next president is going to be after August 12th. It is precisely for this reason that the New Hope MMD has decided to mount an exclusive Presidential campaign. We have had to consider the challenges we have faced in the last four years of being in court while other political players have been mobilizing. We have therefore not invested much into MPs and Councillors although we have several candidates on our ticket. We have realized that the next parliament shall be one of the most mixed parliaments we have ever had. Never in the history of our nation have we had so many independent candidates standing across the nation. This phenomenon alone, shall forever change the nature of our 2021 – 2026 Parliament. There shall be no exclusive “owner” of the house. It promises to be a hang parliament. It is such a Parliament that needs a unifying and tested President to navigate through the many interests that shall be represented in parliament. New Hope MMD has decided to run a Presidential campaign. All our energies and resources shall be spent of this exclusive Presidential Campaign.

In light of this new unity government, the New Hope MMD has decided to endorse, support and recommend a list of 156 candidates standing across the nation, including our own MMD candidates. We have considered their personal values and their suitability to sit in the next parliament. We have also considered their Christian testimony. These candidates who are already on the ballot shall be drawn from all political parties and especially the independent candidates. We shall present this list to churches across the nation as the preferred candidates. We shall also support those independent members of parliament on our list with finance and logistics and publicity to enhance their chances to win. Our Spokesperson shall be officially releasing our list of recommended MP Candidates to the nation in the next few days. We are further encouraged to note that several independent candidates have decided to work with us and support my candidature for President.

Elected President under this new outfit of leaders, we shall forever steer our nation away from politics of violence, blood letting, retarded development and perpetual tribal and political conflicts. I come as Zambia’s 7th President to repaint a new political dispensation anchored on national unity.
These measures and changes will give Zambia A FRESH START.

ZAMBIA SHALL BE SAVED

The vision of ZAMBIA SHALL BE SAVED has been my defining mission for 44 years. It has become convincingly clear that this is the year in which this dream shall be fulfilled.
As a young emerging Zambian Evangelist, I traveled around the globe preaching the Gospel in several Western Countries.

I noticed that many Africans that lived in these foreign countries considered themselves more fortunate that those back home in Africa. They carried an air of superiority over the Africans at home.

When I interrogated them as to why they felt that way, they were clear about the dysfunctional african government systems. They believed that the lack of order and functional institutions of government serves the most crooked and usually least educated malcontents who eventually ascend to political power.

It is this crop of leadership which has run most of african economies to the ground. Many enlightened Africans and Zambians in particular have therefore found it retrogressive to live in countries governed by those who instead of honoring the honest and hardworking, only honor the crooked and wayward people. They have therefore chosen to live in countries where order exists and the honest are rewarded and not scoffed at.

My long time vision of ZAMBIA SHALL BE SAVED is meant to save my nation from this dysfunction. Until this is done, Zambia joins the list of many failing african states.

I am running for President to become the torch bearer to forever change the politics and direction of our nation. This I promise.

THE FIRST 100 DAYS IN OFFICE:

In the first hundred days of the New Hope administration, we shall radically change the direction of our country by signing into effect statutory Instruments which shall guide the new policy positions we shall take. We shall also enforce the current laws and regulations which have not been enforced in order to effect the necessary national shift.
Our Manifesto entitled, A FRESH START is an expression of a down to earth dream of changing the nation.

ORDER:

Zambia today operates as the infamous animal farm, where some animals are considered more equal than others. The New Hope Administration is set to change the status quo. The Zambia of today prides herself in filth and institutional disorder as can be seen on the streets and the high levels of corruption in government institutions.

Within the first 100 days in office we shall clean up the streets, walk ways and enforce all nuisance laws. There shall be no selling on the streets except in designated places with operational toilets and running water. There shall be no throwing of litter, urinating or spitting in public spaces except in designated areas. Bus stops shall be decongested and modernized and public passenger vehicles (Mini buses) shall not stop anywhere at will. All approved compounds must have running water and proper sewer systems.

The creation of this social order shall help to improve public health and eliminate hygiene related illnesses like cholera, diarrhea, malaria even pandemics like COVID-19. In turn this will reduce the mounting pressure on our fragile health sector.

The next order we shall establish is adherence to the rule of law, whether in neighborhoods, on the road and work places. We shall ensure an orderly way of life based on first come, first serve basis. Zambia under the New Hope government shall not belong to the powerful only but to every Zambian. The law shall be applied equitably.
These measures shall give Zambia A FRESH START.

NATIONAL DEBT

The New Hope Administration shall seek to balance the National budget.

Within the first hundred days we shall put a policy mechanism in place which shall ensure that we start to live within our means as a nation. Our budget expenditure shall not exceed that of our income as a nation.

We shall suspend borrowing and embark on clearing our national debt.

