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Copper Boom: North-Western Mines Drive Zambia’s Mining Sector Growth

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Copper Boom: North-Western Mines Drive Zambia’s Mining Sector Growth

Zambia’s mining sector is on a robust growth trajectory, with increased copper production in North-Western Province’s three largest mines signaling continued expansion. Minister of Mines Paul Kabuswe announced during a media engagement in Kalumbila District that copper output now stands at 810,000 metric tons annually.

Mr. Kabuswe, leading a delegation of government ministers on a tour of the province’s mines, expressed optimism about achieving the government’s ambitious target of three million metric tons of copper production annually. He cited the revival of Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) and Mopani Copper Mines, along with the opening of new mines under President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration, as key drivers of this goal.

Key Developments in Mining Sector

During a visit to the Super Pit expansion project at Barrick Lumwana Mine, several milestones were highlighted:

Production Growth: Copper output is projected to double from 120,000 to 240,000 metric tons per year by 2028.
Job Creation: Employment is set to rise from 2,500 to 8,500, with an additional 550 permanent jobs expected.
Local Employment: The mine’s workforce is 99% Zambian, with 40% being youths from Kalumbila District.
Environmental Initiatives: The mine is adopting modern, environmentally friendly technologies.
Minister Kabuswe emphasized that the anticipated surge in copper production is a testament to the stable policy environment established by the UPND-led government. He urged mining companies to ensure benefits trickle down to local communities through increased tax revenues, job creation, and environmental sustainability.

Gold Sales and Regional Development
Addressing concerns about gold sales at Kansanshi Mine, Mr. Kabuswe clarified that all gold is sold directly to the Bank of Zambia. Meanwhile, North-Western Province Minister Robert Lihefu announced President Hichilema’s two-day visit to the region, during which he will inaugurate key projects, including Kasenseli Gold Mine in Mwinilunga, Kalengwa Copper Mine in Mufumbwe, and a mini-hydro power station.

Mr. Lihefu praised the economic transformation of North-Western Province under President Hichilema’s leadership, citing the mines’ role in driving regional development.

Community Engagement and Workers’ Rights
The Mines Minister called on companies to collaborate with local leadership to foster transparency and community awareness of mining contributions. He also stressed the importance of safeguarding workers’ rights, proposing binding contracts for contractors to ensure fair treatment and timely payment of employees.

As Zambia advances toward its copper production targets, the government reiterated its commitment to leveraging mining for sustainable development and equitable economic growth.

State Seizes Tasila Lungu’s Farm Following Court Ruling

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State Seizes Tasila Lungu’s Farm Following Court Ruling

The State has officially taken over a farm belonging to former President Edgar Lungu’s daughter, Tasila Lungu, located in Sinda District, Eastern Province.

The seizure follows a judgment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Court, which ruled that Ms. Lungu failed to justify her source of income to warrant the purchase of the property.

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Gilbert Phiri, announced that the government is drafting a bill for the management of forfeited properties. He noted that law enforcement agencies have recovered and forfeited numerous properties suspected to be proceeds of crime, which are now benefiting the Zambian people.

Speaking in Sinda District during a visit by law enforcement officials to the forfeited Kumawa Ranch, Mr. Phiri emphasized that asset recovery and the fight against corruption are not targeted at specific individuals. Instead, the efforts are aimed at ensuring that the country’s resources benefit all citizens.

Drug Enforcement Commission Director-General Nason Banda revealed that the 614-hectare farm is valued at over 8.8 million Kwacha.

The government remains resolute in its commitment to combating corruption and ensuring transparency in the management of national resources.

President Hichilema Calls for Unity in Addressing Drought Impact

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President Hichilema Calls for Unity in Addressing Drought Impact

President Hakainde Hichilema hosted a pivotal meeting at State House, bringing together the Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) and key representatives from Government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies involved in agriculture. The discussions focused on developing collaborative strategies to mitigate the devastating impact of what has been described as the worst drought in a century.

