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ISAAC MWANZA CHALLENGES PETAUKE CENTRAL BY-ELECTION AS NATIONAL ASSEMBLY DEFENDS SEAT VACANCY DECISIONIn collaboration w...
16/01/2025

ISAAC MWANZA CHALLENGES PETAUKE CENTRAL BY-ELECTION AS NATIONAL ASSEMBLY DEFENDS SEAT VACANCY DECISION

In collaboration with the Zambia Civil Liberties Union, Governance Activist Isaac Mwanza has filed an application to halt the upcoming Petauke Central Constituency by-election. However, the National Assembly has called on the Constitutional Court to dismiss the application.

Mwanza’s petition to the Court seeks to include the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) in his legal challenge against the National Assembly’s decision to declare the Petauke Central parliamentary seat vacant. The seat was declared vacant following the extended absence of fugitive MP Emmanuel Jay Banda. Banda, who was arrested and under police guard at Chipata Central Hospital, escaped custody in August 2024 while awaiting a court appearance. Mwanza is seeking a declaration that a parliamentary seat can only be vacant upon a ruling by the High Court.

The National Assembly has countered that Mwanza has failed to clearly specify the relief or outcome he seeks concerning the conduct of the by-election.

Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly Stephen Kawimbe argued that Banda has not contested the decision to communicate the seat’s vacancy to the ECZ. Kawimbe noted that on 13 November 2024, the Parliamentary Committee on Privileges found that Banda had been absent from the National Assembly without permission since 4 August 2024.

Kawimbe further submitted that Banda’s actions constituted a breach of the prescribed Code of Conduct, reinforcing the grounds for the seat’s vacancy.

In collaboration with the Zambia Civil Liberties Union, Governance Activist Isaac Mwanza has filed an application to halt the upcoming Petauke Central Constituency by-election. However, the National Assembly has called on the Constitutional Court to dismiss the application. Mwanza’s petition to th

ZAMGROW TO TRAIN 380 EXTENSION OFFICERS ON CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURE TECHNOLOGIES In the Eastern province, the Zambia Gr...
16/01/2025

ZAMGROW TO TRAIN 380 EXTENSION OFFICERS ON CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURE TECHNOLOGIES

In the Eastern province, the Zambia Growth Opportunities Programme for Results has started training agricultural extension officers in Climate-Smart Agriculture technologies.

This is in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture.

The trained officers will later train about 38,000 lead farmers, who will then train follower farmers in the province.

Eastern province agricultural officer Dr Ardeen Nansungwe officially opened the Zamgrow training of trainers for extension officers in the Kasanengwa and Lumezi districts.

Nansungwe told the trainee farmers, “We are studying with you to upgrade your knowledge, so please let’s pay attention to whatever you're taught here so that you can utilise it in your own districts.”

“Officers are being trained with the view to go and train farmers in their respective camps where they are coming from, so the target is that for each camp, we will train 100 farmers”, added Bernard Chungu, Senior Irrigation Engineer and one of the instructors of the Climate Agriculture Training.

Emmanual Fulani, Senior agricultural officer for the Lumezi district, told ZNBC, “The rainfall has been very erratic, and we are receiving less rain than usual. Through the interventions, I'm sure our farmers, despite having this problem of climate change, can still continue to produce and also be able to hold the food secure.”

In the Eastern Province, the Zambia Growth Opportunities Programme for Results (Zamgrow) has started training agricultural extension officers in Climate-Smart Agriculture technologies This is in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture. The trained officers will later train about 38,000 lead fa

ZAMBIA NATIONAL SERVICE TARGETS 50,000 HECTARES OF MAIZE BY 2027, EXPANDS AGRICULTURAL INITIATIVESThe Zambia National Se...
15/01/2025

ZAMBIA NATIONAL SERVICE TARGETS 50,000 HECTARES OF MAIZE BY 2027, EXPANDS AGRICULTURAL INITIATIVES

The Zambia National Service (ZNS) has set an ambitious goal to cultivate approximately 50,000 hectares of maize by 2027, a move aimed at bolstering the nation’s food security. ZNS Commander Lieutenant General Maliti Solochi announced that additional land acquisitions have made this target increasingly achievable. This initiative underscores the ZNS's commitment to strengthening the country’s resilience and providing vital support to vulnerable communities.

