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14/01/2025

ZAMRA announces mandatory registration for imported cosmetics in Zambia. These include face powder, creams, lipstick among others.

14/01/2025

MINISTER of Lands and Natural Resources Sylvia Masebo says Government has started reviewing the Land Policy and is drafting a new Land Act that will also look at the 99-year lease provision.

During an appearance by Ms Masebo on ZNBC TV’s Sunday Interview programme, Dominic Kapulu, of Chingola, phoned in and asked if Government has plans to reduce the 99-year lease on land, as the period is too long.

“What happens normally after this 99 years? I think people change the land use, are able to sell that land, instead of that land reverting to the State. Are there any plans to change that law?”

Mr Kapulu asked. The minister said the observation was very important.

“This is why the Government is looking at reviewing the Land Policy and also coming up with a new Land Act and that process has already started,” she said.

“But, of course, we have to do a lot of consultations with the public, traditional leaders [and] all other stakeholders – organisations that have a direct interest in issues of land or have a lot of knowledge on issues of land.

“We really have to work hard together to ensure that we come up with an improved Land Act.”

Credit : Daily Mail

14/01/2025

The 2025 African Nations Championship -CHAN- tournament has been postponed from February to August.

14/01/2025

NHIMA Must Be Saved – It Saves Lives!

To allow NHIMA to lapse into bankruptcy is to sleep-walk into collective su***de.

By Dr. Chitalu Chilufya.

Lusaka, January 14 - Letting NHIMA collapse is sentencing Zambians to permanent ill-health, poverty and eventual death. Allowing NHIMA to sink and drown, is sentencing a nation to a slow painful death; a betrayal of the aspirations of achieving Universal Health Coverage that is aimed at ensuring that all Zambians, for the first time in our lifetime, access quality insured healthcare services without suffering financial hardship, increasing the quality of health outcomes, reducing morbidity and mortality, and ultimately, eliminating inequality and poverty arising from ill health.

If NHIMA is to die, the latent economic dividends wrought out of a productive and vibrant citizenry are lost forever. It is unfortunate that the financing and solvency situation at NHIMA has deteriorated to levels where the Scheme is unable to meet its financial obligations, as and when they fall due, particularly the claims.

This, however, should have been expected, given the structural constraints of NHIMA on revenue collections, currently pegged at 2% of Basic Income, split 1% between employer and employee.

The current NHIMA financing mechanism is inadequate to meet the needs of keeping the Scheme sustainably solvent, and it was expected that key reforms would be implemented after two years of NHIMA’s creation. Sadly, five years down the line, there have been no reforms on NHIMA financing arrangements, and what we see today is a result of policy, strategic and management inaction.

The 2022 NHIMA Actuarial Valuation, which is publicly accessed by all, warned that if nothing was done to reform the NHIMA financing model, NHIMA would be insolvent by 2024. And true to these warnings, the Scheme is now insolvent because nothing has been done to correct the situation by those in whose hands this national jewel has been entrusted.

It is time for serious policy and strategic introspection on what we want to achieve collectively as a people particularly where access to health is concerned. If allowed to collapse due to continued policy inaction, Zambia would have eroded all the dividends gained and progress made so far towards achieving Universal Health Coverage and the Vision 2030.

Allowing NHIMA to collapse is akin to Zambians willfully choosing ill health over wellness; squalor and poverty over wealth; and death over life. We must all come together to forestall this national pending, but avoidable, calamity. Because when history is recorded, posterity will judge our generation harshly and rightfully so. This must not happen under our watch!

