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President Joe Biden Reaffirms Commitment Amidst Calls to Step Down

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President Joe Biden Reaffirms Commitment Amidst Calls to Step Down
President Joe Biden
President Biden during press conference

President Joe Biden declared his intent to “finish the job” during a solo press conference on Thursday night, despite increasing calls from some Democrats for him to step down from the 2024 presidential race. This press conference, held at the conclusion of the NATO summit in Washington, D.C., marked a crucial moment following Biden’s recent unsteady debate performance which raised concerns about his viability as the party’s nominee.

Throughout the conference, President Biden emphasized his command over foreign policy issues, despite a few verbal stumbles. Addressing whether his delegates could vote for someone else, Biden stated, “If they say they want somebody else, that’s the Democratic process,” but confidently whispered, “it’s not gonna happen.”

Biden opened the conference by highlighting the successes of the NATO summit and contrasting his foreign policy stance with that of former President Donald Trump. “For those who thought NATO’s time had passed, they got a rude awakening when Putin invaded Ukraine,” he said, asserting that other world leaders credited him for the alliance’s unity.

Regarding domestic concerns, Biden responded to questions about his fitness for office and the growing calls for him to step aside. Connecticut Rep. Jim Himes and other Democrats have expressed doubts about Biden’s ability to defeat Trump in 2024, urging him to make way for a new generation of leaders. However, Biden dismissed these concerns, stating, “No, unless they came back and said, ‘There’s no way you can win.’” He further emphasized his campaign’s strong fundraising and organizational efforts in battleground states.

The president also addressed international issues, expressing disappointment over limited success in his initiatives to aid Gaza but announcing progress in negotiations between Israel and Hamas.

Throughout the nearly hourlong press conference, Biden maintained that his work and accomplishments are proof of his mental acuity and capacity to continue leading. He reiterated his determination to run for reelection, stating, “I gotta finish this job, because there’s so much at stake.”

As Biden continues to campaign, he aims to reassure the public of his capabilities and dedication to his role as President, despite the increasing pressure from within his party.

Kenya’s Ruto dismisses almost entire cabinet after nationwide protests

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Kenya’s Ruto dismisses almost entire cabinet after nationwide protests

Kenyan President William Ruto has announced the dismissal of almost his entire cabinet and consultations to form a “broad-based government” following widespread anti-government protests.

Ruto said his decision would apply to all ministers, including the attorney general, but it excluded Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi.

I will immediately engage in extensive consultations across different sectors and political formations and other Kenyans, both in public and private, with the aim of setting up a broad-based government,” Ruto said in a televised address to the nation on Thursday, adding that he would announce additional measures later.

The East African nation was left reeling after peaceful rallies last month to protest planned steep tax increases flared into deadly violence, with police firing at crowds who stormed the Parliament of Kenya, leaving it partly ablaze.

Led largely by young people, the protests plunged Ruto’s administration into the most serious crisis of his presidency, forcing him to abandon the tax hikes and scramble to contain the damage.

Al Jazeera’s Malcolm Webb, reporting from Nairobi, said the youth’s dissatisfaction with Ruto began before the controversial tax hikes were proposed.

“Ruto was elected two years ago”, Webb said, on a “promise to emancipate Kenya’s working poor… he won that election by a whisker and with a low turnout”.

Since then, economic conditions in Kenya have worsened, leading to growing criticism, particularly on social media, of the government, which has also been accused of “flagrant displays of wealth…alleged incompetence” and racked by scandals, Webb said.

Protests against the tax hike began in June and widened into a broader campaign against Ruto and his government, with some demonstrations descending into violence that has left dozens dead.

Last week, the Kenyan leader announced sharp cuts to government spending in response to growing anger over his cabinet’s travel and renovation budgets while ordinary citizens struggled to cope with a cost-of-living crisis.

In addition to scrapping the annual finance bill, including the tax hikes, Ruto has also sought to engage with some protesters, hosting an event on social media platform X with young Kenyans last week.

But this has failed to appease some demonstrators, who have continued to call for him to step down, using the hashtag #RutoMustGo and staging smaller rallies across Kenyan cities.

Kenya’s public debt amounts to 10 trillion shillings ($78bn), around 70 percent of its gross domestic product (GDP).