The severe drought has significantly disrupted Zambia’s food and energy security, putting immense pressure on the nation’s agricultural sector. Acknowledging the indispensable role of farmers in combatting hunger and drought, President Hichilema reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to open dialogue and cooperation with stakeholders as the country looks ahead to a potentially favorable rainy season.

“Our farmers, in partnership with the government, are indispensable in combating the effects of drought and hunger. As the adage goes: no farmer, no food, no future,” President Hichilema emphasized.

Key outcomes from the meeting included a pledge to tackle critical issues faced by farmers, such as ensuring the timely payment for their produce, accelerating the delivery of farming inputs, and eliminating systemic bottlenecks hindering progress. These measures aim to bolster agricultural productivity and strengthen the resilience of the sector.

The President also called on all Zambians to contribute to national food security by cultivating wherever possible to bolster the country’s food basket. “We urge every citizen to contribute by cultivating wherever possible, strengthening the nation’s food basket and reinforcing our collective food security,” he said.

With the nation united in addressing these challenges, the government expressed hope that proactive measures and collaboration with farmers would pave the way for a more secure and prosperous future.

Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited cleared twice in investigations into the same matter by the ACC

Lusaka Times Editor
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Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited cleared twice in investigations into the same matter by the ACC

Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited cleared twice in investigations into the same matter by the ACC

FORMER Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Shamakamba has defended the Commission’s decisions regarding the release of a passport and payments in the ongoing dispute over the ownership of Sun Pharmaceuticals. In a sworn affidavit filed in the Ndola High Court, Mr Shamakamba addressed claims made by Patson Chilemba/Dai-ly Revelation and Dr. O’Brian Kaaba in a defamation case.

Mr Shamakamba stated that the ACC acted lawfully when it concluded its investigations into the ownership of Sun Pharmaceuticals and subsequently released the passport of Mr Vinod Sadhu.

He also emphasised that the decision was based on the fact that the investigations had been completed, with no evidence of wrongdoing.

“Upon receipt of the request (from Vinod Sadhu’s lawyers), it was forwarded to the Legal and Investigations departments,” Mr Shamakamba stated. “The dealing officers considered the request, and recommendations to release the passport were made by the officers. Upon recommendations, I approved the release of the passports.”

Mr Shamakamba dismissed claims that the passports had been withheld due to ongoing investigations, stating that both the Zambia Police and the ACC had no active cases against the Sadhus.

He explained that the matter had been thoroughly investi-gated, both before and during his tenure at the ACC, and each time it was closed due to a lack of evidence.

“The issue of Vinod Sadhu had been investigated twice. The first time was before I took over as Director General, and it was closed for lack of evidence. The second time, during my tenure, it was again closed,” he added.

Mr Shamakamba also addressed the payments made by the state to the Sadhus, which were part of a court judgement.

He reiterated that there was no reason to block these payments, particularly as they had been made in accordance with a consent order and were not challenged by the Kalenga family, who had filed the original complaint regarding the ownership dispute.

“There was no request from the police to secure the passport for the suspect at the time of the action,” Mr Shamakamba explained. “The case had been closed twice based on the lack of evidence”. The decision to proceed with the payment was made by the Attorney General’s office, and I followed due process.”

Mr Shamakamba also emphasised that the Kalenga family, despite making numerous allegations, had failed to provide any substantial evidence to back up their claims.

He revealed that Mr. Kalenga had failed to present the promised evidence after being repeatedly invited to the ACC to provide documentation.

“The complainant refused to appear before the ACC investigators and bring documentation or proof,” Mr Shamakamba said. “At the time of reopening the case, a number of payments had already been made, and the consent order had not been challenged.”

He also refuted claims that the ACC had engaged in joint investigations with the Zambia Police Service (ZPS) regarding the Sun Pharmaceuticals matter, stating that the ACC had conducted its own independent investigations, which had consistently found no evidence of any criminal activity.

“In fact at the time of the second investigation Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) through the plaintiff’s office requested for a docket over the same issue from the police and no evidence was found on the police docket. A perusal of the police docket clearly showed that there was no evidence of any illegality. As such the plaintif’s conduct was compatible with the proper exercise of authority. The decision to close the case for the second time was done on recommendations from the dealing officers”

“The case had been closed before I reopened it,” Mr Shamakamba stated. “There was no joint investigation between the ACC and ZPS. The ACC concluded its investigations independently, and there was no evidence to suggest any illegality.”

