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Using the Poisoned Maize Crisis to Fight Perceived Political Enemies – A Cheap and Low Blow

Lusaka Times Editor
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Using the Poisoned Maize Crisis to Fight Perceived Political Enemies – A Cheap and Low Blow

…and who will be held accountable for allowing poisons to be fed to consumers? Who will be fired for risking the lives of Zambians and their animals? Who will answer for the deaths that have occurred now? Who will pay the price of this criminal negligence?…

By Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba

In a tragic twist of fate, the maize crisis has become the latest political weapon in Zambia’s ever-turning wheel of intrigue. The Minister of Health, Dr. Elijah Muchima, has been forthright: ten mealie-meal brands on the market were found to contain dangerous levels of aflatoxins, enough to cause immediate liver and kidney failure, future cancers, and, inevitably, death.

Kudos to Diamond Television for shedding light on this grim reality, revealing that government officials knew of the crisis as early as June 2024, with 400 dogs having succumbed to the tainted maize. Yet, when it came time to name and shame, the Ministry of Information and Media, led by Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana, only pointed fingers at eight out of ten companies: PEMBE, AFRICA, SHABCO, CONTINENTAL, GIRAD, BUSU, STAR MILLING, and Farm Feed.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary, Norman Chipakupaku, turned to theatrics, reassuring the nation that the ZNS brand, Eagle, was safe by recording himself enjoying a meal supposedly made from ZNS mealie-meal. The spectacle might have been convincing had it not been for the murky history surrounding ZNS. For over a year, the Zambia National Service has been producing mealie-meal from maize of dubious origin, entangled in controversies involving genetically modified organisms (GMO) and questionable imports allegedly destined for the DRC.

When the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) prematurely opened the maize grain marketing season in April 2024, warnings about the risks of purchasing maize with unsafe moisture levels—ideal breeding grounds for moulds and aflatoxins—were disregarded. The government, in its haste to address food insecurity, claimed that the country was facing a maize shortage and rushed into early procurement, consequences be damned.

Now, in an ironic twist, the government is importing 650,000 metric tonnes of maize from Tanzania, a country whose storage conditions and bi-annual rainy seasons have made it notorious for mould-infested crops. Kenya, in its wisdom, recently rejected Tanzanian maize due to high aflatoxin levels, but Zambia’s government soldiers on, seemingly indifferent to the risks.

To add to the absurdity, it’s been revealed that open trucks, typically used to transport copper, will soon carry maize into Zambia. And ZNS, in a bid to meet demand, is outsourcing milling to private plants—safety, apparently, is an afterthought.

Given this backdrop, it’s no stretch to say that ZNS, with its cocktail of questionable practices, is more susceptible to contaminated mealie-meal than any other producer on the market.

Enter Koswe, the State House’s rogue media outlet, which has predictably seized the opportunity to craft a conspiracy theory, targeting millers allegedly aligned with the former ruling party. The narrative is clear: discredit your political enemies by any means necessary, even if it means burying the truth beneath a mountain of propaganda.

And now, the propaganda machine is in full swing, audaciously suggesting that maize or mealie-meal laced with aflatoxins is safe for consumption. Criminals!

The demand is simple and just: all mealie-meal brands, including the Zambia National Service’s Eagle, must undergo rigorous, transparent testing. The results should be laid bare for the public to see, free from manipulation.

And the burning questions remain: who will be held accountable for this catastrophe? Who will lose their job for endangering the lives of Zambians and their livestock? Who will answer for the lives already lost? Who will pay for this criminal negligence?

Publish the results. Let justice be done.

Jerome Kanyika’s Defence Counsel Quizzes ZAMRA Witness

Chief Editor
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Jerome Kanyika’s Defence Counsel Quizzes ZAMRA Witness

Trial continued in the matter in which renowned pharmacist Jerome Kanyika and two others have been charged with illegal importation of medical drugs in the Mufulira Magistrate Court.

Testimonies and cross examinations have punctuated the recent court sessions.

A ruling was earlier made on the Preliminary Issue (PI) raised by Defense Counsel in which it was indicated that the evidence on record already confirmed that the importer of the medicines which were the subject of the trial was Zango Healthcare Ltd, the seizure form that was submitted as ID1 was bearing the name ZANGO Healthcare Ltd and Zambia Medicines and Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA).

The first witness, who is the inspector that seized the commodities, confirmed with the court that the medicines that led to the arrest of Mr.Kanyika were being imported by Zango Healthcare Ltd.

Defence Counsel reminded the court that Limited Companies are regarded as persons at law, and they have their own separate legal entities that can sue or be sued in their name and therefore the accused Mr. Jerome Kanyika was a wrong party before the court.

He reiterated that continuing the trail with a wrong party was a grave injustice to Mr. Kanyika.

The court was reminded of the sacred principle in company law that separates natural persons from artificial persons like companies and finally, the court was referred to the evidence on record were ZAMRA confirmed that indeed the medicines that were subject of trail were for the entity Zango Healthcare Limited which the accused works for and as such the accused Mr. Jerome Kanyika was a wrong party before the court, and the court was urged to dismiss the matter as having a wrong person before it was a substantial departure from procedure that cannot be cured under the circumstances.

The prosecution responded, arguing that companies work through human agents, and as such, the director who is found at the scene can be held liable.

Defence Counsel replied, reminding the court that there is no law that makes employees or agents of the company directly responsible unless it is provided clearly.

The court ruled that giving such a ruling and attending to the PI would be premature as the onus lies on the prosecution to prove beyond reasonable doubt.

Agreeing with the prosecution, the court ruled that since the Companies Act through human agents, the application lacked merit, and it was dismissed and preceded to trial.

Continuation of trial.