This shall be achieved by ensuring that fiscal discipline is maintained and public expenditure restricted until the debt is cleared. This is not the first time we shall be part of a team that shall eliminate our debt burden. I served under the amazing leadership of President Levy Mwanawasa when we zeroed the $7.2 billion debt at that time. We shall do it again.

We shall also declare our natural resources like gold, diamond and emeralds as national strategic assets dedicated to paying off debt.

We shall stop the exportation of raw materials and only export processed goods in the mining, wood and agricultural sectors. This will trigger the establishment of numerous manufacturing industries and consequently create jobs.

We shall reduce all tax brackets in order to strengthen the business community and encourage spending at household level. Placing more disposable income in people’s hands.
These measures shall give Zambia A FRESH START.

CORRUPTION:

Within the first one hundred days, we shall put policy mechanisms in place that shall aim at eliminating the vice of corruption at least by 80% at the end of three years and almost zero by the end of our first term of office.

We shall strengthen financial controls in all public institutions with a goal of eliminating the pandemic of corruption. While COVID-19 remains a devastating pandemic, corruption has claimed more lives and continues to do so. It is therefore a greater danger to Zambia than even COVID-19. If there is any need for a vaccine in Zambia it is a vaccine against Corruption.
To completely stamp out corruption, we shall employ maximum penalties on those convicted on corruption charges. They shall serve not less than 30 years to life sentences in prison. This will be one way of putting away the bad seed of society and end the long era of corruption.

These measures shall give Zambia a FRESH START.

DEMOCRACY

Good governance entails that every Zambian participates equitably in all affairs of the nation. Every Zambian must be treated equal before the law. Every Zambian must enjoy all basic God given rights of freedom of association, speech and movement.

Zambian democracy has become anemic, dysfunctional even dangerous. It favors only the powerful and mostly those in power. It segregates against the opposition. Until the God given freedoms are fully restored, Zambia could soon degenerate into the category of african failed states.

In the first one hundred days in office, the New Hope administration shall put in place new policy mechanisms to restore democracy. All media, both private and public shall be free to operate without political interference.
These measures shall give Zambia A FRESH START.

THE CHRISTIAN NATION

The MMD project of declaring Zambia as a Christian Nation is not an isolated event. In 1863, at Chitambo mission, David Livingstone prayed a profound prayer..”On these my bended knees……. this land shall become a mighty Christian nation and a beacon of light to the rest of the World…”

I feel spiritually connected to this prayer as I was born at Chitambo Mission and I later declared that Zambia Shall be Saved. In this election, there is no party that qualifies more to implement the vision of the declaration of Zambia as a Christian Nation than the New Hope MMD. It is our party which made this declaration. There is also no presidential candidate in this election who clearly understands both the origin and intent of this declaration than myself. The body of Christ in the nation understands this and I remain optimistic that the Church shall cast the determinant vote in this election.
Once the church decides to upset this election, then Zambia shall be set on a path to A FRESH START.

THE DAWN OF A FRESH START

AT PERSONAL LEVEL…

I dedicate these last remarks to those who love and pray for Zambia. Those who care to know the place of Zambia in the plans of God.

This season to me represents the end of my long journey of preparation. As an individual I have walked in the shadow of the valley of death for forty four years. My personal journey has been characterized by pain, hate, betrayal, abandonment, false accusations and imprisonments.

My story however is not a unique one. It is paralleled by many historical accounts. Joseph in the scriptures is one of many. He was hated by his brothers for his dream of leadership. At the age of twenty one, the Lord gave me a dream of Zambia Shall be saved. This evoked hate and betrayal from some of my own brothers in church. Joseph was abandoned, sold and later accused falsely in a strange land. He was unfairly imprisoned, until his day of the fulfillment of his dream came to pass. His journey was painful, lonely and seemed like it would never come to an end.

Without stories like Joseph’s I would not have understood my own story. Joseph was being prepared. At the end, the dream was realized and his first response was to cry in Genesis 45.

At a personal level, I believe God is giving me rest and A FRESH START. Like Joseph, I have come to this season of my life with tears in my eyes not because it hurts but because I don’t feel the hurt anymore. ITS A FRESH START to take up the role for which I have been prepared for.

AT PARTY LEVEL….

The Movement for Multiparty Democracy as a political vehicle has faced its own relentless battles, but I shall limit my statement to the last ten years since it lost power in 2011. It was plundered and abandoned by many who could not live with the idea of being in the opposition. Many of its leaders were accused of theft and taken before Magistrates. Insurrections were funded from both within and without. In the past ten years, the Party has suffered great damage at the hands of those funded to remove it from the political space. Damaged but not destroyed. The hardships the MMD has gone through have not killed it but strengthened it. The good news is that after all the vicious relentless attacks on the party, it’s still here and has now regrouped under the New Hope banner. To all our members nationwide, these ugly experiences of the past ten years which characterized our journey have only made us qualified to become the trusted party of choice in this season. These experiences have given us an opportunity for A FRESH START.

