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Power Generation at Kariba North Bank Set to Rise with Increased Water Allocation

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Power Generation at Kariba North Bank Set to Rise with Increased Water Allocation

Power generation at the Kariba North Bank Power Station is expected to see a gradual increase following a higher water allocation by the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA).

The authority has allocated 13.5 billion cubic meters of water to the Kariba North Bank Power Station, a significant rise from the 8 billion cubic meters allocated last year. This increase comes as part of the total 27 billion cubic meters of water shared between Zambia and Zimbabwe for power generation.

Ministry of Energy Permanent Secretary for Electricity Arnold Simwaba confirmed that the allocation is divided equally, with each country receiving 13.5 billion cubic meters for their respective power generation operations at the Kariba Dam.

Addressing concerns regarding last year’s water distribution, Mr. Simwaba clarified that the 16 billion cubic meters allocated in 2023 was also shared equally between Zambia’s ZESCO Limited and the Zimbabwe Power Company. He dismissed allegations suggesting that ZESCO or its partner institutions were misleading the public to justify power tariff increases, calling such claims baseless and untrue.

Government Targets 1000 MW Electricity From Solar For 2025

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Government Targets 1000 MW Electricity From Solar For 2025

President Hakainde Hichilema has set a target of 1000 megawatts electricity generation from solar energy by the end of the year.

President Hichilema said the current energy deficit that the country is currently facing can be quickly addressed through solar explosion and has tasked all stakeholders in the energy sector to work towards generation of 10,000 megawatts of electricity from solar, starting with 1000 megawatts by the end of the year 2025.

“As with the 3 million target for Copper production, we need 10,000 megawatts for power generation, which is 10gigawatts. Those are the targets we should be setting for ourselves. Starting with 1000 megawatts for this year,” he said.

Speaking during an energy engagement with public and private stakeholders at State house today, the President also encouraged financial institutions in attendance to support the initiatives set by ZESCO and other players in the industry to improve electricity supply to the country, which he said will help grow the economy and ultimately their profitability.

In the same meeting, President Hichilema also recognised and pledged to support a Mporokoso based Hydro power generation project by Chileshe Mubanga which is currently generating about 300 kilowatts of electricity to increase their capacity to possibly supply power to the entire Mporokoso town.

And Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote disclosed that the Ministry has formulated a road map for the recovery of the energy deficit in the country and that the immediate initiative is the Solar Explosion.

Mr Chikote said the rooftop solar solutions is the top priority as it will easily contribute to net metering and has called for the private sector and financial institutions to work with the Ministry to effectively implement the initiative.

Earlier, ZESCO Managing Director Justin Loongo shared that the country currently has a power deficit of about 1,400 megawatts created by the insufficient rainfall for hydro generation.

Mr Loongo highlighted that with the recently signed power purchase agreements and the expected power generation of 500 megawatts from their various solar plants across the country will enable the corporation to ease the burden of load shedding by the end of the year.

He further expressed confidence that the Green City initiative will help alleviate the energy deficit further and disclosed that the Corporation will need about 25 million dollars to implement the solar projects.

Zambia Sets Sights on Becoming a Major Beef Exporter

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Zambia Sets Sights on Becoming a Major Beef Exporter

In a strategic push to diversify the economy, President Hakainde Hichilema announced new measures to position Zambia as a leading beef exporter in the region and beyond. Speaking at a Presidential Stocktake with the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock yesterday, the president underscored the government’s commitment to tapping into the country’s vast livestock potential.

“The livestock sector offers a significant opportunity to diversify our economy, reducing our dependence on mineral resources and driving growth,” President Hichilema said.

As part of this initiative, five pilot Animal Disease-Free Compartments (ADFCs) have been identified in Chikankata, Chipata, Chisamba, Mumbwa, and Namwala. These designated areas aim to enhance disease control, ensuring Zambia’s beef meets stringent international export standards. Additional ADFCs are expected to follow in other regions.

To maximize this potential, the government has set an ambitious minimum target of $1 billion per year in beef exports. President Hichilema has directed the relevant ministries to accelerate efforts in expanding market access and improving livestock management practices to meet global demand.