BELOW IS A VERBATIM REPORT

Counsel Daniel Mwaba

Question: Madam Mtonga, you were telling this court that you were instructed to seize the drugs, is it true?

Answer: Yes, You’re Worship.

Question: Who instructed you to seize the drugs?

Answer: as I said, I didn’t come alone.

Question: Madam Mtonga, please tell this court who instructed you to seize those drugs?

The court reminded Ms. Mtonga that the questions Defence Counsel, Mr. Mwaba was asking were on behalf of the court, and her answer should be directed to the court.

The magistrate noted that if she continued being rude in responding, she was being rude to the court.

Witness apologises and the cross examination continues.

Question: Please, tell this court who instructed you to seize these drugs?

Answer: My supervisor, Mr. Paul Banda.

Question: are you aware that the DG facilitated the drugs and the DG has the power to give permits according to the act

Answer: yes I know

Question: if the DG asked you to do something are you going to do it or not?

Answer: am not going to do it as it against the law.

Question: but you work on behalf of the DG

Answer: yes

Question: From the time the goods were seized, is this the first time for you to see them?

Answer: Yes

Question: Where are they?

Answer: They are here.

Question: How do you know that there are here?

Answer: Because I was told, and we were told to go see them here.

Question: Who was in possession of drugs when you seized them?

Answer: There were with the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC).

Question: When you seized the goods, where did you leave them? In whose custody were the seized drugs supposed to be deposited?

Answer: They are supposed to remain with the arresting officer.

Question: Were you aware that these medicines were taken to Lusaka?

Answer: No, I am not aware.

Question: So, you just seized the medicines and left them?

Answer: Yes, my assignment was done it the evidence before this court your work as an inspector were done when you left?

Answer: No, I didn’t say my work was done, I said my assignment was done.

Question: Did you know what happened to the medicines that you seized?

Answer: No

Question: So, you are hearing about those medicines today?

Answer: Yes

Question: Does ZAMRA give authorisations to letters which are like go ahead we shall give you the licence?

Answer: they used to give, but they phased them out when I was joining.

Question: Do you know what those letters or pre approvals meant?

Answer: I don’t know them because they phased them out just when I was joining.

Question: You said that Jerome is your client, is he a client as Jerome Kanyika or as Zango Healthcare Limited?

The witness hesitates

The court: Witness, answer the question. if you are not clear, ask so that the question is repeated.

Answer: Zango Healthcare Ltd

Question: Confirm to this court that the medicines you seized belonged to Zango Healthcare Ltd?

Witness hesitates again.

Answer: Yes, but Mr. Kanyika is a director for Zango Healthcare Ltd.

Counsel: Please just answer the questions and don’t include the accused in everything you are saying

Question: Who does ZAMRA issue the permits to?

Answer: Members of the public and people of Zambia generally

Question: Does ZAMRA issue permits to ordinary members of the public?

Answer: Yes.

Question: Is it your evidence to this court that ZAMRA issues licences to members of the public without any conditions?

Answer: Yes

Counsel Michelle Mwiinga

Question: When you came, madam Mtonga, were you introduced to the owners of the drugs?

Answer: Yes

Question: Is it the evidence before this court that you were advised to seize the drugs?

Answer: Yes

Question: Can you also confirm to this court that the decision to seize the products was not your decision

Answer: Yes, I can confirm it wasn’t my decision.

Question: Is it your evidence before this court that import permits to members of the public are for small quantities?

Answer: Yes

Question: And you can agree with me that the consignment in question before this court was a bulk purchase?

Answer: Yes

Question: Confirm that it was your evidence that ZAMRA used to give pre approvals?

Answer: Yes

Question: Have you presented before this court any memo to show that pre approvals have been removed/

Answer: No.

Question: Are you aware the drugs in question were ordered by Zango on behalf o the Ministry of Health (MoH)?

ANSWER: AM NOT AWARE.

Question: Could it be because you were not involved at your level?

Answer: Yes.

Trial continued with a third witness.

Counsel Daniel Mwaba.

Question: Mr. Mweemba, do you know that the medicines that you talked about have already been paid for as indicated on the import permit?

Answer: No, I am not aware, Sir.

The witness advised to address the court properly.

Question: Mr Mweemba, you said you work for the licencing department, are you telling this court that Zango Healthcare Limited applied for the import permit?

Answer: I found something, some documents on that.

Question: Mr. Mweemba, confirm that Zango Healthcare applied for an import permit for the medicines in question?

Answer: I cannot confirm.

Question: Let us talk about the seizure forms given to you by the supervisor, Mr DON Mwangana.

Answer: Mr. Mwangana asked you to check if whether there was an import permit issued to Zango Healthcare Ltd.

Question: Confirm to this court that you have not told these court findings of your verification exercise?

Answer: Yes, I have not told the court.

Question: In your verifications, were you were checking if Zango Healthcare Ltd had an import permit?

Answer: Yes.

Question: Did you, by any chance, check if Mr Jerome Kanyika was issued with an import permit?

Answer: Yes, I checked out of curiosity.

Question: Do you know about ZAMRA pre approvals or does ZAMRA give pre approvals or informal authorisations?

Answer: Yes, ZAMRA gives those

Question: You are a licensing officer. Do you sometimes communicate to applicants that everything is fine, we are just waiting for the Director General to approve?

Answer: Yes, we do communicate.

Question: So, if the DG communicated to the client, whom you assured of waiting for the DG’s approval that they can go ahead with the pharmaceutical activity they want to do, they will be given the licence later, can you reverse what the DG has said?

Answer: No, I cannot reverse the decision of the DG.

Question: What system are you using?

Answer: We are using the online system, but it has exceptions for the Ministry of Health (MoH) and Zambia (ZAMMSA).