AT NATIONAL LEVEL….

At national level, the past ten years has left us more divided along political and tribal lines than ever before. The last ten years has left us with depleted national coffers. The last ten years has left us a national debt unheard of since independence. The last ten years has left us with the weakest currency since independence. The last ten years has left us with the most expensive essential commodities against the back drop of depleted jobs and less income amongst our people.
Against this back ground the New Hope MMD promises A FRESH START. We shall rebuild our lost fortunes. Together we shall overcome these obstacles.

CONCLUSION

A FRESH START demands for courage to abandon the status quo which is what has brought us down on the floor. We must be courageous to abandon the current political set up which can only sustain the current levels of national pain and lack among us. If the choice for the future is left between the PF and the UPND, then we should brace ourselves for another cycle of more politics than development. More divisions than unity.
The New Hope MMD offers Zambia A FRESH START.

I thank you

COVID-19 cases are rising in Zambia, Mask Up, President Lungu encourages citizens

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COVID-19 cases are rising in Zambia, Mask Up, President Lungu encourages citizens

President Edgar Lunch has urged people of Eastern Province to ensure that they mask up, to lessen the further spread of COVID-19 in the region.

President Lungu said COVID-19 cases are rising in Zambia hence the need for people to wear face masks every time they gather.

He said Eastern Province, like all other regions in Zambia, has recorded and continues to record cases of COVID-19.

He said this when he arrived in Nyimba district today.

President Lungu emphasised that everyone must play a role to fight the COVID-19 pandemic by masking up and following all other prevention guidelines.

“The number of COVID-19 cases is rising so mask up. Do not listen to people saying there is no COVID,” he said.

And President Lungu has reiterated that his call to all politicians to avoid holding rallies was not made out of malice but to protect citizens from contracting the coronavirus.

Zambia is now experiencing a third wave of COVID-19, which is said to be presenting sophisticated symptoms and is more severe.

The number of COVID-19 cases has since gone beyond the 100,000 mark, while at least 1,300 died of the disease since the pandemic broke out in Zambia in March 2020.

And President Lungu has urged contractors, resident engineers and beneficiaries of projects such as hospitals, to ensure high quality works from the onset of construction works.

Speaking after touring Nyimba District Hospital, where he inspected the progress of works on the second phase of the project, Mr Lungu urged those responsible for putting up projects not to wait until he notices pitfalls on the structures.

He added that he was happy with service delivery at the hospital, which is a fulfilment of his government’s policy to provide health services to Zambians.

President Lungu also toured Nyimba main market and held a meeting with Patriotic Front party officials in the district.

RDAZ president Dr Brian Sampa summoned to appear at Police Headquarters in Lusaka

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RDAZ president Dr Brian Sampa summoned to appear at Police Headquarters in Lusaka

RDAZ president Dr Brian Sampa has been summoned to appear at the Zambia Police Headquarters in Lusaka today.

Dr.Sampa’s unpopularity with the government and police started in May when the Resident Doctors Association Association resolved to go on a “go -slow” after a virtual meeting held on the 19th May,2021. The doctors wanted to press government to pay the K150 million owed in arrears arising from unpaid gratuities and settling in allowances accrued from 2015.

The doctors also wanted government to clearly state when it shall commence the recruitment of doctors as 530 qualified doctors still remain unemployed.

“We need to recruit new doctors. The current Doctor-Patient ratio stands at 1 to 12,000 and this is unacceptable. The 530 unemployment doctors can all be absorbed by the system and we can’t still have a shortfall of 3,000 more doctors. Government just needs to do the correct thing and employ these doctors who were trained a high cost.”

Dr Sampa who was just recently elected as RDAZ President a few weeks prior said the doctors had resolved to press on with their demands because government has shown lack of willingness to address the issues.

“From 2015, these issues have been with government, the team which was there before me even produced a Position Paper which was even tabled in Cabinet but up to now, nothing is happening. We have escalated the matter to the highest office in the land and we cannot continue like this,” Dr Sampa said.

Dr.Sampa said doctors are not motivated because they are not getting what they are working for.

If a government reaction was what the doctors were hoping to elicit they got more than they bargained for by the heavy handed response from the Government and the Inspector General of Police.

The Inspector General of Police Kakoma Kanganja threatened doctors who attended the Zoom meeting with Dr.Sampa arrest for attending the “illegal meeting”. Civil Society and doctors were alarmed by these threats and asked IG Kanganja to quote the laws he based his threats on, as the HPCZ license is needed for one to touch a patient and anything done outside patient duties including teaching, talking to other doctors is not tied to the license.

