Beyond the Shadows: Zambia’s Bold Step Toward Albinism Inclusion”

A National Action Plan Signals Hope and Protection for Persons with Albinism

In Zambia, where sunlight is abundant and communities are rich in tradition, persons with albinism have long lived in the shadows—facing threats that go beyond the physical. From ritual-related violence to systemic exclusion, their lives have been shaped by fear, stigma, and silence.

The Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, in collaboration with the Parliamentary Caucus on Disability Inclusion and Rights, is spearheading the development of Zambia’s National Action Plan (NAP) for the Protection of Persons with Albinism. This plan is more than policy—it’s a moral and constitutional commitment to uphold the dignity of every Zambian, regardless of condition or background.

Dr. Joseph Munsanje, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Caucus, has called attention to the persistent dangers faced by persons with albinism: ritual attacks, entrenched myths, and limited access to healthcare, education, and employment.

“These are not isolated incidents,” he said. “They are systemic issues that demand a coordinated national response.”

Dr. Munsanje emphasized the caucus’s role as a bridge—ensuring that marginalized voices are heard in national decision-making. “We must bring those voices to the center,” he said,

“not just in policy, but in practice.

Mr. Joseph Ngoma, Vice Board Chairperson of Cheshire Homes, described the review meeting as “timely and critical.” He highlighted the NAP’s alignment with the African Union Plan of Action on Albinism (2021–2031) and Zambia’s obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).

The plan aims to Prevent rights violations through legal and community safeguards. Improve access to essential services.Promote full inclusion in education, employment, and public life.

 MINISTRY OF SMEs, ZGF AND PARTNERS PUSH FOR AGROECOLOGICAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN ZAMBIA

The Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting sustainable business models that promote food security, environmental protection, and inclusive growth through agroecological entrepreneurship.

Speaking during the Advancing African Agroecological Entrepreneurship and Territorial Markets (AAE & TM) convening held in Lusaka on Thursday, Pamela Chitulangoma, Director of SMEs at the Ministry, delivered a speech on behalf of the Permanent Secretary Subeta K. Mutelo, commending the organizers for creating a platform that fosters innovation and collaboration among farmers, entrepreneurs, and civil society organizations.

“Agroecological enterprises represent a transformative frontier for our economy,” she said. “They create income opportunities for rural communities while protecting the environment and strengthening food security key pillars for long-term resilience.”

Chitulangoma emphasized that the Ministry is expanding entrepreneurship development programs, promoting green enterprise financing, and working to strengthen market linkages for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). She urged participants to build partnerships and identify new opportunities that could drive Zambia’s transition toward a green economy.

The event, hosted by the Zambian Governance Foundation (ZGF) in collaboration with the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA) and the Zambia Alliance for Agroecology and Biodiversity (ZAAB), brought together stakeholders from across the agricultural and enterprise development sectors to deliberate on sustainable food systems and local market strengthening.

In her keynote address, ZGF Chief Executive Officer Ms. Engwase Mwale highlighted the need for community-led approaches in advancing agroecology and entrepreneurship.

“This convening marks a pivotal moment in our national journey toward food sovereignty,” Mwale stated. “For too long, industrial agriculture has overshadowed local models of food production, yet the solutions we seek already exist within our communities.”

Mwale noted that since 2017, ZGF has been working closely with communities in Rufunsa, Chibombo, Chisamba, and Luangwa, helping farmers harness indigenous knowledge to improve soil fertility, manage natural resources, and build local seed and food markets.

The Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA) also underscored the importance of agroecology as a movement for justice, dignity, and resilience. Representing the organization, Ruth Nabegala said Africa’s food future must be grounded in sustainability and sovereignty.

“Across the continent, smallholder farmers and women-led cooperatives are proving that ecological sustainability and economic prosperity can coexist,” Nabegala said. “This convening is a reminder that real change begins from the ground up.”

Participants at the two-day meeting called for stronger policy alignment, investment in small-scale enterprises, and the creation of local markets that ensure farmers benefit directly from their produce.

