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23/10/2024

Civil servants bantu sana🫡 ...iwe nanikane should we bath ?😅

23/10/2024

ECONOMIC ASSOCIATION OF ZAMBIA FORMALIZES COLLABORATION WITH KUYUMA DEVELOPMENT LIMITED

The Economic Association of Zambia (EAZ) has signed a partnership agreement with Kuyuma Development Limited to enhance collaboration in key areas related to economic advisory and public engagement.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, EAZ President Oswald Mungule emphasized the importance of partnerships in fostering sustainable economic development and improving public access to reliable economic information.

Dr. Mungule welcomed the media’s role in disseminating important information to the Zambian public, noting that without their support, communication efforts would be significantly hindered.

He highlighted that the EAZ, as a non-partisan organization registered under the Societies Act, aims to provide authentic economic commentary and analysis to the public, helping them understand the government's economic policies and how these affect everyday life.

The partnership with Kuyuma Development Limited, Mungule explained, will focus on several key areas.

These include joint media engagements such as hosting economic roadshows, conferences, summits, and other public events to engage with the Zambian people on economic issues.

Another significant part of the collaboration will be in the area of publications.

The EAZ is set to launch its own magazine, along with the Zambia Journal of Economics and Finance.

Kuyuma Development Limited will contribute by submitting articles to these publications, which aim to provide expert analysis on Zambia’s economy.

Mungule also noted that the EAZ welcomes not only economists but also non-economists interested in learning the basics of economics.

"We invite those who want to gain a deeper understanding of economic issues to join us, as our association offers valuable resources for both professionals and the public," he said.

The formalization of this partnership, according to Mungule, will strengthen the EAZ's ability to provide economic advisory services to the nation and will serve as a foundation for future joint efforts in fostering economic development.

The collaboration marks an important step in the EAZ's mission to improve the accessibility of economic information to the Zambian people and provide a platform for economic discourse.

23/10/2024

GOVERNMENT SIGNS ICT STATUTORY INSTRUMENT

LUSAKA, October 22nd, 2024 -

The government has signed the Information and Communication Technology Association of Zambia (ICTAZ) Statutory Instrument Act 2018, outlining general regulations and professional ethics for the sector.

Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati stated that the move aims to "restore order and sanity" in the sector, plagued by cyber crimes and masqueraders.

"I'm hopeful this SI will eliminate industry trolls and restore public confidence," Mutati said, emphasizing the government's commitment to reviving order in the sector, which is crucial for economic growth.

SMART Zambia Institute's National Coordinator, Mr. Percy Chinyama, highlighted the importance of registering all ICT professionals.

He also expressed concern over the rise of negativity on social media, where some individuals insult others with impunity.

"The culture displayed on social media does not reflect who we are as a people," Chinyama said. "We can no longer ignore this, as it reflects poorly on our country."

ICTAZ President Mr. Clement Sinyangwe welcomed the regulations, anticipating robust compliance exercises to ensure IT practitioners maintain standards.

22/10/2024

ZESCO Limited says much of the power supply to residential areas this week will be received at night because that is the time imports are available.

The supply of power to residential areas mostly at night has been necessitated by the utility’s loss of 150 megawatts (MW) at Maamba thermal power plant in Sinazongwe for a week starting Sunday.

Zesco spokesperson Matongo Maumbi said on The Update programme on ZNBC TV yesterday that without the Maamba hitch, power supply in homes would have been both during the day and night.

Mr. Maumbi emphasized that when they don't have supply from maamba thermal of 150MW, that they cannot fully supply.

21/10/2024

PRESIDENT HICHILEMA NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR FIRED JUDGES CSOs

By Alex Siyanga

Governance and Development Advocates Zambia is concerned with some social media narratives that President Hakainde Hichilema has fired the three Constitutional Court judges.

The Executive Director, Elias Mulenga, says they believe that President Hichilema’s decision to dismiss the Constitutional Court judges is the right course of action to take as provided by the Constitution and the laws of Zambia.

Mr. Mulenga stated that this decision follows a complaint against the judges, which was thoroughly investigated by the Judicial Complaints Commission (JCC). The JCC made recommendations to the President, and the President has acted upon these recommendations following the laid-down procedures enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia.

The President’s mandate is clearly outlined in the Zambian Constitution, and he had no choice but to invoke and exercise the powers vested in the President in Article 143 (b) and (c) of the Constitution of Zambia, which is the relevant section to fulfill his oath of allegiance.