In response to allegations related to the release of funds owed to Sun Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Mr Shamakamba emphasised that this was part of Court orders, and the ACC had no basis to interfere with the payments.

“The allegations reported to the ACC by the Kalenga family are issues that had already been resolved by the courts,” he stated. “The payments were made following court orders, and there was no justification from bocking them”

By correspondent Pranab Rajan

Monetary Policy Rate To Stabilize Commodity Prices

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Monetary Policy Rate To Stabilize Commodity Prices

An Economist in Luapula Province has expressed confidence that the prices of goods and services will stabilize following the increase in the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) by the Bank of Zambia (BOZ).

The Bank of Zambia announced a 50-basis-point increase in the monetary policy rate, raising it to 14 percent. The adjustment, made by the Monetary Policy Committee, is intended to address inflationary pressures.
Reacting to the decision by BOZ, economist Danny Mpasa notes that while the higher MPR will lead to increased borrowing costs from commercial banks, it remains the most effective way to control inflation and stabilize prices.
“The increase in the MPR will help keep inflation under control and stabilize prices,” said Mr Mpasa.

“Although higher interest rates and reduced borrowing might limit liquidity in the economy, this measure will ease the pressure on the kwacha and provide relief.” He added.

Mr Mpasa adds that despite the restricted liquidity in the economy, the move is likely to slow the depreciation of the kwacha against major international currencies, bringing some financial stability.
Meanwhile, Business and Development Expert Emmanuel Munsanje has urged civil servants to avoid taking high-interest loans in light of the adjusted MPR but rather adopt a savings culture.

Mr. Munsanje warned that relying on expensive loans could lead to financial difficulties and frustration among government workers.
“With commercial bank loans becoming more costly, I urge government workers to explore alternative financing options provided by government programmes such as the CEEC and CDF, which have more affordable lending rates,” said Mr. Munsanje.
Mr. Munsanje also commended the government for awarding civil servants a pay rise of K500 across the board.

Emerging markets on brink as dollar surge looms amid Trump’s return

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Emerging markets on brink as dollar surge looms amid Trump’s return

Emerging markets are teetering on the edge of a financial storm as Trump’s return to the White House is fuelling a massive dollar rally that could wreak havoc on developing economies.

This is the warning from Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory and asset management organizations, as the US dollar touched its strongest level in six months on Tuesday.

The Dollar Index, which tracks the US currency against a basket of peers, was up 0.4% for the day.

He says: “As the dollar strengthens on the back of looming Trump policies on Chinese imports, economies across Asia, Latin America, and beyond are staring down a wave of currency devaluations, inflation spikes, and economic instability.

“Investors are already seeing echoes of 2016, but this time, the stakes are even higher.”

Trump’s renewed America First agenda could mean unprecedented tariffs on China, potentially up to 60%.

“Such heavy-duty tariffs would likely trigger a dramatic plunge in the renminbi, with devastating ripple effects across emerging markets,” notes the deVere CEO.

“When China’s currency falls, it drags down other emerging market currencies with it, creating a domino effect of depreciations across the developing world.

“For dollar-pegged economies like Argentina, Egypt, and Turkey, the fallout could be particularly catastrophic as they face the risk of explosive devaluations, uncontrollable inflation, and the threat of full-blown financial crises.”

Emerging markets are also in the crosshairs of Trump’s trade policy.

As the dollar continues its upward trajectory, emerging markets are bearing the brunt of this shift. With most global trade priced in dollars, these economies face rising costs for imports, skyrocketing inflation, and an increased burden on their dollar-denominated debt.

“The challenge isn’t limited to just one region. Asian economies, Latin America, and African markets alike are vulnerable to currency plunges, inflation hikes, and investor flight if the dollar surge continues unabated,” observes Nigel Green.

For commodity-exporting nations, a stronger dollar also spells weaker global demand, pushing commodity prices down and squeezing their economies even further. This scenario threatens everything from growth rates to employment stability across these markets.