Question: Are you aware that the consignment in question is for the MoH?

Answer: No, I didn’t know.

Question: And do you confirm that the medicines in question were for MoH AND WERE SUBJECTED to scrutiny. Is this an exception?

Answer: I didn’t know.

Question: Did you care to find out whether these medicines were under the said exceptions as you have indicated?

Answer: No I did not.

Counsel Michelle Mwiinga.

Question: You said you carried the verification exercise, have you brought documentary proof to this court. the documents as verifications?

Answer: No, I have not brought the documents?

Question: How long can the process take to issue a permit or licence, can it take 14 days?

Answer: Yes.

Question: Does this process go beyond 14 days?

Answer: Yes, it may go beyond that when we seek further information, but otherwise, it takes 14 days under normal circumstances.

Question: Can you confirm that your online system sometimes goes down?

Answer: Yes

Question: You agree with me that there was an emergency situation?

Answer: I don’t know.

Question: Can you confirm that ZAMRA assists in improving medicines availability in emergency situations?

Answer: Yes

Question: Are you aware that in emergency situations, waivers exist?

Answer: No.

Question: Is it your evidence before this court that ZAMRA ISSUES pre approvals?

ANSWER: Yes, ZAMRA issues pre-approvals before the licences are issued.

Question: Are you aware that Kasumbalesa and Mukambo border posts were not open until Zango Healthcare Ltd applied?

Answer: I am not aware.

Question: On the online system, which is the portal, used if the port of entry is not available, what can an applicant use?

Answer: The applicant should enter the port if they want to use it later.

Question: Is it a glitch in the system if the name doesn’t appear?

Answer: Yes, if it doesn’t appear.

Question: Confirm for this court that issuance of certificates is squarely the duty of the DG?

Answer: Yes.

Trial Continues…

President Hichilema Pledges Support for Lufwanyama Youths in Mining Initiatives

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Pledges Support for Lufwanyama Youths in Mining Initiatives

President Hakainde Hichilema has assured the youth of Lufwanyama that the government will actively engage with emerald mine owners to secure mining dump sites for their use. In a public rally held at St. Joseph Secondary School Ground in Lufwanyama District, the President encouraged the local youth to form cooperatives and obtain mining licenses, emphasizing that the government will find partners to support these cooperatives once they are granted licenses.

As part of his commitment to the community, President Hichilema also announced plans to personally fund the construction of 20 boreholes in selected areas of Lufwanyama, a move aimed at improving access to clean water in the district.

In addition to his support for the mining sector, the President revealed that Lufwanyama, along with Mpongwe, Masaiti, and Kafulafuta, will be granted special agricultural status. This status will include the construction of roads and other essential infrastructure to boost agricultural development in the region.

President Hichilema further directed the local council and other leaders to collaborate on grading feeder roads, stressing that the government will prioritize the development of economic roads to enhance connectivity and economic growth in the district.

National Youth Chairman Mr Gilbert Liswaniso had requested Republican President to give the youth of Lufwanyama Emerald slug.
The national chairman was accompanied by the provincial youth chairman Mr Wallen Hinyama and other Copperbelt youth management committee members.

The National Youth Chairman made the request to the President during the interactive mammoth rally held at ST Joseph Secondary where he donated 20 boleholes in Lufwanyama .

The Republican President assured people of Lufwanyama District that farming inputs will be distributed early this year in the district.The president further promised to bring development to the people of Lufwanyama and thanked them for voting in UPND led Government.

“We are here to work for you and the result of our hard work will be seen by people of Lufwanyama.We have performed well in the past 3 years of UPND being in government especially in the copperbelt.” Mr Hichilema said.

The President’s promises underscore the New Dawn government’s commitment to empowering youth and fostering economic development through strategic investments in both the mining and agricultural sectors.

The Republican President Mr Hakainde Hichilema was on the Copperbelt Province for a two working visit and he has since returned to Lusaka after a successful engagement in the province.

Zambians Deserve Better Than The Toxic Mealie Meal

Chief Editor
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Zambians Deserve Better Than The Toxic Mealie Meal

The main job of a government is to improve people’s lives, especially when resources are limited. This can happen when a government puts the nation’s needs first in their decision-making. Unfortunately, there have been some doubts about the direction of UPND government’s policies lately.

Zambia is currently facing challenges with the high cost of living, making it difficult for poor households to make ends meet. Despite the overwhelming negative effects of electricity load shedding on the people of Zambia, the government is shamelessly raising domestic electricity tariffs. The prices of mealie meal are unaffordable for average households throughout the country. To add to these difficulties, the government has allowed a milling company in question to supply meal meal and animal feed that may be harmful to health.

This government’s actions in allowing milling company to supply the nation with toxic staple food can be seen as a serious lack of responsibility. The said “Toxic Mealie Meal” affects us all, without exception, making us potential victims.

It’s hard to understand why a government would put its own people at risk like this. It seems to stem from a focus on greed, selfishness, irresponsibility, and prioritizing business interests over the well-being of its citizens.

The government has warned that there is mealie meal on the market containing toxins, but they have not revealed which brand or milling company is involved. It would be helpful for us if they were more transparent and shared this information with the public. Knowing the name of the milling company would allow us to avoid purchasing the affected mealie meal. Unfortunately, we are currently left to speculate. Zambians deserve better, especially during these tough economic times.

I can’t help but wonder why the UPND Government haven’t mentioned the milling company and brand yet, considering the potential political repercussions. Are you thinking the same thing? Just something to ponder. End of thought!