What then should be done? The following are the key policy steps that must urgently be implemented to salvage NHIMA:

1. Immediately address the governance failure at NHIMA by resconstituting the Board to bridge the gap between management and policy makers. NHIMA is collapsing under the watch of the board and their failure is reflecting badly on otherwise competent technical staff in management.
2. Equally, the reconstituted board must ensure that management implement a solid contribution and membership expansion program to increase compliance levels.
3. Bail out NHIMA with a one-off deficit financing, for say one year, to immediately plug the hole in outstanding claims. To avoid recurrence of this scenario, we need to trigger immediate financing reforms.
3. Implement the December 2023 Tripartite Consultative Labour Council Resolutions that unanimously agreed to support government’s proposal to move the NHIMA contributions from Basic Income to Gross Incomes. This will not only raise additional income but will also ensure that employers contribution avoidance is curbed. Triangulation with other institutions that collect contributions will be an obvious mode of checking compliance.
4. Introduce a Statutory Mandatory Minimum Contribution for both the Formal and Informal Sector to ensure that the NHIMA collections do not fall below an acceptable minimum. This is the global practice in the implementation of such schemes.
5. ⁠NHIMA Capital Injection and Appropriation for Operations: The NHIMA reports show that government has not provided the needed Capital Injection and appropriation as stipulated in the Act. This is an anomaly that must be corrected if the Scheme is to serve its public role.
6. ⁠Invest in Public Service Delivery; We can do this by ensuring public hospitals have adequate human capital, comprehensive laboratory and diagnostic services, and sufficient drugs and medical supplies. This will ensure that demand for services drift from the private to the public sector. NHIMA must contribute to the drug fund at ZAMMSA to ensure availability of safe and efficacious drugs for ALL.
7. ⁠NHIMA should standardize the prices for services for both the public and private sector to contain costs. The Quality Assurance & Accreditation Department must double down in monitoring over servicing risks from private sector partners, who, otherwise, are key to the UHC agenda.

Further, the sustainability of NHIMA lies in ensuring that demand for curative healthcare services are reduced through investment in health promotion and preventive healthcare interventions. NHIMA must forge a stronger partnership with the Ministry of Health and the media to empower people with knowledge to prevent Non Communicable Diseases such as:

1. Hypertension, with the common consequence of cerebrovascular accidents, commonly called strokes. These cases are common and have contributed to the rise in mortality or expensive clinical care, through prolonged hospital stays.
2. ⁠Diabetes.
3. ⁠Cancers.
4. ⁠Chronic respiratory disorders.

Further, NHIMA must work with the Ministry of Health to eliminate common infectious diseases that account for high outpatient attendance and expensive inpatient stay, culminating in higher claims. A case in point is the rise in Malaria cases will put a strain on the NHIMA funds. Yet, if NHIMA worked with the Ministry of Health and the National Malaria Elimination Programme, in funding Indoor Residual Spraying and other preventive interventions, huge savings would be realized.

The last five years of NHIMA have proven beyond doubt that if properly governed, managed and supported, access to quality insured health for Zambia is possible in our lifetime. It is prudent, therefore, that government seriously looks into the NHIMA situation and urgently institute reforms needed to save the Scheme to save the lives of Zambians.

Government must seriously look into the NHIMA situation to fix only that which is broken. Policy makers must urgently institute reforms needed to preserve and improve on those parts that are functional because we should not throw out the BABY with the proverbial bath water.

Universal health coverage is only sustainable under the auspices of a viable health care financing mechanism!

NHIMA MUST BE SAVED; NHIMA SAVES LIVES!

About The Author: Dr. Chilufya, a PF presidential candidate, is a public health physician, Mansa Central Member of Parliament and former Minister of Health who led the radical transformation of the Zambia national health system in pursuit of Universal Health Coverage. https://www.facebook.com/chitaluchilufyaofficial

14/01/2025

Competence at work or lack of it, should never be associated with tribe 🇿🇲

I was born in Kitwe but spent my first five years on earth in Mongu - my best friend was Blackson whose tribal identity I did not know then and up to now I can’t remember.

I moved back to Kitwe in the early 90s- lived in Ndeke Village and later New Ndeke not knowing what tribe my friends were. we where kids who simply loved football and never missed Nkana or Power play in Wusakile and Ndeke respectively.

The story is similar for many of you who appreciate attributes about people based on the good qualities they bring to the friendship.