“Investors looking to emerging markets for growth may soon find themselves dealing with a drastically altered investment landscape as the dollar steamrolls through these fragile economies.”

The effects of a dollar surge go beyond just currency devaluations. Local currency debt markets in emerging economies are facing mounting pressure as interest rates climb, driven by the global scramble to keep up with the appreciating dollar.

The deVere CEO says: “As borrowing costs soar, these countries will be forced to choose between defending their currencies and sustaining growth—a dilemma that has the potential to destabilize economies in the process.

“Without flexible exchange rates, these countries may see their economies hit hard by tightening financial conditions that they can no longer control.”

For global investors, the implications are clear: emerging markets are poised for significant volatility as the dollar strengthens.

“The next chapter of this economic story is starting, and for those prepared, it holds remarkable potential.

“A well-positioned portfolio could leverage these shifts, unlocking new gains in a world where the dollar dictates the rules,” concludes Nigel Green.

The September winners of the Smart Driver of the Month promo were awarded

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The September winners of the Smart Driver of the Month promo were awarded

Road safety is a pressing issue in Zambia, with the number of accidents and their consequences raising serious concerns. That is why the promo launched by 1xBet and the Safety for the Road public organization has attracted increased attention for several months. The Smart Driver Of The Month promo aims to create a safe driving culture among Zambians, which in turn helps reduce the number of accidents and road casualties.

Each month, a Smart Driver is selected from among the project participants who correctly answered five questions about traffic rules on the brand’s and its partners’ social media. The winner receives a 10,000 ZMW cash prize. Participants must also have a valid driving license with no serious violations, encouraging them to follow the rules.

The awards ceremony for the September winners was traditionally broadcast on Prime TV, which helped to draw attention to the importance of safe driving. First place went to Dooblar Sr Ngwane, Chimbila Wendy was second, and Selisho Chilufya took third place.

“I am honored and delighted to be named Driver of the Month. It is a pleasure to be recognized for careful driving, especially as road safety is crucial to me. I encourage all drivers to take part because this is not just a competition but also a great opportunity to improve their knowledge of traffic rules,” said Dooblar Sr Ngwane. 

Kafupi Muwana, the 1xBet Operations Manager in Zambia, emphasized the project’s social significance. He recalled that compared to the same period in 2023, road traffic deaths in the third quarter decreased by about 5%.

“We can all do more to reduce this number even further. We want to ensure that no one dies on Zambian roads due to traffic violations. It is not just the government’s job. Everyone needs to be involved and working to make our roads safer,” Muwana said.

According to him, raising awareness among drivers can improve the situation, so 1xBet is doing its best to participate in every initiative to increase safety, including working with Safety for the Road. The company is confident that The Smart Driver Of The Month project will continue motivating more and more Zambian drivers to behave in a disciplined manner.

“For 1xBet, responsibility is a basic operating principle. We behave as responsibly as possible towards players and expect those who get behind the wheel to also adhere to the rules,” added Muwana. 

Join the promo, answer questions, and be responsible not only in the game but also in life!

 

Chipolopolo Secures AFCON 2025 Spot with Thrilling Victory Over Côte d’Ivoire

Chief Editor
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Chipolopolo Secures AFCON 2025 Spot with Thrilling Victory Over Côte d’Ivoire

Ndola, Zambia – Jubilation swept across Zambia as the national football team, Chipolopolo, clinched qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Côte d’Ivoire at the packed Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola. The electrifying match saw fans turn out in droves, uniting the nation in celebration of this significant milestone.

President Hakainde Hichilema joined the celebrations, congratulating the team for their remarkable performance and praising Zambians for their unwavering support. “We have done it! Chipolopolo it is! See you at AFCON 2025,” he exclaimed. “Job well done, lads, and thank you, Ba Zambia, for showing up in numbers, both at the stadium and wherever you were watching.”

The lone goal, which sealed Chipolopolo’s triumph, sent fans into rapturous applause, marking a triumphant return to AFCON after their last appearance. The President encouraged the nation to “trust the process,” reflecting confidence in the team’s ability to shine on the continental stage.