“Our vision remains clear: to grow the economy through key sectors like livestock, creating jobs and business opportunities for our people,” the president said.

Zambia’s push into the global beef market comes amid broader efforts to diversify its economy, which has historically been reliant on copper mining. With a growing demand for high-quality beef in international markets, the country aims to leverage its vast pasturelands and favorable climate to compete with major beef-exporting nations.

Industry experts note that the success of this initiative will depend on strengthening veterinary services, improving infrastructure, and securing trade agreements with key markets. If successful, Zambia could emerge as a major player in the global beef trade, bolstering economic resilience and employment opportunities in the agricultural sector.

Trump’s ‘globalist’ blame game is nonsense

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Trump’s ‘globalist’ blame game is nonsense

Donald Trump’s claim that ‘globalists’ are to blame for the current market sell-off has been slammed as “nonsense,” by the CEO of one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory and asset management organizations.

Nigel Green of deVere Group is weighing in after major stock markets dropped sharply this week, as investors struggled to digest President Donald Trump’s sweeping and shifting tariff and trade policies.

When asked in the Oval Office on Thursday whether he thought it was his tariffs that were scaring the markets, Trump said: “Well, a lot of them are globalist countries and companies that won’t be doing as well.”

The deVere CEO says: “The reality is that investors are reacting to the direct consequences of his trade policies.

“Shifting tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China, alongside threats to extend the same to the EU, are sowing uncertainty and instability, triggering market turbulence.

“This isn’t the work of shadowy international figures—it’s the predictable result of protectionist economics colliding with global financial reality.”

On April 2, reciprocal tariffs will come into effect, further tightening the screws on businesses that rely on international trade.

Trump’s expansion of the tariff pause for goods from Canada and Mexico under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may offer temporary relief for select sectors, but it does nothing to offset the broader market reaction.

“Unlike his Wednesday intervention to spare automakers, which momentarily lifted stocks, investors found no such reassurance this time. The sell-off speaks volumes.”

All major US benchmarks took a hit, with the Nasdaq Composite slipping into correction territory, erasing its post-election Trump bump.

Nigel Green continues: “Investors are clearly questioning whether the US economy is being steered by a sound financial strategy or by impulsive political manoeuvring. Markets thrive on stability and predictability—two qualities that are in short supply under an erratic approach to global trade.”

Tariffs function as a tax on businesses and consumers alike. They raise costs, disrupt supply chains, and provoke retaliatory measures from trade partners. The fallout is now playing out in real time.

Companies facing higher input costs pass them on to consumers, dampening demand and weighing on corporate earnings.

Exporters find themselves shut out of key markets as trading partners impose countermeasures, cutting off avenues for growth. Investors see the writing on the wall and are moving accordingly.

The US economy is deeply interwoven with the global marketplace, and attempts to retreat behind tariff walls will not insulate it from reality. International investors, fund managers, and business leaders are making decisions based on economic fundamentals, not ideological rhetoric.

“The numbers don’t lie: uncertainty leads to sell-offs, and sell-offs erode confidence,” affirms Nigel Green.

He concludes: “Investors are not reacting to a vague ‘globalist’ conspiracy; they’re responding to tangible risks. Markets have delivered their verdict, and the message is clear: uncertainty is toxic, and protectionism carries a heavy price.”

Vice President Mutale-Nalumango Urges Student Leaders to Prioritize Dialogue Over Protests

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Vice President Mutale-Nalumango Urges Student Leaders to Prioritize Dialogue Over Protests

Vice President Mutale-Nalumango, has called on the University of Zambia (UNZA) management to foster continuous engagement with student leaders to prevent unrest and maintain a peaceful academic environment.

Speaking at the opening of the inaugural Leadership and Conflict Resolution Training for Student Leaders at UNZA, Dr. Mutale-Nalumango emphasized the government’s commitment to engaging with students across the country. She reaffirmed that leadership should be rooted in listening, engaging, and collaborating, encouraging students to adopt the same approach.

