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Unknown People Attack ,Kill Lundazi Teacher After Teachers Day Celebration

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Unknown People Attack ,Kill Lundazi Teacher After Teachers Day Celebration

Unknown people attacked and beat to death a male teacher 31 from Lundazi’s Kaviskeske Primary School of Vinyoni Village in Kapichila Chiefdom.

The deceased who was in the company of a female teacher, 31 from Mankhaka Primary school was returning from celebrating Teacher’s Day which was held in Mwase area.

Eastern Province Commissioner of Police, Mweemba Robertson confirmed the incident to ZANIS.
Mr Mweemba said the duo were riding on a motorcycle around 22:00 hours when unknown people attacked them.
“I am confirming a murder case which occurred on October 4, 2024 around 22:00 hours along Mwase- Mankhaka road about 20 meters from Bowe turnoff,” Mr Mweemba said.

Police have named the deceased as Fred Masinda 31, a teacher at Kaviskeske Primary School in Lundazi District.

History Repeats Itself: A Concerned Citizen’s Open Letter to Former President Edgar Lungu

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History Repeats Itself: A Concerned Citizen’s Open Letter to Former President Edgar Lungu

With love and respect, I write this letter to former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu (ECL), urging him to reflect deeply on his actions and those of his team, including his legal and media advisors. As a pastor, I request that my identity remains hidden to avoid any conflict of interest.

The most critical step for you, former President Lungu, is to conduct a thorough self-introspection, and the same should be expected of those around you. Here’s my perspective:

Firstly, the notion of a political comeback, particularly here in Zambia and across Africa, seldom works. Many thoughtful individuals have voiced this concern, and their advice should not be dismissed lightly. The reality is that attempting to return to power is a lost cause—an ill-fated project.

Secondly, the lawyers representing you are in it for business, not charity. The money spent on these legal battles is substantial. Please reconsider these decisions, Dad.

Thirdly, history offers many lessons. Consider the cases of Dr. Kenneth Kaunda versus Dr. Frederick Chiluba, Dr. Chiluba versus Dr. Levy Mwanawasa, and Dr. Rupiah Banda versus Michael Sata. None of these political figures succeeded in their attempts to return to power, despite having strong media support and connections, both locally and internationally. Yet, all their efforts were in vain.

Dad, it’s time to be honest with yourself. Many of those around you are well-educated, and they should be learning how to survive without further damaging your already fragile reputation. They are misleading you, pushing you to behave in ways that tarnish your legacy and diminish the respect you once held among former heads of state.

Take counsel from people like former President Thabo Mbeki. In the Bible, King Solomon destroyed himself by disregarding the elders and surrounding himself with the young and inexperienced. Perhaps it’s time to replace some of your current advisors, such as Emmanuel Mwamba and Raphael Nakacinda, with figures like Thabo Mbeki or former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta.

My heartfelt advice is this: Do not heed the deceptive voices of those around you. Remember, you have already experienced the sweetness of power. But no matter how sweet sugar or honey is, no one can consume an entire kilogram or liter of it at once—it becomes unbearable. Safeguard your dignity and your resources rather than subject yourself to further disgrace.

In conclusion, the reality is that you are now a former president, and you no longer wield the power you once did. The way the police treat you is evidence of this. No matter how much you cry out through the media, His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema will not be removed by the international community or superpowers. Just as you ruled for your term, your successor will also serve his.

Remember my words, Dad—you will understand them one day. It is time to redeem yourself.

With love,
A concerned citizen.

Government To Strengthen Albinism Advocacy

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Government To Strengthen Albinism Advocacy

Government says it will continue supporting capacity-building programs to strengthen Organizations representing persons with albinism, in order to aid their advocacy for rights of persons with Albinism.
Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Doreen Mwamba who was represented by Senior Social Welfare officer Shishe Mwale , said government is implementing the National Action Plan (NAP) aimed at creating a framework that will ensure protection, access to education, and health services for persons with albinism.

Ms Mwamba was speaking during the launch of an Albinism Project under the theme “Out Of The Shadow For Good,”

“Government will work closely with Cheshire Homes and other stakeholders to ensure the NAP is fully aligned with National policies,” said Ms Mwamba.

The minister observed that persons with albinism are often subjected to harmful myths, violence, lack of access to education, healthcare and employment opportunities.