The Struggle Continues

Sensio Banda
Former Member of Parliament
Kasenengwa Constituency
Eastern Province

Government Addresses Concerns Over Elevated Aflatoxin Levels in Animal Feeds, Maize Grain, and Mealie Meal

Chief Editor
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Government Addresses Concerns Over Elevated Aflatoxin Levels in Animal Feeds, Maize Grain, and Mealie Meal

The government has addressed growing concerns regarding the detection of elevated aflatoxin levels in maize grain, animal feed, and mealie meal, following a recent press briefing by the Minister of Health. Aflatoxins, a group of toxins produced by certain fungi or molds, pose significant health risks to both humans and animals when present in high levels.

Aflatoxins can contaminate various agricultural crops, including maize, peanuts, and sorghum, particularly when exposed to high humidity or stressful climate conditions such as drought. While these toxins can be present in food products consumed daily, health risks arise only when the levels exceed acceptable thresholds.

In animals, particularly dogs, high levels of aflatoxins can lead to sudden death. The Ministry of Health’s robust surveillance system recently detected a concerning number of dog fatalities linked to suspected feed contamination. Post-mortem examinations confirmed aflatoxin toxicity, prompting further investigation.

The Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI), in collaboration with a multisectoral team of experts, initiated a field investigation in June 2024 after public reports of sudden dog deaths. The investigation involved sampling animal feed, maize grain, and mealie meal for analysis at the National Food Laboratory and the Zambia Bureau of Standards laboratories.

Laboratory results revealed that some batches of these products contained aflatoxin levels exceeding the acceptable limit of 10 parts per billion. The following brands were identified as having elevated aflatoxin levels:

Pembe – Roller Meal, Number 3 Meal
Africa Milling – Roller Meal and Breakfast
Farm Feed – Super Dog Meal
Shabco Milling
Continental Milling
Girad Milling
Busu Milling
Star Milling
The government has taken immediate action to mitigate the health risks posed by these contaminated products. All affected batches have been withdrawn from the market and quarantined, and companies involved have cooperated fully with the authorities. The government has also issued seizure notices to these companies, and the contaminated batches will be publicly destroyed.

Further sampling and monitoring efforts have been extended to other parts of the country to ensure comprehensive control of the situation. The government is also focusing on educating farmers and millers about proper storage and processing practices to prevent future aflatoxin contamination.

The public is reassured that boiling food destroys over 90% of aflatoxins, a common practice in Zambian food preparation. However, the government remains vigilant and will continue to enforce regulatory measures to protect the health and safety of its citizens and animals.

The government will provide ongoing updates as more information becomes available and continues to monitor the situation closely

Lusaka City Council Declares Ongoing Larviciding Exercise Safe

Chief Editor
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Lusaka City Council Declares Ongoing Larviciding Exercise Safe

The Lusaka City Council (LCC) has reassured the public that the chemical used in its ongoing larviciding exercise is safe, emphasizing that it is specifically designed to target mosquito larvae without posing risks to other wildlife or the environment. This initiative is being carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Health as part of a broader effort to combat malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases in the city.

The larviciding process has already been applied to several key areas, including garden ponds, Chingwere, and Chamba Valley. The LCC highlights that this intervention not only helps prevent malaria but also reduces the risk of other diseases, making public support essential for the program’s success. Residents with fish ponds have been assured that the chemical used is harmless to fish, further underscoring the safety of the exercise.

The LCC has committed to extending the larviciding operation to all affected areas within Lusaka and has encouraged residents to report any additional locations that may require attention. This proactive approach is part of the council’s ongoing efforts to ensure the health and well-being of the city’s population by curbing the spread of malaria and other diseases.

Through this initiative, the LCC aims to create a safer environment for all Lusaka residents, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in public health efforts

President Hichilema Commissions Chimwemwe Level One Hospital

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Commissions Chimwemwe Level One Hospital

President Hakainde Hichilema has officially commissioned the Chimwemwe Level One Hospital, a state-of-the-art healthcare facility valued at 25 million USD, in Kitwe District on the Copperbelt Province. This significant development underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to improving healthcare services for its citizens.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on August 22, 2024, President Hichilema expressed his gratitude to the British government for its vital role in funding the completion of the hospital. He acknowledged the UK’s longstanding support in Zambia’s health sector, noting that such partnerships are crucial in enhancing the quality of healthcare across the nation.

The President urged the local community to take ownership of the new facility, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding it against vandalism and theft. During a tour of the hospital, President Hichilema praised the maternity annex, highlighting the need for similar expansions in healthcare facilities nationwide. He called on Minister of Health Elijah Muchima to prioritize the development of additional maternity annexes to better serve the population.

Minister Muchima, speaking at the event, revealed that the Chimwemwe Level One Hospital currently operates with 105 volunteer health practitioners. He assured the public that efforts are underway to transition these volunteers into permanent roles, in line with the President’s directive. The hospital, which serves a catchment area of 300,000 people, is expected to significantly improve access to quality healthcare in the district.

Dr. Muchima further emphasized that the construction of the Chimwemwe Level One Hospital is a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to enhancing the well-being of its citizens.

Acting British High Commissioner to Zambia, Sam Waldock, also spoke at the ceremony, highlighting the collaboration between NMS, a British firm, and the UK government in delivering the health facility. This partnership is a testament to the strong ties between Zambia and the UK, particularly in the realm of healthcare development.

The commissioning of the Chimwemwe Level One Hospital follows the recent handover of the newly constructed Chililabombwe District Hospital, as well as the Chamboli Level One Hospital, reflecting the government’s broader commitment to bringing healthcare services closer to the communities. These hospitals will provide a comprehensive range of services, including outpatient care, antiretroviral therapy, maternity services, physiotherapy, dental care, ophthalmology, laboratory services, radiology with advanced CT scan machines, emergency units, theatre services, and in-patient care.