“Our leadership approach remains to listen, engage, and collaborate. We encourage all students to follow suit,” Dr. Mutale-Nalumango stated.

She further stressed that leadership is a privilege that must be undertaken with responsibility to drive positive change, highlighting the importance of constructive dialogue between student representatives and university authorities.

Meanwhile, Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima noted that the training program equips students with essential skills in dialogue, consensus-building, and strategic negotiation. He underscored the importance of resolving conflicts through non-violent means and proactive engagement.

UNZA Deputy Vice-Chancellor Boniface Namangala acknowledged the positive shift in student leadership, citing improved relations between the student union and university management. He commended the current leadership for prioritizing peace and professionalism in their engagements.

UNZA Student Union (UNZASU) President Dixon Mutambo welcomed the government’s initiative, urging authorities to continue addressing student concerns to sustain harmony on campus.

The training marks a significant step toward nurturing responsible and solution-driven leadership among students, reinforcing the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive learning environment in Zambia’s higher education institutions.

Girl 16 found dead near Police Post

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Girl 16 found dead near Police Post

Kabwata Police Station, received a report of a suspected murder from four juvenile males aged 10,12 and the other two 13.
All the juveniles are pupils at Kamwala South Primary School. They reported that while on their way to school and playing, they discovered the lifeless body of a schoolgirl wearing a Kamulanga Secondary School uniform. The body was found lying on the ground in a small bush of green grass behind a heap of blocks near Luckson Mapushi Police Post, within Kamwala South Secondary School premises. This incident is believed to have occurred between 1800 Wednesday and 09:00 hours Thursday.
Brief Facts:
Preliminary investigations have revealed that the deceased, identified as J/F Blessings Malekati aged 16 had returned home from school the on Wednesday 5th March at approximately 18:00 hours. She later changed into a pair of white plastic shoes (commonly known as bikiloni) and a maroon hood before being sent by her mother, Jane Mulenga, to purchase charcoal, sachets of water, and tomatoes from a nearby shop.

When she failed to return home within a reasonable time, her parents, Thomas Meleki and Jane Mulenga, began searching for her. Early Thursday morning, March 6,2025, they reported her missing at Maxwell Sibongo Police Post.

Upon visiting the crime scene, officers found the deceased lying on green grass, facing upwards. Her pants were slightly pulled down to her knees, and mucus was observed on her nose. The plastic bag containing the charcoal, sachets of water, and tomatoes was found nearby.

The body has since been transported to the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) Mortuary for postmortem, while investigations into the matter are ongoing.

The Zambia Police Service strongly condemns this heinous act and urges anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in the investigation by reporting to any nearest police station.

Regional Leaders Address Instability in Eastern Congo at SADC Summit

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Regional Leaders Address Instability in Eastern Congo at SADC Summit
The extraordinary SADC Organ Troika Plus Summit to address the security situation in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, chaired by Tanzania’s President, HE Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan

In a bid to address the escalating security crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), regional leaders convened yesterday for the Extraordinary SADC Organ Troika Plus Summit. The summit, chaired by Tanzanian President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, brought together heads of state and government officials to deliberate on measures aimed at restoring stability in the conflict-ridden region.

President Hakainde Hichilema, participating as the outgoing chair of the Organ Troika, expressed deep concern over the situation in the DRC, emphasizing its ramifications for regional security. “As a neighboring country, Zambia is deeply troubled by the instability in the DRC, which affects not only our nation but the entire region,” Hichilema stated. He extended condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in the conflict.

One of the key resolutions from the summit was the withdrawal of the SAMIDRC Force and its equipment, a decision supported by Zambia and other member states. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the DRC, known as SAMIDRC, was deployed to assist in restoring peace in the volatile region but is now set for disengagement.

Dr. Suluhu Hassan, in her closing remarks, commended the participating leaders for their commitment to addressing the crisis and for their strong stance against ongoing violence in the DRC. She underscored the importance of collective responsibility in resolving regional security challenges and called on SADC member states to support diplomatic and peaceful solutions.

“The mission will continue assisting the DRC in its path toward peace and stability with the resources available from member states,” she stated.