I wonder how the issue of tribe becomes a centre of discussion in politics. I thought the benchmark should be whose ideas are better and practical.

When a male student lining up to do academic registration at college, sees a beautiful first year female student in the queue, there is no consideration of what tribe the young lady is- he simply gathers courage to say hi. (I greeted a couple of them as a fresher…lol).

For many years - Zambia has faced challenges in major sectors and what will resolve these problems is the quality of exchange of ideas.

We need to reach a stage where we question people’s competences and not the region they are coming from.

A country of 73 tribes, 116 districts, 156 constituencies and 10 provinces should focus on creating a society of ideas for development.

Note: the picture accompanying caption is at the house in Mongu were we lived between 1985 and 1990 ( I last visited the place in 2022).

14/01/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/19mUceuKKc/

14/01/2025

COMMERCIAL UTILITIES SCALE UP CHOLERA MITIGATION EFFORTS

Lusaka 14th January, 2025- The Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation (MWDS) would like to assure the nation of its unwavering commitment to combating the Cholera outbreak by working closely with other Ministries and stakeholders.

While the rainy season brings much-needed relief to drought-affected areas, it has also presented challenges, particularly the heightened risk of Cholera. In response, the Ministry has intensified interventions to protect public health and ensure access to safe water and sanitation for all.

Recognizing the critical role of water supply and sanitation in preventing Cholera, Commercial Utilities have implemented robust measures to support vulnerable communities, especially in identified Cholera hotspots. Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company has prioritized peri-urban areas such as Kanyama, George, Bauleni, Kabanana, and Chainda by providing water services through bowsers to ensure residents have access to safe water.

The commercial utility has partnered with Lusaka City Council to strengthen solid waste management in hotspots such as Chibolya and Kanyama, addressing risks associated with poor waste disposal. WASH Cluster meetings, chaired by Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation and supported by stakeholders including the Ministry of Health and UNICEF among others, are ensuring a coordinated and effective response to cholera prevention and preparedness.

Chambeshi Water Supply and Sanitation Company has deployed a water bowser to Gabon Township in Nakonde to assist vulnerable households.

Southern Water Supply and Sanitation Company maintains a standby 10,000-liter water bowser and vacuum tanker for rapid response to water and sanitation needs. The Water Utility has also extended these efforts to shallow wells in Nakonde, supplementing them with the distribution of water purification tablets and domestic Chlorine to residents.

Similarly, Eastern Water Supply and Sanitation Company has drilled emergency boreholes in Katete and is upgrading water systems in Petauke and Chipata to restore and improve supply. The Water Utiltiy Company has also intensified procurement of critical inputs like Chlorine and aluminium sulphate to support continued treatment and distribution.

In preparation for sustained intervention, Southern Water Supply and Sanitation Company has stockpiled essential water treatment chemicals, ensuring uninterrupted water quality management.

To enhance water quality, Commercial Utilities are employing superchlorination techniques to ensure safe drinking water, exceeding the standard chlorine levels to prevent post-contamination in water networks and storage facilities. Nationwide, heightened water quality surveillance has been implemented, focusing on detecting and addressing potential contamination swiftly to maintain safety standards.

I would like to reaffirm that all Commercial Utilities are actively implementing the outlined interventions, particularly super chlorination, to strengthen their resistance to Cholera during this period.

These efforts demonstrate the resilience and dedication of the water sector to safeguard public health during this critical time. Despite challenges such as load shedding and drought, Commercial Utilities continue to innovate and collaborate, ensuring communities receive the support they need.

The Ministry urges all citizens to use the safe water services provided by Commercial Utilities and to adopt hygiene practices that contribute to Cholera prevention. Together, we can overcome these challenges and build a healthier, more resilient Zambia.