FAZ Disciplinary Committee Rules On Kelvin Mwanza Case

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FAZ Disciplinary Committee Rules On Kelvin Mwanza Case

The FAZ Disciplinary Committee has ruled that Maestro United Zambia Football Club midfielder Kelvin Mwanza returns to the club following a protracted legal dispute that has kept him off the pitch since the beginning of the season.

During its sitting, the full bench of the Disciplinary Committee overruled the decision of the Player Status Committee that had directed that the player was free to move to a new destination if he so wished.

“Our decision is a simple one in view of the evidence adduced before us. The Complainants have failed to prove their case, and we forthwith rule in favour of the Respondent. Kelvin Mwanza belongs to Maestro FC as regards ownership,”read part of the judgment.

“We thus order the immediate return of the Player Kelvin Mwanza to his parent Club, Maestro FC where he has an existing legally binding contract following its extension or renewal. If there are any other formalities that the two parties may wish to fulfill, they are at liberty to do so based on their existing legal relationship.”

Mwanza’s agent Lameck Sifeku reported FC MUZA to the Player Status and Transfer Committee following the Mazabuka based side’s refusal to release the player to Power Dynamos after his contract had allegedly expired on July 31.

The Player Status and Transfer Committee referred the matter to the Disciplinary Committee with the recommendation that the player be allowed to move.

However, the Disciplinary Committee re-examined the case and found that the player had entered into a new contract, with the club honouring its obligations which the players signed off. Maestro United presented evidence of the payments under the new contract the player agreed to but had not signed.
Both parties made appearances before the Disciplinary Committee and made their submissions.

The Disciplinary Committee acknowledged that the Player Status and Transfer Committee made a decision in the absence of the Maestro United response which never ‘turned up’ at their desk.FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga says he was happy that a decision had finally been made on the matter.

“It is good that a decision has been made on this matter as well as others. We always encourage our judicial bodies to dispose of these matters quickly to avoid inconveniencing aggrieved parties like players,” Kamanga says.

All parties have a right of appeal to a higher body where they are dissatisfied
with the decision of the lower organ.

For and on behalf of:
FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF ZAMBIA
Sydney Mungala
COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Why I support the decision of ConCourt judges to remain on Lungu’s eligibility case

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Why I support the decision of ConCourt judges to remain on Lungu’s eligibility case

By Sishuwa Sishuwa

On 3 October 2024, three judges of Zambia’s Constitutional Court dismissed former president Edgar Lungu’s application for them to recuse themselves from hearing and determining his eligibility case. In this interview with Diamond TV Zambia, I explain why the decision by justices Margaret Munalula, Maria Kawimbe, and Arnold Shilimi was sound: the application was based on a weak and speculative argument with insufficient evidence. The threshold for recusal is high. It is not enough to make wild allegations in order to displace the presumption of impartiality.

Diabetes: A Global Threat—A Personal Story from Zambia

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Diabetes: A Global Threat—A Personal Story from Zambia

Diabetes is a growing global health crisis affecting millions of people, including right here in Zambia. My Mother, born 15 September 1948, was diagnosed with diabetes about 10 years ago. Recently, she had to undergo an above-the-knee amputation on her right leg, a heart-breaking outcome of this silent disease.

In Zambia, the prevalence of diabetes has been steadily increasing, reflecting global trends of rising non-communicable diseases. Based on the 2017 Zambia STEPS survey, about 4.8%* of adults have diabetes, and many more are in the pre-diabetic stage. Diabetes is more common in older age groups, with prevalence increasing significantly in those aged 45 years and older.

I was encouraged to write this article by Anna at Lusaka Times (LusakaTimes.com), who understood this heart-wrenching personal tragedy that has befallen my family. Never did we imagine that our very own beloved parent would undergo endless days, weeks and months of agony and sleeplessness to the point of confusion and hallucination, where death becomes a more preferable option to facing excruciating pain day after day. No one came to our rescue! But as a family we have pulled together to get through this enormous challenge.

Know this crucial information: Diabetes can be controlled and even reversed, but only if we act early!

The Global Diabetes Epidemic

  • According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 422 million people globally suffer from diabetes. In Zambia, the rise of Type 2 diabetes mirrors this global trend due to poor diet and lifestyle choices.
  • Dr. Suneel Dhand explains, diabetes is largely a result of metabolic issues. Refined sugars, processed foods, and sedentary living have led to widespread insulin resistance, the precursor to Type 2 diabetes.

