FOOTBALL CORNER, 2025 FAZ elective AGM set.

Martin Akende Writes:

...Call for Orderly Election Process Crucial for FAZ's Credibility...

On the 14th January, 2024, The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) Electoral Committee chairperson Ronald Hatoongo announced the electoral roadmap for the FAZ elections calendar and a build up to the March 29 Annual General Meeting.

The Electoral Committee provided a roadmap that will start with the filing of nominations on February 1, 2025. Nominations will close on February 7, and a two-day window has been provided for any clearance of possible outstanding matters.

I want to commend the FAZ Electoral Committee for keeping football stakeholders updated on the roadmap of the elections and also their commitment to holding the highest level of transparency in running this process. This is commendable.

According to the schedule, Southern Province will kick start the elections on March 15, 2025, while Lusaka, Central, North Western, and Copperbelt will hold their elective congresses on March 16, 17, 18, and 19, respectively.

The committee disclosed that the next cycle will see Luapula, Northern, Muchinga, Western, and Eastern holding their elective conferences on March 20, 21, 22, 25, and 27 in that order.

The committee called the provincial offices to step up in preparing the ground for free and fair elections. The provincial elections are as critical as the national election.

Secondly, as candidates prepare to file in for the nomination to be conducted between February 1, and 7, 2025, I appeal to aspiring candidates and general members to fully familiarize themselves with the FAZ and FIFA Statutes.

This is critical to ensure candidates and the general membership are familiar with the rules of the game to avoid aspiring candidates exhibiting high levels of ignorance.

Football enthusiast will agree with me in noting the association efforts and time devoted in familiarizing members with the FAZ and FIFA Statutes, this is commendable high level of transparence, accountability and fairness.

I only hope that candidates and the general membership understand eligibility for elections is determined by the constitution only. Let me state again that eligibility for FAZ elective positions is not determined by thugerism or rush to courts of law outside the FIFA auspices.

Please it is not a secret that the FAZ Constitution is aligned with the FIFA Constitution, the process done through an open process by the membership in 2017.

The current constitution was adopted to among other things reduce the electoral college from 350 to 86 and also pave way for decentralization.

I hope all candidates wishing to participate in the elections understand the statutes and should know by now that the nominations will run from February 1-7. The Electoral Committee will announce the successful candidates on February 17 while prospective candidates wishing to appeal can do so from February 17-22.

In conclusion I want to thank FAZ Electoral chairperson Ronald Hatoongo for reiterating his committee's position of not standing at nothing but delivering an independent and transparency process because members of this committee are coming from regulated professions. With this assurance, it means even those vying for the FAZ positions especially the president should demonstrate high levels of professionalism and maturity.

After the nominations are closed and a final list is announced, I will be among the football enthusiasts that will take time to study the manifestos of different candidates to ensure the best candidate is supported fully. Time for jokes and name calling in Football are long gone.

Martin Akende

Akendemartin33@gmail.com

Author is Football analyst, communication expert

media consultant @spider communication agency

 

SENATOR DR. RASHA KELEJ CEO OF MECRK FOUNDATION AND PRESIDENT AS OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL AFRICAN WOMEN

 By Daily News Reporter

 

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign has been recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential African Women 2024 for the sixth consecutive year, by a Leading African Rating Firm, Avance Media.

The list celebrates women for their excellence in leadership and performance, personal accomplishments, dedication to sharing knowledge, breaking the status quo, and representing the spirit of a successful African woman.

Merck Foundation CEO and President of “More Than a Mother Campaign”, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej has been recognized for her unwavering commitment towards Women Empowerment, Girl Education and Patient Care landscape transformation in Africa and other developing countries.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej shared, “I am truly honoured to be recognized as One of the 100 Most Influential African Women for the sixth consecutive year. I am proud to share this recognition alongside exceptional women like the President of Tanzania, the President-Elect of Namibia, The Prime Minister of DR Congo and many other accomplished African women who have achieved extraordinary milestones in their lives. Many congratulations to all!”