The Ministry remains steadfast in its mission to ensure safe water and sanitation for all and would like to thank its partners and the public for their ongoing support in these efforts.
Issued by:

Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu, MP
MINISTER OF WATER DEVELOPMENT AND SANITATION

14/01/2025

PRESS STATEMENT
ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENT STATISTICS FOR THE YEAR 2024
January 14, 2025-The Zambia Police Service wishes to update the public on the road traffic accident statistics for the year 2024. A total of 35,731 road traffic accidents were reported across the country during the year. Out of these, 1,804 were fatal accidents, resulting in the deaths of 2,199 individuals. Additionally, 3,450 serious accidents were recorded, leading to 5,798 persons being seriously injured, while 7,511 slight accidents resulted in 10,123 minor injuries. The remaining 22,966 were damage-only accidents.Provincial BreakdownLusaka Province recorded the highest number of road traffic accidents at 19,180, followed by Copperbelt Province with 4,725 accidents, and Central Province with 3,182 accidents. Other provinces recorded accidents as follows:Southern Province: 2,021North-Western Province: 1,742Eastern Province: 1,162Luapula Province: 1,119Muchinga Province: 1,080Northern Province: 794Western Province: 726Comparison to 2023In comparison to 2023, when 36,755 road traffic accidents were recorded, 2024 saw a decrease of 1,024 accidents. However, there was an increase in both fatal accidents and fatalities, with fatal accidents rising from 1,687 in 2023 to 1,804 in 2024, and fatalities increasing from 2,011 to 2,199.The number of serious accidents decreased from 3,509 in 2023 to 3,450 in 2024, with serious injuries reducing by 229 from 6,027 to 5,798. Similarly, while slight accidents increased by 424 (from 7,087 to 7,511), minor injuries decreased by 89 (from 10,212 to 10,123). Damage-only accidents saw a significant reduction, from 24,472 in 2023 to 22,966 in 2024, a decrease of 1,506 accidents.Overall, the total number of casualties decreased slightly from 18,250 in 2023 to 18,120 in 2024, representing a reduction of 130 casualties.Children under the Age of 16In 2024, a total of 1,310 casualties involved children under 16 years old. Among these:201 children lost their lives, with 123 being males and 78 females.475 were seriously injured, comprising 298 males and 177 females.634 sustained minor injuries, Comprising 356 males and 278 females.Most of these children were pedestrians or passengers in motor vehicles.Causes of AccidentsThe majority of accidents were attributed to human error, including:Excessive speed: 7,034 accidentsMisjudging clearance distance: 5,688 accidentsFailing to keep to the nearside: 3,976 accidentsDisobeying traffic signs/signals: 2,652 accidentsCutting in: 2,088 accidentsRevenue from Admission of Guilty FinesThe section raised K74, 371,515=00 through admission of guilty fines in 2024, compared to K58, 242,543=00 in 2023, marking an increase of K16, 128,972=00.Interventions and Way ForwardThe reduction in road traffic accidents in 2024 can be attributed to deliberate measures implemented by The Zambia Police Service, including intensified patrols in accident-prone areas and during public holidays and traditional gatherings. While these efforts have contributed to the reduction, Zambia Police Service remains committed to further reducing road traffic accidents.We thank all the stakeholders Such as the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) and many others for their unwavering support in enhancing road safety and enforcement. We call on all road users to adhere to traffic rules and regulations to ensure the safety of all road users.

Rae Hamoonga POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

14/01/2025

Hon. Sunday Chilufya Chanda writes:

CHEAP PROPAGANDA HURTS THE NATION: STOP IT !

The recent circulation of a fake story claiming that Zambia had been blacklisted and expelled from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHCR) is a stark reminder of the damage caused by irresponsible and baseless propaganda. This false narrative, amplified by some in the opposition, including former senior government officials, is not only misleading but also harmful to Zambia’s image on the international stage.

As Zambians, we must collectively guard against the tendency to prioritize political gains over the reputation of our country. Baseless accusations and the propagation of fake news undermine the very fabric of our democracy and erode trust among citizens. Moreover, such actions risk alienating Zambia from the global community, which recognizes us as a nation that upholds peace, hospitality, and the rule of law.