The government’s decision to borrow more will result in the fiscal deficit rising from 3.3 percent to 4.6 percent, according to Ruto.

SOURCE: AL JAZEERA AND NEWS AGENCIES

Katete Prepares Land For First Ever Multimillion Boarding School

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Katete Prepares Land For First Ever Multimillion Boarding School

The construction of the first ever multi million kwacha Boarding Secondary School in Katete District of Eastern Province has commenced much to the excitement of the local people.

The works being undertaken at the cost of more than K23 million will create more than 199 jobs for the 33 villages surrounding the school, and is expected to be completed by August 2025.

The school will accommodate more than 1200 learners from grade eight to 12 and will also house 12 staff houses.
Speaking during the ground-breaking ceremony of the school, Eastern Province Education Officer (PEO) Brainly Malambo said the government places a premium on education, hence ensuring essential components of a formal education are made available as close to the people as possible.

“That time we were talking about government promises to ensure that schools were constructed in Eastern Province and people were doubting, but today we are here not to talk about promises, but to witness works that are going on at this great place where we are building a boarding school meant for both boys and girls. Works have started as you can see at the site. As PEO for Eastern Province, I am so happy because my government and your government is doing as it promised to the people of Zambia,” he said.

And gracing the event, Katete District Commissioner Raphael Phiri urged the community to be security sensitive and not allow theft of building materials as it will compromise the quality of the structure.

“I am appealing that each and everyone here, let us ensure that we all become police officers and soldiers. If we allow materials for construction, especially cement to be stolen, it will only take rainfall and the school will collapse. Theft of materials is what is destroying development,” he said.

And Chief Mbang’ombe of the Chewa people of Katete and Sinda Districts asked authorities to give places to the local children before admitting pupils from other areas.

He noted with displeasure that if learners from far places attend Gawa Undi Secondary School while children from within the locality of the school chose to indulge in things that will hinder their education.

“This school, let it not be that people from faraway places like Lusaka come to learn here meanwhile our own children are busy burning charcoal. Let us ensure that each and every child here attends this school,” he said.

And Undi Primary School Head Girl Susan Banda thanked the government for bringing Secondary education near them which will reduce the distance covered to the nearest school.

ZANIS reports that Gawa Undi Boarding Secondary School is located three Kilometers from the Undi Primary School, while Katete Girls Boarding Secondary School which is currently the nearest secondary school is Seven Kilometers from the Undi Primary School.
Katete only has two boarding secondary schools and the Gawa Undi Boarding Secondary School will be the third in the district and the first in Chief Mbang’ombe’s chiefdom.

Kasama High Court Fines 40 Year Old Man For Causing Death By Dangerous Driving

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Kasama High Court Fines 40 Year Old Man For Causing Death By Dangerous Driving

Kasama High Court has fined a 40 year old man of Kasama for causing the death of a woman by dangerous driving.

Peter Zulu has been fined K6000 or in default face six months imprisonment for causing the death of Norah Mulenga.
This is a case in which Zulu was charged with one count of causing death by dangerous driving contrary to Section 161 (1) of the road traffic Act No.11 of 2022 of the Laws of Zambia.

Zulu appeared before Kasama High Court Judge in Charge Matthews Zulu for presentation of facts after pleading guilty to the charge.

On April 4, 2024 the accused whilst driving a Toyota Hilux registration number BAR 144 did hit Norah Mulenga who died on the spot due to multiple head injuries along the Kasama- Mungwi road.

In mitigation Zulu pleaded that he was the first offender and was remorseful for the action.

Copper Queens Technical Team Depart For Paris

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Copper Queens Technical Team Depart For Paris

A second group of Zambia Women’s National Football Team players and technical officials have departed for France, continuing the Copper Queens’ preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

This latest contingent, comprising 11 athletes and officials, joins their teammates already in the pre-games camp.

According to the National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) website, the departure was marked by the presence of Team Zambia’s Chef de Mission for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Rodrick Ndhlovu, along with some members of the game’s management team.
And Copper Queens Head Coach Bruce Mwape, expressed satisfaction with his side’s preparations.