Food Habits and the Cause

  • Dr. Eric Berg, an expert in nutrition, emphasizes that food choices are key to preventing and reversing diabetes. Diets high in sugar, processed grains, and unhealthy fats are dangerous! A healthy diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats, such as avocado and fish, can prevent or reverse the disease.
  • In Zambia, local staples like ‘nshima’ (refined white maize meal), refined white sugar and sugary beverages contribute significantly to the rise of Type 2 diabetes.

Risk Factors

The main contributing factors that cause diabetes include:

  • Obesity. High rates of overweight and obesity, particularly in urban areas, are driving the diabetes epidemic.
  • Physical Inactivity. A sedentary lifestyle is a significant contributor, with many Zambians not engaging in sufficient physical activity.
  • Diet. Diets high in processed foods and sugars and low in fruits and vegetables exacerbate the risk of diabetes.
  • Genetics and Family History. Family history also plays a crucial role, increasing susceptibility.

Prediabetes and Early Warning Signs

  • Michigan Foot Doctors stress that symptoms like tingling in the hands and feet are critical early warning signs. These symptoms indicate nerve damage, often linked to uncontrolled blood sugar levels. I was surprised to learn that persistent tingling in the hands and feet may be an already too late indication of nerve damage!
  • In Zambia, where healthcare access may be limited, many ignore these signs until it’s too late. My mother’s delayed diagnosis led to nerve damage, resulting in poor circulation and, eventually, gangrene.

Managing and Reversing Diabetes

  • Dr. Eric Berg advocates for a low-carb, high-fat diet (keto), which has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reverse Type 2 diabetes in many cases.
  • Regular exercise and intermittent fasting can also be powerful tools in managing and potentially reversing the disease.

Treating Diabetes: What Works?

  1. Dr. Dhand recommends metformin and insulin therapy, but stresses that lifestyle changes are essential for long-term management
  • Metformin Therapy. Metformin is an oral medication commonly prescribed to treat Type 2 diabetes. It works by lowering glucose production in the liver and improving the body’s sensitivity to insulin, allowing for better blood sugar control. It is often the first line of treatment for people with Type 2 diabetes because it helps maintain stable blood glucose levels without causing significant weight gain.
  • Insulin therapy involves injecting insulin, a hormone that helps the body use glucose for energy. It is essential for Type 1 diabetes and often used in advanced Type 2 diabetes when the body cannot produce enough insulin or regulate blood sugar effectively. Different types of insulin (rapid-acting, long-acting) are used depending on the patient’s needs, and therapy is tailored to maintain blood glucose levels within a target range.

Both therapies aim to prevent complications, such as nerve damage and poor circulation, which can lead to serious conditions like amputations.

2. Regular blood sugar monitoring is critical. Michigan Foot Doctors also emphasize foot care as crucial, particularly for patients at risk of amputation due to poor circulation. They recommend:

  • Daily foot inspections – Check for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling
  • Moisturizing – Apply lotion but avoid between the toes to prevent fungal infections
  • Wearing proper footwear – Use shoes that fit well and avoid barefoot walking
  • Trimming nails carefully – Cut nails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Seeking early medical attention – Visit a healthcare professional at the first sign of foot issues

These practices are vital for preventing complications like ulcers or amputations.

Caring for a Diabetic Patient

  • Taking care of someone with diabetes involves a holistic approach—diet, medication, and physical care.
  • When managing diabetic patients at home, it’s essential to regularly check feet, follow the treatment plans, and encourage physical activity to promote circulation.

What foods can we eat?

Turning to traditional local foods can be an effective strategy as these foods are nutrient-dense and help regulate blood sugar levels while providing necessary vitamins and minerals. Some excellent local alternatives include:

