New Vision News Zambia

27/01/2024

Sestuz media briefing

16/01/2024

*COMMENCEMENT OF ADMINISTRATION OF ORAL CHOLERA VACCINE IN HOTSPOTS*

The Health Minister Sylvia Masebo and Cooperating Partners will commence the administration of the Oral Cholera Vaccine at Katambalala Market in George Compound today.

The WHO International Coordinating Group on Vaccine Provision approved over 1.7 million doses of Oral Cholera vaccines for use in Zambia. Health Minister Sylvia Masebo, officially received 1.4 million doses.

The remaining balance of over 200,000 will be made available in the country soon. This was facilitated by partners, the WHO, UNICEF and Gavi - The Vaccine Alliance.

Oral Cholera Vaccines are safe and the doses that have been received are authorized for use in Zambia.

16/01/2024

CORPORATE SOCCER LEAGUE LAUNCHED

Premier sports management company, Numero Uno has today announced the launch of Zambia’s first ever corporate soccer league. 16 top companies will battle it out for a top prize and the prestigious title of Corporate Soccer Champions. Numero Uno Director Francis Kapasa Chanda said the corporate soccer league is a social, non-profit sporting initiative meant for recreational purposes for companies in Zambia.

Kapasa also said the corporate league is a tool for companies’ team building, fitness and health, as well as business networking. The league will kick off in the first week of March 2024 and will be preceded by draws and release of fixtures in February.

The Corporate Soccer League has also adopted Thuso Foundation, a charity that seeks to promote opportunities to improve living standards for women, youths and vulnerable groups through mentorship and income generating life skills.

16/01/2024

Former Zambia Air Force Commander Lt General Ronnie Shikapwasha has been confirmed dead after being shot

14/01/2024

LIVINGSTONE HIGH COURT CONVICTS FATHER AND SON FOR DEFILING A MINOR

The Livingstone High Court delivered a decisive verdict in a harrowing case of defilement in which a father and son duo had unlawful carnal knowledge of the same girl who happened to be the former’s step daughter.

Joseph Bwalya aged 55 was sentenced to 30 years Imprisonment with hard labour while his son, Ben Bwalya, was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment with hard labour. The verdict was delivered on January 12, 2024, following a thorough and impartial trial.

The convicted duo, both of Macha road, were found guilty of heinous acts of defilement, which involved the abuse and exploitation of a minor aged 13. The court, led by the Honorable Judge Catherine Lombe Phiri carefully considered the evidence presented by the prosecution and, after a fair trial, rendered a judgment which reflects the gravity of the crime committed.

Last year, the Choma Magistrates’ Court found Joseph Bwalya and his son, Ben Bwalya, guilty of defilement and committed them to the High Court for sentencing, noting that the state proved their case beyond reasonable doubt.

Brief details are that in the first count, Joseph, who is the step father to the Victim, on dates unknown but between December 1, 2022 and January 31, 2023, had unlawful carnal knowledge of a girl under the age of 16. While in count two, the step brother to the victim, Ben Bwalya, on dates unknown but between 1st and 31st July, 2022 had unlawful carnal knowledge of a girl under the age of 16.

We commend all police officers, legal professionals, and support staff involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case for their dedication and diligence. Their unwavering commitment to justice has resulted in a successful conviction, sending a clear message that such reprehensible actions will not be tolerated within our society.

Rae Hamoonga
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER.

13/01/2024

DANGOTE REWARDS ITS FIRST 20 WINNERS WITH K1000 EACH

By Vision Reporter
Dangote Cement Zambia has rewarded its first 20 customers in the Paka Paka reloaded promotion.

The first batch of 20 winners on the Paka Paka Reloaded campaign have each been given K1000.

Speaking during the Paka Paka first draw in Lusaka, Dangote Zambia Business Development and Technical Manager John Chilufya said the Paka Paka Reloaded promotion is changing people's lives especially at a time such as this when they are feeling the effects of the rising cost of living.

Mr Chilufya said the campaign seeks to appreciate customers for the years of support and a reward for their loyalty.