“The team is now set. We’ve been together for almost 3 weeks and have covered a lot of ground,” Mwape stated before departure.
He stressed the importance of integrating the professional players, who are expected to join the squad in the coming days.
The coach pointed out an upcoming friendly match against New Zealand as a crucial opportunity to assess the full squad.
“That game is important to us because that’s where we now want to assess the whole team,” Mwape explained.

With a mix of experienced players and rising talents, the Copper Queens will be looking to make an impact at the games.

The Olympic journey for the Copper Queens will begin on Thursday July 25, 2024, with an opener against the United States of America in Nice.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 21:00 Zambian time.

Rachel Kundananji Launches Transformative Foundation

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Rachel Kundananji Launches Transformative Foundation

rachel kundananji

COPPER Queens’ striker Rachel Kundananji, who plays for American National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) side Bay FC, has joined the growing list of affluent Zambian footballers giving back to society.

Kundananji, who broke the women’s world record transfer fee of £625,000 when she joined Bay FC in February this year, has launched the Racheal Kundananji Legacy Foundation (RKF). The foundation is dedicated to using the beautiful game of football as a catalyst for positive change.

Kundananji hopes that through the Legacy Foundation, she can inspire and support other young girls in pursuing their dreams in football. She extolled coach Wisdom Kaira for influencing her career with the simple advice to avoid becoming rough during football games.

The Copper Queens striker, who became the world’s most expensive female footballer in history after signing a US$860,000 transfer fee with Bay FC from Madrid CFF in Spain, expressed her gratitude towards Kaira for his guidance and mentorship, stating that his advice has helped shape her into the player she is today.

Kundananji has experienced first-hand the benefits of football and wants to give young players the opportunity to excel by availing them with equipment she never had.

The launch of the RKF marks a milestone and a significant step towards empowering young people and enthusiasts through skills development, mentorship, and community engagement.

Speaking at the launch of the RKF at the Olympic Development Centre in Lusaka today, Minister of Sports Elvis Nkandu said what Racheal Kundananji and her team have done is exemplary. “We need successful athletes to give back to our community and country at large.”

“My ministry is delighted to note that this foundation will collaborate with local authorities to improve football facilities through safe pitches, changing rooms, and coaching centres. The goal must be to create spaces where dreams take flight,” Nkandu said in a speech read for him by his Permanent Secretary Chileshe Kangwa.

Nkandu noted that the government has recently devolved community sport to local authorities nationwide with matching resources. “As a government, we welcome initiatives such as this one, which not only supplement the available resources but are a true demonstration of individuals who have excelled in sports desiring to see others succeed,” he said.

Bernadette Deka-Zulu, the co-founder and Global Lead at the RKF, said the launch was the beginning of a movement, a promise to empower young girls in Zambia and worldwide through sport for change, particularly the beautiful game of football.

“In the lenses of our foundation, football is more than a sport; it is a vehicle for change, a catalyst for growth, and a beacon of hope for many young girls with dreams. This is a testament to our founder, her journey filled with dreams and hopes that have come alive,” Deka-Zulu said.

She stated that the RKF’s mission is simple yet powerful: to ensure that every girl, no matter where she comes from, has the chance to play, learn, and thrive through football.

“To us, every kick of the ball represents an opportunity for growth, resilience, and transformation. The Racheal Kundananji Legacy Foundation is committed to providing young girls who dream of following in Racheal’s footsteps access to mentorship and opportunities,” she said.

Deka-Zulu added that RKF’s programmes will focus on grassroots development, coaching clinics, and scholarships, ensuring that every girl knows the football world is open to her.

“We aim to create a world where every girl has equal access to football, fostering resilience, teamwork, and personal growth. We believe in the power of dreams and the potential within every girl,” she said.

Zambia Army Deputy Director General Sports, Commerce, and Community Services Branch Colonel Priscilla Katoba said that because Racheal’s success resonates far beyond the football field, the formation of the foundation will inspire young girls across Zambia to follow their passions, break barriers, and pursue excellence.

“Racheal’s journey reminds us that hard work, determination, and unwavering commitment can propel us to unimaginable heights,” she said.

In a speech read on her behalf by Director of Sports Colonel David Lungu, Col. Katoba said the RKF transcends boundaries and ignites hope in the heart of the country’s young generation.

She noted that Racheal’s journey from the sparse pitches of Zambia’s Copperbelt Province to becoming one of the best female footballers is nothing short of extraordinary.