It is concerning that individuals who once held positions of responsibility and influence - and who seek to preside over the affairs of the country once again - would engage in the dissemination of misinformation, knowing full well the potential consequences. Leadership, whether in government or opposition, comes with the duty to protect and promote the country’s interests - not tarnish them.

The United Nations in Zambia has clarified that Zambia has not been blacklisted or expelled from the UNHCR. This should serve as a reminder that truth prevails over lies. As citizens, we must question the motives behind such propaganda and reject attempts to mislead the public for personal or political gain.

Let us focus on constructive dialogue and solutions that uplift Zambia rather than tear it down. A united, informed, and vigilant citizenry is the best defense against those who seek to harm our nation’s image through deceit. Zambia deserves better, and it starts with each of us choosing truth over lies.

Signed:

Hon. Sunday Chilufya Chanda
Member of Parliament
Kanchibiya Constituency

14/01/2025

The Lusaka Magistrate court has granted the application to transfer to Kalulushi the matter involving two brothers Ernest and Elijah Kaumba who are accused of using insulting language.

14/01/2025

" I came to Zambia as a Child, in 1965 that is when my parents decided to come and live here, so I've spent all my life in Zambia and my investements are in Zambia, I can't even speak proper Italian, So I'm Zambian but its disappointing that people can use social media to slander me and say that I'm not Zambian, it's disappointed me"". Diego Cassili on Let the People Talk, Phoenix FM

14/01/2025

UPND to hold intra party elections starting from wards to NMC this year as party of Republican Constitutional requirement -
Garry Nkombo Chairman for Elections and Strategic Campaigns

14/01/2025

LAST evening, Citizens First president Harry Kalaba was honoured to meet with Raila Odinga, Former Kenyan Prime Minister and candidate for the African Union (AU) chairmanship, and they exchanged views on a number of issues affecting the African Continent.

13/01/2025

GOVT DISMISSES INCORRECT ARTICLE IN THE DAILY NATION NEWSPAPER

Today, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Permanent Secretary, Etambuyu Gundersen and her Information and Media counterpart Thabo Kawana held a joint press briefing to let the nation know the correct status of Zambia's membership to the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council.

Highlights;

✅ Government has dismissed as false an article published in the Daily Nation Newspaper, Issue No 4265 and dated Monday, 13th January, 2024, stating that Zambia has been blacklisted by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for failing to uphold human rights standards from 2022 to 2024.

✅ The United Nations General Assembly has not considered nor adopted any resolution for the suspension or removal of Zambia from the Human Rights Council (the Council) as Zambia is currently not holding a seat on the Council.

✅ The Human Rights Council is an intergovernmental body under the (UN) which comprises 47-member states, elected by a majority vote of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) through direct and secret ballot to serve a three year term on rotational basis.

✅ Government wishes to remind the general public that Zambia was among the inaugural members to serve on the Human Rights Council from 2006-2008.

✅ Therefore, She is not eligible for immediate re-election after serving two consecutive terms.

✅ However, In line with the principle of equitable geographical distribution of Council seats, Zambia intends to vie for a seat on the Council once again, at the UNGA elections in 2026 under the African States region quota for SADC, for a three-year term beginning 1 January, 2027.

✅ Government remains steadfast to its human rights commitments both under domestic and international law and will continue to cooperate with the independent human rights experts of the Council who report and advise on country situations or thematic issues across the globe.

✅ Government wishes to take this opportunity to guide citizens that while freedom of expression is a constitutional right, it is not guaranteed in absolute terms but must be exercised within the limits and confines of the law.

✅ Journalists, particularly as critical stakeholders, are implored to adhere to ethical reporting if the watchdog role of the Press is to continue to retain its importance as the fourth estate in the preservation of democracy.

Free Education Policy;

✅ In another development, Ministry of Education Assistant Director- Communications, K***a Mando has dismissed rumors circulating on social media claiming that Government has failed to disburse school grants on time.