Mulenga says it is important not to criticize him unfairly based on the agendas of his opposition political parties.

Mr. Mulenga has noted that President Hichilema is a respecter of the Constitution and the laws of Zambia and has urged citizens not to criticize him in the ex*****on of his duties.

19/10/2024

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19/10/2024

PRESIDENT HAKAINDE HICHILEMA TO BE REPRESENTED BY MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION AT THE 27TH COMMONWEALTH HEADS OF GOVERNMENT MEETING 2024 IN SAMOA

The President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, will be represented by Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, SC, M.P., Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation at the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). The Summit will take place from 21st to 26th October 2024, in Apia, Samoa.

The CHOGM 2024 will convene under the theme “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth.” Held biennially, this meeting sets policies and priorities for the Commonwealth on shared global goals.

CHOGM 2024 will provide a platform for Heads of Government, business leaders, and other stakeholders to address critical issues, including climate change, democracy, human rights, the rule of law, economic recovery, and empowerment for sustainable livelihoods. Key outcomes of the Summit will include the adoption of a Communiqué and statements from various Commonwealth forums. A significant agenda item will be the election of the next Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.

Preceding the main Summit, the Pre-CHOGM Foreign Ministers Meeting will take place on 24th October 2024. Zambia’s delegation will also engage in various forums, including the:
1. Commonwealth Business Forum,
2. Commonwealth Gender Forum,
3. Commonwealth Youth Forum, and the
4. Commonwealth People’s Forum.

Zambia remains committed to collaborating with fellow Commonwealth Member States to foster trade and investment, enhance resilience to climate change, and promote democracy, good governance, peace, and human rights. The country will continue to advocate for youth empowerment, gender equality, and the eradication of child marriage.

Issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
Charter House
Lusaka
19th October 2024

19/10/2024

Zambia elected a council member of Ban Ki-moon chaired Global Green Growth Institute

Seoul, Korea, Saturday, 19 October 2024 -

Zambia has been elected a council member of the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), a 48-member international organization chaired by former Secretary-General of the United Nations, His Excellency Ban Ki-moon.

Minister of Green Economy and Environment Hon. Mike Elton Mposha presented Zambia's candidature to the 13th Session of the Assembly and the 17th Session of the Council at GGGI Headquarters in Seoul, Korea.

Zambia was unanimously elected. The GGGI is a treaty-based international organization formed in 2012 that is dedicated to promoting sustainable economic growth in developing countries and emerging economies.

Mr. Ban is the President of the Assembly and Chair of the Council of the GGGI, which has its headquarters in Seoul, Korea. Speaking during a Ministerial Panel Discussion under the theme: "Addressing Plastic Pollution in the Context of Green Growth," Hon. Mposha said Zambia was facing an escalating waste management problem that was negatively impacting economic, environmental, and social sustainability.

He, however, said waste also provided opportunities for investment.

The Minister said there are many opportunities in Zambia for developing waste-to-energy projects and waste-to-compost initiatives to support urban agriculture, as well as scientifically engineered landfills.

"The country aspires to move towards a circular economy approach to transform how resources are used and managed. Zambia's current linear waste management approach means that there are great opportunities for creating green jobs based on the reduce, reuse, and recycle principles," Hon. Mposha said.

The Minister also stated that Zambia has various policies that address waste and the Circular Economy agenda, including government strategies, legislation, and statutory instruments such as the National Policy on Climate Change and the National Solid Waste Management Strategy.

Ministry of Green Economy and Environment Permanent Secretary Dr. Douty Chibamba, Zambia’s Ambassador to Korea His Excellency Andrew Bwezani Banda, and National Designated Authority (NDA) Coordinator Mr. Billy Katontoka are part of the Zambian delegation to GGGI’s 13th Session of the Assembly and the 17th Session of the Council at GGGI Headquarters in Seoul, Korea.

18/10/2024

HARRY MWAANGA NKUMBULA FOUNDATION TO RE-EXAMINE ZAMBIA’S HISTORY NEXT WEEK

The Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula Foundation says Zambia’s history has been predominantly narrated from the perspective of those who assumed leadership at independence, often overlooking or distorting the contributions of others.