As the SADC summit concluded, regional leaders reaffirmed their solidarity with the people of the DRC and pledged to work toward sustainable peace in the region through diplomatic engagement and coordinated security efforts.

Dollar dominance under threat from Trump

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Dollar dominance under threat from Trump

The US dollar’s dominance as the world’s ulitmate safe-haven currency is being “shaken and severely tested,” warns the CEO of global financial advisory giant, deVere Group.

Nigel Green says that President Trump’s erratic policy decisions—tariffs, geopolitical clashes, aggressive deportations, and radical interventions with Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency—are accelerating the global shift away from the dollar. Investors are scrambling for alternatives, and the consequences could become permanent.

“The dollar has long been the anchor of global finance, but Trump’s actions are eroding confidence at a stunning pace. The world is watching the US turn inward with protectionism, trade wars, and erratic diplomacy.

“The market response is already in motion. The dollar has slumped to a four-month low, despite Trump’s rhetoric that tariffs would ‘make America stronger.’

“Instead, the world is moving to insulate itself.

“Major economies are advancing plans to settle trade in alternative currencies. China and Russia are expanding the use of the yuan and rouble in cross-border payments. The euro is gaining traction for reserves.

“The once-unthinkable de-dollarization seems to be happening at an accelerated pace, and Trump is handing the world every reason to continue.”

This isn’t just about economic shifts—it’s a reaction to chaos.

Trump’s foreign policy is alienating allies and pushing them to seek alternatives. His recent spat with Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy, coupled with threats to cut US military aid, has sent shockwaves through European capitals. France and the UK are already exploring greater military and economic independence from the US.

The dollar, long seen as the glue binding alliances, could now become a liability for those who fear being caught in Trump’s crossfire.

“Confidence drives currency strength,” says Nigel Green. “Trump is making long-standing allies think twice, igniting trade wars, and creating massive instability. That’s the opposite of what you need to maintain a reserve currency.”

His drastic actions with Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are further adding to uncertainty.

“Investors are questioning whether the US economy is being driven by sound financial strategy or by impulsive political decisions.

“Meanwhile, his approach to tariffs—doubling down on trade wars with China and now extending them to allies like Canada and Mexico—is accelerating a realignment of global trade away from dollar-based transactions.”

The financial consequences for the US could be severe. A weaker dollar means higher borrowing costs, inflationary pressures, and a loss of influence over global financial markets. The debt burden, already ballooning, will become even more expensive to service as foreign investors pull back from US treasuries.

Trump’s policies are setting the stage for a self-inflicted economic downturn, one that will have far-reaching consequences beyond his time in office.

The cracks are already visible, with The Bank of England, among other pivotal global institutions, warning of growing risks tied to US trade policy.

Global investors are taking action. Capital is shifting into other major currencies, with the euro, Swiss franc, and yen gaining ground. Gold is seeing renewed demand, as investors seek protection from currency volatility. Even digital assets long viewed as speculative, are increasingly being considered as hedges against fiat instability.”

deVere Group advises investors to act before the full effects unfold. Diversifying away from dollar-heavy portfolios, strategically positioning in rising currencies, and gaining exposure to assets, geographies and sectors that benefit from a shifting financial order are now critical.

Nigel Green concludes: “Investors and institutions are already adjusting. The dollar’s status as a safe haven asset and reserve currency won’t disappear overnight, clearly, but Trump’s actions are lighting the fuse.”

President Hichilema Appoints New Heads of Anti-Corruption and Human Rights Commissions

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President Hichilema Appoints New Heads of Anti-Corruption and Human Rights Commissions

In a move that underscores the government’s commitment to gender equality and institutional integrity, President Hakainde Hichilema yesterday officially swore in Ms. Daphne Pauline Soko Chabu as the Director-General of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and Ms. Mbololwa Wamunyima as the Director-General of the Human Rights Commission (HRC).

The appointments mark a significant step in reinforcing the country’s fight against corruption and the protection of human rights. President Hichilema expressed full confidence in the leadership capabilities of both officials, highlighting the critical roles they will play in their respective commissions.

