Join our community of SUBSCRIBERS and be part of the conversation.
To subscribe, simply enter your email address on our website or click the subscribe button below. Don't worry, we respect your privacy and won't spam your inbox. Your information is safe with us.
The Bank of Zambia has noted that weakening economic growth, load shedding and tightening liquidity in Zambia are threatening financial stability in the market.
And the Central Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee has maintained the policy rate, a key determinant in lending rates, at 10.25 percent.
BoZ Governor Denny Kalyalya says the committee took into account projected inflation remaining above the upper bound of the 6.8 percent target range, tightened liquidity and reduced production owing to electricity challenges.
Dr. Kalyalya noted that increased food prices owing to droughts in the last farming season have also had a negative toll on inflation.
He says the above factors required the upward adjustment for the policy rate but the Central Bank had to hold it pending some measures by the Ministry of Finance.
Speaking during the MPC quarterly briefing in Lusaka today Dr. Kalyalya noted that global growth has equally weakened with demand for copper by China having reduced owing to decline in investment in emerging markets and reduction in global trade due to ongoing trade tensions between the USA and China among others.
And Bank of Zambia Deputy Governor Operations Francis Chipimo said access to finance has remained a challenge for private sector growth and investment.
Dr. Chipimo however said there are a lot of developmental issues being undertaken aimed at enabling the financial sector mobilize savings and lend money to investors with ideas.
HH and President Lungu meet at late Munkombwe’s burial in Choma
By Chimwemwe Mwanza
Vicious, vindictive and vengeful aptly describes the Zambian political arena. Former Presidents, Kenneth Kaunda, Rupiah Banda and the late Frederick Chiluba all have scars to prove this. In the 80’s, Kaunda locked up Chiluba on flimsy charges that failed to hold in a court of law. After he became Head of State, Chiluba retaliated by sending Kaunda to Mukobeko maximum prison.
The irony for Chiluba is that his handpicked successor, Levy Mwanawasa motivated Parliament to waive off the latter’s immunity thereby exposing Chiluba to several graft charges formulated by the now defunct Task Force on Corruption. With his legacy tainted by a skewed narrative, only death saved Chiluba from possible jail time. To erase his predecessor’s legacy and ensure his humiliation, the late Sata’s PF re-created this trend by consigning Rupiah to a life of court appearances.
Off significance to this conversation, UPND leader, Hakainde Hichilema (HH) served time in Lilayi prison on a laughable treason charge – this at the hands of the current PF regime. For a fact, HH has never hidden his disdain for President Edgar Lungu and his stint in a tiny Lilayi prison cell has probably served to reinforce the UPND leader’s contempt for the President.
Just why such vindictiveness and blatant abuse of power seems to gratify incumbents is hard to understand. In the absence of reason, one might well speculate that this show of brutality is all about a naked flexing of political muscle – a bit more like, ‘can I show you who is the boss’. Whatever the reason, the difficulty is that this trend erodes the very democratic tenets and political maturity that Zambia is renowned for in the rest of Africa and the world over.
Which makes 2021 an interesting contest. Other than bread and butter issues, the fore mentioned factors will weigh heavily on the minds of both President Lungu and HH heading closer to the polls.
Who is likely to win?
The tiny but seismic shift in fundamentals on the ground seem to suggest that this will be a closely fought contest. Besides, recent electoral predictions across the globe – even by the most experienced pundits have gone against the grain making it even more difficult to provide an accurate outcome.
For example, in 2012, several analysts predicted an outright victory for Rupiah’s MMD only for the PF to spring a surprise. Suffice to acknowledge that, while characteristics of the Zambian electoral landscape may differ in comparison to mature democracies, there are similarities to draw from – especially in elections where the voter’s desire for change outweighs any other considerations.
Unaware of a groundswell desire for change, an over-confident former British Premier, David Cameroon called a snap referendum to determine Britain’s future in the European Union (EU). He was stunned at the outcome. Against odds, the British electorate voted for Brexit thus paving the way for what has now become Britain’s messy divorce from the EU trade block.