Following the announcement of the List of 100 Most Influential African Women, we turned to gain collective insights about Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej,

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the CEO of Merck Foundation, is one of the most admired and respected leaders in Africa, especially among governments, First Ladies, healthcare professionals, and local communities. Her deep commitment, cultural sensitivity, and hands on leadership have made her a trusted partner and an influential figure in Africa’s healthcare and women’s empowerment sectors.

Dr. Rasha Kelej Is the Most Loved & Respected CEO in Africa Dr. Rasha Kelej is not just a CEO—she is a movement. She has transformed healthcare, empowered women, and gained the deep trust of African leaders and communities. Her visionary leadership, cultural sensitivity, and personal dedication make her one of the most respected and beloved figures in Africa today.

She Works Directly with African Presidents, First ladies, Governments and Dr. Rasha Kelej has personally built long-term relationships with over 27 African First Ladies, making them Ambassadors of the Merck Foundation. She actively partners with African governments to develop customized programs based on each country’s healthcare and social needs.

Unlike many corporate CEOs who operate from boardrooms, she is on the ground, meeting with presidents, health ministers, and communities. Why Governments Respect This?

 She doesn’t impose foreign solutions—she co-develops policies with governments. She ensures long-term commitment rather than one-time aid programs. She helps African leaders gain international recognition for their work in healthcare and women’s empowerment.

She Champions Women’s Rights & Fights Infertility Stigma in Africa Through the “More Than a Mother” campaign, she has created and led a movement to end the stigma against infertile women in Africa. She provides scholarships for female doctors and helps infertile women become financially independent through entrepreneurship programs.

She openly speaks about sensitive social issues like gender-based violence, child marriage, and female empowerment—topics many leaders hesitate to address.

Why Women Love & Respect Her? She is one of the only high-profile leaders actively fighting infertility stigma in Africa. She provides real solutions—not just awareness, but also business training and financial support for women and She gives African women a voice, empowering them to take charge of their health and careers. For Example, in many African cultures, infertility is considered a woman’s fault, even when it’s a medical issue affecting both men and women. Dr. Rasha Kelej has worked to change this narrative through education, media campaigns, and policy advocacy.

She Has provided over 2100 Scholarships to Doctors from 55 Countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialities Under her leadership, the Merck Foundation has provided scholarships in 44 critical and underserved specialties including Diabetes, Endocrinology, Oncology, Cardiovascular, Fertility Care, Embryology, Sexual & Reproductive Medicine, Internal Medicine, Respiratory Medicine, Acute Medicine, Critical Care, Pediatric Emergency, Gastroenterology, Rheumatology, Clinical Psychiatry, Urology, Ophthalmology, General Surgery, Trauma & Orthopedic, Dermatology, Neonatal Care, Pain Management, Emergency & Resuscitation, Laparoscopic Surgical Skills, Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Advanced Surgical Practice, Neuroimaging for Research and more.

Why Healthcare Leaders Admire Her? She creates long-term healthcare solutions, not just short-term aid. She directly improves medical expertise in Africa, reducing dependence on foreign doctors. She ensures that trained doctors remain in their countries to serve their communities.

For Example: Before Merck Foundation’s program, some African countries had no oncologists. Now, patients no longer have to travel abroad for cancer treatment.

She Engages with Local Communities, Not Just Governments Dr. Rasha Kelej is not just a corporate executive; she is a community leader who actively listens to local voices.

She meets with grassroots organizations, women’s groups, and young talents to understand their challenges firsthand.  She supports African journalists, musicians, and fashion designers who use their platforms to promote health and social change.

Why African Communities Love Her? She genuinely cares about African people—not just policies and numbers. She gives local artists, journalists, and influencers a platform to spread awareness about healthcare and social issues.  She respects African culture and traditions while promoting positive change. She Is a Hands-On, Passionate, and Charismatic Leader,

 Unlike many corporate leaders who delegate projects, Dr. Rasha Kelej personally oversees and leads many initiatives.