As President Hichilema concluded his remarks, he reiterated the government’s dedication to delivering services that improve the lives of all Zambians, with a particular focus on ensuring that healthcare is accessible and of the highest quality.

20 Year Old Kalabo Man Killed By Stray Lions

Chief Editor
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20 Year Old Kalabo Man Killed By Stray Lions

A 20- year old man of Mulinga area in Liuwa Constituency in Kalabo District of Western Province has been mauled and killed by stray lions.

Kalabo Police Officer In-Charge, Humphrey Banda, and Liuwa National Park Operations Ranger, Safely Mulala confirmed the bizarre incident to ZANIS.

Mr Banda identified the victim as Sitali Nyambe of Ilota village in Mulinga sub-Chiefdom of Chief Nalubutu, saying the incident happened last evening around 19:00 hours.

He disclosed that the victim was completely mauled leaving only the skull and an unidentified body part.

“Sitali Nyambe was attacked, killed and eaten completely by stray male lions leaving behind two remains, the skull and some unidentified body part,” Mr. Banda said.

The Officer In-Charge stated that the victim who was in the company of a colleague was attending to his vegetable garden when the stray lions approached from nowhere, forcing the duo to run for their lives.

He said the deceased was attacked as he ran towards the direction of the village.Mr Banda added that during the terror attack, the colleague survived after running into a nearby hut where he took refuge.

He further stated that the deceased’s remains have since been deposited into Kalabo District Hospital mortuary awaiting burial.

Grade 10 Pupil Develops Organic Sunscreen

Chief Editor
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Grade 10 Pupil Develops Organic Sunscreen

Mwape Chimpampa, a Grade 10 pupil at Kafue’s Naboye Secondary School, was one of the standout participants at the just-ended national Junior Engineers, Technicians, and Scientists (JETS) fair in Lusaka.

An albino, Chimpampa showcased an organic sunscreen she developed, which is likely to address the lack of local production of the lotion that people with albinism use to protect their skin against sunburn and cancer. Her organic sunscreen is made from a combination of vegetables, fruits, spices, and Aloe Vera, among other ingredients.

The Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA) selected 15 inventions, including Chimpampa’s, for patenting and awarded K2,000 to each of the innovators. PACRA Deputy Registrar of Intellectual Property, Chewe Chilufya, urged Mwape to keep her ingredients as a trade secret and to register for trademarks when commercializing her innovation.

PACRA Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Benson Mpalo, said the organization’s decision to be involved in JETS aligns with its mandate to register and offer protection to all forms of intellectual property rights. “Innovations in STEM fuel economic growth, address global challenges, and improve the quality of life,” Mr. Mpalo said. He added that PACRA identified 15 innovations that it will offer free intellectual property registration services to from the JETS Fair.

A trademark is a recognizable insignia, phrase, word, or symbol that denotes a specific product and legally differentiates it from all others of its kind.

However, citizens feel that PACRA can do better than just patenting. Mike Ng’uni, a Lusaka resident, said Chimpampa should be helped to make a success of her product and to benefit not only through dermatological protection but also financially. “We should not hear that some of these predator companies have exploited her by paying her peanuts for the formula,” Mr. Ng’uni said.

National Science Centre Director, Benson Banda, said, “We have ring-fenced the IPs (intellectual properties) for all the 15 innovators. Our office will supervise until we get there. Many more of such will emerge.” Dr. Banda declared the 2024 national JETS Fair a success story. “The 56th 2024 National JETS Fair has surpassed all expectations,” Dr. Banda said. He noted that the level of partner involvement demonstrated the hunger among Zambians to find local solutions to challenges facing the nation.

This year’s Fair attracted 704 participants from all 10 provinces, categorized into early childhood, primary, junior secondary, senior secondary, out-of-school youths, and teachers. Dr. Banda said the innovations on display were intended to provide solutions to problems the country is facing in areas such as agriculture, computer software, chemistry, environmental sustainability, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and mathematics.

The 2024 national JETS Fair was held under the theme: “Promoting Innovation, Engineering, and Entrepreneurship: Accelerating STEM Growth and Development.” Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima, who officially opened the Fair alongside his Technology and Science counterpart Felix Mutati, said the theme embodied his ministry’s commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and advancing the frontiers of engineering, technology, and entrepreneurship among learners and educators.

“The implementation of JETS activities is a costly yet essential venture that the government, through the Ministry of Education, has sustained since 1968. This venture requires concerted efforts from multiple stakeholders,” Mr. Syakalima said.

Mr. Mutati added that his ministry provided K6 million to support some of the outstanding innovations at this year’s JETS Fair. He mentioned that during next year’s JETS Fair, this year’s innovations that are improved upon will also be on display to motivate others. Mr. Mutati emphasized that the government is responding and wants to create opportunities for the many youths who have come up with various innovations to solve the country’s challenges.

Sun Pharmaceuticals Ltd Seeks Accountability from Administrator General

Lusaka Times Editor
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Sun Pharmaceuticals Ltd Seeks Accountability from Administrator General

Sun Pharmaceuticals Ltd is demanding an account of the actions of the Administrator General. This comes after theruled on July 23, 2024, rejecting Lewis Mosho’s attempts to seize control of the company on behalf of the Kalengas. Lewis Mosho tried to use an alleged former employee to claim unpaid terminal benefits from thirty years ago, in a modus operandi similar to that used by Lewis Mosho in the winding up of the Post Newspapers Limited.

“John Masheta v Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited & Uddit Sadhu – 2024/HLL29
We refer to the High Court Ruling dated 23rd July 2024.”