“We have full confidence that Ms. Chabu will collaborate effectively with the Anti-Corruption Commission Board and other investigative bodies in her mission to combat corruption. Similarly, we trust that Ms. Wamunyima will enhance the Human Rights Commission’s oversight role, promoting and protecting human rights with the utmost integrity,” President Hichilema stated during the swearing-in ceremony.

Ms. Chabu, as head of the ACC, is expected to spearhead efforts in tackling corruption, strengthening institutional mechanisms, and ensuring transparency and accountability within public and private sectors. Her role will involve close cooperation with other investigative and law enforcement agencies.

Meanwhile, Ms. Wamunyima’s appointment to the Human Rights Commission places her at the forefront of advocating for human rights protection, legal reforms, and public awareness initiatives. Her leadership is anticipated to strengthen the commission’s oversight function and reinforce Zambia’s commitment to upholding human rights standards.

The appointments of Ms. Chabu and Ms. Wamunyima reflect the government’s broader agenda of promoting gender balance in key leadership positions while ensuring that critical governance institutions are led by competent and dedicated professionals.

As Zambia continues to navigate challenges in governance and human rights, these new appointments signal a renewed focus on accountability, justice, and institutional strengthening.

Lesotho shocked by Trump’s remarks that ‘nobody has heard of the country’

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Lesotho shocked by Trump’s remarks that ‘nobody has heard of the country’

Lesotho’s government says it is shocked by US President Donald Trump saying that “nobody has ever heard of” the southern African nation.

Trump, addressing the US Congress in his first speech since his return to the Oval Office, made the reference as he listed cuts made to what he said was wasteful expenditure.

“Eight million dollars to promote LGBTQI+ in the African nation of Lesotho, which nobody has ever heard of,” Trump said, eliciting laughter from some US lawmakers.

A spokesperson for Lesotho’s foreign affairs department told the BBC that Lesotho enjoyed “warm and cordial” relations with the US.

Lesotho is one of the biggest beneficiaries of the US’s African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), which gives favourable trade access to some countries to promote their economic growth.

According to the US government, the two countries traded goods worth $240m (£187m) in 2024, mostly exports from Lesotho to the US, in particular textiles and clothing.

Lesotho’s Foreign Affairs Minister Lejone Mpotjoane said it was “shocking” to hear a head of state “refer to another sovereign state in that manner”.

“To my surprise, ‘the country that nobody has heard of’ is the country where the US has a permanent mission,” Mpotjoane told the BBC.

“Lesotho is a member of the UN and of a number of other international bodies. And the US has an embassy here and [there are] a number of US organisations we’ve accommodated here in Maseru.”

He later told the AFP news agency: “We are not taking this matter lightly,” adding that they would send an official protest letter to Washington.

Officials dismissed Trump’s remarks as “off the cuff” and a “political statement”, adding that they were “uncalled-for” given the good relations between the two nations.

“We maintain very warm and cordial relations with the US. They’ve got a mission in Maseru and we also have [one] in Washington,” foreign affairs spokesperson Kutloano Pheko told the BBC.

Mr Pheko was unable to confirm Trump’s comments on the funding that went to LGBTQ organisations, saying that as the money went directly to them, they would be best placed to comment.

Mpotjoane, on his part, confirmed that the country had been affected by Trump’s sudden decision to pause aid funding to countries around the world.

Many organisations, mostly non-governmental, were thrown into chaos after the Trump administration announced a permanent end to the US President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (Pepfar) funding as part of a wider cost-cutting drive to reduce US government spending.

Pepfar was launched in 2003 by then US President George W Bush and its finances are distributed via the US government’s main overseas aid agency USAID, whose funding has also been cut.

Lesotho is among those countries that benefited from Pepfar, its health ministry told South African publication GroundUp in February, with TB and HIV programmes among those receiving the critical funds.

But Mpotjoane declined to criticise this decision, saying it was the US’s “prerogative to cut aid if they want to”.

BBC

President Hichilema’s Non -Tolerance To Negative Caderism Commended

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President Hichilema’s Non -Tolerance To Negative Caderism Commended

Governance expert and human rights advocate Wesley Miyanda has commended President Hakainde Hichilema for re-affirming the zero-tolerance stance on negative cadrerism.