    1. Nshima made from Millet or Sorghum
      Why? Traditional Nshima is often made from white maize meal, but using millet or sorghum, which have lower glycemic indexes, helps in controlling blood sugar levels. These grains are also rich in fibre, which aids in digestion and prevents spikes in blood sugar
    2. Sweet Potatoes (Chimbwali)
      Why? Unlike regular potatoes, sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index and are rich in fibre and antioxidants like beta-carotene. They help in slower digestion, reducing the rapid rise of glucose levels
    3. Pumpkin Leaves (Chibwabwa)
      Why? Rich in vitamins and fibre, pumpkin leaves support a healthy digestive system and help in blood sugar regulation. Their nutrient profile helps combat inflammation, which is essential in managing diabetes
    4. Okra (Delele)
      Why? Okra is a traditional vegetable in Zambia known for its fibre content, particularly soluble fibre, which is beneficial for controlling blood glucose levels by slowing sugar absorption.
    5. Groundnuts (Peanuts)
      Why? Rich in healthy fats and protein, groundnuts help in stabilizing blood sugar levels. Eaten in moderation, they make for a good snack that doesn’t cause rapid spikes in glucose
    6. Cassava Leaves
      Why? Also rich in fibre and low in carbohydrates, cassava leaves are a nutrient-dense vegetable that supports a healthy diet for diabetes management, especially when paired with other high-fibre foods
    7. Beans and Cowpeas (Lupins)
      Why? Both are rich in fibre and protein, helping manage diabetes by reducing post-meal glucose spikes and improving insulin sensitivity
    8. Baobab Fruit (Mbuyu)
      Why? A superfood packed with fiber and vitamin C. It has a low glycemic index, meaning it slowly releases sugar into the bloodstream, making it ideal for diabetics and for preventing diabetes.
    9. Moringa
      Why? Moringa leaves and seeds are high in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that help in controlling blood sugar levels. It is widely used in traditional remedies to manage diabetes.
    10. Fish (Kapenta, Bream, Buka-Buka, etc)
      Why? Fish is a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which help in managing inflammation and maintaining steady blood sugar levels.

Incorporating these foods, combined with lifestyle changes like increased physical activity and reducing processed sugars, can greatly reduce the risk of diabetes.

Diabetes is Preventable

Diabetes is a silent killer, but it doesn’t have to claim more lives. My mother’s amputation is a stark warning for all Zambians. Watch your diet, stay active, and pay attention to the early warning signs. As Dr. Dhand, Dr. Berg, and the Michigan Foot Doctors advise, it’s never too late to make lifestyle changes that can save your life.

It is said that every cloud has a silver lining: My Mother, once active, vibrant and a leader in the community and government, has shown a strong will to survive this tragic event at the fragile age of 76. In spite selflessly serving her constituency and country, she has not once expressed nor expected any special treatment or concern from her country. I feel let down by our government, but I am inspired by my Mother’s tremendous courage and resolve. Get well soon Mother, I love you dearly!

By Chansa Chipampata

References:

Dr. Suneel Dhand (https://youtu.be/MxeugC5yxFw?feature=shared)

Dr. Eric Berg (https://youtu.be/xpH45c2BrMM?feature=shared)

Michigan Foot Doctors
(https://youtu.be/8U9b36D43xI?feature=shared)

Diabetes mellitus in Zambia and the Western Cape province of South Africa: Prevalence, risk factors, diagnosis and management – PMC (nih.gov).

Zambia : Government Concerned Over Rise in Diabetes Cases In Zambia lusakatimes.com

Prevalence and correlates of pre-diabetes and diabetes among a national population-based sample of adults in Zambia: results of the first national STEPS survey in 2017 |
International Journal of Diabetes in Developing Countries (springer.com)

Former President Edgar Lungu Loses Bid In Constitutional Court

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Former President Edgar Lungu Loses Bid In Constitutional Court

Former President Edgar Lungu has lost a legal bid to have three Constitutional Court judges recuse themselves from hearing a petition that challenges his eligibility to run in the 2021 General Election and any future elections.

Mr. Lungu had filed a Notice of Motion seeking the removal of Constitutional Court President Margaret Munalula, Deputy Arnold Shilimi, and Judge Mapani Kawimbe from the case, citing concerns of bias. He argued that Justice Munalula had previously delivered dissenting judgments favoring current President Hakainde Hichilema, and further referenced her past involvement with the Judicial Complaints Commission. Mr. Lungu also raised concerns about alleged professional and familial connections between Judges Shilimi, Kawimbe, and President Hichilema.

The motion stems from a petition by youth activist Michelo Chizombe, who is calling on the court to rule on Mr. Lungu’s eligibility to contest both the 2021 election and future presidential races.

Granson Holds 78 year old Granny Hostage On Suspicion Of Being A Witch

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Granson Holds 78 year old Granny Hostage On Suspicion Of Being A Witch

Police in Chembe District have arrested a 35-year-old man for allegedly unlawfully confining and naming his 78-year-old grandmother as witch.