Humiliated by a razor thin loss to Brexit supporters, Cameroon was forced to call his time as leader of the conservative party. In yet one of the biggest election upsets of the 21st century, Donald Trump steam-rolled establishment candidate, Hillary Clinton to become the 45th President of the US. Therefore, the notion that either the PF or UPND might have an edge over the other heading towards 2021 is fallacious. Truth is, this is an election that could swing either way.
Why ECL will be desperate to win
Despite the PF’s public show of confidence, their determined focus on HH and constant whip-lashing of his perceived tribal inclinations, best illustrates their genuine fears and by extention their desperation. Rightly so, they can’t afford to be complacent. 2021 will be a referendum on their ten years in power. Be rest assured that this is one election where the PF’s well – oiled propaganda machinery will likely throw both the sink and kitchen at the UPND bearing in mind what is at stake. In fact, the proposed amendment to the constitution is intended to disadvantage the opposition ahead of the polls.
What troubles the mind is that the current constitution which the PF is attempting to discard was signed into law by the sitting President amid a jam-packed Independence stadium. Three years later, it’s tempting to ask. What has changed to warrant an amendment to this sacred document? By now, PF knows too well that the much-punted humility of their candidate might be a hard-sale more so to an electorate that appears too desperate for change. They can’t afford lethargic arguments such as they being the only party with a manifesto. Need they be reminded that having a manifesto is one thing and delivering on its content is another.
What about the promise that they would lower taxes and put more money in the pockets of the working class? Did they deliver on such including creation of job opportunities? You be the judge. The President is aware that he will be facing an electorate that is weary of rising food costs. A persistent drought over the last two seasons has only compounded the hunger situation – more so in outlying areas of the country. In addition, the policy uncertainty in mining taxation and the stand – off between government and sections of the mining community is taking its toll on economic growth. Perceptions around inaction on corruption might not help his cause either. While some of these challenges might not be, the PF’s making, the electorate always tend to punish a sitting government for their suffering – sometimes unfairly so.
Never mind whether HH has genuine or has yet to formulate charges against the PF, he has consistently warned that the PF leadership will be called to account for wrong doing once he becomes President. The tacit implication of this threat is that, HH is already extending bed spaces at Chimbokaila, Kamwala Remand and possibly Lilayi prisons for use by the PF leadership. And knowing fully well what is at stake, a possible loss is too ghastly for the PF to contemplate. For President Lungu, there will be no better motivation to win the polls than lose to a sworn rival.
Its State House or bust for HH
PF has over-exposed the country to a mountain of debt that will outlive generations to come. It is precisely why the 2021 polls will boil down to the economy. As a businessman, HH knows too well the implications of our foreign debt on the fiscus. Zambia can’t afford to keep borrowing to fund consumption and expenditure on non-productive sectors of the economy.
This is the message he has been selling the grassroots. For a fact, he has the support of the broader investment community, including some global mining giants. Most important though, the International Monetary Fund appears to have factored in his possible victory in 2021 hence their reluctance to engage the current government on a possible economic rescue package.
The question is, has the UPND leader’s message of change found resonance with the electorate? While he appeals to the affluent and middle class in Parklands, Kansenshi and Kabulonga, the grassroots in Mandevu, kwa Nagoli and Chamboli seem to be struggling to grasp his vision for the country. Be reminded that he desperately needs this voting block to win the elections.
Against the backdrop of challenges, this looks like HH’s election to lose. Fact is, he can’t afford a record of 4 election loses on the trot. Such a scenario will certainly cast him into political wilderness and the glue that’s bound the UPND together over the years will finally loosen. Is this what he wants?
It’s entirely up to him and how he manages his campaign otherwise it might just well be that he will once again fall short of expectation and hand the PF another 5 years in power. And him being such a vexatious litigant, our Supreme and Constitutional courts will likely be kept busy. Watch this space.