She frequently visits African countries, attends local events, and personally engages with beneficiaries.  Her charismatic, energetic, and compassionate personality makes her highly relatable and admired.

Why Leaders & People Connect with Her?

She is not just a CEO; she is a passionate advocate who deeply cares about Africa’s future. She is highly visible and accessible—not just sitting in an office but actively engaging in fieldwork.

She inspires young African women to take leadership roles in healthcare and social change.

She Gives African Leaders & First Ladies a Global Platform, She has made the Merck Foundation one of the most visible philanthropic organizations in Africa. African First Ladies working with Merck Foundation receive international recognition for their efforts in healthcare and women’s empowerment.

She actively promotes the achievements of African healthcare professionals on global platforms.

Why African Leaders Trust & Support Her?

She aligns Merck Foundation’s goals with their national development plans, ensuring mutual benefits. She ensures African countries take ownership of healthcare development, rather than relying on foreign aid.

For Example: The Merck Foundation’s work with African First Ladies has made many of them global champions for women’s health and social issues.

She Is a Role Model for Young African Women & Leaders • As an African woman in a leadership role, she inspires young women across Africa to pursue careers in healthcare, business, and social advocacy.

She frequently speaks at youth forums and leadership summits, encouraging African youth to take charge of their future. She emphasizes education, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance, teaching African youth how to become change makers in their communities.

Why Young Africans Admire Her?

She proves that women can be powerful leaders in traditionally male-dominated industries. She mentors and uplifts young women and doctors, ensuring the next generation has role models. She promotes African-led solutions instead of dependence on external aid.

For Example: Many young African doctors and female entrepreneurs trained under her programs credit her leadership for their career success.

 BRRA TO REDUCE ALL NECESSARY LICENSES FOR BUSINESS ENTITIES

“A lot of Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country are facing an uphill battle as they navigate regulatory burdens due to high operational costs, and economic instability………………kapalu

By Daily News Reporter

Speaking during to journalists in Lusaka Business Regulatory Review Agency Board Chairperson Dominic Kapalu, stated that one of the major challenges is the complex and costly licensing process, which forces business owners to go through multiple regulatory agencies.

And despite these assurances, many SMEs believe the current business environment remains unfriendly. The high cost of fuel, rent, and raw materials, combined with inflation, has drastically reduced their profit margins.

Mr Kapalu further said that the agency is trying to reduce all necessary licenses that businesses must operate within the law. Opportunities like the Lobito Corridor, which is expected to boost trade and ease the movement of goods, offer some hope.

Kapalu noted that this initiative could open new avenues for small businesses which the Lobito Corridor provides opportunities for businesses in transportation and trade and facilitate access by ensuring regulatory services are streamlined.

He urged the government to implement risk-based regulations, where businesses are only subjected to oversight proportional to their level of risk. With the promotion of risk-based regulation it will apply to small businesses, allowing them to grow

The difficult economic climate is also pushing many informal businesses to operate outside legal frameworks, increasing concerns about compliance and enforcement.

While Kapalu emphasized the importance of following the law, he also recognized that rigid policies may push businesses underground.

As Zambia strives for economic recovery, the survival of SMEs will be crucial. While government agencies acknowledge the regulatory burden, business owners remain skeptical about whether real change will come soon enough. If reforms are not accelerated, many small businesses could be forced to shut down, further straining an already struggling economy.

 DIGITAL HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS UNVEILED 

By Daily News Reporter 

Healthcare system crisis affects all human being around the Globe and remote medical examination have been impossible due to lack of technology.

Through the Finnish Technology Company 73Health it's initiative a digital solutions has been put in place to enable remote examinations and use accurate diagnosis, including both primary care and specialist consultations.