Mr Chilufya says the draw will continue until in March when a lucky winner will walk away with a grand prize of K200,000.

"Paka Paka Reloaded is Dangote 's annual sales promotion and since its launch three weeks ago, customers and retailers alike have appreciated it. Dangote is fulfilling its promise to give away cash prizes to our customers, for the next few weeks, this promotion will put money in your pocket.

For one to stand a chance of winning the prizes, all they have to do is buy 10 bags of cement at Micmar or any of the 150 participating outlets in Zambia," Mr Chilufya added.

And Dangote Cement Senior Marketing officer, Esther Kadunza expressed her gratitude to the customers for supporting Dangote cement.

Ms Kadunza said since the campaign was launched, thier sales have increased by 10 per cent and that they will continue to improve quality standards in the construction industry.
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13/01/2024

Zambia Must Prosper (ZMP) president Kelvin Bwalya Fube says government should declare the Cholera pandemic a national disaster

12/01/2024

Muslim Social and Walfare Trust pays tribute to health practitioners..as it donates Chlorine to Chawama Hospital

By Staff Writer

Muslim Social and Walfare Trust Coordinator, Mubasshir Mehta has backed Lusaka District Commissioner(DC) Rosa Zulu's faith in the health practitioners that have continued to risk their lives during the episode of the Cholera epidemic that has decimated lives especially in the capital Lusaka.

Distributing Chlorine, a chemical used to disinfect water and part of the sanitation process for sewage and industrial to Chawama LevelvOne Hospital and other part of the coumpound situated in the Southern part of Lusaka's Central Business District (CBD)), Mr Mehta thanked Government for giving the Muslim Social and Welfare Trust gesture to donate Chlorine to the Chawama community.

He said the Trust wants life to be preserved at all cost, hence it's milestone donation.

"We would like to thank Madam Rosa Zulu for providing counsel and responsibility during this time of the Cholera pandemic. She found sotime to be with us," he said, adding, " As Madam DC alluded to, as Health Practitioners are working round the clock, they need Chlorine to satisfy the community and when the patients recover, they can be given these bottles of Chlorine so that they make use of them...which means, they are preventing the spread of Cholera," he pointed out.

Mr Mehta said the Muslim Social and Walfare Trust has targeted 5000 lives in the distributing of the life-saving Chemical.
And Mrs Zulu paid tribute to the Muslim social and walfare trust for its gesture.

And the Lusaka DC urged the need for citizens to be responsible and heed to health precautions if the Cholera pandemic is to be contained.

Mrs Zulu warned that the residents of Chawama should not be irresponsible enough by peddling lies that the locally brewed Kachasu beer can cure Cholera but ensure that that they stick to health rules and regulations approved by the World Health Organisation(WHO).

10/01/2024

Cholera update

10/01/2024

SIAVONGA COUNCIL SUSPENDS MONDAY MARKET ACTIVITIES DUE TO CHOLERA OUTBREAK.
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In an effort to prevent further the spread of the Cholera outbreak to the tourist town, Siavonga Town Council has with immediate effect suspended the Monday Market activities at the Harbour due to the escalating cases of Cholera outbreak in the country.

Council Chairperson Given Kwapu says the
move is meant to curb the spread of cholera into the district.

According to the Mr Kwapu the market will remain closed until further notice.

Meanwhile, following the Public outcry to the local authority to consider reopening of business activities at the Monday market and come up with health prevent measures, Council Public Relations Officer Gwendolyn Mwanza Mchenga says business operations at the market will remain closed until cholera cases reduces.

Ms Mchenga has called on the general public to exercise patience as cholera cases are still on the rise.

Monday Market activities which takes place every Monday at the Harbour within the Central Business District (CBD)attracts traders from within Siavonga, Chikankata, Gwembe Lusaka among other districts.

