Women In Construction Breaking Barriers in Zambia's Economic Driver 

By Daily News Reporter 

Build It International Zambia, a UK- and Zambia-registered development charity, hosted the Second Edition of the Women in Construction (WiC) Conference in Lusaka under the theme “Systems and Skills to Site: Diversity Builds Productivity.” 

The national one-day conference reaffirmed the urgent need to move beyond policy commitments and skills training towards practical, measurable outcomes for women on construction sites across Zambia.

The conference formed part of Build It International’s flagship programme, “Building a More Gender-Diverse, Skilled, and Sustainable Construction Industry (2024–2027),”  which is funded by the Government of Ireland.

 The programme seeks to challenge entrenched gender norms, dismantle systemic barriers, and expand meaningful employment opportunities for women within one of Zambia’s most economically significant sectors.

Among the participants attended the conference where policymakers, industry leaders, statutory bodies, development partners, training institutions and many other in the construction sector.

Speaking during the official opening of the conference Ministry of Technology and Science Acting Permanent Secretary Ms Naomi Tetamashimba, stated that the national conversation has shifted from aspiration to implementation.

She noted that productivity in the construction sector depends on functional systems that link training to certification, recruitment, workplace safety, accountability, retention, and career progression.

And Build It International Zambia Board Chairperson Eng. Lucie Kasanga,  highlighted construction sector as a key driver of economic growth and job creation. 

She noted that women’s low participation is not due to a lack of ability or ambition, but rather the result of systems that have historically limited access, safety, and opportunity. 

She underscored the importance of coordinated action across government, training institutions, industry, and communities to ensure skills translate into decent, dignified work.

And according to the studies shows that while most institutions acknowledge the importance of gender inclusion, many lack the systems, policies, and monitoring mechanisms to act effectively. 

Also the research also identified strong potential for change, supported by institutional champions, peer learning, and growing acceptance of women’s technical capabilities.

The conference has also reinforced that gender diversity is not only a social imperative but a sound economic strategy. Evidence from industry partners demonstrated improved productivity, quality of work, teamwork, and professionalism on sites employing women. Testimonies from female graduates illustrated how women’s participation in construction contributes directly to household stability, poverty reduction, and national development.

Meanwhile Vocational Education and Training Acting Director Ms Precious Lisulo has called on to institutionalise inclusion across the construction value chain in the construction sector.

She urged participants to measure success not only by participation rates, but by retention, productivity, safety, and site-level outcomes. 

"When inclusive systems are embedded and skills are effectively utilised, the construction sector becomes more productive, sustainable, and equitable—driving broader economic", Ms Lisulo said.

 ZAMBIA 'S ECONOMIC STABILITY HINGES ON REAL-SECTOR INVESTMENT 

By Daily News Reporter 

Zambia Institute For Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR) Interim Executive Director Mr. Zali Chikuba stated that Zambia's economy is facing challenges with exchange rate volatility, impacting food prices, fuel costs, and export competitiveness. 

Speaking during at the Launch of Role of Real Investments in Stabilising the Exchange Rate in Zambia Report in Lusaka Mr Chikuba stated that the highlights the need for diversification, citing investments in manufacturing, agriculture, and energy as key to stabilizing the economy.

He also said that they is need to reduce dependence on single commodities which can mitigate external shocks and Some initiatives have failed due to lack of backing Small scale Mining like Zambia face hurdles in a volatile economy.

Ministry of Commerce and trade industry Permanent secretary Mr Crusivia Hichikumba stated that This dependence on a single commodity goes to underscore the importance of broadening the productive space, thereby strengthening resilience against external shocks. Recent economic developments have underscored a key lesson.

Mr Hichikumba stated that sustainable exchange stability cannot be achieved through monetary and fiscal policy measures alone. It must be supported by a productive, diversified and export-oriented real economy. 

"It is for this reason that the government continues to prioritize investment in key productive sectors including mining, manufacturing, tourism," Mr Hichikumba added.

He also said that The Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry is facilitating investments in all sectors of the economy through a number of initiatives and measures. These include in the area of policy,

The Ministry has developed various policies such as the National Industrial Policy and Trade Policy which have guided our economic policy interventions in the past and they continue to do so and has paid particular attention on foreign domestic investments into Zambia.

 In terms of regulatory frameworks, the Ministry enacted the Investment, Trade and Business Development Act.