Speaking during the launch of digital solutions for healthcare solutions in Zambia,Carepeak Specialist Clinic Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Aaron Mujajati stated that this technology is the revolutionary healthcare software solutions developed in Finland.

And this new technology healthcare solutions system it will make possible to deliver remote healthcare services which can be used in all private healthcare sector

And through in collaboration with 73Health and Carepeak Specialist Clinic it provides access to healthcare services digitarly.

73Health CEO Dr. Kimmo Nikkanen said that this 73HEALTH technology will enable also necessary examinations for accurate diagnosis and improve the quality of life for million people to access healthcare services.

And 73health service will improve the availability and efficiency of healthcare especially in areas with limited access and long distance to primary care facilities.

And Dr. Nikkanen added that this technology has potential to improve African countries to access healthcare services for remote communities acquire services without having to travel long distances and reduce risk healthcare expenditure costs.

Meanwhile Minister of Technology and Science Mr. Felix Mutati added that they is need to improve healthcare services for the people of Zambia through such technology initiatives by 73HEALTH which is in partnership with Carepeak Specialist Clinic in Zambia.

Mr Mutati also said that investment is the key development for healthcare solutions to improve quality services.

And They is need to sharpen healthcare systems through the implications of AI Strategy.

 CITIZEN SUPPORT PORTAL TO IMPROVE SERVICE DELIVERY 

By Daily News Reporter 

The Zambian government through Smart Zambia Institute has unveiled the Citizen Support Services Portal to strengthen citizen engagement and improve service delivery. 

This innovative online platform enables citizens to report issues, request assistance, and track the status of their requests in real time.

The portal, developed by the Electronic Government Division (SMART Zambia Institute), aims to bridge the gap between citizens and the government, promoting transparency, accountability, and efficiency in service delivery.

Speaking during the launch Secretary to the Cabinet, Mr. Patrick Kangwa stated that the Citizens Support Portal as a "momentous milestone" in Zambia's journey towards a more connected and citizen-focused government adding that the days of ‘Boma Iyanganepo’ are now a thing of the past as their voices will now be heard on the portal.

He further urged that the portal is designed to provide citizens with a convenient and user-friendly interface to access government 

And Speaking at the same event, Namibia's Secretary to the Cabinet, Dr George Simataa, also added that his country Namibia need to learn from Zambia in citizen-centric governance, especially with the launch of the Citizen Support Portal.

Meanwhile, the Head of the Presidential Delivery Unit, Ms Kusobile Kamwambi added that the portal's role will promote efficiency, accessibility and transparency and regardless of distance and economic status are accorded a chance to interact with the overnment.

Ms. Kamwambi also said that this underscored the importance of digital literacy in ensuring that all citizens can effectively utilize the portal and it will be Empowering 80% of Zambians with digital access and literacy by 2026.

And SMART Zambia's national Coordinator, Mr Percy Chinyama, emphasised that the Citizen Support Portal will act as a bridge between the government and its citizens, adding that it enables the public service to deliver services according to its intended purpose.

"The traditional way of just providing a service and not getting feedback has been proven as ineffective as we now have to meet citizens at their points of need ensuring continuous improvement of government services,” he said.

Mr. CHINYAMA highlighted that the portal is a powerful service portal and a mechanism that will ensure that the public service is continuously evolving.

"This initiative reflects government’s dedication to creates a public service that listens and learns, proving citizen the services they truly need,” he said.

The launch of the Citizen Support Services Portal marks a significant milestone in Zambia's digital transformation journey. 

As the country continues to leverage technology to drive growth and development, initiatives like this portal will play a critical role in enhancing citizen engagement and improving.

 FAWEZA/ MASTERCARD FOUNDATION EMPOWERS BURSARY STUDENTS

By Daily News Reporter

The Forum for African Women Educationalists of Zambia (FAWEZA) has Handed over 200 Laptops to the 2024 Mastercard Foundation program beneficiaries. 

This program underscores FAWEZA's commitment to empowering young people through education and technology. 