“As Racheal embarks on this new chapter in humanitarian work, together with her co-founder and working partner Bernadette Deka-Zulu, they both carry with them the hopes and dreams of our nation,” she said.

The high-profile launch was attended by distinguished guests, including representatives from strategic partners such as the Global Observatory for Gender Equality and Sports, UNAIDS, OYDC, NOWSPAR, the Football Association of Zambia, and the National Olympic Committee of Zambia.

The event successfully garnered increased support and engagement from various stakeholders, enhancing the foundation’s ability to impact young lives positively.

By Benedict Tembo

Zambia to Benefit from €4.5 Billion Global Fund for Sustainable Development from Italy

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Zambia to Benefit from €4.5 Billion Global Fund for Sustainable Development from Italy

Zambia is set to benefit from a €4.5 billion Global Fund for Sustainable Development from Italy, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Sustainable Development Cooperation between the two countries.

The MoU was signed yesterday in Lusaka by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Mulambo Haimbe and Italian Ambassador to Zambia Enrico De Agostini. The agreement will be implemented bilaterally, involving Zambia’s Ministry of Green Economy and Environment and Italy’s Ministry of Environment and Energy.

During the signing ceremony, Minister Haimbe emphasized Zambia’s appreciation for its longstanding bilateral relations with Italy. He highlighted the importance of this agreement in fostering sustainable development and further strengthening the ties between the two nations.

Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Development Cooperation Director General, Stefano Gatti, also spoke at the event, underscoring the significance of the MoU. He noted that the agreement is crucial for deepening bilateral relations and advancing sustainable development initiatives in Zambia.

The €4.5 billion fund aims to support various sustainable development projects, enhancing environmental protection, and promoting green economy practices in Zambia and other beneficiary countries. This cooperation marks a significant step towards achieving sustainable development goals and fostering international collaboration.

ZICB/BOZ Enter Purchase And Asumption Transaction Over InvestTrust Bank PLC

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ZICB/BOZ Enter Purchase And Asumption Transaction Over InvestTrust Bank PLC

Zambia Industrial Commercial Bank Limited (ZICB) has entered into a Purchase and Assumption (P&A) Transaction with the Bank of Zambia (BOZ) as part of the resolution of Investrust Bank Plc.
And customers who had outstanding deposit balances at Investrust Bank Plc will have new accounts opened and be able to access banking services as new customers of ZICB.

Speaking after the announcement of the P&A Transaction in Lusaka, ZICB Acting Chief Executive Officer, Louis Kabula said the Bank is pleased to have concluded the transaction with the Central Bank in record time.

Dr Kabula said this will reduce the challenges especially on the part of customers who are able to continue their lives under ZICB, with as little disturbance in banking needs as possible.
Dr Kabula advised that, while the new customers are free to start engaging with ZICB, they allow the bank to put in place operational processes in readiness for the opening of the branch locations on 15th July 2024.

He indicated that before that date, the bank will share as much information as possible with the customers to ensure a smooth transition process.

“We are thrilled that we have been able to create a new home for them at ZICB and we want to assure them of our dedication to a high standard of service delivery”, Dr Kabula said.

Further, Dr Kabula commended the government, through the Bank of Zambia, for providing funding support to primarily safeguard financial system stability and protect banking sector depositors.

ZICB is now in possession of 16 branch locations of Investrust Bank Plc, which include seven branches and agencies in Lusaka, an agency in Lumwana, as well as branches in Livingstone, Choma, Luangwa, Chipata, Kabwe, Ndola, Kitwe, and Chililabombwe.

With its existing six locations, plus a new branch to be opened in Solwezi before the end of July 2024, ZICB will now be operating a total of 23 branch and agency locations across the country after this transaction.

Health Minister Updates National Assembly on National Health Insurance Scheme Implementation

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Health Minister Updates National Assembly on National Health Insurance Scheme Implementation

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo addressed the National Assembly, presenting a comprehensive update on the implementation of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIMA).

Key Highlights of the NHIMA Update:

1.Registration Access:

  • Citizens and established residents must register to access NHIMA services.
  • Individuals between 18 and 64 years should register as contributing members from both formal and informal sectors.
  • Children under 18 should be registered as beneficiaries under a contributing member, while those 65 and above are exempt from contributions.
  • Persons classified as poor, vulnerable, or disabled are also exempt from contributions.