The AAE & TM Convening is part of a broader African initiative aimed at connecting agroecological entrepreneurs, promoting territorial markets, and advancing food systems that are inclusive, resilient, and environmentally sound.

As the convening concluded, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to collaborative action, pledging to strengthen partnerships and scale up agroecological solutions that empower communities while ensuring sustainable economic growth.

 A Storm, A Warehouse, and a Lesson in Resilience

By Daily News reporter

When torrential rains through Lusaka this, dozens of small businesses and compounds are watched helplessly as floodwaters swallowed their inventory. For many, it is the end of the road. But one company, a mid-sized logistics firm, reopened its doors within weeks. The difference? Insurance.

While competitors scrambled to recover, the firm’s property insurance covered damages, and business interruption insurance kept salaries flowing. Their story is a reminder that insurance isn’t just paperwork — it’s the invisible backbone of survival.

Why Insurance Is Strategic let’s look at three strategies

•             Risk is inevitable: From cyberattacks to workplace accidents, businesses face threats daily. Insurance transforms unpredictable risks into manageable costs.

•             Credibility counts: Investors and clients often ask one question before signing contracts: “Are you insured?” The answer can make or break a deal.

•             Employees matter: Health and life insurance aren’t perks; they’re commitments to the people who keep the business running.

Speaking to a Daily News reporter in Lusaka, Ruth Tembo, owner of a bustling salon, recalled her skepticism about insurance. “I used to think insurance was a luxury or they wanted to steal our money,” she admitted candidly.

But her perspective changed dramatically when a fire tore through her shop. “After the fire destroyed our salon, I realized it’s the only reason we’re still in business today.”

Her story is not just personal — it reflects the growing realization among Zambian entrepreneurs that insurance is a lifeline, not a luxury.

And according to today’s volatile world — climate change, global supply chain shocks, and digital vulnerabilities — insurance is no longer optional. It’s a strategic investment in resilience. Businesses that embrace it are not just protecting assets; they’re safeguarding futures, reputations, and livelihoods.

Meanwhile according to the World Bank, nearly 60% of small businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa close permanently after a major disaster if uninsured.          A PwC survey found that 72% of investors consider insurance coverage a key factor before funding startups. Globally, the cyber insurance market is projected to grow to $84 billion by 2030, reflecting rising digital threats.

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 “Peace of Mind in Uncertain Times: Why Insurance Matters More Than Ever”

By Daily News Reporter

In the course of our lives, we only realise the importance of insurance when we experience life-changing events, which result in unplanned expenses.

However, despite the uncertainties and risks faced, few people try to save money or adequately prepare for these eventualities, causing pressure and stress on household finances, and often leading to poor choices in financial services to cope with these events.

When you have worked hard for everything you own, you need to ensure your property is protected if anything bad happens. Accidents, property damage or even death can occur at any time. If you have not prepared for uncertainties and risks, you will end up with unnecessary financial woes.

Having an insurance policy brings peace of mind, and greater financial confidence, knowing risks you may face can be dealt with without putting a strain on your finances. Buying insurance means you are transferring the cost of a potential loss you might incur to the insurance company by paying a premium – a regular amount of money put aside to pay for unforeseen circumstances,

Despite having more than 30 licensed insurance companies, the country’s insurance sector contributes under five per cent to Gross Domestic Product. And most citizens have no form of insurance cover.

The insurance industry remains one of the most underdeveloped sectors in the country. Most of the population remains uninsured. This perhaps shocking statistic is despite an 18 percent growth in investment income and a 2 percent increase in the number of insurance policies in place in the first quarter of 2018, compared to last year.

Regardless of its low penetration, the insurance sector plays a vital role in the financial wellbeing of many people, helping provide financial security when needed most.

One of the primary ways the insurance sector helps economic development is through risk management for investors. When an investor invests in a certain area, they will try to weigh the potential profits against the risk of failure.

