MINISTRY OF TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE LAUNCHES FIVE POLICIES AND STRATEGIES

 "promotes ethical behavior, accountability, transparency within the rank and file of the Ministry as they act as key ingredients to fostering the conducive environment for sustainable institutional growth and trust," KALABO. 

By Daily News Reporter

The launched policies and strategies include the Conflict of Interest, Gift and Benefits,Whistleblower Protection. Others are the Entrepreneurship Development Strategy and Open and Distance Flexible Learning Strategies.

Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet (Administration) Dr. Oliver Kalabo stated that this is a remarkable worth celebrating the first launch and unveiling of two strategies and three institutional policies as this demonstrates the Ministry’s proactive alignment with both the National Legislation and Developmental outcomes laid out in the Eighth National Development Plan (8th NDP) and as a commitment to fostering transparency, accountability, and National progress.

Speaking during the launch of the five policies in Lusaka Dr. Kalabo stated that the institutional policy collectively contributes to a framework that promotes ethical behavior, accountability, transparency within the rank and file of the Ministry as they act as key ingredients to fostering the conducive environment for sustainable institutional growth and trust. He called on all Government Ministries to take a leaf from the Ministry of Technology and Science (MoTs) to develop and implement similar policies.

Dr. Kalabo noted that the Transparent International Zambia (TIZ) 2022 corruption perception index record shows that Zambia is ranked One Hundred and Sixteenth least corrupt Nation out of the One Hundred and Eighty Countries hence status requires to change. 

Dr. Kalabo added that the fight against corruption is a priority and on top of the agenda of the New Dawn Administration through the Leadership of His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema who has constantly emphasized with a reminder in his speeches and keep calling for the prudent utilization of resources.

Dr. Kalabo said there is need to implement efficiency of procurement of goods and services so at leave up to Zero – Tolerance to corruption so that in the work environment where we have own human failings acknowledged there is hence the need to set supreme standards to uphold of integrity, transparency, and accountability ethical conduct and compliance in the delivery for the people of Zambia but also crucial to foster a culture of transparency and responsibility to support and protecting WhistleBlowers to contribute to an environment where ethical concerns are addressed proactively and symmetrically.

He further said that  the set standard of the policies by the Ministry (MoTS) will help to address and manage potential conflicts and compromise, objectivity and unfairness hence mitigate risks associated with fraud, corruption, and other malpractices.

And speaking at the same event the Ministry of Technology and Science Permanent Secretary Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu also stated that this institutional policies and strategies will serve as a guide to improve the performance and integrity of the executed functions of the Ministry in discharging duties and remain key to all the citizenry for the economic development of the Country.

"We have seen that the Conflict of Interest, Gift and Benefits and WhistleBlower Protection policy spell out guidelines to the staff and board members presiding over the Ministry and its institutions to embrace the preserved content and act in the best interest of the Ministry," Habeenzu said. 

He added that the institutional policies also provide mechanisms that address any misconduct hence providing a leeway for anyone to come forth with information from any retaliation.

Dr. Habeenzu further indicated that the policy documents also reflect the Ministry’s commitment amongst its staff to uphold the highest standard of ethics and credibility and transparency.

On the developed strategies Dr. Habeenzu said the Entrepreneurship Development Strategy Policy provides for a comprehensive plan to foster and support entrepreneurship of Vocational Education and Training to create a conducive environment for vocational and economic growth aimed to provide knowledge and resources amongst the youths and women so as to grow their businesses through networked entrepreneurial activities as embraced in the Eighth National Development Plan and in order to contribute to the social and economic development of the Country.

He said the launch and unveiled Open and Distance Flexible Learning Strategy provides leverages of potential digital technologies which provide access and quality learning opportunities to a diverse training particularly to those who face challenges in traditional face to face learning systems which will help remove the complex of time and place in order to replace and offer flexibility in learning.

Dr. Habeenzu said the document also aims at enhancing the capacities and competence of the educators and the learners in using technology for teaching and learning and similarly to foster a culture of lifelong learning.