The atmosphere at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium was electric, with Zambian fans draped in the national colors, chanting and celebrating their team’s success. Across the country, supporters gathered in homes, bars, and public viewing areas, amplifying the festive mood.

Chipolopolo’s qualification is seen as a testament to the resilience and dedication of the players, technical team, and supporters. As Zambia looks forward to AFCON 2025, the nation’s hopes are high for another glorious chapter in its football history.

Stars in Our Lives

Chief Editor
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Stars in Our Lives

By Mwizenge S. Tembo, Ph. D.

Emeritus Professor of Sociology

After 107 days of fierce campaigning for the 2024 American Presidential elections, it was election day November 5 at 7:00pm or 19;00 hours when voting closed. The whole country was tense and sitting on the knife’s edge. Who would win and be the 47th President of the United States? Kamala Harris or Donald Trump? The results began rolling in as TV reporters were reporting breathlessly. At midnight, the results were grim and looked like Harris was going to lose. The electoral count was Trump 122 and Harris 60. The winner needed 270 electoral votes. Harris was not doing well.

I reluctantly went to bed at midnight. I wanted to enjoy my last good feelings, fantasies, and dreams of what good could happen in America and the World if Kamala Harris had won. It was the feeling when you realize a loved one is near death; you just want to enjoy those last moments when they are still breathing; when there is still that glim of hope. I woke up at 4:00am to use the bathroom, but I did not want to check the news. When I woke up in the morning, I learned that Harris had narrowly lost all the 7 swing states, and Trump was going to be the next President. The grieving started.

I am familiar with grief because having grown up in the village in Zambia in 1960, I experienced grief with my family and village at a very early age. The next few days I just grieved. You do not suppress grief. I talked with family members, friends, and sometimes prayed with others who were similarly grieving and were seeking solace in the company of like-minded people; what is called kukhuza in Tumbuka language. This grief is different from the aftermath of 9/11 because that grief involved the entire nation.

Harris had 71,144,667 and Trump had 74,672,841 votes. In this election result, the only people who might be grieving are the 71 million Harris supporters. After all, the 74 million Trump voters won. I am seeing online though, isolated cases where spouses are divorcing marriage partners who voted for Trump. Apparently, many family members will be bitterly separated and will not talk to each other during this Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Which is tragic. There are apparently terrible fall outs from this Trump win. These fall outs are being felt and discussed as you are reading this right now because Trump had promised and threatened to do so many horrible things if he won.

I am glad that a week after the peak of my grief, I feel optimistic and invigorated. I attribute this to people through whom God works. I believe that text messages and other electronic internet means of being with other people is a weak substitute to being actually with other people face to face. My grief is abated because I purposely talked face to face with other people. Where I could not, I called. For example, I called my 40-year-old niece in Zambia so I could find out about loved ones back home. Today, I had to go to a dental appointment where our conversation was what we would do this Thanksgiving. I said of course we will eat turkey. That’s how rituals work so effectively by doing the same thing every year.

Our conversation drifted to football. I told her I was looking forward to the Detroit Lions Thanksgiving Football game. She asked me who the Lions were playing. I said the Chicago Bears and I added that the Bears are not playing well this season. Putting her forefinger to her lips she immediately whispered: “Shhh!!!!! Don’t say that. Dr. Grey is a Chicago Bears fan. If she overhears that you are a Lions fan, she may use a hammer to knock out all your teeth.” I feigned laughing under my breath as if we were two kids trying to keep a secret. A few moments later, Dr. Grey walked in saying: “I heard that!” We had the biggest laugh.

I will never forget what Vice President Kamala Harris said in her concession speech on November 6. She quoted an adage: “Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.” I found out this week that it was during my dark moments of my grief over the election loss that I appreciated and was able to see the stars of my soul that other ordinary people around me are in my life. Most of the time when the sun in my life is very bright, I cannot notice these other human beings that are stars in my life. We often fail to notice these mundane looking blessings of stars that might be all around us in our lives until when our lives get dark enough.