Issued by:On/behalf of the Council Secretary
Siavonga Town Council
Public Relations Officer Gwendolyn Mwanza Mchenga

10/01/2024

TRADE KINGS FOUNDATION PUMPS IN K2.5 MILLION TO STEP UP CHOLERA RESPONSE

By Vision Reporter

As the number of cholera infected patients rises, the Trade Kings Foundation has donated hygiene supplies worth k2.5 million to the Ministry of Health to fight against the spread of cholera.

The donation took place at the Heroes Stadium, the epicenter of cholera, where Trade Kings Group's Public Relations Manager Bridget Kambobe handed over the donation to the Minister of Health Hon Sylvia Masebo.

Speaking at the occasion Ms Kambobe said Trade Kings Foundation is concerned with the cholera outbreak and the unfortunate loss of lives.

Ms Kambobe said this morning's donation to the Ministry of Health is in the effort to contain the outbreak of cholera and save as many lives as possible in the affected areas.

And the Minister of Health Sylvia Masebo commended Trade Kings Foundation for their timely and vital donation.

Ms Masebo said her office is extremely grateful to the Trade Kings Foundation and the continued support that has been given not only during the current cholera pandemic, but other disasters such as the 2017 cholera pandemic and 2020 Covid 19 pandemic.

"Your continuous commitment, love and passion for the people of Zambia is unrivaled. We are excited for this gesture by trade kings in supplementing government effort in fighting cholera.Such gestures are key in the fight against this pandemic that is affecting many sectors," she said.

She added that the supplies given to the Ministry will help manage the numbers and will sustain the cholera response.

Ms Masebo further said that all donations are welcome whether they come in cash or in kind.

30/12/2023

ZRA AND DEC RECOVER OVER K9.4M IN TAXES FROM AFME METAL EXCHANGE LIMITED
Lusaka, December 30th, 2023- The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), has recovered over K9.4 million in taxes from a company linked to Shadrick Kasanda and the Gold scam case. This follows a comprehensive investigation of the company's tax compliance, which resulted in an assessment totalling over K52.4 million.
AFME METAL EXCHANGE LIMITED, a company in which Mr. Shadrick Kasanda, a co-accused in the gold scam case, holds the position of shareholder and director, received huge unexplained sums of from overseas sources without declaring taxes on the same. Mr Kasanda further withdrew the same amounts in his name without declaring or accounting for any taxes to the Zambia Revenue Authority.
In order to safeguard revenue in taxes, a notice under section 23 of the VAT Act (cap 331), section 171a of the Customs and Excise Act (cap 322), and section 84 of the Income Tax Act (cap 323) was served to forfeit a total of ZMW 9,433,000.00 found in a bank account held by AFME Metal Exchange Limited at a named bank. This amount represented the sole available funds in the account at the time of the DEC's seizure.
The account was blocked by the DEC and consequently garnished by the ZRA as payment towards the liquidation of K52,449,413.37 total assessment.
This recovery of the taxes follows a thorough joint investigions conducted by officers from the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) and the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA). The investigation focused on AFME Metal Exchange Limited's tax compliance.
This serves as a warning to all entities not complying with the law that Law Enforcement Agencies, through the Inter-Agency Framework, will visit them. All taxpayers are, therefore, encouraged to comply with tax laws.

Jointly issued by:
Oliver Nzala
Corporate Communications Manager - ZRA

Mwenge Mulenga
Public Relations Officer DEC

29/12/2023

ZAMBIA POLICE SERVICE ADVISES MOTORISTS TO EXERCISE CAUTION DURING NEW YEAR’S CELEBRATIONS BASED ON CHRISTMAS TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS CAUSATIONS.

