MINISTRY OF TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE APPOINTS NEW INTERIM BOARDS FOR NSTC,NRSC,NTBC,RPA AND ZAMIM

By Daily News Reporter

"interpret policy in responding to the dynamics of change in key areas of science, technology, innovation and skills development as stipulated under the four pillars in the eighth National Development Plan (8th NDP)," Mutati said 

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony of interim management board members of six statutory institutions under the Ministry of Technology and Science, the Minister stated that the new inaugurated members form a confident and expertise team that are a key enabler to demonstrate and share a collective vision for Zambia.

He said that the board members will primarily play a role of executing policies that will enhance decision making procedures and operational matters to deliver and assist interpreting the policy.

Mr. Mutati urged the boards to initially undertake an in - depth induction tilted on each respective institution's mandate in order to create a comprehensive understanding of operations and help support policy execution.

The Minister also expected the boards to appreciate the legal framework of each institution devised on regulations that help thrive progressively.

He guided the installed boards to establish performance contracts that are a yardstick to execute and measurable towards actioned work plans.

He called on the boards to embark on a tangible and practical course of work that is result output oriented. The Minister also upheld a collective and diversity appointed team that he believed will transform the lives of the people of Zambia as expected.

And Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Technology and Science Engineer Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu these interim members of the management boards are a substance and signifies an important milestone that steer commitment to advancing science, scientific research, technological innovation, skills development, and organization excellence in Zambia.

He said the Governing body now exists in a new era of collaboration, expertise, and education development.

Dr Habeenzu said the appointees emanate from a world of experience and expertise who come on board with a shared passion to the contribution of the growth of prosperity of the Country.

He called on the board members to strive collectively to overcome challenges towards excellence and innovation that must be leveraged on a shared vision through exploration of science, technology, innovation, and skills development for a bright future Zambia.

And meanwhile Christabel Reinke commended the Ministry for inaugurating the board of directors as this demonstrates a high level of commitment and a drive to achieve key performance indicators for the economy.

Ms. Reinke indicated that the boards were ready to execute duties and undertake decisions at strategic levels in various mandates of respective institutions with a focus to realise goals and above expectations.

The newly inaugurated interim board management members bring their expertise to the National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research (NISIR), National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), National Remote Sensing Center (NRSC). Other institutions include National Technology Business Center (NTBC), Radiation Protection Authority (RPA), and the Zambia Institute of Management Board (ZAMIM).

 Both conventional tobacco products and e-cigarettes pose risks to health.

E-cigarette use can negatively impact the health of your brain, lungs and heart and it is linked to an increased risk of heart disease and lung disorders.

 ZAMBIA CHINESE ASSOCIATION DONATES K260, 000 WORTH OF GOODS TO ZAMBIA POLICE

By Daily News Reporter

The Association donated various assorted items worth K260,000 to the Zambia Police Service in Lusaka aimed at safeguarding the lives of men and women in uniform against cholera and reported cases of COVID-19 in the country.

Speaking during the donation, Zambia China Association Executive President, Wu Ming stated that Chinese Association in Zambia were concerned with the happenings in the country in terms of health, hence coming forward with the donation.

And the Zambia Chinese Association has pledged continued support towards ensuring that Zambia remains a peaceful nation that allows investors to thrive.

Mr. Ming urged the Zambian government to create an enabling environment for Chinese investors to thrive in the country.

"We are members of the community in Zambia who are equally affected by what is happening in the country, and that is why we have decided to come on board with this donation as a supplement to what the government is doing in the prevention of Cholera," Ming said.

Mr. Ming also added that the Chinese community was concerned about their safety in the country, with a number of security concerns which they felt the Zambia Police could help in resolving.

"We remain hopeful that our relationship with the Zambian government will continue to grow in 2024 and beyond and will create a platform in which we can engage Zambia as far as security is concerned," Ming added.

Meanwhile, Zambia Police chief Grapheal Musamba also said that the Chinese community has nothing to worry about in terms of their safety, adding that the police service will ensure that all foreign nations and investors in Zambia including the Chinese feel free to conduct their business.

He has assured the Chinese community in Zambia of their safety under the police service.