General Solochi shared these remarks during a tour of the Musakashi farm in Mufulira District, Copperbelt Province. Highlighting diversification efforts, he revealed that the Ministry of Health has granted the ZNS a commencement order to cultivate cannabis and industrial h**p for medical purposes, with operations expected to begin in February 2025.

Meanwhile, ZNS Chief of Agriculture Brigadier General Chabala Mwanza disclosed plans to expand maize production at Musakashi farm. By February 2025, the farm's cultivation area will grow from just over 100 hectares to more than 300 hectares, significantly enhancing the ZNS’s contribution to agricultural output.

Copperbelt Deputy Permanent Secretary Daniel Kamenga commended the ZNS for its proactive agricultural initiatives, lauding their efforts to strengthen food security and support national development.

These projects reflect the ZNS's dual focus on addressing immediate food needs and exploring innovative solutions like medical cannabis, paving the way for long-term economic and social benefits for Zambia.

The Zambia National Service (ZNS) has set an ambitious goal to cultivate approximately 50,000 hectares of maize by 2027, a move aimed at bolstering the nation’s food security. ZNS Commander Lieutenant General Maliti Solochi announced that additional land acquisitions have made this target increasi...

OVER 1.2 MILLION KWACHA OF CDF FUNDING TO PAY FOR SECONDARY BOARDING SCHOOL BURSARIESThis year, the Constituency Develop...
15/01/2025

OVER 1.2 MILLION KWACHA OF CDF FUNDING TO PAY FOR SECONDARY BOARDING SCHOOL BURSARIES

This year, the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) will provide over 1.2 million Kwacha to pay for secondary boarding school bursaries in the Livingstone district.

The secondary bursary is a component of the expanded CDF that the New Dawn government introduced to enable children from vulnerable families to access secondary-level education.

278 learners, including 172 returning and 106 newly registered, are said to benefit from the government initiative.

Livingstone City Council Public Relations Manager Melvin Mukela told ZNBC News that 1,2721,660 Kwacha will be used to fund bursaries for the 278 children.

One of the parents of the sponsored learners said, “I feel very, very happy, and I want to thank the government of the day for what they have done for me because they have lessened my burden.”

Learners who have not yet collected their introductory letters are being advised to do so so that the local authority can process the payments.

This year, the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) will provide over 1.2 million Kwacha to pay for secondary boarding school bursaries in the Livingstone district. The secondary bursary is a component of the expanded CDF that the New Dawn government introduced to enable children from vulnerable fam

GOVERNMENT ALLOCATES 5.4 BILLION KWACHA TO SUPPORT OVER 2.2 MILLION VULNERABLE HOUSEHOLDSSince June 2024, the government...
14/01/2025

GOVERNMENT ALLOCATES 5.4 BILLION KWACHA TO SUPPORT OVER 2.2 MILLION VULNERABLE HOUSEHOLDS

Since June 2024, the government has disbursed 5.4 billion Kwacha to support drought emergencies, regular social cash transfers, and price shock response beneficiaries. These critical programmes have collectively aided 2,263,101 households, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of Zambia’s most vulnerable communities.

Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Social Welfare Director Nelson Nyangu highlighted the impact of these funds. Of the total amount, 2.4 billion kwacha was allocated to drought emergency cash transfers between June and December 2024. This support reached 726,000 households across 84 districts severely affected by the ongoing drought. The funds have improved water security in these areas, providing essential relief to those in need.

Additionally, 500 million Kwacha has been directed to assist 226,000 households in 32 districts impacted by price shocks, ensuring that communities not directly affected by the drought also receive support.