The author is an avid reader of political history and philosophy. He loves Nshima with game meat. For feedback contact him on kwachaoneATgmailDOTcom
The US dollar’s dominance as the world’s ulitmate safe-haven currency is being “shaken and severely tested,” warns the CEO of global financial advisory giant, deVere Group.
Nigel Green says that President Trump’s erratic policy decisions—tariffs, geopolitical clashes, aggressive deportations, and radical interventions with Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency—are accelerating the global shift away from the dollar. Investors are scrambling for alternatives, and the consequences could become permanent.
“The dollar has long been the anchor of global finance, but Trump’s actions are eroding confidence at a stunning pace. The world is watching the US turn inward with protectionism, trade wars, and erratic diplomacy.
“The market response is already in motion. The dollar has slumped to a four-month low, despite Trump’s rhetoric that tariffs would ‘make America stronger.’
“Instead, the world is moving to insulate itself.
“Major economies are advancing plans to settle trade in alternative currencies. China and Russia are expanding the use of the yuan and rouble in cross-border payments. The euro is gaining traction for reserves.
“The once-unthinkable de-dollarization seems to be happening at an accelerated pace, and Trump is handing the world every reason to continue.”
This isn’t just about economic shifts—it’s a reaction to chaos.
Trump’s foreign policy is alienating allies and pushing them to seek alternatives. His recent spat with Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy, coupled with threats to cut US military aid, has sent shockwaves through European capitals. France and the UK are already exploring greater military and economic independence from the US.
The dollar, long seen as the glue binding alliances, could now become a liability for those who fear being caught in Trump’s crossfire.
“Confidence drives currency strength,” says Nigel Green. “Trump is making long-standing allies think twice, igniting trade wars, and creating massive instability. That’s the opposite of what you need to maintain a reserve currency.”
His drastic actions with Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are further adding to uncertainty.
“Investors are questioning whether the US economy is being driven by sound financial strategy or by impulsive political decisions.
“Meanwhile, his approach to tariffs—doubling down on trade wars with China and now extending them to allies like Canada and Mexico—is accelerating a realignment of global trade away from dollar-based transactions.”
The financial consequences for the US could be severe. A weaker dollar means higher borrowing costs, inflationary pressures, and a loss of influence over global financial markets. The debt burden, already ballooning, will become even more expensive to service as foreign investors pull back from US treasuries.
Trump’s policies are setting the stage for a self-inflicted economic downturn, one that will have far-reaching consequences beyond his time in office.
The cracks are already visible, with The Bank of England, among other pivotal global institutions, warning of growing risks tied to US trade policy.
Global investors are taking action. Capital is shifting into other major currencies, with the euro, Swiss franc, and yen gaining ground. Gold is seeing renewed demand, as investors seek protection from currency volatility. Even digital assets long viewed as speculative, are increasingly being considered as hedges against fiat instability.”
deVere Group advises investors to act before the full effects unfold. Diversifying away from dollar-heavy portfolios, strategically positioning in rising currencies, and gaining exposure to assets, geographies and sectors that benefit from a shifting financial order are now critical.
Nigel Green concludes: “Investors and institutions are already adjusting. The dollar’s status as a safe haven asset and reserve currency won’t disappear overnight, clearly, but Trump’s actions are lighting the fuse.”
In a move that underscores the government’s commitment to gender equality and institutional integrity, President Hakainde Hichilema yesterday officially swore in Ms. Daphne Pauline Soko Chabu as the Director-General of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and Ms. Mbololwa Wamunyima as the Director-General of the Human Rights Commission (HRC).
The appointments mark a significant step in reinforcing the country’s fight against corruption and the protection of human rights. President Hichilema expressed full confidence in the leadership capabilities of both officials, highlighting the critical roles they will play in their respective commissions.
“We have full confidence that Ms. Chabu will collaborate effectively with the Anti-Corruption Commission Board and other investigative bodies in her mission to combat corruption. Similarly, we trust that Ms. Wamunyima will enhance the Human Rights Commission’s oversight role, promoting and protecting human rights with the utmost integrity,” President Hichilema stated during the swearing-in ceremony.