“By order dated 16th Apri 2024 from the High Court at Livingstone, you were appointed Interim Business Rescue Administrator of Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited. The order appointing you Interim Business Rescue Administrator was challenged and by Ruling dated 23rd July 2024 (copy attached hereto), the High Court dismissed the Business Rescue proceedings and discharged the ex-parte order appoining you Interim Business Rescue Administrator for the company.”

“We understand during the period you acted as Interim Business Rescue Administrator between 16th April 2024 and 23rd July 2024, you may have undertaken certain steps in the name of Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited.”

“Our writing to you therefore is to demand a full account of all actions taken, monies received or paid out in the name of Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited. The account should include the source of the funds, amount, and where the funds were disbursed to if at all and at whose instance.”

“We shall be grateful to receive your response within the next 5 days from date hereof failing which we have instructions to take out the requisite application against you.”

Following the dismissal of the case by the High Court at Livingstone, Simeza Sangwa and Associates acting for Sun Pharmaceuticals Ltd have demanded a full account of all actions taken, monies received or paid out in the name of Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited during the period when Lewis Mosho’s ex parte order appointing the Administrator General as Interim Administrator was in place. Simeza Sangwa & Associates has demanded for the Administrator General to render an account to include all receipts and payments made and where funds have been disbursed, at whose instance.

Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited had not been served with the ex-parte order appointing the Administrator General as Interim Business Rescue Administrator, leading to orchestrated attempts to divert monies owed to the Company under the Judgment against the Attorney General. The company’s advocates discovered the litigation underway and filed process days before Lewis Mosho entered a default Judgment.

According to the affidavit of Mr Uddit Sadhu, the majority shareholder in the company, the litigation at Livingstone was an abuse of the process of Court as it was intended to achieve similar aims as proceedings which the Kalengas had also commenced in the Ndola High Court. Like the Livingstone matter, Lewis Mosho had also obtained an Ex Parte Order to appoint a provisional liquidator, in the Ndola action and Tresphfod Kabanga was appointed Provisional Liquidator which appointment was however stayed following the quick action by the Lawyers for Sun Pharmaceuticals. The same Tresphfod Kabanga was intended to be appointed as Business Rescue Administrator vide a Default Judgment in the action the Kalengas had commenced at Livingstone High Court using the same Lewis Mosho.

The affidavit further stated that the company had equally not been served any court process in both the Livingstone and Ndola actions.

Further that the Company only came to learn about the ex parte orders through their own sources and after discovering a letter from Keith Mweemba Advocates, purporting to represent Sun Pharmaceuticals Ltd, addressed to Attorney General Chambers demanding that payment of the Judgment debt due to Sun Pharmaceuticals be paid to Keith Mweemba’s account held with First National Bank, Manda Hill Branch.

This case has garnered attention following the University of Zambia Law Lecturer, Dr. Obrien Kaaba exposing the abuse of State Chambers for purposes of purveying corruption.

In the case of Sun Pharmaceuticals Ltd, a senior officer in the Attorney General’s chambers has ganged up with the Lewis Mosho group to divert the compensation fund payments due to Sun Pharmaceuticals to Keith Mweemba’s account.

Transitioning Informal Sector to formal can Transform Economy Silver Bullet Solution for Quick Youth Job Creation

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Transitioning Informal Sector to formal can Transform Economy Silver Bullet Solution for Quick Youth Job Creation

By Mwansa Chalwe Snr
Zambia, like many Sub-Saharan countries, has yet to recognize that its economic structure,characterized by an overwhelmingly large informal sector that eclipses the formal sector, is the primary obstacle to its development. This oversight persists despite overwhelming empirical evidence from renowned international organizations such as the International Labour Organisation(ILO), Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development(OECD), African Development Bank(AfDB), the World Bank, the United Nations( UN) and International Monetary Fund ( IMF), which unequivocally shows that no country can achieve sustainable development with an economy dominated by the informal sector.

“Economic growth in regions or countries with large informal sectors remains below potential. Addressing informality is thus essential and urgent to support inclusive economic development and reduce poverty worldwide,” The IMF’s Finance and Development Magazine, December,2020 stated.

The International Monetary Fund’s view on the importance of nations, especially Sub Sahara Africa, to prioritise formalization is supported by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

“ In Sub -Saharan Africa, typically, the formal segment of the economy does not employ more than 10 per cent of the labour force. There is an urgent necessity of implementing a range of integrated and coherent policies aimed at moving economic units into the mainstream economy,” ILO said in one of its publications.

There is overwhelming evidence that shows that there is a correlation between the size of the informal economy and the level of a country’s development. Developed countries have smaller informal sectors than developing countries. Countries with the highest per capita income have smaller informal sectors, while poorer countries have higher informal economy shares of their total output

For years, this writer and entrepreneur, has been sounding the alarm on the archaic structure of the Zambian economy and the detrimental effects of Zambia’s sprawling informal economy, which accounts for an estimated staggering over 90% of the country’s economic activity. This overwhelming dominance not only hinders monetary policy, but also overcrowds the formal economy, stifling its growth and potential. As a result, millions of Youth jobs remain elusive.

It’s heartening to see that the Bank of Zambia’s governor, Dr. Denny Kalyalya, has finally acknowledged the negative impact of the informal sector in his recent remarks during the launch of the Bank’s Strategic Plan as well during the recent Monetary Policy statement meeting.

“When money is under the pillow, it doesn’t come back into the banking system [and] monetary policy has no effect on that. This informal sector that we have. So, this is what we want to address,” The Governor said during the launch of the Bank’s Strategic Plan 2024- 2027, bemoaning the negative impact that Zambia’s informal sector was having on the effectiveness of the monetary policy.

As an advocate of Youth employment creation through formalization, I’ve extensively researched and presented benchmarked, practical and tailor made solutions based on mobile phone technology and AI to relevant Zambian authorities, offering concrete solutions to address this pressing issue. Regrettably, these proposals have been met with indifference, left
to gather dust on the shelves of government ministries and agencies.