Nyangu also noted that over 1.9 billion Kwacha has been distributed to 1,1311,101 households under the regular social cash transfer programme. These payments help to improve the country’s stability and resilience.

These initiatives underscore the government’s dedication to addressing social and economic challenges. By prioritising targeted interventions, the government continues to demonstrate its determination to aid Zambia’s citizens.

Since June 2024, the government has disbursed 5.4 billion Kwacha to support drought emergencies, regular social cash transfers, and price shock response beneficiaries. These critical programmes have collectively aided 2,263,101 households, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving the li...

FAZ REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SECURITY AS CHAN DRAW NEARSThe Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has reaffirmed its commi...
13/01/2025

FAZ REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SECURITY AS CHAN DRAW NEARS

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving security to ensure a friendly atmosphere in stadiums.

FAZ President Andrew Kamanga has also emphasised the association’s zero-tolerance stance on hooliganism, pledging to impose harsh penalties on offending clubs through its judicial bodies.

Kamanga has stressed the importance of addressing this issue immediately to prevent it from escalating.

Meanwhile, the TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 draw will be conducted at Kenyatta International Conventional Centre in Nairobi, Kenya, on Wednesday, 15 January 2025, at 19:00.

FAZ’s President’s Corner said, “We are keeping our fingers crossed for the draw, which takes place on Wednesday in Nairobi. It has been a long wait but we are happy that it is finally here with our team already hard at work. The draw will help us align our team’s international preparations with the opponents in our group.”

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving security to ensure a friendly atmosphere in stadiums. FAZ President Andrew Kamanga has also emphasised the association’s zero-tolerance stance on hooliganism, pledging to impose harsh penalties on offending clubs t...

PRESIDENT HICHILEMA DONATES 100,000 KWACHA TO RCZ PETAUKE FOR SUSTAINABILITY AND EMPOWERMENT The Reformed Church in Zamb...
13/01/2025

PRESIDENT HICHILEMA DONATES 100,000 KWACHA TO RCZ PETAUKE FOR SUSTAINABILITY AND EMPOWERMENT

The Reformed Church in Zambia (RCZ) Petauke Congregation is set to receive a donation of 100,000 Kwacha from President Hichilema. The funds are allocated to help the church become self-sustainable and productive through strategic investments in various projects. Hichilema emphasised the importance of supporting the church, stating that a strong church can contribute significantly to the country’s development.

In his remarks, Hichilema urged the church to form organisations and actively engage in empowerment schemes. Such initiatives are essential for enhancing the livelihoods of vulnerable communities by providing them with the tools and resources needed for sustainable growth.

Special Assistant to the President for Politics Levy Ngoma delivered Hichilema’s message when attending a church service at RCZ Petauke Congregation. During the service, RCZ Petauke Nyanja Presbytery Moderator Joseph Mwale expressed gratitude to Hichilema for his support of the church’s mission.

Additionally, Eastern Province Minister Peter Phiri appealed to the church to promote peace and unity during campaigns for the Petauke Central parliamentary by-elections. This call for peace aligns with the church’s broader goal of fostering community development and cohesion.

The Reformed Church in Zambia (RCZ) Petauke Congregation is set to receive a donation of 100,000 Kwacha from President Hichilema. The funds are allocated to help the church become self-sustainable and productive through strategic investments in various projects. Hichilema emphasised the importance o

Kasempa District has successfully distributed inputs to 14,500 beneficiaries under the Farmer Input Support Programme (F...
12/01/2025

Kasempa District has successfully distributed inputs to 14,500 beneficiaries under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) for the 2024/2025 farming season.

Kasempa District Agriculture Coordinator Ernest Munthali says the implementation of the FISP Programme using the E-Voucher system was carried out smoothly, despite internet connectivity challenges and load shedding.

Mr. Munthali was speaking during the FISP, Sustainable Agriculture Finance Facility, and the 360 Mechanization project publicity and sensitization programme in Kasempa.