Lusaka, December 29, 2023 - As Zambia prepares to welcome the New Year, the Zambia Police Service (ZPS) underscores the importance of road safety, drawing attention to the causations of traffic accidents during the past Christmas period. The ZPS urges all motorists to be vigilant, responsible, and proactive in ensuring the safety of themselves and others on the roads.
During the Christmas festivities, there was a reduction in fatal traffic accidents, with contributing factors to the 281 road traffic accidents recorded that include but are not limited to: Excessive speeding, Misjudging Clearance Distance, Failing to Keep near side, Reversing negligently and Dazzled by lights. Learning from these occurrences, the Zambia Police Service emphasizes the following key points for motorists to consider as they celebrate the New Year:
1. Excessive Speeding:
• Excessive speed continues to be a major factor in road accidents. Motorists are reminded to adhere to posted speed limits and adjust their speed according to road conditions. The Copper-belt Province recorded the highest with 11 accidents followed by Lusaka, Luapula, Western with 08 each while Central, Eastern recorded 06 each, Southern 05, Northern, North Western and Muchinga with 03 each.
2. Misjudging Clearance Distance:
• Following too closely behind another vehicle, known as tailgating, reduces reaction time and increases the risk of a collision. Maintain a safe following distance to allow for sudden stops or changes in traffic flow. Lusaka province recorded the highest with 42 accidents followed by Copper-belt 05, Southern 04, Eastern 03, Western 02, Central and Muchinga 01 each while Northern, Luapula, North western and Western had no incident on this particular causation.
3. Failing to keep to near side:
• Stay within your designated lane and avoid drifting into oncoming traffic. Failure to keep to the near side can lead to head-on collisions, especially on narrow roads. Lusaka province recorded the highest with 29 accident Copper belt and Central 03 cases each, Luapula and Muchinga with 02 each, Northern and Western with 01 each while Southern, Eastern and North Western had no incident on this particular offence.
4. Reversing Negligently:
• Before reversing, thoroughly check for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. Honk your horn or use hazard lights to alert others to your intention to reverse. Lusaka province recorded the highest with 29 accidents Southern 04, Copper belt 02, Luapula, North Western, western with 01 each while Central, Eastern, Northern, Muchinga had no incident on this particular causation.
5. Dazzled by Lights:
• Practice courtesy on the road by being considerate of other drivers. Avoid using high beams in well-lit areas or when unnecessary. When approaching oncoming traffic or driving behind another vehicle, dim your headlights to reduce glare and prevent dazzling other drivers. Lusaka province recorded the highest with 19 accidents followed by Muchinga with 02, the rest of the provinces had no incident on this particular causation.

The Zambia Police Service encourages all motorists to celebrate responsibly and make road safety a priority. By learning from the causations of past incidents, we can collectively contribute to a safer New Year's celebration.

Rae Hamoonga
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

29/12/2023

Every citizen should stand up against corruption-Mulala
...as he urges employers not to turn work places into open air prisons
By Vision Reporter

Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) president Mr Blake Mulala says a lot more need to be done to turn the economy around and create more decent work opportunities for Zambians.

Mr Mulala says that while ZCTU acknowledged government effort in improving the economy, workers faced challenges in 2023.

And Mr Mulala says that in 2024, the congress will not allow the misuse of workers money.

" We cannot keep quiet, corruption affects the nation hence every citizen should play a role, one person cannot fight corruption," Mr Mulala said at the end of year Press briefing.

Mr Mulala said ZCTU will ensure that citizens are not deprived of their hard earned money by corrupt officials adding that citizens have a say on how the country should be governed.

And Mr Mulala further said 2024 will be a different year where a lot of things will change saying that going forward, no investor will be allowed to mistreat workers in their own land.

He further reminded the unrepentant employers in the private sector to allow workers to belong to trade unions .

And ZCTU has since urged media owners to stop exploiting workers urging them to improve their conditions of service.

"We will not allow the exploitation of workers in the private sector, we call on government through the ministry of labour to extend visitations to the private media to ensure they obey labour laws .

27/12/2023

FNB Zambia announces Kapumpe Chola as new CEO

27/12/2023

27/12/2023

FNB Zambia announces Kapumpe Chola as new CEO

By Staff Reporter

The Board of First National Bank (FNB) Zambia Limited has announced the appointment of Ms. Kapumpe Chola as the Bank’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 February 2024.

Ms. Chola takes over from Mr. Bydon Longwe who has been leading the Bank since July 2020. Mr. Longwe is taking on a new role at FirstRand Group in South Africa.