Chair Cardin Renews Call for Action on Sudan Following Report of Worsening Starvation and Health Crisis

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Chair Cardin Renews Call for Action on Sudan Following Report of Worsening Starvation and Health Crisis

WASHINGTON – This week, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, renewed his call for urgent action in Sudan following the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine’s report detailing severe war-time mortality in the region.

“The study from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine underscores the urgent need for immediate global intervention. As the findings make clear, the scope and scale of death from conflict and conflict-related causes in Sudan is likely far more dire than previously believed. A perfect storm of war and human-induced hunger has been intensified by blocked aid deliveries, the destruction of health facilities, and, most troubling, the complete disregard for international humanitarian law by warring parties.

“We must help end this slaughter. Reports of starvation, disease, a decimated healthcare system, and widespread loss of livelihoods demand nothing short of immediate action from global leaders and the international community. Sudan faces the grim reality of a lost generation, with 15 million children out of school, alongside harrowing reports of atrocities that may amount to a second genocide. Yet, despite these findings, no significant action has been taken by the United Nations, the African Union, or any other global bodies to end the suffering. Tuesday’s U.N. Security Council (UNSC) meeting failed to establish measures to protect civilians, end the conflict, or hold accountable the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), both of which have committed repeated atrocities. The UNSC’s sanctioning of two RSF commanders—shockingly, its first use of sanctions since 2006—only highlights the absence of comprehensive international action to address this growing crisis.

“As the UNSC drafts a resolution on Sudan this month, it must prioritize civilian protection—particularly for those under constant attacks from Al-Jezira to North Darfur—enforce accountability for member states violating the Darfur arms embargo, and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to Sudan, with or without the consent of warring parties. The Sudanese people already bear the scars of preventable famine, disease and violence. Immediate and meaningful action is the only option to prevent further bloodshed.”

Betrayed and Forgotten, UPND’s Abandonment of its Loyal Foot Soldiers and Members

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Betrayed and Forgotten, UPND’s Abandonment of its Loyal Foot Soldiers and Members

By Daimone Siulapwa

In politics, few things sting like betrayal, and today, the UPND stands guilty of betraying its most loyal supporters. For over 20 years, these men and women sacrificed their time, resources, and livelihoods to bring the UPND into power.

Yet three years into this government, the very people who put it there remain abandoned, their hopes of financial stability and recognition shattered. This is more than a failure of governance; it is a betrayal that could spell the UPND’s catastrophe come 2026.

Across Zambia, it is now a common sight to find disgruntled UPND members lamenting openly about how their sacrifices have been rewarded with indifference. They are crying out, not just for material gains, but for the dignity and respect they expected their loyalty would earn.

For many of these supporters, the sense of betrayal has taken a painful toll, as they have become the laughing stock of their own families and communities. In households and neighborhoods, they endure jabs and ridicule for staking their hopes on a party that seems to have left them behind.

You can feel the anger of many UPND members in the airmen and women who continue defending their party even when it feels impossible to do so. They press on with fragile optimism, hoping for a turnaround that never comes, hoping that perhaps someone in the leadership will finally listen.

But where are the party’s strategists or political advisers to face the truth, to tell those in power that the time has come to make a change?

It is only during the UPND government that the administration has even failed to identify and distribute land among its members using legal and transparent means, of course.

For Christ’s sake, UPND is in power! It has the political authority to empower its members within the law, yet all it lacks is the will. It’s baffling that a government with all the instruments of state at its disposal has not devised a legal, sustainable mechanism to give its members a fair stake in the prosperity of the land they govern and this we don’t mean empowering just a few province.

Where the PF showed mastery in mobilizing resources and legal opportunities for its loyalists, UPND remains hesitant, choosing instead to stand by as its support base languishes.

A closer look at the situation reveals and even grimmer picture. Many UPND councilors,who once believed they would lead by example, embodying the party’s promises of change and prosperity have grown too disillusioned to carry on. In communities across the country, it’s not unusual to find councilors who have simply abandoned their roles, no longer engaging in local projects or community work.