"It is our hope and trust that we continue on this trajectory in order to create our relationships in increasing a peaceful and secure environment," Musamba said,

Among the donated items include Chlorine, Soap, Wash bins, water purifiers, face masks and alcohol for medical purposes among others.

 

GOVERNMENT TO REVIEW POSTAL SERVICES ACT AS ZAMPOST LAUNCHES ITS STRATEGIC PLAN FOR 2023 -2027

By Daily News Reporter

Government will undertake a review of the Postal Services Act number 22 of 2009 in order to address the inadequacies enshrined in the Act and also provide for instructional and functional realignment and promote development of the sector says Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Technology and Science Eng. Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu.

Speaking during the launch of the Zambia Postal Corporation (ZAMPOST) 2023 to 2027 Strategic Plan Dr. Habeenzu said the plan signifies a significant milestone that will shape the future of the Corporation Postal and Couriers Services. Dr. Habeenzu commended the Corporation for developing the plan that outlines key milestones that will not only make ZMPOST operate as an efficient institution but also gain excellence in delivering its mandate.

Dr. Habeenzu explained that the plan is rolled out to endorse the target set out in the strategic plan for the Corporation to remain competitive in the industry and create value for national development.

He said in the modern age Portal and Telecommunication services have evolved hence influencing a change in operational practices as a result people no longer transport mail within the Country and to other destinations Globally. The Permanent Secretary said the technical – know has superseded the previous postal services to modern digital services embraced through phones and courier services.

He said despite the challenges ZAMPOST faces Corporation must operate beyond borders.

“Ensure to provide a platform for which it must become easy for our private citizen to access the services, services that are also coming from the private sector, our President (President Hakainde Hichilema) is being nominated as Global Champion for the Digital Transformation and the implication is that we need to lead as Country on provision of digital services through digital platforms”.

 

REA BOARD UNVEILED

By Daily News Reporter

Minister Of Energy Peter Kapala has unveiled a 9-member Rural Electrification Authority-REA- Board in Lusaka.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony in Lusaka he stated that there is need for the board to guide REA in ensuring it attracts the private sector, non-governmental organizations and cooperatives to raise the needed resources.

He has further urged the new board to ensure the rural electrification master plan implemented in 2008 is updated as it has remained static and does not meet the current social and economic environment because it was formulated at a time when Zambia’s 10th province had not been created.

And newly appointed REA Board Chairperson Bruce Jani said that the Board will and understand the much-needed work demand on government to achieve universal access to affordable, reliable and sustainable electricity by 2030 especially for rural communities whose income levels are low.

REA Chief Executive Officer Linus Chanda also added that the increased and decentralized Constituency Development Fund entails the need for electrifying the entire country so as to meet the government's agenda of ensuring equitable development in all parts of the country.

And the Minister appointed the Board of Directors in accordance with section 7 of the Rural Electrification Act No. 5 of 2023. The following are our newly appointed Board of Directors:

1. Mr. Bruce Jaani- Board Chairperson;

2. Eng. Bright Mwangala Sepiso, representing the Engineering Institution of Zambia;

3. Mr. Caesar Cheelo, representing the Economics Association of Zambia;

4. Eng. Clement Chiwele, representing the Ministry of Energy;

5. Ms. Loveness Mubisi, representing Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development;

6. Mrs. Mazuba A. S. Mwambazi, representing Non-Governmental Organizations active in rural development;

7. Ms. Diana Musunga Mwewa, representing the Attorney General Chambers;

8. Mr. Paul Kolala and;

9. Eng. Kenneth Muteto, who are experts in rural development and electrification matters.

 NALUCHA BERNADETTE NGANGA-ZIBA AS NEW WWF ZAMBIA COUNTRY DIRECTOR

By Daily News Reporter,

WWF Zambia proudly welcomes Nalucha Bernadette Nganga-Ziba, a distinguished leader with over 15 years of expertise in public policy and non-profit development, as the new Country Director for the country office.

Making the announcement recently, WWF Africa Regional Director Daudi Sumba said that Nalucha's wealth of experience is a perfect fit for WWF Zambia’s strategic direction.