Foundation Chairperson Ompie Nkumbula Liebenthal announced that the organization, in collaboration with the Southern African Institute for Policy and Research (SAIPAR), will host a conference on October 21 and 22, 2024, at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre to address these historical inaccuracies.

The event will be held with support from the Government of Ireland - International Development Programme and UK International Development.

She stated that following the official launch of the Foundation by the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, in April this year, the Foundation has drawn up programs and activities to be implemented this year, next year, and in the years to come.

Mrs. Liebenthal said the activities will include an annual lecture, a scholars program, public seminars and conferences, and research.

She added that the Foundation may award educational bursaries, especially to the girl child, in honor of Harry Nkumbula’s lifelong support for education.

Mrs. Liebenthal said plans are also in place to establish a library and documentation center on the life and legacy of Harry Nkumbula.

She, however, said the Foundation is still in its infancy and is fundraising to get its projects off the ground.

Mrs. Liebenthal noted that the conference coincides with Zambia's commemoration of its 60th year of independence next week on October 24, 2024.

The theme of the conference is “Forgotten Heroes and Heroines of Zambia’s Independence Struggle.”

Mrs. Liebenthal added that the Foundation will host an exhibition on the struggle for independence at the National Archives in Lusaka, starting on October 27, 2024.

"The conference, which will be attended by more than 60 people, will include scholars, former freedom fighters, surviving veterans of the independence struggle, surviving children of freedom fighters, and some ordinary citizens. The media will also be invited to cover and attend the conference, as they play a crucial role in educating and informing the public on subjects crucial to the country’s political development," she said.

Mrs. Liebenthal emphasized that the conference aims to revisit narratives of the independence fight for political freedom.

"Several papers will be presented at the conference over the two days, addressing topics such as the role of forgotten heroes and heroines from a historical perspective, remembering the pioneers of Zambia’s fight for political freedom, bringing to life the contributions of obscure freedom fighters, the role of women in the liberation struggle, and the significance of places and events such as some of the landmarks of the struggle for independence," she said.

Mrs. Liebenthal said there will also be reflections on how the legacy of the struggle for independence has impacted current Zambian politics, especially regarding tribalism, politics of exclusion, the habit of hero-worshipping leaders, and the building of personality cults.

She stressed that conversations on the lessons to draw from Zambia’s independence struggle have been ongoing for a very long time but are rarely coordinated or even include counter-narratives to the role played by such names.

"As a result, children and grandchildren know little about the role played by others in the fight for political freedom. This conference aims to bring to the fore some of those forgotten heroes and heroines so that they are also celebrated and deservedly find their place in the country’s political history," she said.

Mrs. Liebenthal highlighted the need to democratize history so that diverse narratives on the nationalist movement and the struggle for independence are embraced and become part of the collective memory.

17/10/2024

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER AND FASTING PARTICIPATION IS A MUST FOR GPZ

The Golden Party Zambia (GPZ) is pleased to announce its full participation in this year's National Day of Prayer and Fasting, which falls on the 18th of October, 2024, under the theme:

“Building Resilience, Unity, and Hard Work Through Prayer: Our Heritage, Our Future.”

Since its inception, the GPZ Party has fully participated in this historical day without any reservations and shall continue to do so as long as it remains. This day must cut across party affiliations and political interests. It's a day for Zambia.

We encourage GPZ members throughout the country and all Zambians to join in prayer and fasting on this important day. Let us cast all our burdens unto the Lord and pray for unity, strength, and resilience as a nation.

Through faith in God, prayer, fasting, and hard work in all seasons, Zambia’s future prosperity is assured.

17/10/2024

Rome- The Ambassador of Zambia to Italy, H.E Mrs. Patricia Chisanga Kondolo, was among the non-resident Ambassadors who presented credentials to Her Excellency Ms. Katerina Sakellaropoulou, President of the Hellenic Republic, on Tuesday 8th October 2024.

In addressing the Ambassadors during the Ceremony, the President of Greece welcomed the Ambassadors and assured them of Greece's support during their tenure and looked forward to the strengthening of diplomatic ties.

The President expressed concern at the various global challenges the world was facing including widespread intolerance and extremism, immigration, climate change and other emerging issues. She assured the envoys that Greece was a pillar of stability in the region of South East Europe and the Mediterranean and that her country believed in the peaceful resolution of disputes, good neighbourly relations and the safeguarding of international and regional security.