Their reasoning? “It’s not worth it.” This sentiment has spread like wildfire, leaving a gaping void in communities and a profound sense of abandonment among supporters.

The UPND, despite having two decades to prepare, failed to anticipate or address the demands of its support base. Unlike the PF, which expertly cultivated loyalty by rewarding those who stood by it, the UPND appears paralyzed by its own moral high ground, unwilling or unable to develop a system to support its own without draining the national treasury.

In doing so, it has made a mockery of the sacrifices of its supporters, leaving many disgruntled and disillusioned.

What do you say to a man who lost his job, his business, and even put his family’s future on the line for UPND’s victory, only to be cast aside?

Today, many of these loyalists watch from the sidelines as a privileged few prosper, their pockets swelling while the faithful remain in poverty. The betrayal cuts deep, and the comparisons to the PF era are stark.

Whatever the PF’s faults, it looked after its own. The UPND, by contrast, has done little to nothing for its loyalists, standing aloof and indifferent to the struggles of those who helped bring it into power.

This abandonment will not go unanswered. Disillusioned supporters, ignored and mistreated, will not simply accept their fate; they will teach the UPND a lesson come 2026.

Whether through apathy, protest votes, or outright defection, these once-loyal soldiers stand ready to show the UPND that loyalty must be rewarded, not taken for granted.

The UPND’s time is running out. To survive, it must urgently recognize the depth of its failure and take immediate steps to redeem itself in the eyes of its supporters. This is not about bribery, corruption, or handouts; it’s about empowering its base in tangible, lasting ways.

Only then can it hope to avoid a political disaster in 2026. Anything less, and it will find itself on the wrong side of history and on the wrong side of the ballot box.

President Hichilema’s Vision for Youth Service and Women’s Empowerment

Lusaka Times Editor
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President Hichilema’s Vision for Youth Service and Women’s Empowerment

President Hichilema’s Vision for Youth Service and Women’s Empowerment

November 14, 2024

President Hakainde Hichilema has announced plans to introduce a Voluntary National Service program to engage young people in Zambia, aiming to promote discipline, resilience, and social responsibility. In a speech at State House today, he emphasized that this initiative would help address pressing societal issues, including youth unemployment and the proliferation of street children.

President Hichilema noted that the program would offer training and potential pathways to employment within the defense forces. However, he underscored that the program’s rollout would depend on the availability of resources, emphasizing that the approach would be measured and carefully implemented.

Reflecting on Zambia’s past policies, he expressed regret over the discontinuation of the National Service and free education programs, attributing their absence to increased teenage pregnancies, child marriages, crime, and youth homelessness. Reintroducing national service, he suggested, could be a constructive step toward reducing these social challenges.

Addressing a gathering of over 40 women’s groups organized under the Gender Machinery Framework, President Hichilema called for a greater role for women in Zambia’s socio-economic landscape. “Women are key drivers of transformation, and their involvement is essential for sustainable growth,” he stated, urging women to lead in building resilient communities and contributing directly to the country’s economic development.

The President highlighted the government’s commitment to investing in women’s education, health, and economic independence, aiming to foster a more inclusive and prosperous Zambia that benefits all citizens.

Following the meeting, he directed the establishment of a task force to address gender-related challenges presented by the Gender Machinery and to report progress directly to him.

Permanent Secretary for the Gender Division, Mainga Kabika, expressed gratitude to President Hichilema for prioritizing gender issues. The session also drew insights and recommendations from a range of leaders and representatives, including United Nations Resident Coordinator Beatrice Mutali, who encouraged the President to combat the abuse of women in politics, particularly on social media.

Additional speakers from various clusters under the Gender Machinery advocated for targeted measures to support women and gender equality across the nation. Johans Mtonga, representing the Social Inclusion on Gender Cluster, urged the establishment of safe houses for survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) to ensure secure access to professional support.

From the Economic Empowerment cluster, Maureen Sumbwe, CEO of the Zambia Federation of Women in Business, called on the Central Bank to support financial institutions in providing loans through Zambia’s movable collateral policy, facilitating more accessible financing options for women.