Meanwhile, Provincial Agricultural Information Officer Kelvin Phiri says the aim of the sensitization and publicity programme is to raise awareness among farmers about the achievements of the government in the agriculture sector in the province.

Senior Headman Kalela of Njenga Agriculture Camp, who is also a beneficiary of the FISP programme, has expressed gratitude to the government for supporting small-scale farmers and for delivering inputs on time.

This article was originally published by ZNBC.

Kasempa District has successfully distributed inputs to 14,500 beneficiaries under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) for the 2024/2025 farming season. Kasempa District Agriculture Coordinator Ernest Munthali says the implementation of the FISP Programme using the E-Voucher system was carrie

CHILD FUND DISTRIBUTES EDUCATION AND BABY CARE KITS TO OVER 15,000 VULNERABLE CHILDRENThe Child Fund has distributed edu...
10/01/2025

CHILD FUND DISTRIBUTES EDUCATION AND BABY CARE KITS TO OVER 15,000 VULNERABLE CHILDREN

The Child Fund has distributed education and baby care kits to over 15,000 vulnerable children enrolled in early childhood education across 12 districts, with the kits valued at over $200,000. This initiative aims to improve literacy and provide a solid foundation for children’s education and future opportunities.

Speaking at the, Central Province Minister Mwabashike Nkulukusa emphasised that the effort is a collaborative investment between the Child Fund, the government, and other stakeholders. He highlighted its importance in driving sustainable development and uplifting families in the most vulnerable communities.

Child Fund Zambia Country Director Simba Machingaidze stated that the initiative equips children with essential tools for foundational learning, helping to enhance literacy skills and give them a strong start in life.

Machingaidze reiterated the organisation’s commitment to implementing programs that improve education and health in the districts. He stressed the importance of sustained efforts to address the needs of vulnerable children and ensure impactful interventions for their development and well-being.

This initiative underscores the Child Fund’s dedication to creating lasting change through partnerships that prioritise education and health for Zambia’s most disadvantaged communities.

The Child Fund has distributed education and baby care kits to over 15,000 vulnerable children enrolled in early childhood education across 12 districts, with the kits valued at over $200,000. This initiative aims to improve literacy and provide a solid foundation for children’s education and futu...

MINING CREATED 30,000 JOBS IN NORTHWESTERN PROVINCE IN 2024The mining sector generated an additional 30,000 jobs in Nort...
10/01/2025

MINING CREATED 30,000 JOBS IN NORTHWESTERN PROVINCE IN 2024

The mining sector generated an additional 30,000 jobs in Northwestern Province last year as major projects, including the $2 billion expansion at Barrick’s Lumwana superpit, got under way.

North Western Province Minister Robert Lihefu praised the growth of the mining sector in his patch, explaining that some 27,000 jobs had been contributed by just three major projects: Barrick’s Lumwana mine, Kansenseli Gold Mine, and Kalengwa Mine, which was reopened by President Hichilema in November after being closed for 46 years.

The remaining 3,000 jobs were generated by smaller mining operations in the Province.

Looking to the future, the minister was even more optimistic, “2025, this year only, North Western Province will be able to produce 810,000 metric tonnes [of copper]”.

Despite challenging economic headwinds, since taking office President Hakainde Hichilema has been steadfast in his determination to create jobs for ordinary Zambians and help them put food on the table.

Earlier this month, Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane announced that more than 40,000 jobs were created last year, far outstripping national employment projections.

Additionally, the Ministry of Mines announced that national copper production in 2025 is expected to surpass 1 million tonnes, contributing to the President’s ambitious goal of 3 million tonnes of copper annually by 2031.