In presenting her remarks to the President of Greece, the Ambassador conveyed greetings from Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia who wished the welfare and prosperity of the Government and people of Greece and looked forward to the enhancement of relations between the two countries.

Ambassador Kondolo also congratulated Greece for being elected as a member of the United Nations Security Council for the period of 2025-2026 and indicated that Zambia being a strong advocate for the peaceful resolution of conflicts through diplomacy and dialogue, would support Greece during its tenure.

The Ambassador also appealed to Greece to support calls for a Permanent seat for Africa at the UN Security Council.

Ambassador Kondolo took the opportunity to thank Greece, by virtue of its membership to the EU, for the recently announced renewed EU budget support to Zambia.

She expressed confidence that the budget support would among other things assist in helping the Government of Zambia address economic and social challenges including the effects of the drought experienced in the last crop season, that had led to, food and energy insecurity.

She also took the opportunity to thank Greece for its efforts in mitigating the effects of climate change.

On the sideline of the visit to Greece, Ambassador Kondolo also officially opened the new office of the Honorary Consul of Zambia to Greece.

The Ambassador thanked the Honorary Consul, Ms. Rose Chizi for the important role she plays in representing Zambia. She urged the Honorary Consul to continue advancing Zambia’s interests in Greece by addressing Consular affairs of Zambians, connecting businesses between the countries, fostering trade and investment, promoting cultural exchanges as well as the strengthening of the already existing bilateral relations.

During her visit, the Ambassador also met officials at the Greece Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence and the Hellenic African Chamber of Commerce and interacted with the Private sector.

16/10/2024

*CHIEF MUMENA DEMANDS PRACTICAL STEPS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION*

Chief Mumena of the Kaonde-speaking people of North Western Province has called for practical solutions for environmental protection.

The Traditional Leader acknowledged the difficult environmental challenges faced, such as low water levels and increased charcoal burning, and called for practical solutions and resilience.

He emphasized the need for consistent efforts to protect the environment and the importance of legal frameworks governing environmental protection.

This came to light when he graced the 5th Environmental Protection Dialogue (EPD) organized by the Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ).

The Traditional Leader acknowledged the platform’s growth over the years as a critical space for engagement and accountability in addressing Zambia’s pressing environmental challenges.

He expressed pleasure in witnessing the commitment of all participants and looked forward to a productive three-day program aimed at finding solutions for the environmental sector.

The Kaonde Chief appreciated the participation of the private sector, traditional leadership, international bodies, youths, and children, all united by a common purpose of safeguarding the environment for the prosperity of the nation and future generations.

Dr Mumena highlighted the theme of the event, “Strengthening Environmental Law for Thriving Communities,” as fundamental to sustainable development and the well-being of communities.

He stressed the importance of environmental laws and effective enforcement to protect ecosystems and the social and economic fabric of the country.

Meanwhile, Reality of Aid Africa Executive Director Mr. Vitalice Meja stated that climate change has significantly affected most crops due to rising temperatures and changing rain patterns.

Mr. Meja emphasized that high population growth and increased pressure on the environment are expanding the ecological footprint of the region.

He pointed out that most African countries’ GDP heavily relies on environmentally sensitive sectors such as mining, tourism, agriculture, and forestry.

Mr. Meja highlighted that these changes have exacerbated local environmental issues, including the depletion of natural resources and pollution.

He stressed the urgency of strengthening investments in environmental protection and sustainably managing essential natural resources and related ecosystem goods and services.

Mr. Meja noted that funding for environmental programs remains key to sustainable development. There is a need to evaluate whether the current funding framework is fit for purpose, and he argued that it is not.

He called for a change in the global climate financial architecture to prioritize Africa’s needs while accelerating actions on climate adaptation.

Mr. Meja mentioned that African countries lack the resources or fiscal space to tackle environmental protection challenges.

He said the international community’s commitment of $100 billion annually for climate finance has yet to be realized.

Mr. Meja criticized the current model of attracting private sector investment, which has led to high levels of debt distress in African countries.

He emphasized the importance of country leadership in prioritizing environmental protection activities and aligning support from development cooperation providers with government objectives.

*CEJ COMMUNICATIONS UNIT*

10/10/2024

EU AMBASSADOR REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE IN ZAMBIA

Lusaka, Thursday (October 10, 2024)

European Union Ambassador to Zambia and COMESA, Ms. Karolina Stasiac, has reiterated the European Union’s commitment to promoting environmental justice in Zambia through their funded projects.