This program is in line with commemoration of the International Day of Education under the theme: “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automations"

Speaking during the handover ceremony to 12 students at Lusaka Business Technology College in Lusaka FAWEZA Chairperson Enala Tembo Mwase stated that this is to empower youth in accessing quality education through empowerment program.

She also added that this program is an advancing the cause of Gender equity and equality in education sector and ensuring that education remains a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and through unlocking the potential of every child in Zambia.

And some of the beneficiaries students of the empowerment at LBTC by the name of Sandra Soko said that this gives her the opportunity to explore her education skills through this intiavites by Mastercard Foundation.

And a student by the name of Simuyemba Adolf added that this empowerment has improved his education skills and knowledge.

This program is a seven years project which is supported by Mastercard Foundation through FAWE programs by empowering young boys and girls in schools in Zambia.

PRIVATE HEALTH SECTORS SUBMIT THEIR NHIMA CONCERNS

By Daily News Reporter 

National Health Insurance Management (NHIMA) which was established under National Health Insurance Act of 2018 which aims provide financial health services to communities through the national health system and universal access to quality insured healthcare services.

Zambia's health Sector through private sectorss submitted their concerns on the operation of National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA) to the National Assembly's Committee on Health, Community Development, and Social Services.

Speaking during the submissions to the committee Amos Mwale, Executive Director of the Centre for Reproductive Health and Education,  stated that NHIMA plays a crucial role in promoting Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in all 10 provinces of this country.

All Copyright reserved.

 ZAAB AGAINST RIGHTS WHICH DON'T SUITS FARMERS

Daily News Reporter

Plant breeders' rights (PBR) or plant variety rights (PVR) are rights granted to the breeder of a new variety of plant that give the breeder exclusive control over the propagating material and harvested material of a new variety for a number of years.

Farmers’ Rights play a crucial role in shaping inclusive seed legislation. These rights recognize the essential contributions of farmers to agricultural biodiversity and the conservation of plant genetic resources. So Farmers have the right to save, use, exchange, and sell seeds from their own harvest. This practice helps maintain local crop diversity and adaptability.

And in addition farmers should be actively involved in decisions related to seed policies, research, and development. Their traditional knowledge and practices contribute significantly to sustainable agriculture.

Farmers should have access to diverse genetic resources, including traditional varieties. This access enables them to adapt to changing environmental conditions and improve crop resilience.

When commercial varieties are developed using farmers’ genetic resources, fair and equitable benefit-sharing mechanisms should be in place. This ensures that farmers receive compensation for their contributions.

Farmers’ Rights protect against unfair practices such as seed patents and restrictive intellectual property rights that hinder farmers’ ability to save and exchange seeds.

And Zambia Alliance for Agroecology and Biodiversity (ZAAB) is against Zambia’s intention to join the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV). They express concern about the undue influence of the UPOV secretariat in drafting Zambia’s new Bill.A

Speaking to Daily News Zambia Alliance for Agroecology and Biodiversity (ZAAB) country coordinator Mutinta Nketani, stated that amending a sovereign law solely to further outside and private interests at the expense of national interests, particularly farmer’s rights, is unacceptable. The proposed amendments aim to align Zambia’s laws with the UPOV 1991 standards, but Nketani argues that this model is ill-suited for Zambia’s context. It fails to support the country’s diverse food and farming system and limits adaptation to climate change.

Nketani has urged the government to abandon efforts to pass, repeal, and adopt the proposed new Bill to officially join UPOV. Let them Facilitate an open and transparent national discussion on farmer’s rights.

“Develop and adopt a comprehensive legal framework to fully implement Zambia’s obligations regarding farmer’s rights” Nketani said.

She further said that if enacted, the Bill could pose a threat to Zambia’s agro-biodiversity, lead to increased seed prices, and potentially result in corporate control over the seed and food system. It’s essential to balance international standards with local needs and priorities. (© Copyright Reserved)