The mining sector generated an additional 30,000 jobs in Northwestern Province last year as major projects, including the $2 billion expansion at Barrick’s Lumwana superpit, got under way. North Western Province Minister Robert Lihefu praised the growth of the mining sector in his patch, explainin

ZAMBIA IMPORTS OVER 83,000 METRIC TONNES OF MAIZE TO ADDRESS FOOD DEFICITZambia has imported more than 83,000 metric ton...
09/01/2025

ZAMBIA IMPORTS OVER 83,000 METRIC TONNES OF MAIZE TO ADDRESS FOOD DEFICIT

Zambia has imported more than 83,000 metric tonnes of maize from Tanzania as part of its efforts to combat the national food deficit caused by the severe 2024 drought. This initiative is part of a broader agreement to bring in 650,000 metric tonnes of maize from its neighbouring country, according to Gabriel Pollen, National Coordinator of the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU).

Pollen stated that the government has already secured 30% of the total imports, amounting to 195,000 metric tonnes so far. This measure was deemed necessary after drought conditions significantly impacted last year’s local maize production, leaving a shortfall in meeting the nation’s food needs.

To expedite the process, the government has partnered with TAZARA Railway and Tanzanian transporters to ensure the maize reaches warehouses across the country efficiently. In addition, private sector players such as First Quantum Minerals (FQM) have supported the initiative, with the mining company contributing by transporting 4,000 metric tonnes of maize.

Pollen emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring food security amidst growing challenges posed by climate change. He noted that the maize imports are expected to stabilise food supplies, mitigating the risk of a national food crisis.

This collaborative effort highlights Zambia’s proactive approach to addressing food insecurity and reflects the critical role of partnerships between the government, private sector, and regional stakeholders in managing climate-induced challenges.

Zambia has imported more than 83,000 metric tonnes of maize from Tanzania as part of its efforts to combat the national food deficit caused by the severe 2024 drought. This initiative is part of a broader agreement to bring in 650,000 metric tonnes of maize from its neighbouring country, according t

COPPER PRODUCTION EXPECTED TO HIT 1 MILLION TONNES BEFORE 2026Copper production in Zambia is expected to reach one milli...
09/01/2025

COPPER PRODUCTION EXPECTED TO HIT 1 MILLION TONNES BEFORE 2026

Copper production in Zambia is expected to reach one million tonnes per year by the end of 2025, according to the Ministry of Mines.

Permanent Secretary Hapegna Kabeta says the increased output is being driven by rising production levels at mining companies including Barrick Lumwana, Trident in Kalumbila and Kansanshi Mines.

The news marks strong progress towards President Hichilema’s aim to reach 3 million tonnes per year by the end of 2030, with production steadily on the rise since 2022, shortly after the President took office.

Last year production resumed at both Mopani Mines and Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) after the government succeeded in attracting additional investment to the sites, which had been shuttered under President Lungu’s administration. The growth of the mining sector has resulted in more jobs and increased tax revenue, which can be spent on roads, hospitals, and social protection.

Copper production in Zambia is expected to reach one million tonnes per year by the end of 2025, according to the Ministry of Mines. Permanent Secretary Hapegna Kabeta says the increased output is being driven by rising production levels at mining companies including Barrick Lumwana, Trident in Kal

NATIONAL MINERAL MAPPING PROGRESSING WELLOn August 14th, President Hakainde Hichilema launched the nationwide geological...
08/01/2025

NATIONAL MINERAL MAPPING PROGRESSING WELL

On August 14th, President Hakainde Hichilema launched the nationwide geological mapping survey, which aims to pinpoint areas in the country with mineral deposits. The survey has now covered significant parts of the Western and North Western provinces and is expected to be completed by the end of May 2025.

The first-ever countrywide high-resolution aerial geophysical smart mapping survey will advance Zambia’s mineral exploration efforts and help the country achieve Hichilema’s target of producing three million tons of copper annually by 2031.

In an interview with ZNBC News in Lusaka, Mines Permanent Secretary Hapenga Kabeta explained that the country has been divided into four zones, with Zone A encompassing Western and North-Western Provinces.