“We are delighted to welcome Nalucha who has a wealth of experience in program design, strategic planning, and resource mobilization, with a strong focus on promoting a human rights-based approach to conservation and development,” said Sumba.

Nalucha's exceptional career includes serving as the Country Director of Crown Agents Zambia and ActionAid Zambia, alongside roles at Grassroot Soccer Zambia and Non - Governmental Organisations Coordinating Council.

Her commitment to policy influencing, advocacy, and driving women and youth participation in leadership sets her apart as a visionary leader.

With extensive regional project management experience in Zambia, Uganda, Ethiopia, and Tanzania, Nalucha brings a global perspective to WWF Zambia.

Her dedication to managing large, complex development programs in humanitarian efforts, public finance, tax and economic justice, climate change, and governance reflects her commitment to driving sustainable change.

Nalucha holds a Bachelor of Arts with Education and Bachelor of Laws from the University of Zambia.

She also holds a Master's degree in Communications and Public Relations as well as aMaster of Philosophy in Constitutional and Administrative Law.

Her unique blend of legal, communications, and policy expertise positions her as an invaluable asset to WWF Zambia.

“We are excited to have Nalucha as our new leader for the WWF Zambia Country office. We believe that she will build on the existing foundation to propel the office towards more impact conservation and development efforts that should contribute to our mission and drive positive transformation across Zambia.” said Sumba.

 

Poultry farming reaps year-round rewards, Cabo Delgado, Mozambique

Beyond food security, some local farmers reach for food sovereignty, one chicken at a time

Nus Ibrahim moved through her cool, dimly lit home. She shone a light from her phone towards the corner of the room, revealing a singular, small brown egg burrowed in the sand. "A hen has just started laying,” she said smiling. When she returned outside under the mid-day sun, Nus asked her sister to bring some rice to feed the chickens. Sitting on a small wooden box, two of her six children peeked out to say hello from the shade of their home. She arrived in 2020. Conflict had driven her, her husband and six kids to flee the Mocimboa da Praia district and start again in Montepuez city. There they were assigned to a resettlement camp, where another 5 230 people also reside. Nus, alongside others in the settlement, are a few of the roughly 680 000 people that remain displaced by ongoing conflict in Cabo Delgado province, which has disrupted agriculture-based livelihoods since 2017. The arrival of people displaced by conflict, often without assets like tools and seeds, placed additional strain on host communities and overwhelmed basic social services. This made it harder for farmers to get back to production to feed their families and kickstart their businesses. To ensure they have the tools they need, FAO has been distributing agricultural inputs, such as seeds and livestock. For Nus’ family poultry farm, the additional support arrived just in time. “I received four chickens from FAO, and I’ve kept them ever since to help with reproduction,” she said while scattering rice on the ground in front of her. As twenty chickens dashed towards her, it was clear her production was thriving. “At one point last year I had 87 chickens! I was able to sell 30 of them. With some of those remaining, if we didn’t have food at home sometimes, I take one and prepare it for us to eat.” With a more reliable source of nutrition and stable income, Nus and her family have not only begun to overcome what was lost. As a seasoned farmer, she also set in motion a plan to reap greater rewards. "I sold each chicken for 300 meticais (USD 5) and was able to get 9 000 meticais (USD 150) for all 30 chickens. The money I received I invested in my farm. For example, with some of the money I helped hire labour to prepare the land. I also bought seeds from a neighbour.” Nus threw another handful of rice towards the chickens. “With those seeds I grew eight bags of rice, four bags of groundnuts, and two bags of maize. To this day, I’m still eating the food I grew on my farm using the money from the chickens,” she said proudly. “We ate four bags of rice over the last four months and the other four will last us another four months.” With additional income, Nus was also able to cover other household costs. "I'm able to buy clothes for the children, soap to wash their clothes, and oil to cook with. The chickens really helped! We live just off the food we’ve grown and the chickens, and soon we’ll start planting for this season.” FAO has also provided technical support to extension staff from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to ensure farmers like Nus receive sustained support to progress their plans. But since the planting season began in October 2023, more must be done. Over 1.5 million people in northern Mozambique are in need of humanitarian assistance and protection due to the continued impact of conflict and insecurity in Cabo Delgado. Over half of those displaced are children. FAO centres its assistance on investing in small-scale farmers like Nus under the Humanitarian Response Plan for northern Mozambique. In 2023, committed donors provided USD 3.59 million to help FAO reach 69 592 internally displaced people, host community members and returnees with life‑saving livelihood support. But the people reached only represent around 7 percent of the 2023 target due to staggering funding shortages. More must be done so funding matches people’s needs, and no crisis is forgotten. Under the 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan, FAO plans to reach over 525 000 people and calls for USD 20.1 million. Outcomes like self-sufficient food production and income diversification translate into benefits for broader communities and agrifood systems. With increased and sustained support, people have the chance to lay a strong foundation for a sustainable future.