"With regard to local manufacturing, the Ministry has been implementing Statutory Instrument No. 110 of 2020, which provides for the suspension of customs duty on imported raw materials which are not available in Zambia. The objective is to boost local manufacturing, create employment opportunities and lower product costs by making inputs cheaper for manufacturers". Mr Hichikumba said 

He further stated that government has developed the statutory instrument number 45 of 2025 in the brackets preference and reservation schemes which is targeting the key areas including manufacturing . 

And ZIPAR RESEARCH TEAM led by Dr. Joseph Phiri Acting Deputy Director - Fiscal, Monetary, Financial and External Sector and Ms Margaret Mbewe Mwanza Research Fellow presented the Report on which they recommended that they is need to secure Energy supply and improve efficiency by ensuring they is reliable and diversified energy supply which is critical for production and foreign -exchange generation. 

And that government should accelerate renewable energy investments via public - private Partnerships and power purchase agreements, reduce resilience hydropower, and encourage domestic biofuel production.

 They also urged the  Government to enhance trade integration and export diversification through a proactive trade policy that strengthen exports competiveness and diversifies foreign exchange sources.

 Zambia's Artisanal Gold Mining Sector Gets Boost with planetGold Initiative 

By Daily News Reporter 

The PLANET GOLD Zambia Project says it has recorded steady progress in its first year of implementation, with authorities expressing confidence that the initiative will significantly transform the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector. 

Speaking at a media  engagement in Lusaka PLANET GOLD Zambia National Project Manager Ms Abigail Mwailenge stated that 2025 achievements have layed a strong foundation for advancing formalisation, improving access to finance and promoting responsible mining practices as the project moves into its second year in 2026.

Meanwhile Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) Acting Director General, Karen Banda also stated that the introduction of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations under Statutory Instrument Number Three (3) of 2026 will significantly improve compliance and formalisation in the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector. 

And Ministry of Mines and Minerals Assistant Director for Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Brighton Kateka added that government is operationalizing the Mining Appeals Tribunal to strength dispute resolution within the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector. 

Mr kateka  noted that while the tribunal existed under the previous mining law, it had not been instituted, a gap that the current legislation is now addressed to allow aggrieved parties to channel their appeals directly through the tribunal.

The project, which is funded by the Global Environment Facility and is under implementation by the United Nations Environment Programme, is being executed by the Artisanal Mining Board in partnership with the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA). 

PlanetGOLD Zambia aims to support a cleaner and more transparent gold supply chain by reducing, and where possible eliminating, the use of mercury in gold processing among small-scale miners across the country.

 BETUZ Commends Teachers for Upholding Exam Integrity

By Daily News Reporter 

Basic Education Teachers Union of Zambia (BETUZ) Public Relations Officer, Mr. Obby Chisala, commended teachers for their professionalism during the 2025 Grade 12 examinations, crediting their hard work and seriousness for maintaining result integrity.

He added that BETUZ has been Sensitizing members on the ground to ensure that they maintain their professionalism and ethical conduct during their teaching in private and public schools. 

He also noticed that previously linkages and male practice

among teachers has gone down and urged them to maintain their professionalism as a teacher.

Mr Chisala has further stated that BETUZ has  so far unionized 5 private sector institutions.

Mr. Chisala urged new members to maintain professional standards, ensuring no inappropriate linkages with learners.

 Speakers and Presiding Officers: Pillars of Democracy 

By Daily News Reporter 

The 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) in New Delhi underscored the pivotal role of Speakers and Presiding Officers in upholding constitutional order and parliamentary independence. 

This by safeguarding , parliamentary independence and ensuring that institutions of parliament remains effective, inclusive and respected by citizens they save," said Hon Kalila

 CPA Chairperson Dr. Christopher Kalila also emphasized their commitment drives the CPA's relevance among member parliaments.

And Speaking at the same conference in New Delhi India,  Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India's democratic strength, citing the 2024 election with 980 million registered voters and over 700 participating parties. 

CSPOC aims to promote impartiality, fairness, and democratic understanding, attracting a record number of attendees this year.

 DUKUTOBER MANGAZINE A SYMBOL OF HOPE AND SOLIDARITY IN ZAMBIA'S CANCER JOURNEY 

(PART 1)

By Daily News Reporter 

In Zambia, a beacon of hope shines bright – the Dukutober Cancer Wellness Magazine. 

This impactful publication shares authentic stories of courage, resilience, and determination from cancer survivors, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.