Increased insurance coverage – in terms of a greater number of insurance policies being taken out by people and companies - will not only improve the sector’s ratio to the country’s GDP, but also provide more affordable sources of funds for insurance providers to improve access to better, more affordable insurance packages for citizens.

INSURANCE Companies seeks to support private sector growth by promoting financial inclusion - not only through affordable lending but by also ensuring there is adequate insurance protection cover against the risk of defaulting on payments for Personal Loan Plans due to any unforeseen events.

When planning future finances, preparing for unforeseen events is very important. However, good planning only happens when people are assisted in their planning via wide availability of attractive insurance products from the sector and other financial institutions.

We must work towards increasing the insurance spending ratio through the improvement of insurance products and services in the country. Increased access to insurance generates more affordable sources of funds for insurance companies - and the benefit can then be passed on to the customers who find themselves at the mercy of an insurance claim.

The number of people accessing insurance services must go up - because this is the money that insurance providers use to pay insurance claims and give people their lives back. This is also the money that individuals can use to prepare for key life events, which would make life much easier for them. So, people should be encouraged and given incentives to insure.

To make this happen, insurance companies should design products that encourage people to insure their assets and gain access to resources for uncertainties and risks.

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 “World Savings Day Spotlight: Zambia Honors Financial Literacy Leaders”

By Daily News reporter

Lusaka’s financial community gathered in anticipation and pride as the Financial Literacy Awards Ceremony unfolded. Hosted under the auspices of the Bank of Zambia (BOZ) Insurance Association of Zambia (IAZ) and Pensions and insurance Authority (PIA) the event was graced by the presence of Governor Dr. Denny Kalyalya, who emphasized the critical role of financial education in shaping a resilient economy.

This year's theme “It's not just a saving, it's your life,” is a reminder that saving is more than just a figure in your account: it is a tool for financial freedom and resilience. Simply put, your savings are your first line of defense, creating a safety net for life's unexpected moments.

Speaking the award ceremony in Lusaka Bank of Zambia Governor Dr. Denny Kalyalya stated “This award is a testament to our continued commitment to fostering the growth of the pensions industry, promoting financial literacy, and encouraging a culture of saving and financial inclusion across Zambia”

He further said that It inspires financial institutions to keep innovating and to design impactful engagements that benefit pension fund members and citizens at large — empowering them to achieve meaningful retirement outcomes and a more secure tomorrow.

And Pensions and insurances Authority (PIA) Registrar & CEO, Ms  Namakau Ntini also added that the awards, held as part of World Savings Day 2025, recognized institutions that have gone beyond traditional business practices to champion financial literacy among Zambians.

Ms Ntini also highlighted this year's theme “It's not just a saving, it's your life,” that is a reminder that saving is more than just a figure in our account: it is a tool for financial freedom and resilience. Simply put, our savings are our first line of defense, creating a safety net for life's unexpected moments.

“The ceremony is not just about accolades—it is a testament to the growing movement that places knowledge at the heart of financial empowerment.” Ntini said.

Representatives from the winning institutions echoed a common theme: collaboration. They stressed that financial literacy is most effective when insurers, banks, schools, and communities work together. Campaigns during Insurance Week and innovative programs across Zambia have already begun to shift mindsets, encouraging citizens to embrace savings and responsible financial habits.

The Financial Literacy Awards Ceremony was more than a celebration—it was a call to action. With Zambia’s youth forming the majority of the population, the need for accessible, engaging, and practical financial education has never been greater.

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 Zambia Launches Media Initiative on School Health to Strengthen Public Awareness

By Daily News Reporter

The Ministry of Information and Media has officially launched the Media Initiative on School Health (MISH) Strategic Plan, a transformative effort aimed at elevating the quality and impact of journalism focused on health and education in Zambia.

The launch, held in Lusaka, marks a significant milestone in the country’s commitment to fostering informed public discourse and enhancing national development through accurate and transparent communication.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Information and Media, Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa MP, Director of Human Resource and Administration Mr. Bernard Domingo emphasized the government’s recognition of the media’s vital role in shaping public understanding and trust.