2.Informal Sector Contributions:

  • An average fee of K50 per family per month covers up to seven members.
  • Access to services is uniform regardless of contribution amount.

3.Membership Growth:

  • NHIMA membership increased from 1.6 million before the 2021 elections to over 4.6 million by June 2024, representing 23% of Zambia’s population.

4.Low Contribution Rates:

  • NHIMA’s average contribution is K50 per family of seven per month.
  • The benefits package includes outpatient and inpatient services, surgery, maternity and neonatal care, eye and oral health services, pharmaceutical drugs, and physiotherapy.

5.Nationwide Registration Exercise:

  • Government and NHIMA are conducting a nationwide registration drive.
  • Registration is available at public hospitals, NHIMA offices, and online.
  • A toll-free line, 8000, is available for assistance.

6.Special July Waiver:

  • From July 5th to August 4th, 2024, new registrants who make their monthly contribution will immediately access services without the usual four-month waiting period.
  • 7.Partnerships and Social Cash Transfer Beneficiaries:
  • NHIMA partnered with Global Fund and International Labour Organization to register over 100,000 Social Cash Transfer Beneficiaries.
  • 10,000 beneficiaries were registered in Ndola at the official launch.

8.Facility Accreditation and Policy Reforms:

  • NHIMA has 406 accredited facilities across Zambia.
  • Each district will have an NHIMA-accredited health facility and registration office.
  • Reforms include mass registration exercises, suspension of new private healthcare provider accreditations, revocation of fraudulent health facility accreditations, benefits package review, and financing modality enhancements.

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to providing accessible healthcare for all Zambians and urged continued support and participation in NHIMA to ensure the scheme’s success.

President Hichilema Calls for Probes into Grant Allegations in FIC Report

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President Hichilema Calls for Probes into Grant Allegations in FIC Report

President Hakainde Hichilema has urged law enforcement agencies to promptly investigate the suspicious transactions highlighted in the 9th Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Trends Report for 2023, released by the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC).

The report, which catalogs various suspicious transactions, has drawn the President’s attention. He emphasized the New Dawn government’s unwavering resolve and commitment to zero tolerance for corruption. President Hichilema expects the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), and other relevant agencies to thoroughly investigate all issues raised in the report.

“Illicit transactions undermine a country’s development agenda,” President Hichilema stated, underscoring the importance of addressing these financial irregularities. He reiterated the government’s determination to uphold transparency and accountability, ensuring that all allegations of financial misconduct are rigorously scrutinized and addressed.

Constitutional Court Allows New Petition Against Former President Edgar Lungu’s Election Eligibility

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Constitutional Court Allows New Petition Against Former President Edgar Lungu’s Election Eligibility

The Constitutional Court has permitted a new petition challenging former President Edgar Lungu’s election eligibility to proceed to a full hearing. The Court dismissed Lungu’s preliminary objection, which sought to quash the petition.

Lungu argued that the Constitutional Court lacked jurisdiction over the matter, citing a previous ruling in the case of Danny Pule and Bampi Kapalasa versus the Attorney General prior to the 2021 General Election. However, the Court ruled that under order 14 clause “A” of the Supreme Court rules, the petition raised issues that warranted a full hearing and determination.

The petition, filed by Lusaka businessman Michelo Chizombe, seeks the Court’s determination on Lungu’s eligibility to contest the 2021 General Election and his eligibility for future elections. Chizombe contended that his case differed from the Pule and Kapalasa cases and argued that Lungu is ineligible to run in future elections as he has already held office twice.

The ruling on the preliminary issues was delivered by Judge Mudford Mwanyisa, with Judges Palan Mulonda and Martin Musaluke. The hearing was before the full bench of the Constitutional Court, including Court President Margaret Munalula, Deputy Arnold Shilimbe, and Judges Annie Sitali, Mugeni Mulenga, Mathews Chisunka, Judy Mulongoti, Kenneth Mulife, and Maria Kawimbe.

2 Kalulushi Sisters In Hospital For Suspected Gassing

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2 Kalulushi Sisters In Hospital For Suspected Gassing

Two young women have been admitted at Kalulushi General Hospital for suspected gassing.