Now, with the governor’s validation, it’s time to revisit and implement these solutions to tackle the informal economy’s stranglehold on Zambia’s development and unlock the country’s full economic potential thereby create the millions of formal jobs for the youth within a short space of time which are currently latent in the informal economy.

Size of Zambia’s informal Sector

In February,2024,The Bank of Zambia launched the 2022 Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Finance survey report. Among the key findings were that there are about 1,553,892 MSMEs and 95.6% were in the informal sector, employing 1.9million people. The Bank of Zambia Governor has been of the view that it was important that some of these businesses needed to be formalized so that they can have access to capital in order to invest, expand and create jobs for the economy as well as facilitate the Central Bank Monetary policy.

During the launch, the Ministry of Small and Medium enterprises Development Permanent Secretary Subeta Mutelo appealed to MSMEs to formalize their businesses. “As the Ministry, we have taken note of this challenge and have intensified our efforts to raise awareness on the benefits of formalisation and incentivise MSMEs to register their businesses,” She Said. “It is our belief that by creating an enabling environment and providing the necessary support and incentives, we can encourage more MSMEs to formalise their businesses.”

On reviewing the comments from the various speakers at the launch of the report, one got the impression that the complexity of the informality phenomenon is not fully appreciated by our policy makers, and thus the lack of success of the efforts they have made so far. Passive advice to entrepreneurs to formalize has never worked anywhere in the world. Formalization does not just happen. It has to be made to happen. Formalization strategy does not only entail moving current informal sector firms to formal, but also preventing new enterprises going informal.

The benefits of formalization are overwhelming. They include the following: accelerating economic growth with increased productivity, more and better quality jobs are created, the tax base is broadened with potential for lower tax rates, reduction in the cash economy with consequential provision of more resources for intermediation by the formal financial sector and improved access to formal markets, business services and productive resources such as finance.

Proposed Approach to formalization

Formalization is a multifaceted concept which is often misunderstood by many, including government officials. It encompasses far more than mere business registration with Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA). Registration is just one step and the easiest.
Effective formalization requires a comprehensive approach, involving political will, multi-stakeholder engagement, and nuanced interventions.

To design a successful formalization strategy, it entails acquisition of knowledge born out of addressing the following key questions: What are the diverse demographics within the informal sector? What drives informality? What motivates entrepreneurs to formalize? What factors contribute to successful formalization? Why have some countries failed while others
succeeded? What is Zambia’s unique formalization value chain?

In essence, the informal economy is complex and heterogenous. And formalization initiatives and interventions ought to be preceded by rigorous and sound research, including benchmarking against successful countries and regions, to inform a context-specific approach. And any intervention which is not well researched, but based on false assumptions and adopts a one-size-fits-all solution, will certainly fail, just like some past attempts in Bangladesh, Peru, Tanzania, Sri Lanka to name but a few, did.

In view of the complexity mentioned above, and according to empirical evidence, one of the prerequisite for a successful formalization program is for government to collaborate with the Private Sector entities with the necessary deep knowledge of the Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) ecosystem. Policy makers ought to bear in mind that the decision that informal entrepreneurs face as to whether to formalize or not is based on cost-benefit analysis.

Conclusion

On the basis of research done by reputable international organizations and Universities in Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia and a handful of African countries, there is a body of knowledge about the successes and failures of formalization attempts.

There are many countries where the formalization processes have been very successful in fostering economic growth, creating employment, reducing poverty and growing the tax base, although they are varied levels of success in the different countries, depending on a number of factors such as: policies, formalization strategies, structure of economy and political will. It follows, therefore, that there are certain common guiding principles for successful formalization designs.

In view of Bank of Zambia’s recent interest in reducing the informal sector, and being an evidence based institution, they would be the appropriate institution to spearhead the formalization initiative in Zambia. And in order to fast track the process, they do not need to reinvent the wheel, but rather collaborate with the writer to consider his shovel ready solution.
If Zambia does not take steps in reducing and preventing growth of the informal economy, and continues crafting economic strategies including Development Plans and Budgets based on the 10% the formal economy, it can as well forget about development, reducing poverty and Youth unemployment even, in 200 hundred years’ time as evidenced by Haiti.

The writer is a Chartered Accountant, Author and an independent financial analyst and Economic Commentator. He is the Founder of Prosper Knowledge Solutions Ltd, a virtual Knowledge and Strategy firm. Contact: [email protected]

AFLI Zambia Coordinator warns against normalizing abortion

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AFLI Zambia Coordinator warns against normalizing abortion

Advocate for Life International (AFLI) Zambia Coordinator – Rev. Oliver Mulenga has warned against normalizing abortion.

Rev. Mulenga, a clergy of the Pentecost Assemblies of God, said there is a need to stop abortion by respecting God’s teaching which stipulates that human life begins at conception.

He said society and families are being cursed because of rampant abortion.

Speaking to Radio Icengelo News, Rev. Mulenga challenged Churches to take a lead in speaking against abortion.

“Let us choose life. People should stop abortion. Go out to health facilities and check on rising statistics of abortion. Cries of the aborted babies are reaching God. God does not compromise over people aborting children. Let us choose life. Deuteronomy 30:19: says ‘this day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live’.” Rev. Mulenga continued.

“Society is being cursed because of rampant abortion. Zambia would not have been the same if aborted children lived. To make matters worse are not seeing Churches teaching their congregants about the badness of abortion? We need to raise the alarm on this scourge,” he said.