The MISH Strategic Plan is designed to improve the flow of reliable information from key institutions, particularly in the health and education sectors. By empowering journalists and media platforms to deliver factual reporting, the initiative aims to cultivate a more informed, healthier, and actively engaged citizenry.

Stakeholders from across the media, education, and health sectors have welcomed the plan, noting its potential to strengthen collaboration and ensure that critical public messages reach communities effectively.

 ZAMPOST Launches BuyZambezi, Zambia’s First National E-Commerce Platform

By Daily News Reporter

The Zambia Postal Services Corporation (ZAMPOST) has officially launched BuyZambezi, the country’s first national e-commerce platform, marking a major milestone in Zambia’s digital transformation and support for local enterprise.

The launch event, held in Lusaka, was officiated by the Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Mutati, who praised the initiative as a breakthrough for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and traders seeking to access online markets.

BuyZambezi is designed to provide a secure, user-friendly digital space where Zambian entrepreneurs can showcase and sell their products and services. The platform aims to bridge the gap between sellers and buyers, offering a convenient and reliable marketplace that supports economic development.

The development of BuyZambezi is led by Thamani Technologies and Systems, with the group CEO Dr. Cleopas Sanangura highlighting the platform’s potential to revolutionize commerce in Zambia.

The platform is now live and accessible to the public, featuring a wide range of locally made goods and services. It is expected to play a key role in boosting Zambia’s e-commerce ecosystem and expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs across the country.

(picture by MCKAZIWEMEDIA HOUSE)

 

Zambia Boosts Agricultural and Industrial Capacity with New Urea Facility

 

By Daily News Reporter

In a landmark moment for Zambia’s industrial and agricultural future, President Hakainde Hichilema officially commissioned the country’s largest Urea Plant and the Wonderful Group of Companies Industrial Park recently in Lusaka Province — a bold stride toward energy security, job creation, and self-sufficiency.

The newly launched Urea Plant, with a staggering production capacity of 300,000 metric tones per year, now stands as the largest of its kind in Southern Africa. Beyond urea, the facility will manufacture industrial products such as explosives and acids, vital to the mining sector. This strategic move is expected to reduce Zambia’s dependency on imports and strengthen local supply chains.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, President Hichilema hailed the development as a “major leap towards energy security, industrial growth, and agricultural self-sufficiency,” emphasizing its potential to boost national revenue and create thousands of jobs.

In a visionary partnership, United Capital Fertilizers (UCF) has teamed up with the Copperbelt University (CBU) to train chemical engineers, ensuring that the plant’s operations are not only efficient but also driven by homegrown talent.

"This is the type of investment we need,” said President Hichilema, “one that integrates education, skills development, and industrial growth.”

And UCF Board Chairperson Mr. Chance Kabaghe announced plans to build a ZMW 35 million secondary school complete with staff housing — a testament to the company’s commitment to community development and human capital investment.

The commissioning also included an 85-Megawatt Thermal Power Plant, now connected to the national grid. This facility will power UCF’s operations and neighboring industries within the industrial park, contributing to Zambia’s energy stability and industrial resilience.

“Beacon of hope” for farmers. With 5,600 farmers already receiving inputs under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP), the plant’s output is expected to drastically reduce reliance on costly imported fertilizers.

The Wonderful Group Industrial Park is poised to become a nucleus of manufacturing, including electric battery production — positioning Zambia as a rising star in regional industrial diversification.

And the company will upscale NPK fertilizer production from 300,000 to 800,000 metric tones per year, while the newly launched Urea Plant has created over 3,400 direct jobs and 2,500 additional opportunities across various skill levels.

This commissioning marks more than just the opening of a plant — it signals the dawn of a new era for Zambia, where industrial ambition meets educational empowerment and agricultural transformation.

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Digital Government Africa Summit 2025 Highlights Importance of Digital Transformation

By Daily News Reporter (Day 2)

Lusaka, Zambia - The Digital Government Africa Summit 2025 has emphasized the crucial role of digital transformation in driving development and improving governance in Africa. The summit brought together government officials, industry leaders, and experts from different countries to discuss the latest trends and innovations in digital governance.