Copperbelt Police Chief Peacewell Mweemba who confirmed the incident to ZANIS, identified the two victims as Annie Kangwa aged 23 years and her young sister Mildred Kangwa aged 20 years of New Minsenga.

Mr Mweemba said the incident happened around 01:30 when Annie was studying in her sitting room when she suddenly started smelling some strange smell which caused her to start having difficulties in breathing and loss of energy.

He further explained that Annie called for help and her young sister Mildred came but as soon as she entered the room she suddenly fell down and also started complaining of the same problem.

Mr Mweemba stated that the victims were rescued by their father who came and managed to open all the windows in the house and took them outside adding that the matter was reported to Police.

He further said the victims complained of severe headache, difficulties in breathing and loss of energy and are currently receiving medical treatment at Kalulushi General Hospital.

Mufulira Mayor Applauds Town’s Cleanliness

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Mufulira Mayor Applauds Town’s Cleanliness

Mayor Tanaeli Kamanga expressed his delight at seeing the streets of Mufulira’s Central Business District (CBD) free of litter, praising the town’s dedication to cleanliness and civic pride.

“I am thrilled to see Mufulira Town receiving the recognition it deserves for its cleanliness and civic pride,” Mayor Kamanga stated. He attributed the town’s exemplary condition to the collective efforts of the municipality, community members, and stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

The Mayor emphasized the town’s commitment to continuing these efforts, ensuring a pleasant environment for both residents and visitors. He also encouraged other towns to follow Mufulira’s example.

“Together, let us build a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous Mufulira for all,” he concluded.

Ex-Kawambwa School Students Plan A Farming Project

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Ex-Kawambwa School Students Plan A Farming Project

Kawambwa Boys Technical Secondary School Association (KABOTESSA), has unveiled plans to acquire land in the district for a mega farming project.Newly elected association president Moffat Nsofwa explained that the initiative is aimed at harnessing the agricultural potential in the region.

Mr Nsofwa said the association is currently in discussions with traditional leaders in the area so as to secure land for the project which will ultimately result in a successful launch and establishment of the agricultural venture.
He highlighted that once the land is allotted, the association plans to cultivate a variety of crops, such as tea, maize and cassava with a view to maximizing agricultural productivity.

Mr Nsofwa explained that the alumni aim to leverage the network to drive economic growth in the area by creating economic opportunities for many former students of Kawambwa Secondary School and outside the district as the initiative.

“To ensure the project’s success, the school alumni association intends to engage all Chishinga Chiefs, the local authority and elected leaders on this approach which is designed to foster community support and involvement in the agricultural venture.

The Problem of Africa and Zambia

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The Problem of Africa and Zambia

By Professor Kavwanga Yambayamba

The problem of Zambia and Africa is not:

  • Hunger,
  • Poverty,
  • High food prices,
  • High fuel prices,
  • Load shedding,
  • Theft or Corruption,
  • Unemployment,
  • Bad leadership,
  • Lack of financial and other resources, or indeed
  • Any other adverse situation being experienced.

These are merely symptoms of an underlying fundamental problem. There is one and only one problem. The fundamental problem of Zambia and Africa is inadequate human capacity – human beings who are competent; human beings who have the knowledge, the skill and positive attitude or growth mindsets; human beings who are critical thinkers; human beings who can create and innovate; human beings who see a broader picture and welcome new ideas; human beings who are resilient, have the courage, do not give up, and can solve problems from different perspectives; human beings who embrace challenges and turn possibilities into realities… the inadequacy arising from inadequate investment in the entire human capital development value chain – the most important being the formative years between zero and five years, generally referred to as the programming phase, when the cognitive function is open to receive all the great ideas for use in the future.

Unless Zambia (or Africa in general) heavily invests in human capital development and in particular the first five years of human life, the symptoms will continue and will get worse. The current prevailing situation in Zambia and Africa has been created over the past several decades, and each one of us (individually and severally), knowingly or unknowingly, has played a part in this unfortunate situation. But the current government has a great opportunity to plant a new seed, a seed whose fruits they may never grow to see, but will be remembered forever by future generations. Invest in human capital development, and the rest will fall in place.

The author is a Fellow of the Zambia Academy of Sciences and also Vice Chancellor of the Zambian Open University.

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