Mr Miyanda said the President’s stance on negative cadrerism should be motivating to those aspiring for the office of the President.

Speaking to ZANIS in an interview, Mr Miyanda commended President Hichilema for governing the country on the basis of the rule of law as promised during campaigns.

He was reacting to President Hakainde Hichilema’s National Address in parliament on National Values and principles on February 28, 2025.

In his speech, Mr Hichilema stated that politicians should practice smart politics that is free from violence and hate speech.

He said that politics should not divide the country but instead be used to drive development by competing in ideas rather than promoting hate and division.

President Hichilema Already declared assets – Mulilo

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President Hichilema Already declared assets – Mulilo

The Attorney General, Mulilo Kabesha, has clarified that President Hakainde Hichilema, has already fulfilled the constitutional requirement of declaring assets before taking part in the 2021 general elections.

In a statement made available to ZANIS, Mr Kabesha says the Zambian Constitution does not mandate a sitting President to make continuous asset declarations beyond the election cycle.

He added that before contesting the 2021 general elections, the Head of State fully complied with the legal requirement to declare his assets and liabilities, as stipulated in Article 100(1) (h) of the Constitution.

“The law is clear that such declarations are only required before a candidate can contest in an election, and Mr Hichilema had already fulfilled this obligation in 2021,” added Mr Kabesha.

He added that the Constitutional Court clarified that the Presidential continuous asset declarations beyond the election cycle, is not yet enforceable due to the absence of supporting legislation.

Mr Kabesha was responding to media reports arising from some members of the public and politicians demanding that President Hichilema should publicly declare his assets and liabilities.

Government Addresses High Cost of Living, Media Conduct, and Opposition Criticism

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Government Addresses High Cost of Living, Media Conduct, and Opposition Criticism

Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa, Zambia’s Minister of Information and Media and Chief Government Spokesperson, yesterday held a press briefing to address critical national issues, including the high cost of living, media professionalism, and recent criticisms from opposition parties and religious leaders. The briefing underscored the government’s commitment to addressing economic challenges while calling for civility and accountability in public discourse.

High Cost of Living and Energy Crisis
Minister Mweetwa acknowledged the severe impact of the high cost of living on Zambians, attributing part of the crisis to the recent drought that has strained the nation’s resources. He assured citizens that the government is working tirelessly to mitigate the situation.

On the energy front, the Minister provided a glimmer of hope, stating that load shedding—a persistent issue for households and businesses—is expected to diminish by June 2025. He explained that this timeline is based on the three-month period required for water to flow from the Zambezi Basin to Kariba Dam, which is critical for hydroelectric power generation.

Media Regulation and Professionalism
The Minister addressed the contentious issue of media regulation, emphasizing the government’s expectation for professionalism and balance from media organizations. He specifically called out the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zambia, urging the organization to maintain objectivity in its advisory role.

“Government has no intention of gagging the media,” Mweetwa stated, “but we will not tolerate unprofessional conduct.” He singled out The Mast newspaper, accusing it of peddling falsehoods and demanding an apology for misleading the nation.

In a move to foster dialogue, the Ministry of Information announced plans to convene a meeting with media owners and stakeholders, including MISA, to address concerns about unethical practices and deliberate misinformation. The Minister reiterated the government’s openness to either statutory or self-regulation, depending on the media’s preference.

Response to Opposition Criticism
The briefing also touched on recent threats of civil disobedience by opposition political parties. Minister Mweetwa appealed to opposition leaders, including Mr. Harry Kalaba and Mr. Raphel Nakachinda, to refrain from using insulting language toward President Hakainde Hichilema and to engage in issue-based politics.

“It is political irresponsibility for the opposition to threaten civil disobedience,” Mweetwa said, warning against actions that could incite anarchy. He called for unity and constructive dialogue, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the country.

Church and Government Relations
Responding to recent criticisms from Auxiliary Bishop George Lungu of Chipata, Minister Mweetwa reaffirmed the government’s recognition of the church as a key development partner. However, he clarified that Bishop Lungu’s attacks on the government were made in his individual capacity and did not represent the broader church’s stance.