Ms. Chabu, as head of the ACC, is expected to spearhead efforts in tackling corruption, strengthening institutional mechanisms, and ensuring transparency and accountability within public and private sectors. Her role will involve close cooperation with other investigative and law enforcement agencies.
Meanwhile, Ms. Wamunyima’s appointment to the Human Rights Commission places her at the forefront of advocating for human rights protection, legal reforms, and public awareness initiatives. Her leadership is anticipated to strengthen the commission’s oversight function and reinforce Zambia’s commitment to upholding human rights standards.
The appointments of Ms. Chabu and Ms. Wamunyima reflect the government’s broader agenda of promoting gender balance in key leadership positions while ensuring that critical governance institutions are led by competent and dedicated professionals.
As Zambia continues to navigate challenges in governance and human rights, these new appointments signal a renewed focus on accountability, justice, and institutional strengthening.
Lesotho’s government says it is shocked by US President Donald Trump saying that “nobody has ever heard of” the southern African nation.
Trump, addressing the US Congress in his first speech since his return to the Oval Office, made the reference as he listed cuts made to what he said was wasteful expenditure.
“Eight million dollars to promote LGBTQI+ in the African nation of Lesotho, which nobody has ever heard of,” Trump said, eliciting laughter from some US lawmakers.
A spokesperson for Lesotho’s foreign affairs department told the BBC that Lesotho enjoyed “warm and cordial” relations with the US.
Lesotho is one of the biggest beneficiaries of the US’s African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), which gives favourable trade access to some countries to promote their economic growth.
According to the US government, the two countries traded goods worth $240m (£187m) in 2024, mostly exports from Lesotho to the US, in particular textiles and clothing.
Lesotho’s Foreign Affairs Minister Lejone Mpotjoane said it was “shocking” to hear a head of state “refer to another sovereign state in that manner”.
“To my surprise, ‘the country that nobody has heard of’ is the country where the US has a permanent mission,” Mpotjoane told the BBC.
“Lesotho is a member of the UN and of a number of other international bodies. And the US has an embassy here and [there are] a number of US organisations we’ve accommodated here in Maseru.”
He later told the AFP news agency: “We are not taking this matter lightly,” adding that they would send an official protest letter to Washington.
Officials dismissed Trump’s remarks as “off the cuff” and a “political statement”, adding that they were “uncalled-for” given the good relations between the two nations.
“We maintain very warm and cordial relations with the US. They’ve got a mission in Maseru and we also have [one] in Washington,” foreign affairs spokesperson Kutloano Pheko told the BBC.
Mr Pheko was unable to confirm Trump’s comments on the funding that went to LGBTQ organisations, saying that as the money went directly to them, they would be best placed to comment.
Mpotjoane, on his part, confirmed that the country had been affected by Trump’s sudden decision to pause aid funding to countries around the world.
Many organisations, mostly non-governmental, were thrown into chaos after the Trump administration announced a permanent end to the US President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (Pepfar) funding as part of a wider cost-cutting drive to reduce US government spending.
Pepfar was launched in 2003 by then US President George W Bush and its finances are distributed via the US government’s main overseas aid agency USAID, whose funding has also been cut.
Lesotho is among those countries that benefited from Pepfar, its health ministry told South African publication GroundUp in February, with TB and HIV programmes among those receiving the critical funds.
But Mpotjoane declined to criticise this decision, saying it was the US’s “prerogative to cut aid if they want to”.
Governance expert and human rights advocate Wesley Miyanda has commended President Hakainde Hichilema for re-affirming the zero-tolerance stance on negative cadrerism.
Mr Miyanda said the President’s stance on negative cadrerism should be motivating to those aspiring for the office of the President.
Speaking to ZANIS in an interview, Mr Miyanda commended President Hichilema for governing the country on the basis of the rule of law as promised during campaigns.
He was reacting to President Hakainde Hichilema’s National Address in parliament on National Values and principles on February 28, 2025.
In his speech, Mr Hichilema stated that politicians should practice smart politics that is free from violence and hate speech.