 

Chunza Testifies against MP Katuta

TIMES of Zambia photojournalist has told the Lusaka magistrates Court that he was left traumatized when spitting Chiengi member of parliament Given Katuta and her abettors ganged up on him and harassed him demanding that he deletes her pictures.

Henry Chunza said Katuta referred to him as a son of a dog and spat saliva on him for taking pictures of her at parliament after she was ejected from the chamber by the speaker for her incivility.

Katuta is charged with threatening violence and common assault for harassing Chunza and spitting on him

Testifying before magistrate Idah Phiri, Chunza narrated that On July 21, 2023, he and his colleague Chusa Sichone were assigned by their editor Andrew Sakala to cover parliamentary proceedings.

He said on the date in question, Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti suspended Katuta from the house for seven days due to dishonourable conduct and asked her to take a walk of shame.

Chunza said he positioned himself at the door immediately when it was opened by the sergeant at arms to capture the moment.

Chunza narrated that immediately Katuta saw him and she charged at him asking who had sent him to work against her.

He said Kututa ordered him to get rid of her images as she shouted “wemwana wambwa iwe”(you son of a dog).

“When she saw me getting pictures of her she pointed a finger at me whilst shouting" who are you? Why are you getting pictures of me ? Who has sent you to come and get pictures of me ?

She shouted at me and said, "You son of a dog can you delete pictures of me from that camera,”Chunza recounted.

He said due to fear he decided to escape from the lawmaker and they engaged in a cat and mouse race.

Chunza said in hot pursuit the enraged Katuta gleeked at him like a spitting cobra.

“She continued pointing at me because of fear I started running down stairs as I was going downstairs. She was on top. She continued with abusive language toward me, she was chasing me and spat saliva on me whilst saying "you son of a dog in bemba, delete those pictures of me,” he narrated.

He said immediately Katuta who is also a clergywoman spat on him he reduced his speed to clean himself of the stinky saliva and Katuta got hold of him with the help of Chawama member of parliament Tasila Lungu whom he came to recognise after the women managed to have the pictures deleted.

Chunza said Katuta and her friends ganged up on him and harassed him.

“She (Katuta) harassed me and wanted to get the camera from me so that she could delete the pictures. It was at this point that other people joined her trying to get the camera from me. I couldn't remember anyone because I was traumatized,” Chunza said.

He told the Court that a police officer came to his rescue as the women’s clamour caught the attention of onlookers.

“A police officer came to my rescue, grabbed the camera from me and kept it safe. She tried to get the camera from a police officer, said Chunza.

“The group that came to me where the security officer who pounced on me and demanded to delete photos from the camera among them was Chawama MP (Tasila Lungu) . I saw her when they were leaving. They deleted the photos and Chusa reported the matter to the police.”

In his testimony Sichone who is the acting chief reporter at Times of Zambia confirmed witnessing Katuta harass and spit on Chunza.

“After honorable Katuta was told to take a walk of shame by the speaker, I asked Henry to take pictures of honorable Katuta immediately. The sergeant at arms opens the door to the chamber around 09: 15 hours. Upon hon Katuta seeing Henry taking pictures of her, she did not take kindly what Henry had done,”

“She started shouting at him. She demanded that Henry delete the pictures he had captured of her. In a feat of rage Katuta continued charging at Henry sensing danger I instructed Henry to run downstairs. As he was running downstairs to the ground floor Hon Katuta could not get hold of him because he was very quick. She spat on him as he was running downstairs.”