Kapumpe has over 26 years of banking experience both within and outside the Zambian market.

She has been serving as Country Director - Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) in Botswana, following her role as Head - Corporate and Investment Banking at FNB Zambia. Both RMB and FNB are divisions of the FirstRand Group.

Commenting on the appointment, FNB Zambia Board Chairman, Mr. Richard Mazombwe who spoke on behalf of the Board expressed excitement to announce the first female CEO of FNB Zambia.

Mr. Mazombwe said Kapumpe is the second Zambian CEO of the Bank, with experience and expertise, he is confident that she will lead FNB Zambia to greater heights
He also congratulated Bydon Longwe on his successful tenure as CEO of FNB Zambia.

“Under Bydon’s leadership, the Bank has launched several innovative products, driven a successful digital and customer centric strategy that has delivered strong franchise growth demonstrated in increased footprint and usage, including the Cashplus Agency banking model with Agents now present across the entire country”, Mr. Mazombwe said.

And FNB Zambia outgoing CEO, Mr. Bydon Longwe said that he appointment of Kapumpe is testament to ther robust succession planning and ongoing commitment to investing in their own people.

“I am excited for the business under her leadership as she further drives the FNB Zambia growth story”, Mr. Longwe added.

25/12/2023

Media engagement meeting for tuberculosis

20/12/2023

20/12/2023

MSME, MTN SIGN MOU

Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development Engineer Elias Mubanga has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with MTN Zambia Limited aimed to empower and uplift Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) for a period of three years.

MTN Zambia and the Ministry aspire to create a conducive environment for MSMEs to thrive.

Mr Mubanga says the MOU is an indication of shared objectives, common goals and mutual commitment to enhancing the SME sector.

He says that government recognizes the importance of engaging with the private sector in a bid to drive economic growth and create a conducive environment for the flourishing of MSMEs.

Mr Mubanga states that the partnership will play a crucial role in promoting the growth and competiveness of MSMEs by providing support in important areas such as market linkages , trade facilitation, investment opportunities , capacity building among others.

" this MOU marks the beginning of an exciting chapter, one that holds great promise and potential for the growth and success of our MSMEs". He said.

And MTN Zambia, Chief Executive Officer Abbad Reda, see has commended the new dawn government for its commitment to supporting small and medium enterprises.

Reda disclosed that MTN Zambia appreciate government efforts in ensuring a conducive environment for every business to thrive.

He adds that the MOU marks a significant milestone in fostering mutual cooperation between MTN and government.

He further added that MTN is Committed to connecting people and enterprises and empowering them with the tools they need to thrive in today's digital age.

He mentioned that priviously his company had launched a range of services and products designed to empower SMEs with the tools they needed.

20/12/2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

*Zambia Police Service Reintroduces Security Checkpoints to Curb Escalating Challenges Posed by Criminal Activities*

Lusaka, December 20.2023 – In response to the escalating challenges posed by criminal activities and to bolster public safety, the Zambia Police Service announces the reintroduction of security checkpoints at strategic locations in the Country as follows:

1. LUSAKA PROVINCE FOUR (04) SECURITY CHECK POINTS.
(i) Kafue Bridge along great north road.
(ii) Makeni turnoff along Mumbwa road.
(iii) Kabangwe along great north road Kabwe road.
(iv) Chirundu-Siavonga junction.

2. COPPER-BELT PROVINCE EIGHT (08) SECURITY CHECK POINTS.
(i) Kafulafuta.
(ii) Luanshya-Kitwe-Ndola junction.
(iii) Kafue Bridge.
(iv) Sakanya.
(v) Mukambo.
(vi) Sabina.
(vii) Solwezi Junction.
(viii) Kasumbalesa.