Wington Chama of Lusaya Village in Chief Kasoma Lwela’s chiefdom in Chembe district is reported to have held his grandmother hostage for two days on the pretext that she was practicing witchcraft.

ZANIS reports that Luapula Province Police Commanding Officer, Yuyi Mwala has confirmed the incident which happened between 30th September and 2nd October, 2024 and has identified the victim as Antinet Mwape of the same village.

Mr. Mwala said the suspect had held the victim hostage demanding the sum of K 3 000 from her to enable him take his sick child, whom he suspected to have been bewitched by the victim, to a traditional healer.

The Police Chief explained that the victim was rescued by the Police who raided the house where she had been confined following a report from her daughter, Bertha Yakonde.

Mr. Mwala explained that the victim was found in good shape and has since been reunited with her family while the suspect has been arrested and charged with unlawful confinement and naming another person a witch in accordance with the Witchcraft Act and would appear in court soon.

President Hichilema Calls for Strengthened Digital Infrastructure at 2024 Digital Government Africa Summit

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President Hichilema Calls for Strengthened Digital Infrastructure at 2024 Digital Government Africa Summit

President Hakainde Hichilema officiated the 2024 Digital Government Africa Summit, centered around the theme “Building Resilient and Secure Digital Governments for Sustainable Development.” The summit’s theme aligns with the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy 2020-2030, which focuses on leveraging digital technologies to integrate the continent, boost inclusive economic growth, create jobs, and reduce poverty.

However, Africa continues to face significant hurdles, including fragile economic structures, a shortage of ICT innovators, and a dependency on insufficient global ICT infrastructure. Africa’s 2024 ICT Development Index score of 50.3, well below the global average of 74.8, reflects the scale of these challenges.

President Hichilema emphasized the summit’s importance as a platform to exchange ideas and strategies to confront these issues. “Digital platforms should not be used to spread misinformation or promote false narratives,” he said, highlighting the need for Africa to enhance information sharing and fully capitalize on its youthful population and vast resources. He added that digital platforms can significantly reduce the cost of goods and services, thus driving economic growth and development.

President Hichilema Assures Media of Government Support Amid Energy Crisis

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President Hichilema Assures Media of Government Support Amid Energy Crisis

President Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to addressing the ongoing energy crisis, which has impacted various sectors, including the media industry. Speaking at the Media Owners Association of Zambia (MOAZ) Annual General Meeting and Conference in Lusaka, the President acknowledged the strain that energy shortages have placed on media operations and outlined new measures aimed at alleviating the issue.

President Hichilema noted that the government is working tirelessly to implement quick solutions to the energy deficit, ensuring minimal disruption to industries such as the media. He emphasized that his administration is introducing energy alternatives, including independent power producers, private energy traders, and net metering, to boost resilience in the sector.

Additionally, the President revealed that the Bank of Zambia is setting up a special facility to address the energy shortage, which will provide financial support to individuals, companies, and organizations affected by the crisis.

During the conference, themed “Media Resilience in the Face of Adversity – Overcoming Energy and AI-Driven Disruptions,” President Hichilema underscored the critical role of the media in communicating the achievements of the New Dawn Administration. He urged media outlets to explore options for generating their own electricity and stressed the importance of truthful reporting to counter the spread of fake news.

MOAZ President Costa Mwansa commended the President for enacting the Access to Information Law, expressing hope that it would empower citizens with the necessary information to hold the government accountable. He also called for government incentives for the media industry, similar to those offered to the manufacturing and mining sectors.

The conference concluded with a collective commitment to fostering strong partnerships between the government and the media to ensure a free, fair, and professional media environment in Zambia.

Muzala Samukonga says no to pledges from companies, individuals

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Muzala Samukonga says no to pledges from companies, individuals

To safeguard his brand, Zambian track and field sprinter Muzala Samukonga has started rejecting pledges from companies or individuals, citing personal reasons and circumstances beyond his control.

The sprinter, who specialises in the 400 metres has however thanked the people of Zambia for the overwhelming support he has received throughout the past season.

Muzala had received multiple pledges from a number of business houses after winning a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“Your unwavering belief in me from every corner of our great nation Zambia has been my source of strength and motivation. I am truly honoured to have represented Zambia on the global stage and brought back home a bronze after so many years and I am humbled by the love and encouragement you have shown me during my journey as an athlete,” the runner said on his Facebook page.