She stressed the importance of sustainable development, protecting communities and natural resources, and the EU’s efforts to promote a circular economy, protect nature, and aim for zero pollution.

Ms. Stasiac mentioned the new directive requiring companies to address adverse environmental impacts both within and outside the EU, including in Zambia.

She said the directive complements existing regulations on business and human rights, such as the regulation of deforestation-free supply chains.

The Ambassador said this during the 2024 Environmental Protection Dialogue (EPD) event organized by the Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) in Lusaka.

Ms. Stasiac reiterated the EU’s commitment to ensuring economic growth is accompanied by safeguards to protect people’s rights and the environment.

She emphasized the responsibilities of governments, the international community, and the private sector under the UN guiding principles on business and human rights.

The Ambassador called for laws, policies, and practices to prevent and address human rights abuses and ensure victims receive redress and compensation.

She also noted Zambia’s celebration of 100 years of mining and the importance of developing the mining sector with social and environmental measures in place.

Ms. Stasiac highlighted the momentum in recognizing environmental justice issues and Zambia’s efforts in developing a national action plan on business and human rights.

07/10/2024

WATERAID ZAMBIA URGES STAKEHOLDERS TO SCALE UP THE HYGIENE BEHAVIOR CHANGE CAMPAIGN_KUTUBA

WaterAid Zambia has urged all stakeholders to join forces in promoting a hygiene behaviour change campaign, which is the engine for hygiene integration, dubbed with the slogan CLEANLINESS IS LIFE.

The campaign is aimed at improving the status of hygiene in Zambia.

WaterAid Zambia Hygiene Officer Kachusha Nkosha said WaterAid had since convened a workshop in Lusaka, dubbed the Hygiene Behaviour Change for national, provincial level and partners, including the Zambia NGO WASH Forum, marking a significant step towards improving hygiene practices across the nation.

Ms Nkosha emphasized the importance of the campaign in promoting sustainable hygiene behaviours, particularly in schools, health care and community settings.

She stated that the goal of WaterAid is to ensure that everyone, everywhere has access to clean water, decent toilets, and good hygiene in a generation.

Ms Nkosha said the Kutuba Campaign aims to raise awareness and encourage positive hygiene practices to combat public health emergencies and improve overall community health.

She mentioned that the event brought together representatives from the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, academia, and the private sector, highlighting the collaborative effort required to achieve the campaign’s objectives.

Ms Nkosha noted that WaterAid Zambia, with a presence in the country for over 50 years, has been instrumental in responding to droughts and ensuring access to essential WASH services.

She explained that the organization’s new strategy, “Beyond WASH,” focuses on financing WASH and integrating it into public health programs, namely safe motherhood, child health, nutrition, and public health security, aiming for a resilient and healthy Zambia by 2028.

Ms Nkosha added that the Kutuba Campaign is part of WaterAid’s broader efforts to strengthen systems and promote hygiene behaviour change.

She said the campaign launched in 2019, focuses on practical hygiene practices rather than just information dissemination.

The Hygiene Expert said this approach has proven effective in creating lasting behaviour change in communities but also offers opportunities to learn and improve hygiene programming.

Ms Nkosha said participants at the event would share their expectations and experiences, emphasizing the need for strong collaboration and the creation of hygiene champions who can lead efforts in their respective communities.

She also highlighted that the campaign aims to address the challenges faced by marginalized groups, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Ms Nkosha said WaterAid Zambia’s efforts in Monze, Kazungula, Nkeyema, and other regions have demonstrated the impact of effective WASH interventions.

She said the organization continues to supplement government efforts and work with partners from the NGO WASH Forum to model and scale successful WASH practices.

Ms Nkosha called for collective efforts to create resilient environments and reduce the incidence of waterborne diseases.

This is contained in a statement issued by Zambia NGO WASH Forum Communications Officer Bangwe Naviley.

07/10/2024

CHINSALI HEAD TEACHER TAKES OWN LIFE FOR UNKNOWN REASON

A 47 Year old School Head Teacher in Chinsali District in Muchinga Province has committed su***de by taking unknown poisonous substance.

Muchinga Province Police Commanding Officer, Dennis Moola has confirmed the incident in an interview with Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) in Chinsali today.

Mr. Moola has identified the deceased as Teddy Musukwa, a School Head Teacher at Mwaba Primary School in Chinsali.