3. CENTRAL PROVINCE SEVEN (07) SECURITY CHECK POINTS.
(i) Manyumbi/Luanshimba.
(ii) Chisamba.
(iii) Kapirimposhi great north road.
(iv) Kapirimposhi Ndola road.
(v) Ndabala.
(vi) Pensulo.
(vii) Kapyanga

4. LUAPULA PROVINCE FOUR (04) SECURITY CHECK POINTS.
(i) Musaila Serenje Samfya Mansa Junction.
(ii) Luwingu Mansa.
(iii) Mwense.
(iv) Nchelenge.

5. NORTH-WESTERN PROVINCE TWO (02) SECURITY CHECK POINTS.
(i) Mutanda-Solwezi.
(ii) Kapijimpanga Chingola road.

6. EASTERN PROVINCE TWO (02) SECURITY CHECK POINTS.
(i) Kacholola Area
(ii) Lundazi road

7. WESTERN PROVINCE THREE (03) SECURITY CHECK POINTS.
(i) Kasaya,Livingstone road.
(ii) Chilombo, Kaoma-Kasempa Road.
(iii) Tata yoyo Mumbwa-Keyeema road.

8. NORTHERN PROVINCE THREE (03) SECURITY CHECK POINTS.
(i) Nkole fumu
(ii) Mbala ( Intersection of Mbala, Mpulungu and Nakonde roads)
(iii) Luwingu

9. MUCHINGA PROVINCE FOUR (04) SECURITY CHECK POINTS.
(i) Nakonde-Mbala turn-off.
(ii) Isoka-Mafinga turn-off.
(iii) Chinsali Nambuluma Police post.
(iv) Mpika near the Weigh Bridge.

10. SOUTHERN PROVINCE THREE (03) SECURITY CHECK POINTS.
(i) Livingstone Weigh Bridge.
(ii) Nakatindi Road Zawa Gate.
(iii) 10 Miles Mazabuka - Kafue road.

The decision comes as a proactive measure to address the rising concerns related to criminal incidents and to ensure the well-being of our citizens. The strategic placement of these checkpoints aims to deter criminal activities, enhance community safety, and create a secure environment for residents and visitors alike. The composition of the security personnel at these points will only have officers from the Criminal Investigations department and uniformed officers. Traffic officers will be conducting Motorized and foot patrols on the roads to enforce compliance on erring motorists as opposed to being stationary at these security check points.
Key Objectives:
1. Crime Deterrence: The reintroduction of security checkpoints is part of a comprehensive strategy to deter criminal elements from engaging in unlawful activities. Visible law enforcement presence is a powerful tool in discouraging criminal behaviour.
2. Community Safety: The Zambia Police Service is committed to creating a safe and secure environment for all members of the community. The checkpoints will serve as a means to actively engage with the public, gather information, and address any concerns that residents may have.
3. Emergency Response Enhancement: The strategic placement of checkpoints will facilitate rapid response to emergencies. This ensures that law enforcement can swiftly attend to incidents, minimizing potential harm and damage.
4. Collaborative Approach: The Zambia Police Service encourages collaboration with the community to foster a sense of shared responsibility in maintaining public safety. By working together, law enforcement and the public can effectively address and prevent criminal activities.
*Inspector General of Police Mr Graphel Musamba* stated, "The reintroduction of security checkpoints is a proactive measure aimed at addressing the challenges posed by criminal activities in our country. We are committed to working closely with the community to ensure a safer living environment for everyone."
The Zambia Police Service reassures the public that these security measures are implemented with the utmost consideration for human rights and will be conducted professionally and respectfully.
Citizens are encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement officers at these security checkpoints and report any suspicious activities promptly. The success of these security measures relies on the collaboration between the police and the community.

Rae Hamoonga
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

18/12/2023

Airtel Africa launches Nxtra by Airtel to accelerate Africa’s digital transition

Airtel Africa has launched Nxtra by Airtel (“Nxtra”), a new data centre business founded on a commitment to meet the continent’s growing needs for trusted, and sustainable data centre capacity and to serve the fast-growing African digital economy.

Nxtra aims to build one of the largest network of data centres in Africa with high-capacity data centres in major cities located strategically across Airtel Africa’s footprint, complementing its existing edge sites.