Speaking on the Second Day of the summit Ministry of Home Affairs and internal Security Zambia Minister Jack Mwiimbu stated that  Developing robust digital infrastructure is essential for driving economic growth and improving digital governance.

He also urged the delegations that they is need for  Collaboration between governments, industry, and academia is crucial for driving innovation and digital transformation.

And Ensuring that digital transformation benefits all citizens, particularly vulnerable populations, is essential for sustainable development.

Quoting the President's opening remarks "Digital transformation is not just about technology; it's about transforming the way governments work and interact with citizens." - President Hakainde Hichilema

And Mr Mwiimbu add that they is need to harness the power of digital technologies to drive economic growth, improve governance, and enhance the lives of our citizens." Mwiimbu added.

During on the second day these are the outcomes picked,

1.  Developing secure and efficient digital identity systems to enhance citizen services.

2.  Building robust infrastruccture and digital governance.

3.  Ensuring the security and integrity of digital systems.

The summit's outcomes are expected to contribute to accelerated digital transformation and improved governance in Africa.

DGA Kicks Off in LUSAKA 

 By Daily News Reporter (Day 1)

 The Digital Government Africa Summit 2025 is currently underway in Lusaka, Zambia, from October 7 to 9, 2025. The summit aims to drive digital transformation across Africa's public sector, focusing on citizen-centric digital services.

The summit will forcus through Digital Identity and Verification, Developing secure and efficient digital identity systems to enhance citizen services , E-Government Infrastructure- Building robust infrastructure for effective digital governance and Cybersecurity and Data Protection*: Ensuring the security and integrity of digital systems.

During the official opening ceremony President Hakainde Hichilema emphasized the importance of digitalization in the movement of goods across borders, stating;

 "We need to use digitalisation in the movement of goods across our borders. We should have non-border posts… that can be achieved through technology." 

The summit provides a platform for knowledge sharing, strategic partnerships, and collaboration among stakeholders.

 PUMA ENERGY ZAMBIA TO PROTECT SCHOOL CHILDREN THROUGH BE ROAD SAFE AFRICA PROGRAM 

By Daily News Reporter 

PUMA ENERGY ZAMBIA PLC launched a second Be Road Safe Africa program in partnership with international Road safety AMEND .

This partnership aims to improve road safety among school going children across zambia.

Speaking during the launch of the Be Road Safe Africa program, Puma Energy Zambia PLC General Manager Zwelithini Mlotshwa stated that this is a life saving step to protect the children and empower community with the knowledge and resources to make the difference in Zambia.

Mr Zwelithini also stated that this is a African initiative to improve the lives of the children in all the provinces of this country.

And Ministry of Transport and Logistics Permanent Secretary Mr Fredrick Mwalusaka stated that the ministry is committed to safeguard road users by strengthening enforcement of traffic laws and regulations through Road Traffic Safety Agency.

He further said that through such initiatives in partnering with stakeholders like Puma Energy Zambia it will ensure that behavioral change among Motorists is implemented.

Meanwhile AMEND Senior Program Officer Ramadhani Nyanza also added that engaging with educational tools is to reinforce critical Road safety lessons and by ensuring active participation from children through activities of road safety programs.

And through this program 7297 students in 5 primary schools are participating in the 2nd Puma Energy Be Road Safe Africa program.

It also reached to over 13,990 students across to five high traffic risk zone schools.

And according to World Health Organization shows that Road traffic injuries are the leading  causes of death among the children and young adults aged 10 to 19years Globally.

In 2024  the zambia Police reported that 19,180 road traffic accidents in Lusaka contributing to the national total of 35,731 accidents with 1,804 resulting in fatalities and 2,199 deaths. This is due to excessive speed, misjudging clearance distance and disobeying traffic rules.

And for children under 16 there 1310 casualties out of which 201 were deaths.