He said that politics should not divide the country but instead be used to drive development by competing in ideas rather than promoting hate and division.
The Attorney General, Mulilo Kabesha, has clarified that President Hakainde Hichilema, has already fulfilled the constitutional requirement of declaring assets before taking part in the 2021 general elections.
In a statement made available to ZANIS, Mr Kabesha says the Zambian Constitution does not mandate a sitting President to make continuous asset declarations beyond the election cycle.
He added that before contesting the 2021 general elections, the Head of State fully complied with the legal requirement to declare his assets and liabilities, as stipulated in Article 100(1) (h) of the Constitution.
“The law is clear that such declarations are only required before a candidate can contest in an election, and Mr Hichilema had already fulfilled this obligation in 2021,” added Mr Kabesha.
He added that the Constitutional Court clarified that the Presidential continuous asset declarations beyond the election cycle, is not yet enforceable due to the absence of supporting legislation.
Mr Kabesha was responding to media reports arising from some members of the public and politicians demanding that President Hichilema should publicly declare his assets and liabilities.
Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa, Zambia’s Minister of Information and Media and Chief Government Spokesperson, yesterday held a press briefing to address critical national issues, including the high cost of living, media professionalism, and recent criticisms from opposition parties and religious leaders. The briefing underscored the government’s commitment to addressing economic challenges while calling for civility and accountability in public discourse.
High Cost of Living and Energy Crisis
Minister Mweetwa acknowledged the severe impact of the high cost of living on Zambians, attributing part of the crisis to the recent drought that has strained the nation’s resources. He assured citizens that the government is working tirelessly to mitigate the situation.
On the energy front, the Minister provided a glimmer of hope, stating that load shedding—a persistent issue for households and businesses—is expected to diminish by June 2025. He explained that this timeline is based on the three-month period required for water to flow from the Zambezi Basin to Kariba Dam, which is critical for hydroelectric power generation.
Media Regulation and Professionalism
The Minister addressed the contentious issue of media regulation, emphasizing the government’s expectation for professionalism and balance from media organizations. He specifically called out the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zambia, urging the organization to maintain objectivity in its advisory role.
“Government has no intention of gagging the media,” Mweetwa stated, “but we will not tolerate unprofessional conduct.” He singled out The Mast newspaper, accusing it of peddling falsehoods and demanding an apology for misleading the nation.
In a move to foster dialogue, the Ministry of Information announced plans to convene a meeting with media owners and stakeholders, including MISA, to address concerns about unethical practices and deliberate misinformation. The Minister reiterated the government’s openness to either statutory or self-regulation, depending on the media’s preference.
Response to Opposition Criticism
The briefing also touched on recent threats of civil disobedience by opposition political parties. Minister Mweetwa appealed to opposition leaders, including Mr. Harry Kalaba and Mr. Raphel Nakachinda, to refrain from using insulting language toward President Hakainde Hichilema and to engage in issue-based politics.
“It is political irresponsibility for the opposition to threaten civil disobedience,” Mweetwa said, warning against actions that could incite anarchy. He called for unity and constructive dialogue, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the country.
Church and Government Relations
Responding to recent criticisms from Auxiliary Bishop George Lungu of Chipata, Minister Mweetwa reaffirmed the government’s recognition of the church as a key development partner. However, he clarified that Bishop Lungu’s attacks on the government were made in his individual capacity and did not represent the broader church’s stance.
Looking Ahead
The press briefing highlighted the government’s efforts to navigate complex economic and social challenges while calling for accountability and professionalism across all sectors. As Zambia continues to grapple with the aftermath of drought and economic pressures, the government’s ability to foster collaboration and maintain public trust will be critical in the months ahead.
Kabwe’s historic Mulungushi Textiles Limited (ZCMT) is on the brink of a significant revival, with machine testing almost underway – a process expected to last fewer than 20 days – marking the final phase before full-scale operations resume. This is a signal to the revitalizing of a sophisticated retail network.