Muzala also acknowledged and expressed his deepest appreciation to the corporates and individuals who came forward with pledges and offers of support.

“Your generosity and willingness to contribute to my career have not gone unnoticed, and I am truly grateful for your efforts to uplift me. However, due to personal reasons and circumstances beyond my control, I regret to inform you that I will not be able to receive the pledges,” he said.

Muzala said the decision to start rejecting pledges from companies or individuals was not made lightly.

“And I hope that you understand the circumstances that led to this choice. I deeply value your support and look forward to your continued encouragement in future endeavours and hope and pray that in the near future I’ll be able to receive them but as at for now it is not my intentions not to get the pledges but circumstances beyond my control,” he said.

Muzala said as he looks ahead to the coming season, he hopes that he can once again count on the incredible support of the Zambian people.

“Together, we can achieve great things and make our country proud. Thank you once again for standing with me through every victory and challenge. I am excited for what lies ahead and am determined to continue giving my all in representing Zambia. With gratitude,” Samukonga signed off.

Muzala is not new to controversy.

He had dominated the Zambian social media in protest over unpaid bonuses which dated as far back as 2022.

At the Luasanne Diamond League in Switzerland where he finished second after posting a time of 44.06 seconds, Muzala staged a “No Zambian flag,” to protest loud the then unpaid allowances.

By Benedict Tembo

Our response to Edgar Lungu’s address

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Our response to Edgar Lungu’s address

When we heard that former president, the “almighty” Edgar Chagwa Lungu would be addressing the nation the other day; most of us were obviously taken aback! Isn’t a sitting head of state the only one entitled to address the nation at any given time? Isn’t this more the reason why ZNBC, our national broadcaster, has to disrupt its programming to cover such an important event?

It seems ba Lungu is yet to recover from the shock of being ejected from plot 1, unceremoniously; he may be entertaining imaginations that he’s still wielding powers to draw the nation’s attention at any given time.

To cut the long story short, when ba Lungu finally made it on our small screens or indeed featured on several social media outlets; he appeared inebriated as usual……he was sweating profusely while his speech sounded slurred and uncoordinated, at times. This not withstanding though, we still managed to grasp a few highlights hither and thiter which have prompted this write-up.

The first issue ba Lungu tackled were the legal petitions regarding his eligibility to stand as a Presidential candidate in both 2021 and beyond!

As we are all possibly aware, the former president has since rushed to court to seek legal redress.

He prayed as thus last night, “You are aware that recently, there have been legal petitions against my eligibility to stand as a presidential candidate in both 2021 and the future.

My hopes and prayers are that there will be respect accorded to my application currently before court, to help restore confidence in the courts and the Judiciary.”

As a top-notch lawyer, we obviously expect ba Lungu to be familiar with a legal term known as “less adjudicator.” This simply entails that a matter can easily be restored in our courts of law if fresh grounds have been established. Guided by this principle, the petitioner was left with little or no option, but to head back to court and resurrect this matter. Among the many grounds cited in the petition, is obviously the issue of specialized qualifications of the affected judges; a similar concern which was equally raised by various experts following the appointment of the said judges.

If ba Lungu is indeed a top-notch lawyer as he wants us to believe, how come he has challenges understanding this provision?

If we may interrogate his so-called address to the nation further, it’s quite cunning and hypocritical for ba Lungu to wake-up today and pretend he respects our courts of law.

When the matter of his eligibility came up in court during his tenure for instance, he threatened to go the “Kenya way” by dissolving the entire judiciary, indiscriminately! Worse still, he went ahead and unleashed his uncouth and brutal PF cadres to go and intimidate the judges by setting-up base on the court premises. They put up braii stands and spent some time devouring enormous kilos of beef and gulping countless amounts of alcoholic beverages as they chanted slogans and sung songs of praise and solidarity with their great humble leader!

Given the above, can one still insist the top-notch lawyer is a lawful citizen who religiously subscribes to the rule of law as opposed to man? Ubufi! Wenye! Boza! Makudi! Bubela! Lies!

NB: In our next offering, we compare the cost of living from the days of MMD to date….