He urged all the experts who tirelessly input their knowledge, resources, and key fundamental information executed on an extensive consultation and collaboration platforms to develop the documents with exerted efforts from the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Cabinet Office, Anti Corruption Commission (ACC), the Ministry officials and its Leadership and all the Stakeholders.

(pictures by MTS)

 LIONS CLUB JOIN IN FIGHTING CHOLERA

By Daily News Reporter

The Lions District 413 Zambia has donated materials worth over K460, 000 to the Lusaka City Council (LCC) to assist in the fight against cholera.

Speaking at a donation in Lusaka 413 Lions District Club District Governor Patrick Bulundo stated that the organization was moved to solicit support in a bid to alleviate the suffering of the people in the wake of the cholera outbreak in the country.

Lion Bulundo also commended the LCC public health workers who are on the front line of the fight against cholera, adding that the organization prioritized getting personal protective wear to ensure their safety.

And Her Worship, the Mayor of Lusaka, Ms. Chilando Chitangala, who received the donation, said it was symbolic and a representation of selflessness, goodwill and impactful community service.

She said the Lions had come to the aid of the city at a very critical time when the local authority was faced with a serious public health threat that could disturb people's way of life even further.

"In times of crisis, when communities face challenges such as the threat of cholera, it is the strength, mark of solidarity, empathy and compassion that truly defines us as a people." Chitangala said.

She appreciated the Lions Club District 413 Zambia for their dedication to impacting the lives of ordinary citizens through this donation.

The Mayor said working with the Lions guaranteed that no one would be left behind in ensuring that people, especially those in cholera hotspot areas, had the much-needed attention necessary to speed up the recovery process.

The donation, which was made at the Civic Centre in Lusaka, consisted of personal protective equipment, disinfectants, chemicals, soap, examination gloves and knapsack sprayers.

 BE INCLUSIVE IN HEALTH SERVICES - PWDs

"Us Persons With Disabilities in Zambia we are facing a lot of challenges when it comes seek sexual reproductive health services in health facilities across the country," Banda

By Daily News Reporter

Youth in Action for Disability Inclusion in Zambia (YADIZ) Ian Banda speaking at the panel discussion with media in Lusaka stated that they is need for people with disabilities to be given the same respect and dignity as all humans and by not showing them the misconception and discrimination that people with disabilities are not sexually active and are unable to reproduce.

He further said this shows that discrimination deters people with disabilities from accessing these services, making them vulnerable to HIV and Aids.

He also noted that most health facilities lack ramps for physically challenged individuals and sign interpreters to communicate their needs.

Meanwhile, HIV activist and disability advocate who is also founder of position movement Nsofwa Sampa, added that the importance of understanding their rights and reporting cases of abuse without fear or favor.

She urged parents to take the lead in empowering their children living with disabilities and for the media to be watchdogs and provide adequate information on the challenges faced by persons with compounded vulnerability and the various types of disabilities,

Furthermore, Nsofwa called for stakeholders and government to provide a positive image on issues surrounding sexual reproductive health services and to establish infrastructure that speaks to persons with disabilities in various health facilities, such as Rams.

Sampa said that many persons with disabilities are vulnerable to HIV due to a lack of a platform for reporting their issues.

ZAFOD has been concerned about the stigma and communication barriers faced by young people with disabilities when accessing sexual and reproductive health services.

A Research that was conducted by Cheshire Homes has shown that people with compounding vulnerabilities have limited access to sexual reproductive health services at health centers due to social, environmental, infrastructure, and communication barriers.