The Mines Permanent Secretary told ZNBC, “Areas such as Zambezi and Kalabo have adequately been covered, and as I am speaking to you, the planes are flying, and we should be able to complete Zone 1 by the end of May 2025.

“We want to understand if there are any minerals. Round 1 will tell us there is an anomaly, but it will not say what the metal is,” added the Permanent Secretary.

Kabeta also updated on the transfer of mining cadastre information to the Trimbo system, which is anchored by Smart Zambia. The system will oversee the process of granting and managing mineral licenses throughout the country.

Kabeta told ZNBC, “We are very confident that when we have this system, it will serve the interest of mining stakeholders, those who want to check and those who want to apply for licenses.”

On August 14th, President Hakainde Hichilema launched the nationwide geological mapping survey, which aims to pinpoint areas in the country with mineral deposits. The survey has now covered significant parts of the Western and North Western provinces and is expected to be completed by the end of May

LAKE KARIBA'S RISING WATER LEVELS BRING HOPE FOR ENERGY RECOVERY The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) reported that water l...
08/01/2025

LAKE KARIBA'S RISING WATER LEVELS BRING HOPE FOR ENERGY RECOVERY

The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) reported that water levels in Lake Kariba are on the rise due to continued rainfall in the reservoir and catchment area. This development is essential for Zimbabwe and Zambia, both of which depend heavily on Lake Kariba for hydroelectric power generation.

In recent years, the ongoing drought has had a detrimental effect on the country’s hydroelectric production, which supplies 85% of Zambia’s electricity. The resultant water shortage and power outages have disrupted daily life and economic activities across the country, with severe consequences for the agricultural and industrial sectors that drive the economy.

Hydropower generation at Lake Kariba operates effectively when water levels are between 475.50m and 488.50m. According to the ZRA’s latest hydrological survey, water levels reached 475.87m on 6 January, up from 475.83m on 24 December. This represents a modest but vital increase in storage capacity, from 11.34% to 12.32% during that period.

Since its commissioning in 1960, the Kariba Dam has been a vital source of energy production and economic development in the region. The recent increase in water levels offers much-needed relief, especially following the declaration of a national disaster by President Hakainde Hichilema in February 2024.

The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) reported that water levels in Lake Kariba are on the rise due to continued rainfall in the reservoir and catchment area. This development is essential for Zimbabwe and Zambia, both of which depend heavily on Lake Kariba for hydroelectric power generation. In recen

CHOLERA VACCINE ROLLOUT COMMENCES IN NAKONDEPublic health authorities have commenced a mass rollout out of oral cholera ...
08/01/2025

CHOLERA VACCINE ROLLOUT COMMENCES IN NAKONDE

Public health authorities have commenced a mass rollout out of oral cholera vaccines in Nakonde District, Muchinga Province. 200,000 doses of the medicine have been delivered to the district by the Ministry of Health and local teams say they are confident of achieving a 100% uptake rate.

“As part of the intervention that we are doing, I think that that the cholera vaccination will actually change the trajectory of the outbreak here in Nakonde. So we are very excited,” said Dr David Silweaya, Provincial Health Director for Muchinga Province.

As part of the vaccination rollout, public health authorities are asking all eligible people in Nakonde to come forward and receive the treatment, which dramatically reduces a person’s risk of becoming infected with Cholera and developing symptoms.

“We are here for you. You are the reason we are working as health workers,” reassured Florence Chileshe, a nursing officer.

According to the Ministry of Health, Nakonde has a population of approximately 197,000.

Public health authorities have commenced a mass rollout out of oral cholera vaccines in Nakonde District, Muchinga Province. 200,000 doses of the medicine have been delivered to the district by the Ministry of Health and local teams say they are confident of achieving a 100% uptake rate. “As part ...