Speaking at the Dukutober Mangazine Launch for Zambian Cancer Society (ZSC) Senior Medical Superintendent at Cancer Disease Hospital ( CDH) in Lusaka Dr. Susan Msadabwe stated,

"We see cancer not as an illness only, but as a life-changing experience." Dr. Msadabwe said.

This powerful statement from Cancer Hospital highlights the importance of holistic care in Zambia's cancer response.

"Dukutober Magazine is a vital tool for sharing stories, providing information, and fostering connections" Dr. msadabwe said.

She further noted through this partnership between Cancer Hospital and the Zambian Cancer Society is making a difference. By sharing stories and experiences, they're helping patients feel less alone and more empowered.

She also said that they is need of Open conversations about cancer to reduce fear and increase support and also by Addressing physical, emotional, and social needs throughout the cancer journey 

The magazine's holistic approach addresses physical, emotional, and financial challenges, promoting comprehensive care. 

And Zambian Cancer Society  ( ZCS ) Founder/ Executive Director Ms Udie Soko added that by amplifying these voices, the Zambian Cancer Society fosters a compassionate community, empowering individuals to reclaim their narrative through such initiatives of a Magazine advocate.

The magazine has became our catalyst for connection. We talked about fears, hopes, and the unknown. We laughed, cried, and found solace in shared experiences. It was a turning point in our friendship and their cancer journey.

And one of the Cancer Survivors Ms Charity Phiri shared with Daily News her experience with Zambian Cancer Society that,

"I'll never forget the moment I handed a copy of Dukutober Magazine to a close friend. It wasn't just about sharing stories of cancer survivors; it was about opening a door to a conversation we'd both been avoiding", Ms Phiri said.

She added "My friend had been struggling to process their diagnosis, and I didn't know how to support them. But as they flipped through the magazine's pages, something shifted. They saw themselves in the stories, felt the emotions, and began to articulate feelings they'd kept inside",

Dukutober Magazine isn't just a publication – it's a bridge to understanding, a tool for connection, and a reminder that we're not alone.

 New ZAQA Board to Boost Recognition of Zambian Qualifications Locally and Abroad

By Daily News Reporter

The Ministry of Education Minister, Hon. Douglas Syakalima, has officially inaugurated the new Board of the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA), urging members to uphold diligence, independence, and professionalism in their service.

Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Syakalima reaffirmed Government’s commitment to supporting ZAQA in strengthening its impact and enhancing the recognition of Zambian qualifications both locally and internationally. He emphasized the Authority’s critical role in safeguarding the quality, relevance, and credibility of qualifications within Zambia’s education and skills development system.

“Your expertise, integrity, and commitment to public service will be vital in ensuring ZAQA continues to deliver on its mandate,” Hon. Syakalima told the newly appointed Board Members.

And the Newly Appointed Board Members are:

Professor Victor Chisha Zulu – Chairperson

Mr. Henry Kabwe – Board Member

Ms. Thecra Milambo – Board Member

Ms. Sharon Kudzai Mofya – Board Member

Ms. Linda Siwale – Board Member

Meanwhile ZAQA Director General, Mrs. Mercy Ngoma, outlined the Authority’s mandate, which includes developing, overseeing, and maintaining the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). She revealed that in 2025 alone, ZAQA registered 872 qualifications on the NQF and verified 58,292 qualifications, underscoring the Authority’s growing influence in Zambia’s education sector.

And  Newly Appointed Board Chairperson Professor Victor Chisha Zulu pledged to provide strategic policy direction and ensure ZAQA effectively delivers on its mandate. He emphasized the Board’s dedication to professionalism, harmony, and strengthening Zambia’s education and skills development system.

 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀: 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗼𝗻𝗶, 𝗞𝗮𝗳𝘂𝗲

By Daily News reporter

In pursuit of our mission to deliver safe, efficient, and accessible water services to all, we at Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company (LWSC) continue to deepen partnerships with communities across our service areas.

At the heart of this commitment lies our shared vision of transparency, accountability, and collective responsibility in water management.

This week, we convened a stakeholder engagement meeting at Mtendere Primary School in Zambia Compound, Kafue.

The gathering brought together community leaders, councillor representatives, Ward Development Committee (WDC) members, and our regional team to address pressing issues surrounding water supply in the Soloboni area.