He alleged that the incident happened on Friday 5 October 2024 between midnight and 02:30hrs at Musukwa's place of residence in Farmer Teaching Centre (FTC) Compound.

Mr. Moola pointed out that, the reason as to why Musukwa committed su***de has not yet been established.

The Police Commanding Officer revealed that Musukwa died at the hospital before he was attended to.

Mr. Moola said the body of the deceased is currently laying in Chinsali District Hospital mortuary awaiting possible burial.

07/10/2024

ZAMBIA NGO WASH FORUM RAISES CONCERN OVER INSUFFICIENT BUDGETARY ALLOCATION TO WASH IN 2025 BUDGET

The Zambia NGO WASH Forum has observed that the allocation to the water sector in the 2025 budget is insufficient to tackle the extensive water supply, sanitation, and hygiene challenges confronting Zambia.

Representing other members, Forum Member Chitimbwa Chifunda stated that the Forum analyzed the 2025 National Budget presented by the Minister of Finance and National Planning on Friday, 27th September 2024, focusing specifically on its implications for the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector.

She highlighted that the Forum observed that over the past five years, 2020 to 2024, there has been a downward trend in the WASH Budget allocation as a share of the budget.

The WASH Expert said allocations noted by the Forum have trended as 2.5%, 1.8%, 1.4%, 1.4%, 1.3%, and 1.1%.

Ms. Chifunda emphasized that the continued occurrence of cholera outbreaks in Zambia underscores the urgent need for increased and sustained investment in water, sanitation, and hygiene.

She noted that the cumulative effect of recent crises, including the 2023/24 drought, has amplified the challenges caused by chronic underfunding in the water sector.

Ms Chifunda said the Forum is of the view that this has left communities more vulnerable and hindered progress toward achieving national development goals, a critical expectation that the 2025 budget has not yet met.

This came to light in Lusaka when the Zambia NGO WASH Forum made a joint submission on the 2025 Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure for the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation to the Committee on Energy, Water Development, and Tourism for the financial year ending 31st December 2025, themed “Declining WASH Budgets Amidst a Drought and Cholera Crisis.”

Another NGO WASH Forum Member, Amanda Mallaghan, stated that the importance of an improved budgetary allocation to the WASH sector cannot be overemphasized.

Meanwhile, Chairperson of the Committee on Energy, Water Development, and Tourism, Binwell Mpundu, noted the high failure rate of boreholes and called for brainstorming to address the problem.

This information is contained in a statement issued by Zambia NGO WASH Forum National Coordinator Bubala Muyovwe Mumba.

02/10/2024

ZAMBIA NGO WASH FORUM EMPHASIZES COORDINATION IN WASH SECTOR

Zambia NGO WASH Forum Board Member Amanda Mallaghan has emphasized the importance of the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector coordinating as one voice while maintaining individual identities.

Ms. Mallaghan highlighted that the Forum provides a platform for NGOs and CSOs to speak with one voice about their goals.

She stressed that better coordination is essential for achieving improved access to WASH services.

She said this in Lusaka at a Review Meeting focusing on Enhancing Sector Coordination among Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) involved in WASH, organized by the Zambia NGO WASH Forum.

Ms. Mallaghan expressed hope that the meeting would bring together various expertise and experiences to focus on coordination.

She urged the participants to think about what improvements are needed in coordination and how they can present these to the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation.

Ms. Mallaghan expressed her desire for the Forum to outline key needs in the document, ensuring that they can approach the Ministry with a united front.

She hoped that by the next review, significant improvements in coordination would be evident.

Meanwhile, a Senior Statistician from the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, Winford Sikapula, said the Sector Coordination Framework was launched in 2020.

Mr. Sikapula explained that the Framework aimed to improve efficiency and effectiveness in service provision by quantifying efforts in the sector to achieve national and global goals, such as the Sustainable Development Goals and Vision 2030.

He highlighted that the Framework was designed to respond to emerging issues and commitments, particularly under SDG 17, which emphasizes global partnerships.

He said the Framework also aimed to create a mechanism for reporting successes to global platforms like the African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW), Zambezi Watercourse Commission (ZAMCOM), and Global Analysis and Assessment of Sanitation and Drinking Water (GLAAS).