Economic Revitalization and Job Creation
The reopening of Mulungushi Textiles is poised to invigorate Zambia’s economy, particularly benefiting the cotton industry. The factory’s revival is anticipated to create approximately 500 direct jobs and numerous indirect employment opportunities, thereby revitalizing the once vibrant town of Kabwe.
The Cotton Board of Zambia has lauded this initiative, emphasizing its potential to enhance cotton value addition and improve rural livelihoods. The board’s Chief Executive Officer, Sunduzwayo Banda, highlighted that the textile sector’s revival is crucial for job creation and should be prioritized within Zambia’s manufacturing landscape.
Strategic Partnerships and Modernization
In collaboration with Qingdao Ruichang Industrial Tech Company Limited, the government has embarked on an ambitious plan to modernize Mulungushi Textiles. This partnership encompasses renovating existing structures, constructing new production facilities, and installing state-of-the-art equipment. The first batch of machinery has already arrived, underscoring the project’s momentum.
Boost to the Cotton Industry
The factory’s revival is expected to significantly bolster the domestic cotton industry. By providing a reliable market for cotton farmers, particularly in Central Province, the operationalization of Mulungushi Textiles will stimulate agricultural productivity and contribute to rural development.
Government Initiatives and Economic Diversification
The Zambian government has demonstrated unwavering commitment to economic diversification and industrialization. Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane announced incentives to boost the cotton industry as part of the 2024 national budget, reflecting the administration’s dedication to revitalizing the cotton value chain.
A New Era for Mulungushi Textiles
As machine testing progresses, the anticipation for Mulungushi Textiles’ full operational resumption grows. This development symbolizes a pivotal moment in Zambia’s industrial landscape, promising economic growth, job creation, and enhanced livelihoods for countless citizens.
The Lusaka Magistrate Court has fined three men for creating a fake Facebook page under the name “ZNBC TOP STORIES ONLINE NEWS” to publish seditious content.
Alick Sakala, 21, Chimango Luhanga, 25, and Samuel Mwene, 23, were convicted by Magistrate Constance Kansakala on four counts, including using insulting language, sedition, and identity-related crimes.
Sakala and Luhanga were each fined K10,000 or face six months imprisonment, while Mwene was fined K2,400 or serve six months in jail.
The trio, who were arrested in December 2024, received their sentences after the court considered their youthful age and remorse for their actions. However, Magistrate Kansakala emphasized that their punishment should serve as a deterrent to other youths who abuse cyberspace.
According to the charges, Sakala circulated insults on the page between January 21 and February 29, 2024. Additionally, between January 4, 2019, and February 29, 2024, he processed and used another person’s identification to insult or annoy individuals via traffic data.
During the same period, Sakala, Luhanga, and Mwene jointly created the fake ZNBC page, using it to spread seditious content. Furthermore, Luhanga was found guilty of processing and using another person’s identity to insult or annoy people via traffic data.
The case highlights growing concerns over cybercrime and misuse of online platforms in Zambia, with authorities warning that offenders will face legal consequences.
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has suspended FIFA Referee Joseph Kalunga for the remainder of the season following his performance in the Week 26 MTN Super League match between Atletico Lusaka and FC Muza. The game, which ended in a 2-1 victory for the hosts at Nkoloma Stadium, was marred by controversial officiating decisions.
FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga announced the decision, stating that the suspension was based on a recommendation from the Technical and Match Review Committee of the Referees Department. The committee, which consists of esteemed FIFA and CAF instructors and assessors, reviewed video footage of the match and found Kalunga’s officiating to be substandard.
“A video clip in which Mr. Kalunga awarded a penalty to MUZA FC during their match against Atletico Lusaka on Saturday, March 1, 2025, was forwarded to the Technical and Match Review Committee of the Referees Department,” said Kamanga. “The committee determined that Kalunga was incorrect in awarding the penalty, among other contested decisions that ultimately led to crowd disturbances.”
Kamanga emphasized that FAZ remains committed to maintaining high refereeing standards, especially as the league enters its decisive phase.