The meeting focused on four critical pillars:

- Raising community awareness of our water supply systems and service expectations;

- Strengthening infrastructure security to protect our water assets;

- Promoting payment compliance for our water services, especially among newly connected households;

- Combating illegal water connections and related activities that undermine our service delivery.

Our Western Regional Manager, Mr. Kango Mwanza, emphasized the importance of community vigilance and adherence to our water service regulations.

He urged residents to report unauthorized activities and take pride in safeguarding our water infrastructure.

Mr. Mwanza also reminded households recently connected to LWSC through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF)-supported network to pay the standard connection fee of K1,000 by 31st January 2026 to regularize their access and ensure continued service.

Municipal representatives from Syabusale and Matanda wards echoed a unified message, sustainable water supply is a shared responsibility that requires close collaboration between service providers, local authorities, and the community.

Together with our stakeholders, we reaffirmed our commitment to building a future where every household in Kafue enjoys reliable, legal, and dignified access to clean and safe water.

With strong leadership and active community participation, sustainable water management is not only possible it is within reach.

 

 

 GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES RURAL WATER SUPPLY PROJECTS

 By Daily News reporter

The Government launched two new water supply projects in Zambezi and Kabompo Districts aimed at improving access to safe and clean water for rural communities, under the 2025 Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Collins Nzovu, announced that the projects will be executed by the North Western Water Supply and Sanitation Company Limited (NWWSSCL), with funding provided through the Zambezi and Kabompo Town Councils.

Mr Nzovu said the Kabompo project, valued at K793,000, will focus on expanding water supply networks in Chikata, Farm Training Centre (FTC), INDECO and M8 townships.

“Each township will receive a one-kilometre water distribution network, initially serving about 40 customers, with the target to reach over 100 customers in the medium term, ultimately benefiting more than 1,000 residents,” Mr Nzovu stated.

He said in Zambezi District, the project costing K564,800 under Phase One will involve the construction of a new water supply line from New Market Compound to Masumpu Village.

“This development will add 100 new customers and benefit approximately 600 people,” he said.

Mr Nzovu expressed satisfaction that both local authorities have already disbursed the necessary funds and that procurement processes are underway.  

 

Improving WASH in Zambian Schools: A Key to Better Health and Education

By Daily News Reporter

The cry for improved Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) in schools is getting louder. Lawmakers are pushing for increased funding, citing inadequate budget allocations and growing climate-related challenges.

 "WASH in schools is a fundamental right essential for children's health and education," says Mutinta Twaambo, PC-WASH Chairperson. Despite this, many schools still grapple with dirty toilets, broken water points, and lack of hygiene facilities.

 The WASH in Schools Sharing Event brought together stakeholders to discuss solutions. Key themes included financing, governance, climate resilience, menstrual health, and gender inclusion. "Education can't thrive without safe WASH facilities," stresses Marlon Phiri, NGO WASH Forum Board Chairperson.

 The Water Voices United project is working to enhance civil society's capacity to support government WASH efforts. But more needs to be done.

 

 

’DON’T TARGET US SCHOOL GOING CHILDREN’- Phiri Warns Tobacco industries

By Daily News Reporter

As schools reopen, the Tobacco Free Association of Zambia (TFAZ) has sounded the alarm on the tobacco industry's aggressive marketing tactics targeting young children.

According to Kumbuso Phiri, Youth Advocate at TFAZ, tobacco companies are exploiting Zambia's weak tobacco control environment to lure children into smoking.

Phiri stated that tobacco products are being sold near schools, making them easily accessible and affordable to minors.

The industry's strategies include advertising and promotion, sale of single cigarettes, and child-friendly flavored cigarettes. These tactics aim to create a new generation of smokers, maintaining the lucrative tobacco business.

Research shows that 60% of smokers start at age 13 and 90% are hooked by 20. With Zambia's ratification of the World Health Organization Framework Convention for Tobacco Control, the government has a legal obligation to protect its population, particularly vulnerable groups like children.

The British American Tobacco and Philip Morris International are accused of intensive marketing around schools, encouraging tobacco use among children.

Cigarettes are advertised in stores, on posters, and using umbrellas, deliberately misleading children into believing they're harmless.

To curb this, TFAZ urges the government to adopt comprehensive tobacco control policies, including:

- Banning tobacco product sales near schools

- Prohibiting flavored tobacco products, small packaging, and single cigarette sales to minors

- Displaying signage in retail outlets

The government must act urgently to protect Zambia's young generation from Big Tobacco's aggressive marketing.