BARRIERS FACED BY PERSON WITH DISABILITIES:

Limited education opportunities for PWD on SRH issues	1
Individual level	Sex (gender)
	Socio-cultural/religious beliefs and practices
	Refugee status
	Low literacy rates among disabled people
	Lack of knowledge/ignorance (awareness) on SRH issues
	Communication barrier
	Lack of self-efficacy
Community level	Negative public attitudes towards PWDs’ sexuality issues
	Stigma and discrimination against disabled patients
	Sexual violence and abuse at the community level
	Lack of community or family support network
Health system/institutional level	Poor interpersonal relationships
	Limited/lack of knowledge/capacity on PWD SRH issues
	Insensitivity/negative attitudes
	Discrimination
	Limited consultation time
	Inaccessibility or lack of SRH information/resources
	Low staff capacity/numbers
	Lack of access to HIV counseling and testing
	Lack of adaptation of health information to suit PWDs
	Lack of privacy and confidential services
	Lack of translators/sign language specialists
	Limited availability of special outreach services for antenatal and postnatal care targeting persons with disabilities.
	Stock outs of medicine/medical services
	Lack of wheelchairs/mobility aids
	Unfriendly HIV/aids education materials
	Long waiting times
	Disability unfriendly physical infrastructure
	Lack of adjustable beds for delivery

 RTSA SPEED TICKETS PAYMENTS GO ONLINE

By Daily News Reporter

The Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA), has introduced an efficient process for motorists to pay for speed tickets online.

The Agency has come up with this initiative to enhance efficiency and compliance among offenders as motorists can now conveniently pay their speed fines online within 14 days of issuance of the RTSA ticket.

The RTSA would however like to remind motorists that after the 14-day window, failure to settle the ticket will result in the vehicle being blocked by the system.

The Agency will extend this to all offences, apart from those with fines exceeding K450.00, which require prosecution in a court of law.

This will enhance road safety measures, speed cameras which are operational 24 hours a day can enforce compliance with Road Tax, Fitness, and Road Service Licence.

The Agency urges motor vehicle owners to ensure there is a change of ownership when a vehicle has been sold as per requirement under section 13 of the Road Traffic Act No. 11 of 2002.

Motorists should also prioritize compliance with traffic regulations and promptly address any outstanding fines online to avoid inconveniences.

The implementation of these measures aligns with our commitment to foster a safe and responsible driving environment.

 ZRA DONATES TOWARDS CHOLERA FIGHT

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has donated Five Hundred Thousand Kwacha (K500, 000) to the Ministry of Health to support efforts aimed at mitigating the effects of the cholera outbreak.

Of the total amount, Three Hundred Thousand Kwacha (K300, 000) is meant to provide the Ministry of Health with at least Ten Thousand liters of fuel.

50 selected vehicles from the Ministry of Health have since started drawing the fuel from an established service station.

The donation also includes Fifty Thousand pairs of surgical gloves and 200 blankets.

ZRA believes that individuals, families and organisations have an important role to play in mitigating effects of an outbreak such as cholera.

We understand that the Ministry of Health has a leading role in fighting the cholera outbreak but also know that to effectively fulfil this role, other organisations need to identify their strengths and partner with the Ministry.

The fight against the cholera outbreak calls for a multi-sectoral approach and ZRA will support efforts by the Ministry of Health to improve public health.

At organisation level, ZRA has taken measures to enforce guidelines provided by the Ministry of Health to fight the cholera outbreak. We have re-enforced hygiene and sanitation measures within the premises.

ZRA has also placed trash bins at its offices to allow individuals and the business community around ZRA dispose of their garbage in a proper manner.

 LCC IN 200 THOUSAND KWACHA CHOLERA KIT DONATION FROM THE ZAMBIA CHINESE ASSOCIATION.

By Daily News Reporter

The Zambia Chinese Association has donated Anti-Cholera kits totaling 200 Thousand Kwacha to Lusaka City Council through the office of the Lusaka Mayor.

The donated items which include Chlorine, Soap, wash basins, medical alcohol, gloves and soaps is part of the Cholera response system which is aimed at ensuring that front-line staff stay protected in their execution of duty amid the pandemic.

Speaking when she received the donation from the Zambia Chinese Association, Lusaka Mayor, Her Worship, Ms. Chilando Chitangala described the gesture as timely and a great step in combating the Cholera pandemic.

Ms. Chitangala said that the Cholera pandemic had become a Public Health Emergency owing to the increasing numbers of new infections and lives lost since October of 2023 when the first case was announced.