The Secretary General of RDAZ Dr Chikonde, was then arrested by police at Arthur Davison Children’s Hospital on 30th May and charged with Espionage and transported to Lusaka.After the intervention from senior doctors, RDAZ,ZMA and Chapter One foundation Dr.Chikonde was released and all charges dropped 24 hours later.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Permanent Secretary Amos Malupenga weighed in on the Go slow during an interview on HOT FM by saying putting government under duress is a wrong route and we will not give them(doctors) any desired result. Ministry of Labour and Social Security Permanent Secretary Chanda Kaziya said the current go-slow by resident doctors was against the law.

“There is no provision in the law that grants an essential worker to withhold labour even if they are unhappy with their working conditions,” he said.He explained that the doctors should have used the court or the Ministry of Labour as a mediator in airing out their grievances instead of risking lives of many people seeking medical services.

On the 30th May Boniface Chimbwali, Permanent Secretary Public Service Management Division, said that RDAZ’s demands for Salary arrears for the 309 Doctors, dismantling of arrears and gratuities for medical Doctors, creation of positions for Senior Resident Medical Officers, Registrars and Consultants and Recruitment of 500 newly graduated medical doctors, had been addressed which included the Ministry including the creation of promotional positions in the Treasury Authority No. 5 and 6 of 2021 and in the 2022 Budget submission to be tabled before Parliament in September, 2021.

Investing in cutting-edge equipment will boost our copper production by 15% -First Quantum Minerals

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Investing in cutting-edge equipment will boost our copper production by 15% -First Quantum Minerals

By DERRICK SILIMINA

KALUMBILA Minerals Limited (KML), a subsidiary of First Quantum Minerals (FQM), says the mining firm’s quest to invest in cutting-edge equipment will boost copper production by about 15 percent.

Speaking during a familiarisation tour of its recently acquired In-pit copper ore crusher, a state-of-the-art mining machine, KML Project Manager for CR4 Pocket Construction, Albert Jonah said investment in the in-pit crushers is a milestone achievement as they are not common in the world.

Mr Jonah, a mining engineer, noted that the mega mining paraphernalia is worth over US$50 million each, adding that the mining giant has invested four in Panama and four at its Sentinel Mine in Kalumbila district of North-Western Province.

He therefore affirmed that for this reason, copper production at Sentinel Mine will go up by 15 percent by 2022, hence the need to procure another in-pit ore crusher.

“By 2022, our copper production will be up by 15 percent, and as the pit is expanding towards the east, this latest crusher will play a vital role as more ore gets exposed on the eastern side of the pit. These crushers will be relocated as the pit expands to optimise the mining process,” Mr Jonah noted.

KALUMBILA Minerals Limited Project Manager for CR4 Pocket Construction Albert Jonah explains the effectiveness of the In-pit ore crushers at Kalumbila Open pit mine. – Picture by Derrick Silimina/SUMA SYSTEMS.
KALUMBILA Minerals Limited Project Manager for CR4 Pocket Construction Albert Jonah explains the effectiveness of the In-pit ore crushers at Kalumbila Open pit mine. – Picture by Derrick Silimina/SUMA SYSTEMS.

With a capacity of 7,000 tonnes per hour translating into about 150,000 tonnes production per day, double the size of the first three crushers on-site, the project manager bubbled with confidence that the masterpiece is an awesome investment in the country’s mining history.

“This In-pit crusher is the fourth we’ve got at Sentinel Mine, which is, more or less, double the size of the first three that are in operation. We started the pocket construction of this new crusher in December 2020 and total completion is likely to be at the end of July this year.”

Mr Jonah stated that in-pit ore crushers reduce the mine’s haulage costs which saves the mining operations in the long run as compared to top-off pit crushers as the rest of the haulage is done by conveyor belts towards the plant.

He stressed that the installation of each in-pit crusher came at a huge cost as the latest gear has so far consumed about $2 million in the pocket development cost. In terms of assembly of the massive unit, the facility requires about 150 personnel that are doing the project works for a period of six months.

Investment in such high-tech mining equipment facilitates the transfer of technology among the local mining staff as the assembly and installation of the machinery is being done by in-house personnel.

“We’ve got a local project team that’s working on this fourth crusher as they have learnt from international contractors that were brought in during the installation of the first three crushers. I think it’s vital for local staff to know dynamics of such technology as this achieves better control of the facility and is cost effective.”
Regarding the lifespan of the in-pit crushers, Mr Jonah confirmed that the mining apparatus can stand the test of time and even up-to the end of the mining lease.

“For as long as we do maintenance works on them, the life of these crushers goes up-to the end of mining operations.” – Story courtesy of SUMA SYSTEMS.

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