Rev. Mulenga added: “Imagine a young woman who has aborted going for nursing, whose child will she nurse in the facility when she aborted her child? How ironic, you put killers’ incharge of preserving lives. Life begins at conception, abortion is killing. We have blocked our blessings. Some families are suffering because of abortion.”

Over 5,000 Lusaka Youths Benefit from 2024 CDF Skills Sponsorship

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Over 5,000 Lusaka Youths Benefit from 2024 CDF Skills Sponsorship

In a significant boost to youth empowerment, the government has allocated K44,976,462.40 to sponsor 5,441 young people in Lusaka District under the 2024 Constituency Development Fund (CDF) skills bursary program. The initiative, managed by the Lusaka City Council, aims to provide essential skills training to youths across all seven constituencies in the district.

The disbursement of funds has enabled thousands of youths to pursue various trade and skills development courses at TEVET-accredited institutions. The local authority conducted a thorough verification process to ensure that all 5,441 beneficiaries were eligible, providing them with the opportunity to receive training in fields such as carpentry, tailoring, fashion design, plumbing, culinary arts, mechanics, electrical work, and driving.

The impact of the CDF bursary skills component has been profound, with many youth beneficiaries already graduating with valuable skills that enhance their self-reliance, while others continue their studies. The program underscores the government’s commitment to investing in the future of young people by ensuring access to education and skills development at all levels.

Among the constituencies, Kabwata recorded the highest number of beneficiaries, with 1,112 youths receiving bursaries. Chawama followed with 815 beneficiaries, Matero with 788, and Lusaka Central with 774. Mandevu accounted for 737 beneficiaries, while Munali and Kanyama had the lowest numbers at 688 and 547, respectively.

This initiative reflects the government’s dedication to equipping the youth with the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy and to improve their livelihoods.

Zambians Should Brace For Tough Times As Energy Crisis Deepens – Socialist Party

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Zambians Should Brace For Tough Times As Energy Crisis Deepens – Socialist Party

Socialist Party (SP) Copperbelt Provincial spokesperson Reagan Kashinga has warned that the people of Zambia should prepare for more tough times under the UPND regime as the energy crisis deepens.

Mr. Kashinga said the Government is contradicting itself by planning to increase electricity tariffs at the time hours of load shedding are escalating.

He noted that prolonging hours of load shedding will continue to weaken the local economy and sending more people into misery.

Mr. Kashinga further observed that people operating butcheries, barbershops, welding shops, saloons, computer cafe and grocery dealers are all out of business hence the need for the Government to invest in alternative sources of energy.

“We are shocked to learn about the planned increase in hours of load shedding while at the same time proposing to increase electricity tariffs. These people in Government are contradicting themselves by increasing electricity tariffs at the time they are escalating hours of load shedding. Instead of subsidizing electricity for the people, the Government wants people to indirectly bail out the state through tariffs hike. These astonishing developments in the energy sector shows lack of seriousness to manage the power crisis and govern the nation,” he stated.

Mr. Kashinga said the Government’s target to produce 3 million metric tons of copper in ten years is becoming impossible due to power challenges.

“With this kind of poor governance shown by the UPND Government, we don’t see Zambia’s dead economy rising from the grave anytime soon because the energy crisis has killed SMEs who are major players in the local economy. People operating butcheries, barbershops, welding shops, saloons, computer cafe and grocery dealers are all out of business because of long hours of load-shedding. Zambia cannot talk about industrialisation without power and the SMEs. We all know that globally, multi million businesses supplement SMEs in the economy. Even the Government’s target to produce 3 million metric tons of copper in ten years looks increasingly impossible because of the power crisis,” Mr. Kashinga said.

He concluded:”We thought the Government would take seriously the need to diversify energy sources amid climate change but nothing is being seen practically apart from the usual rhetoric from State House to the cadres. Zambia is in trouble; let us brace ourselves for more tough times. These are the consequences of having a regime that is out of touch and is always contradicting itself. This regime cannot be trusted anymore.”

Zambia Steps Up Preparedness Amid Rising Mpox Outbreaks in Africa

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Zambia Steps Up Preparedness Amid Rising Mpox Outbreaks in Africa

The Ministry of Health, led by Dr. Elijah Muchima, provided an update on Zambia’s preparedness measures in response to the growing Mpox outbreaks across several countries in the WHO African Region. Despite the alarming increase in cases in neighboring nations, Zambia has not confirmed any Mpox cases to date.

With recent outbreaks reported in countries such as Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, and the re-emergence of cases in Central African Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, and Nigeria, the Zambian government is heightening its vigilance. The Ministry of Health has intensified surveillance and active case finding as part of its proactive response.

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease transmitted from animals to humans and, in more recent instances, from human to human through close contact. The disease typically presents with initial symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. This is followed by a rash that progresses through various stages, from blisters to dried-out crusts, often appearing first on the face and hands before spreading to other parts of the body.

In light of the escalating situation in the region, the government has undertaken several key measures to safeguard public health. The Ministry of Health has coordinated preparedness efforts through the National Public Health Emergency Operations Centre at the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI). A comprehensive readiness assessment has been conducted to identify potential gaps and implement necessary mitigation strategies.

Capacity building is underway, with district teams receiving both in-person and virtual training to enhance their ability to manage potential Mpox cases effectively. An inventory of essential supplies and commodities for infection prevention, control, diagnostics, and case management has been initiated to ensure readiness.

Additionally, surveillance at all points of entry, including airports, border crossings, and bus terminals, has been intensified to prevent the virus from entering the country. Zambia’s capacity to test for Mpox is well-established through the Zambia National Public Health Reference Laboratory, where 24 samples from suspected cases have been tested, all returning negative results.

Dr. Muchima emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting the health of its citizens, stating that Zambia will continue to monitor the situation closely and adapt its response strategies as necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of the population.

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