Anne Anamela, representing the Policy and Legal Framework, recommended introducing a mixed-member proportional representation system to ensure equitable seats for youth, women, and people with disabilities in Parliament, with regional representation across all ten provinces.

Chileshe Katongo, representing the Research and Data Systems for GBV, stressed the importance of data-driven approaches to address GBV cases effectively. Chali Hambayi, from the Access to Justice cluster, advocated for decentralizing the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) to improve justice access across Zambia.

Seth Broekmana, a representative of the Cooperating Partners, commended the President for his continued support of gender-focused initiatives and confirmed that several partners have already secured funding to help implement these programs.

This meeting marked a strong step forward in addressing Zambia’s gender and youth-related challenges, highlighting a collaborative approach between government, local stakeholders, and international partners.

 

Public Workers Awarded Salary Increment

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Public Workers Awarded Salary Increment

Civil Servants have been awarded a salary increment of K500 across the board effective January 1st 2025.

Announcing the development at a media briefing, Union Representative Joy Beene disclosed that the 23 Unions and government agreed to award civil servants a five-hundred-kwacha basic salary increment after holding successful negotiations for improved salaries and conditions of service.

Mr Beene explained that the Unions decided to reach a compromise owing to the current economic challenges facing the country.

Mr Beene who was speaking on behalf of the 23 public workers Unions acknowledged that the increment may not represent the wishes of members, but encouraged members to accept the increment as it is better than nothing.

Transport allowance for public workers living with disabilities has been increased from twenty percent to thirty five percent of the basic salary effective January 1st, 2025.

Mr Beene pointed out that the first-time members with disabilities have been awarded an increment after crying for ten years.
Other allowances that have been increased for public workers include meal allowance from K130 to K150 , while the repatriation allowance has been increased by K1,300 effective January 1st, 2025.
Mr Beene has since thanked members of various Unions for the patience and understanding before and during the bargaining stage.
ZANIS

President Hichilema Applauds Launch of Oxford Handbook on Zambia’s Economy, Calls for Economic Growth through Productivity

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President Hichilema Applauds Launch of Oxford Handbook on Zambia’s Economy, Calls for Economic Growth through Productivity

President Hakainde Hichilema joined the Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ) to celebrate the launch of the Oxford Handbook of the Zambian Economy, a groundbreaking publication providing an in-depth analysis of Zambia’s economic landscape. The President expressed gratitude to the authors and editors for their work, noting the book’s potential to serve as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners committed to Zambia’s economic progress.

During his remarks, President Hichilema underscored the importance of fostering a positive mindset among Zambians, encouraging citizens to embrace hard work as a foundation for sustainable development. “Our people’s commitment to productivity and diligence will be central to driving economic growth in all sectors,” he stated.

The President also outlined his administration’s priorities following Zambia’s recent debt restructuring, stressing a renewed focus on increasing productivity across key sectors. He emphasized that prudent resource management remains essential to achieving economic growth and improving citizens’ quality of life.

The launch of the Oxford Handbook of the Zambian Economy is expected to enhance understanding of Zambia’s economic challenges and opportunities, equipping stakeholders with the insights needed to contribute to the nation’s development.

South Africa Football Association President Danny Jordaan arrested

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South Africa Football Association President Danny Jordaan arrested

South African Football Association (SAFA) President Danny Jordaan was arrested on Wednesday over allegations he used the organisation’s money for his own purposes.

Jordaan, a leading figure in bringing the 2010 World Cup to South Africa, had tried to get a court to halt his imminent arrest on Tuesday. The case has been adjourned to Dec. 5.
Jordaan, who was granted bail for R20,000 rand, denies any wrongdoing.

The arrest stems from a raid by police on the SAFA offices in March. A police spokesperson said at the time the allegations were that between 2014 and 2018 “the president of SAFA used the organisation’s resources for his personal gain, including hiring a private security company for his personal protection and a public relations company, without authorisation from the SAFA board”.

Jordaan, 73, and his co-accused, SAFA chief financial officer Gronie Hluyo and businessman Trevor Neethling who were also granted bail, appeared in the Palm Ridge magistrates court.

Reuters

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