Nxtra’s ambition will allow it to serve the growing need of African enterprises and its data centre infrastructure will be designed to host the next generation of computing, while providing multi-MW capacity in a phased manner.

These facilities will meet stringent global security requirements and meet ‘five nines’1 availability. Coupled with Airtel Africa’s extensive fibre footprint, Nxtra offers secure and scalable integrated solutions to global hyper-scalers, large African enterprises, startups, SMEs and governments.

Through locally available data centre capacity, speed to access digital services will improve and the cost of managing data will be reduced, thus helping power increased innovation, while supporting a new generation of African tech talent.

Furthermore, Nxtra is enabling customers meet data sovereignty requirements while at the same time enabling more local cloud services to be offered in the countries where Airtel Africa operates.
The first major Nxtra facility in Lagos, Nigeria, will deliver 34 MW of total power. It is designed to host high density racks and integrate the latest best practice construction to achieve 1.3 power usage effectiveness (PUE). It is expected to be live in mid-2025.

To deliver on Nxtra’s vision, Airtel Africa has appointed Yashnath Issur, the former head of Global Data Centre Portfolio Management at Amazon Web Services, as CEO of Nxtra by Airtel. Yashnath has 16 years of experience in the industry and has, over the past year, built a team of experts to execute on the strategy.

Airtel Africa’s Group CEO, Segun Ogunsanya said: “A rapid increase in data centre capacity is needed to support the growth potential of Africa’s digital economy. We’re proud to drive the future of Africa’s digital infrastructure, unlocking opportunities for businesses to grow and fueling economic prosperity. Airtel Africa’s team has consistently shown our ability to deliver on infrastructure projects across Africa, and we are confident that our next generation data centres will support our ambition to become the partner of choice for global customers and Africa’s newest tech unicorns alike.”

18/12/2023

Airtel Mobile Commerce partners with ZANACO for Bill Muster service

By Staff Reporter

Airtel Mobile Commerce and ZANACO on Friday unveiled their partnership for the Bill Muster service which is a collections solution provided to universities, colleges and schools with accounts at Zanaco for collections of tuition fees and other fees.

Speaking during the launch, Education Permanent Secretary Administration, Noriana Muneku applauded ZANACO and Airtel for coming up with an easier way to transact calling the bill muster on Airtel money a revolutionary new service that allows customers to pay school bills quickly and easily using a mobile phone.

With bill muster on Airtel money, Noriana Muneku said that students, parents and guardians can now say goodbye to long queues and the hassle of paying bills in person.

The Permanent Secretary added that government of Zambia is always pleased to support initiatives that are aimed at making lives for our communities easier.

In this day and age where digital transformation has accelerated, Ms. Muneku said that it is fundamental that organisations move with the times.

And speaking earlier, Airtel Networks Zambia Plc, Interim Managing Director Hussam Baday expressed happiness to see the evolution of technology and the creation of strategic partnerships.

“We are firm believers that when great companies come together, great things happen. Coming from the telecommunication industry we are a living proof that technology enhances services therefore the collaboration we see will positively benefit many Zambians,” Baday said.

And Airtel Mobile Commerce Country Director, Mr. Andrew Chuma said the partnership unveiling was a testament of what happens when a big strong and reliable brand partners with an Instant secure and borderless payments brand.

“What has happened now is that Airtel Money has come on board to simplify the Bill Muster product even further. Now, anyone, be it a parent, guardian, student or pupil with an active Airtel Mobile Money wallet can make a payment for fees to their respective institution using Zanaco Bill Muster,” Chuma said.

ZANACO Managing Director, Mrs. Mukwandi Chibesakunda said in recognizing that like Zanaco, Airtel money had a wide reach, the partnership meant the service would now be more widely available.

“Zanaco considers the bill muster solution as a pioneering customer focused product. the addition of this service on Artel mobile money is in line with our digital agenda and a further enhancement of our customer experience. we will continue to innovate through strategic partnerships such as these to give the Zambian people efficient payment methods and ease of payments,” Mrs. Chibesakunda said.