“At this stage of the league, we will only assign referees who demonstrate a commitment to upholding fair play and high officiating standards. We cannot allow repeated poor officiating to tarnish the integrity of our beautiful game,” he added.
Kalunga becomes the second high-profile referee to be suspended this season. Earlier, Shem Nyondo was suspended following his officiating in the Week 17 fixture between Kabwe Warriors and Nkana Football Club on December 18, 2024, at the Godfrey Ucar Chitalu Stadium in Kabwe.
FAZ continues to enforce stringent measures to ensure fairness and professionalism in Zambian football officiating.
In the bustling streets of the city and Soweto markets, Simon Mwewa Lane, popularly known as Chitambala Mwewa, has become a constant and controversial figure. Armed with a live mobile phone perched on a selfie stick, he films the daily chaos around him, exposing the rot, confusion, and illegal activities that plague the Central Business District (CBD) and surrounding areas.
While his work is seen as brave by many, Mwewa’s recent clashes with UPND cadres have taken a dangerous turn. Known as the number one vlogger for President Hakainde Hichilema, Mwewa has long enjoyed a sense of protection, even accompanying the presidential entourage on local trips. However, this perceived insulation from harm is now being tested.
Today, tensions reached a boiling point when a group of UPND cadres confronted Mwewa at the market. Words were exchanged, and the encounter quickly escalated into a heated altercation. Loud shouts and angry cries filled the air as Mwewa, himself a UPND cadre, stood his ground. The cadres reiterated their threats to physically assault him and burn down the Simoson Building, a controversial property owned by Mwewa’s father, which houses shops and offices.
The confrontation has left many wondering about the true nature of the conflict. Is this a genuine fallout between Mwewa and his fellow party members, or is it a staged attempt to cleanse his dented reputation? Mwewa, who has long been seen as a vocal supporter of the UPND, now finds himself at odds with the very cadres he once stood alongside.
This is not the first time Mwewa has faced such threats. a few moons ago, he had a nasty encounter with the cadres, he went live on his Facebook page, breaking down in tears and declaring, “I give up.” This moment of vulnerability shocked his viewers, many of whom have followed his fearless exposés for years.
Despite his emotional plea, the threats against Mwewa and his family’s property continue to loom large. His situation highlights the dangers faced by those who dare to expose wrongdoing in a volatile political climate.
These fights with the so-called “angels” may not end well. For Simon Mwewa Lane, the future remains uncertain, and the risks he faces are growing by the day.
Authorities have sprayed lime over a 100-kilometer stretch of the Kafue River to neutralize acid plumes and prevent further contamination.
Fisheries and Livestock Minister Peter Kapala confirmed the development, stating that the acid plumes were detected between Ngabwe and Mumbwa districts. The contamination has been traced back to Sino Metal Tailings in Chambeshi, located in the Copperbelt Province.
In an interview with ZNBC News, Mr. Kapala explained that a coordinated response involving the Zambia Air Force, Zambia Police, and the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) is underway to mitigate the environmental impact.
The operation has deployed three Zambia Air Force planes and boats to distribute lime, particularly in areas where the river’s current is stronger. Efforts will continue tomorrow, focusing on the swamps and riverbanks where the water flow is slower, allowing for more effective treatment.
Authorities remain on high alert as they work to contain the pollution and safeguard communities that rely on the Kafue River for water and fishing.
Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Elijah Muchima, MP, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling the ongoing cholera outbreak, emphasizing the need for sustained vigilance even after the crisis subsides.
Dr. Muchima underscored the importance of clean water and proper hygiene in preventing further infections. He reported two new cases from Kanyama on February 26, both linked to a funeral, with one additional death—a 9-year-old from the same household—under investigation. An additional case was recorded in Chililabombwe, bringing the cumulative total to 301 cases. No new deaths have been reported in the past 24 hours.
Since the outbreak began, Zambia has recorded nine deaths and 289 recoveries, with three patients still receiving treatment. Dr. Muchima highlighted the government’s ongoing response, including the provision of essential medical supplies and the establishment of Oral Rehydration Points (ORPs) to manage cases efficiently.