Looking Ahead
The press briefing highlighted the government’s efforts to navigate complex economic and social challenges while calling for accountability and professionalism across all sectors. As Zambia continues to grapple with the aftermath of drought and economic pressures, the government’s ability to foster collaboration and maintain public trust will be critical in the months ahead.

Mulungushi Textiles Nears Operational Resumption as Machine Testing Commences

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Mulungushi Textiles Nears Operational Resumption as Machine Testing Commences

Kabwe’s historic Mulungushi Textiles Limited (ZCMT) is on the brink of a significant revival, with machine testing almost underway – a process expected to last fewer than 20 days – marking the final phase before full-scale operations resume. This is a signal to the revitalizing of a sophisticated retail network.

Economic Revitalization and Job Creation

The reopening of Mulungushi Textiles is poised to invigorate Zambia’s economy, particularly benefiting the cotton industry. The factory’s revival is anticipated to create approximately 500 direct jobs and numerous indirect employment opportunities, thereby revitalizing the once vibrant town of Kabwe.

The Cotton Board of Zambia has lauded this initiative, emphasizing its potential to enhance cotton value addition and improve rural livelihoods. The board’s Chief Executive Officer, Sunduzwayo Banda, highlighted that the textile sector’s revival is crucial for job creation and should be prioritized within Zambia’s manufacturing landscape.

Strategic Partnerships and Modernization

In collaboration with Qingdao Ruichang Industrial Tech Company Limited, the government has embarked on an ambitious plan to modernize Mulungushi Textiles. This partnership encompasses renovating existing structures, constructing new production facilities, and installing state-of-the-art equipment. The first batch of machinery has already arrived, underscoring the project’s momentum.

Boost to the Cotton Industry

The factory’s revival is expected to significantly bolster the domestic cotton industry. By providing a reliable market for cotton farmers, particularly in Central Province, the operationalization of Mulungushi Textiles will stimulate agricultural productivity and contribute to rural development.

Government Initiatives and Economic Diversification

The Zambian government has demonstrated unwavering commitment to economic diversification and industrialization. Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane announced incentives to boost the cotton industry as part of the 2024 national budget, reflecting the administration’s dedication to revitalizing the cotton value chain.

A New Era for Mulungushi Textiles

As machine testing progresses, the anticipation for Mulungushi Textiles’ full operational resumption grows. This development symbolizes a pivotal moment in Zambia’s industrial landscape, promising economic growth, job creation, and enhanced livelihoods for countless citizens.

By Adrian Gunduzani

Three Fined for Creating Fake ZNBC Facebook Page to Publish Seditious Content

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Three Fined for Creating Fake ZNBC Facebook Page to Publish Seditious Content

The Lusaka Magistrate Court has fined three men for creating a fake Facebook page under the name “ZNBC TOP STORIES ONLINE NEWS” to publish seditious content.

Alick Sakala, 21, Chimango Luhanga, 25, and Samuel Mwene, 23, were convicted by Magistrate Constance Kansakala on four counts, including using insulting language, sedition, and identity-related crimes.

Sakala and Luhanga were each fined K10,000 or face six months imprisonment, while Mwene was fined K2,400 or serve six months in jail.

The trio, who were arrested in December 2024, received their sentences after the court considered their youthful age and remorse for their actions. However, Magistrate Kansakala emphasized that their punishment should serve as a deterrent to other youths who abuse cyberspace.

According to the charges, Sakala circulated insults on the page between January 21 and February 29, 2024. Additionally, between January 4, 2019, and February 29, 2024, he processed and used another person’s identification to insult or annoy individuals via traffic data.

During the same period, Sakala, Luhanga, and Mwene jointly created the fake ZNBC page, using it to spread seditious content. Furthermore, Luhanga was found guilty of processing and using another person’s identity to insult or annoy people via traffic data.

The case highlights growing concerns over cybercrime and misuse of online platforms in Zambia, with authorities warning that offenders will face legal consequences.

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