SEVEN CANDIDATES CONFIRMED FOR PETAUKE BY-ELECTIONThe Petauke Central Constituency is set for a Parliamentary by-electio...
07/01/2025

SEVEN CANDIDATES CONFIRMED FOR PETAUKE BY-ELECTION

The Petauke Central Constituency is set for a Parliamentary by-election after Emmanuel Jay Banda, the independent MP since 2021, vacated his seat. Banda, who was arrested and under police guard at Chipata Central Hospital, fled in August while awaiting a court appearance. Seven candidates have successfully filed their nominations, with the election scheduled for 6 February 2025.

The nominations, conducted peacefully at the Petauke Nomination Centre, officially began at 9:00 am under the supervision of Returning Officer Sibeso Muimui. The candidates competing for the seat include Simon Banda of the New Congress Party (NCP), Carlos Chama of Citizens First, Severian Lungu of the United Party for National Development (UPND), Julius Mwale of the Socialist Party, Phiri Moses of the Democratic Union, Joshua Tembo of the Leadership Movement, and Independent candidate Nkole Mutale. One Independent candidate, Mutale Katongo, was unable to complete his nomination due to illness and incomplete paperwork.

Among the candidates, Simon Banda of the NCP has received backing from the Tonse Alliance, which recently endorsed the NCP for the 2026 general elections. On 8 November 2024, the alliance announced former President Edgar Lungu as its presidential candidate for 2026. Politician Sean Enoch confirmed that the alliance plans to field candidates in all upcoming parliamentary by-elections, including those in Petauke and Pambashe, as well as in the forthcoming councillor elections in Mongu and Mpongwe.

The candidates have outlined a range of priorities for the constituency. Severian Lungu of the UPND focused on fostering unity, while Carlos Chama of Citizens First expressed confidence in a strong performance, declaring himself the “surprise package”. Julius Mwale of the Socialist Party emphasised addressing inequalities, and Moses Phiri of the Democratic Union proposed building a dam to tackle water shortages. Simon Banda of the NCP highlighted plans for road and water improvements, and Joshua Tembo of the Leadership Movement pledged rural development. Independent candidate Nkole Mutale drew attention to his grassroots support and connection with the community.

With diverse promises and manifestos, the upcoming by-election will draw significant attention in the Eastern Province. The UPND's unexpected victory in the Kawambwa Central by-election, a region historically dominated by the Patriotic Front, signals a potential shift in Zambia’s political landscape as the 2026 general elections approach.

The Petauke Central Constituency is set for a Parliamentary by-election after Emmanuel Jay Banda, the independent MP since 2021, vacated his seat. Banda, who was arrested and under police guard at Chipata Central Hospital, fled in August while awaiting a court appearance. Seven candidates have succe

CHIPOLOPOLO COACH POSITIVE AHEAD OF CHAN TOURNAMENTChipolopolo Coach Wedson Nyirenda says his team can bring the trophy ...
07/01/2025

CHIPOLOPOLO COACH POSITIVE AHEAD OF CHAN TOURNAMENT

Chipolopolo Coach Wedson Nyirenda says his team can bring the trophy home if it is fully supported ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament.

Nyirenda says his technical bench has requested at least two international friendly games before the February 1st kickoff.

Reuben Kamanga, General Secretary of the Football Association of Zambia, was positive about the team's chances of securing friendly matches.

Speaking to the players at the Kafue Celtic training ground, Kamanga said, “The President of FAZ wants to see that this team is prepared so that when we go to CHAN, we can get a good result. Work with the coaches to make sure you are ready in your various positions to go and deliver for Zambia.”

Zambia’s opponents will be unveiled on January 15 when the tournament draws are held in Nairobi.

The 2024 CHAN tournament will be hosted by three East African countries, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, as a dress rehearsal for the 2027 AFCON.

“The boys are doing very well, the discipline is high, and the commitment, as you have seen, they say there is always a first time for everything, and we are determined to do just that,” added Wedson Nyirenda.

Chipolopolo Coach Wedson Nyirenda says his team can bring the trophy home if it is fully supported ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament.  Nyirenda says his technical bench has requested at least two international friendly games before the February 1

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