Prince Bill M Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Professor Mubanga Kashoki Passes Away At 87

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Professor Mubanga Kashoki Passes Away At 87

Zambia mourns the loss of one of its most prominent academics, Professor Mubanga Kashoki, who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 2nd, surrounded by his family. A statement issued by the Kashoki family confirmed his passing, marking the end of an extraordinary life dedicated to advancing the study of African languages and sociolinguistics.

Professor Kashoki, who retired from the University of Zambia (UNZA) in 2019 after 48 years of service, leaves behind an unparalleled legacy in both academia and administration. His pioneering research has shaped much of what is known about Zambia’s sociolinguistic landscape today. Among his many achievements, he helped Zambians understand the distinction between language and tribe, promoted the use of local languages, and was instrumental in identifying the numerous languages spoken across the country. Additionally, he made significant contributions to the understanding of Zambian English as a unique linguistic phenomenon.

After completing his studies up to a master’s level in the United States, Prof. Kashoki returned to Zambia in 1971 with a mission to serve his country in the academic field. “The reason we were in the States and other countries was to acquire the kind of education which would be beneficial to Zambia after independence. That was the intention: to come back and serve our country,” he once reflected on his career.

Throughout his tenure at UNZA, Prof. Kashoki worked under the Institute of Economic and Social Research (INESOR) and played a critical role as the founding principal of the University of Zambia Ndola Campus (UNZANDO), which later became the Copperbelt University. His scholarly contributions are profound, having authored several books, seven monographs, 47 peer-reviewed linguistic journal articles and book chapters, and 13 non-linguistic papers. His work is essential reading for anyone studying Zambia’s sociolinguistic landscape, and his academic influence is expected to continue for generations.

Prof. Kashoki’s passing is a monumental loss for Zambia’s academic community, and his legacy will remain etched in the annals of the country’s history. He is survived by his family, who were by his side in his final moments.

Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.

President Hichilema Officiates Groundbreaking Ceremony for Lumwana Mine Super Pit, Paving the Way for Major Economic Boost

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President Hichilema Officiates Groundbreaking Ceremony for Lumwana Mine Super Pit, Paving the Way for Major Economic Boost

President Hakainde Hichilema officiated the groundbreaking ceremony for the Lumwana Mine Super Pit in Kalumbila District, marking a pivotal milestone in Zambia’s mining sector. The event, held on a one-day working visit to the North-Western Province, signals a new era for the country, with significant investments poised to strengthen Zambia’s standing in the global copper industry.

The expansion of the Lumwana Mine, spearheaded by Barrick Lumwana, will see an estimated $500 million USD invested in infrastructure development, operational expansion, and advanced mining technologies. This substantial investment is expected to create over 3,000 direct jobs during the construction phase, with an additional 1,500 long-term jobs upon completion.

“This is a momentous occasion that reflects our ongoing progress in building a robust, globally competitive mining industry,” President Hichilema stated. “Copper is rapidly becoming a critical mineral on the world stage, and this project ensures that Zambia remains a key player.”

President Hichilema extended his gratitude to Barrick Lumwana for their dedication to the project and their commitment to collaboration, ensuring the success and impact of the Super Pit expansion.

During his visit, the President also engaged with traditional leaders and addressed a public rally at Manyama in Kalumbila District, where he interacted with local residents.

President Hichilema departed from Solwezi Airport at 17:40 hours, seen off by North-Western Province Minister Robert Lihefu, along with senior government and UPND officials. His visit underscores the government’s commitment to fostering development and economic growth in the region through strategic partnerships in the mining sector.

Lumwana Mine Super Pit in Kalumbila District

14 Houses Collapse Due To Heavy Rains Experienced In Mbala

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14 Houses Collapse Due To Heavy Rains Experienced In Mbala

At least 14 houses have collapsed in Chief Mwamba’s Chiefdom in Mbala district following heavy rains experienced yesterday.

Both Chief Mwamba and Mwamba Ward Councilor Jackson Simbeye have confirmed to the Zambia News and Information Services in Mbala.

Chief Mwamba named the affected villages as Kapaso, Samson, and Kakozya and that the heavy rains experienced yesterday lasted for over two hours.

And Mwamba Ward Councillor Jackson Simbeye said he has reported the incident to the District Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DDMMU).

Mr Simbeye has since called on well-wishers to come to the aid of the affected.

The Zambia Meteorological Department yesterday predicted rainfall activities in most parts of Northwestern Province including the northern parts of Luapula, and Northern provinces starting yesterday.

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