Mr. Sikapula noted that the Framework provided a platform for cooperating partners and the private sector to align their work with the government’s development agenda, ensuring effective resource utilization and avoiding duplication of efforts.

He mentioned that the Framework was based on the principles of the Paris Declaration, emphasizing ownership and alignment with national plans.

Mr. Sikapula acknowledged that while some successes had been recorded, the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation often felt it was underreporting efforts in water supply, sanitation, and water security.

He said the Framework included a reporting structure with various meetings, such as the donor consultative meeting, Troika meeting, and technical working group meetings.

He, however, admitted that the sector had lagged in holding technical working group meetings as planned.

Mr. Sikapula outlined the coordination governance flow, emphasizing the role of the Permanent Secretary and the Department of Planning.

He mentioned that the Framework facilitated collaboration through Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with various stakeholders and adherence to international commitments.

Mr. Sikapula also discussed implementation challenges, such as the rearrangement of portfolio functions and the need to align with the 8th National Development Plan.

He outlined the roadmap for reviewing the Sector Coordination Framework, which included establishing a core team, conducting a situation analysis, and engaging stakeholders.

This is contained in a statement issued by Zambia NGO WASH Forum National Coordinator Bubala Muyovwe Mumba.

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EU AMBASSADOR REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE IN ZAMBIA Lusaka, Thursday (October 10, 2024) European Union Ambassador to Zambia and COMESA, Ms. Karolina Stasiac, has reiterated the European Union’s commitment to promoting environmental justice in Zambia through their funded projects. She stressed the importance of sustainable development, protecting communities and natural resources, and the EU’s efforts to promote a circular economy, protect nature, and aim for zero pollution. Ms. Stasiac mentioned the new directive requiring companies to address adverse environmental impacts both within and outside the EU, including in Zambia. She said the directive complements existing regulations on business and human rights, such as the regulation of deforestation-free supply chains. The Ambassador said this during the 2024 Environmental Protection Dialogue (EPD) event organized by the Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) in Lusaka. Ms. Stasiac reiterated the EU’s commitment to ensuring economic growth is accompanied by safeguards to protect people’s rights and the environment. She emphasized the responsibilities of governments, the international community, and the private sector under the UN guiding principles on business and human rights. The Ambassador called for laws, policies, and practices to prevent and address human rights abuses and ensure victims receive redress and compensation. She also noted Zambia’s celebration of 100 years of mining and the importance of developing the mining sector with social and environmental measures in place. Ms. Stasiac highlighted the momentum in recognizing environmental justice issues and Zambia’s efforts in developing a national action plan on business and human rights.

GOVERNMENT PAYS TRIBUTE TO AGRICULTURAL ECONOMIST LEWIS BANGWE FOR BUILDING CLASSROOM BLOCK The government has paid tribute to Agricultural Economist Lewis Bangwe for constructing a 1 by 2 classroom block at Mupamadzi Primary School in Lavushimanda District, Muchinga Province, using personal resources worth over K500,000. Lavushimanda District Commissioner Terry Kunda stated that Mr. Bangwe’s community service aligns with the government’s vision to expand classroom space following the Free Education Policy. Mr. Kunda thanked Mr. Bangwe for empowering the community where he began his education in Grade 1. He noted that such a gesture is unprecedented in the district and has left a lasting impression in Lavushimanda. The senior government official emphasized that Mr. Bangwe’s actions demonstrate the importance of giving back when one is blessed. Mr. Kunda highlighted that while Mr. Bangwe’s family sacrificed for his education, he chose to empower society for the betterment of humanity. Meanwhile, Agricultural Economist Lewis Bangwe mentioned that the resources he used were personal, supplemented by contributions from other former Mupamadzi pupils. Another former pupil, Esby Mambwe, donated 20 desks, inspired by Mr. Bangwe’s initiative.

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Felix Chipota Mutati Hon. Felix Mutati called his wife on ZedMobile the new network in town, to inform her that he was on his way home.

Hon. Mike Mposha on the ground to check on CDF projects UPND Zambia Zambia National Service

The Minister of Green Economy and Mp for Munali Constituency Hon. Mike Mposha, was today inspecting selected CDF projects in Kalikili ward. 1. The bug road of 0.9km 2. Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe Road of 1.3km 3. NRDC Salama park of 1.5km He letter handed over the Kaunda Square football to the ZNS for maintenance preparation that will run for three months. UPND Zambia Zambia National Service