✅ So far, over K700 million has been disbursed to over 13,000 schools across the country.

✅ Of the over K700 million disbursed to schools, K300 million has been apportioned to secondary schools, K200 million to primary schools, and the remaining K200 million shared among colleges of education, Provincial Education Officers (PEOs) and District Education Officers (DEOs).

✅ All schools have received the funds, depending on the banks they hold accounts with.

✅ Government has consistently provided grants to schools to ensure self-sustainability and procurement of essential resources like lab equipment and other school requisites.

✅Additionally, Government has expanded the school feeding program from 80 to 106 schools thereby demonstrating commitment to supporting education.

✅ Ms. Mando added that public schools should not charge school fees, user fees, or exam fees, as Government covers the named cost.

Credit : Ministry of Information

13/01/2025

ECZ AWARDS CONTRACT FOR 2026 BALLOT PAPERS TO UAE FIRM

January 13, 2025

Lusaka - The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has announced the awarding of a contract for printing and delivering ballot papers and other electoral materials for the 2026 General Election to Al Ghurair Printing and Publishing of the United Arab Emirates.

This significant milestone, announced by the ECZ Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Brown Kasaro, this morning at the Commission's headquarters, follows the reissuing of the tender on May 6, 2024.

During the announcement, the ECZ CEO reiterated the Commission’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the procurement process.

The tender process adhered strictly to the Public Procurement Act No. 8 of 2020 and the Public Procurement Regulations of 2022, ensuring fair competition.

After evaluating seven bids - six international and one local - Al Ghurair Printing emerged as the second-best bidder following the disqualification of Ren-Form CC of South Africa for non-compliance with contractual requirements.

The CEO highlighted the strategic importance of the three-year contract, which covers by-elections, the 2026 General Election, and subsequent by-elections.

The contract, signed on January 10, 2025, is a critical step toward ensuring that all necessary materials, including ballot papers, posters, and voter templates, are delivered efficiently and on time.

This update underscores ECZ’s dedication to delivering free, fair, and credible elections in 2026. Stakeholders and citizens were urged to remain engaged and informed as the Commission continues preparations for the electoral process.

© UPND MEDIA TEAM

13/01/2025

PATRIOTIC FRONT IS SUPPORTING THE TONSE ALLIANCE CANDIDATES IN PETAUKE AND PAMBASHE

13/01/2025

ECZ AWARDS CONTRACT FOR PRINTING 2026 BALLOTS

13/01/2025

NO SANCTIONS AGAINST ZAMBIA - UN

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Former NOPAFA Boss Backs Kashala, Calls Him "Lesser Evil" By Mukwima Chilala Michael Bwalya Chimponda, outspoken soccer administrator and former Northern Province Amateur Football Association (NOPAFA) chairman, has thrown his weight behind Adrian Kashala, former Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) General Secretary, ahead of the association's elections. With incumbent Andrew Kamanga's two terms coming to an end, FAZ is set to hold its elective general meeting in February next year. Kashala has announced his intention to challenge his former boss, Kamanga, in the highly anticipated election. Chimponda, a one-time supporter of soccer icon and former FAZ president, Kalusha Bwalya, believes Kashala deserves a chance to lead the association, labeling him the "lesser evil" compared to Kamanga. "Although Kashala may have his weaknesses from his tenure as general secretary, he has demonstrated leadership by acknowledging his mistakes," "We must give him the opportunity to rectify the past errors of this administration and move the association forward." Chimponda's endorsement comes as a significant boost to Kashala's campaign. Chimponda has further criticized FAZ president Kamanga's decision to ban campaigns, arguing that it lacks statutory backing. Chimponda believes aspiring candidates should be allowed to campaign and engage stakeholders, just as Kamanga was before taking office . Chimponda has challenged Kamanga to specify which statute justifies stopping others from campaigning. This comes after Kamanga instructed aspiring candidates to cease campaigning, citing that the campaign period had not officially began.