Sichone said he reported the matter to the police after Chunza was harassed and had his pictures deleted.

 PHARMANOVA DONATES CHLORINE WORTH K3 MILLION TO FIGHT AGAINST CHOLERA

By Daily News Reporter

PHARMANOVA Zambia Limited has commitmented to give aid to the Government of Zambia, through the Ministry of Health, in their relentless efforts to combat the cholera outbreak in Zambia.

And Pharmanova Zambia Limited has given a donation of K3,000,000 worth of Chlorine to the Ministry of Health. This substantial contribution underscores the company's dedication to promoting public health and emphasizes the importance of prevention as a key strategy in combating cholera outbreaks.

In partnership with New Horizon Printing Press, Pharmanova Zambia Limited will also distribute 1000 educational posters to clinics across Zambia. These informative materials seek to raise awareness about the effective utilization of Chlorine in households, intending to empower communities with knowledge that can save lives.

During the handover, CEO Mohammed Umar emphasized that the company's objective is to save lives of the community.

"As a proudly Zambian company, we hold a profound responsibility to swiftly and meaningfully support our community. Recognizing our role as conscientious corporate citizens, we stand united with the people of Zambia, addressing our nation's challenges as a singular, unwavering force.'" said Umar.

And the Minister of Health, Hon. Sylvia Masebo, has appreciated Pharmanova for its invaluable support through this challenging time of cholera outbreak, and urged all stakeholders to unite as one community of Zambians to bolster mutual support, in the fight against cholera.

"These resources aim to enhance public understanding of the proper use of chlorine, specifically for the prevention of Cholera. This collaborative initiative underscores the importance of collective action and public awareness in effectively addressing health challenges," she said.

This initiative stands as a testament to Pharmanova Zambia Limited's unwavering dedication to the well-being of the Zambian populace and its pledge to stand in solidarity with the government and the Ministry of Health during this challenging period.

 ZMA LAUNCHES 2024 MEASURING INSTRUMENT VERIFICATION EXERCISE FOR PETROLEUM SUB-SECTOR

By Daily News Reporter

The Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA) has launched the 2024 verification exercise of all measuring instruments used in the petroleum sub-sector in a bid to enhance fair trade, consumer protection and promote compliance.

As part of the verification exercise, ZMA metrologists will inspect and verify measuring instruments used in all private and public fuel depots and filling stations across the country.

The launch, which was held virtually on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, through a meeting Chaired by ZMA Director Legal Metrology Dr.Eng. Michael Kalumbu Nsefu and attended by key stakeholders in the petroleum sub-sector who included Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and Service Technician Companies.

In his remarks during the meeting, Dr Eng. Nsefu said the Agency plays a crucial role in supporting the entire distribution chain of petroleum products through the statutory verification of petroleum pumps and bulk flow meters every six months.

He urged all players in retail and commercial petroleum sites to ensure they present their measuring instruments for verification to ZMA this month to avoid regulatory enforcement.

Dr Eng. Nsefu further urged the public to check for validity of ZMA verification stickers on fuel pumps at filling stations across the country as part of ensuring that they are getting value for money.

In another development, ZMA has cautioned players in the petroleum sub-sector against the use of unapproved methods of measurement during the offloading of petroleum products from Tanker trucks, such as use of weighbridges and dip charts in Storage Tanks. The Agency is emphasizing the use of only approved methods which include Bulk Flow meters, Ullage marks, and Dip charts on Tanker trucks.

 KUMA INVESTMENTS DONATES BENCHES WORTH K30 THOUSAND .

Lusaka Mayor, Her Worship Ms. Chilando Chitangala received a donation of benches worth Thirty Thousand Kwacha (30, 000) from KUMA INVESTMENTS LIMITED ZAMBIA.

The donation from KUMA is part of their Corporate Social Responsibility - CSR.

Kuma Investments Limited Business Development Manager, Mwiza Bvumburai presented the donation to the local authority and expressed her company's desire for more partnerships with the local authority.

And in receiving the donation, the Mayor thanks Kuma for the gesture describing it as a timely undertaking.