He also praised the success of recent vaccination campaigns in Nakonde, Chililabombwe, and Kitwe, which have significantly reduced the number and severity of cholera cases. Over 1.2 million doses of the cholera vaccine remain available for further deployment.
As cholera is primarily waterborne, Dr. Muchima urged the public to drink only clean water, practice regular handwashing, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear. He concluded with a call for collective action to eliminate cholera-related deaths, stressing the need for community cooperation in preventing future outbreaks.
Zambia has recorded a significant decline in maternal and newborn mortality rates, according to the 2024 demographic survey, marking a step forward in the country’s ongoing efforts to improve maternal health.
Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi, the Permanent Secretary for Technical Services at the Ministry of Health, announced that maternal deaths have decreased from 278 per 100,000 live births in 2018 to 195 in 2024. Newborn mortality has also seen a notable reduction, dropping from 27 per 1,000 live births to 17 over the same period.
Speaking at the launch of the University of Zambia and King’s College London Maternal Health Research Collaboration in Lusaka, Dr. Lishimpi highlighted the need to address hypertensive conditions in pregnant women as a crucial factor in sustaining progress.
The collaboration between the two institutions has played a vital role in advancing maternal health research. Professor Bellington Vwalika of the University of Zambia emphasized the success of the decade-long partnership with King’s College London, noting its contributions to research and capacity building in the field.
While Zambia’s maternal and newborn mortality rates remain a concern, the latest figures signal improvement and reinforce the importance of continued investment in healthcare and research.
Seventeen cows have died after drinking contaminated water near Bubanii Resources Limited and Ozone mines in Mumbwa District, officials have confirmed.
Central Province Permanent Secretary Dr. Milner Mwanakampwe reported that 14 cattle perished after consuming water contaminated with cyanide following a spillage near Bubanji Mine. The animals are believed to have drunk the polluted water from a natural grazing area.
Meanwhile, Mumbwa District Commissioner Namukolo Hayumbu stated that efforts to neutralize the contamination began yesterday, with experts closely monitoring the situation.
In a related incident, three additional cattle died after a tailings dam at Ozone Mine burst, releasing effluent into nearby cattle drinking ponds. However, Dr. Mwanakampwe assured that natural water bodies have not been affected, as the spilled tailings have been treated to prevent further environmental damage.
The government is also taking measures to prevent pollution from spreading to the Kafue River, which could threaten wildlife in the Kafue National Park. Authorities have advised residents in Kashiya, under Chief Mwinuna’s chiefdom in Ngabwe District, against consuming water from the river, locally known as Luwishi River.
Farmers in the affected areas have been instructed to keep their livestock away from the contaminated water sources until the situation stabilizes. The government continues to monitor developments closely.
Yesterday, we wrote about the plight of a woman who was recently arrested and detained by the police for allegedly assaulting someone. When the husband went to sign the police bond for her, he was asked to pay K400 for reams of paper by some officers.
When the matter was brought to our attention, we immediately called the police spokesman, Ray Hamoonga to alert him about the same. Mr. Hamoonga wasn’t a let down; he in turn called the relevant authorities in the jurisdiction in question.
Praise be to God, the lady was released on police bond Sunday otherwise she could’ve remained in custody till Monday. How do you keep someone with a breastfeeding baby in custody for three days?
This morning we had a fruitful meeting with the top police command. An inquiry has since been launched, we expect some heads to roll.
The President is working around the clock to resuscitate the economy which was destroyed during the Patriotic Front (PF) misrule, and further exacerbated by the ongoing war in Ukraine as Commonwealth Secretary, General Patricia Scotland has rightly put it. We therefore don’t expect anyone to rob our people of the little they have to their names, particularly in the shanties.
Bravo to Mr. Ray Hamoonga for being down to earth and maintaining an open door policy! He chose to pick up our call on a Sunday when he should have been resting and did the needful. My his shoulders be adorned with more decorations in years to come.