"Am very honored to receive this donation on behalf of the local authority and through the council to the people we serve, Cholera has become a Public Health threat because as seen from statistics shared by the Ministry of Health, at least 200 deaths and more than 9 thousand people are said to have contracted Cholera since October 2023, the numbers are alarming," remarked the Mayor.

And Ms. Chitangala has used the gesture by the Zambia Chinese Association to lobby for more support if Cholera is to be defeated.

The mayor has since thanked the Government, the World Health Organisation - WHO and other collaborating partners for joining efforts in the implementation of measures around improved water and sanitation in all Cholera hotspot areas including enhanced surveillance and sensitization.

And Zambia Chinese Association Vice President Xu Z. Oiong has expressed her Association's deep desire to partner with the Lusaka City Council and government by offering assistance towards enhancing control and treatment of the Cholera pandemic.

Ms. Oiong reiterated her organization's resolve to stand with Zambia in facing the Cholera challenge, adding that her organization considers Zambia as a home for all the people of the Republic Of China.

 

Human rights records of 14 States to be examined by Universal Periodic Review mechanism

The UPR is a unique mechanism of the Human Rights Council that calls for each UN Member State to undergo a peer review of its human rights records every four-and-a-half years

By Daily News Reporter Fourteen States will have their human rights records examined during the 45th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group to be held in Geneva from 22 January to 2 February 2024. The UPR is a unique mechanism of the Human Rights Council that calls for each UN Member State to undergo a peer review of its human rights records every four-and-a-half years. The UPR Working Group comprises the entire membership of the 47-member Human Rights Council and other UN Member or Observer States wishing to take part. The States to be reviewed by the UPR Working Group during this 45th session are, in order of scheduled review: Saudi Arabia, Senegal, China, Nigeria, Mauritius, Mexico, Jordan, Malaysia, the Central African Republic, Monaco, Belize, Chad, the Congo and Malta. This will be the fourth time these 14 States will undergo a UPR examination. High-level delegations representing the 14 countries are expected to present the efforts they have made to fulfil their human rights obligations and commitments, particularly since their last UPR, assessing positive developments and identifying challenges.

 ALL EMPLYERS TO CONTRIBUTE TO NAPSA TO AVOLD PENALTIES

 By Daily News Reporter

"The Waiver will apply to all the penalties incurred prior to and after the enactment of the National pension Scheme Regulations for 2024," Muyangwa 

On 8th January 2024 the Minister of Labour and Social Security Hon. Brenda Tambatamba signed the law the National Pension Scheme Penalty Waiver Regulations of 2024 which will promote investment and job creation through the reeducation of the cost of doing business.

Speaking to the media in Lusaka NAPSA Director General Mr. Muyangwa Muyangwa said that the Waiver will provide financial relief to employers by offering an opportunity to settle outstanding contributions without the fear of facing penalties,

"Employers wishing to access the penalty waiver must pay all the outstanding principles contributions," Muyangwa said.

He further urged the employers to seize this opportunity and regularize their statutory contributions payments with the scheme for them to benefit from the relief and avoid court action that NAPSA will institute to the recover of the debt after the lapse of the penalty waiver provisions.

And NAPSA  so far has paid partial withdraw K9.2 billion against the target of K11 Billion and the outstanding penalty waiver is 31.1 Billion. 

 Airtel Zambia ‘connects’ the Africa Cup of Nations with K800,000 through ZNBC TV

 

By Daily News Reporter

Airtel Zambia Networks have joined other companies to become platinum sponsors of the on-going Total Energies Africa Cup of Nations coverage on the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC).

The Total Energies Africa Cup of Nations stands as the preeminent international men's football competition in Africa, featuring 53 games. Airtel Zambia is delighted to collaborate with ZNBC to ensure that all ardent football enthusiasts in Zambia can revel in this spectacular showcase. The return of Chipolopolo to the tournament for this edition adds an extra layer of excitement.

Making the title sponsorship announcement, in Lusaka this morning, Airtel’s Interim Managing Director, Mr. Hussam Baday, expressed the company's excitement to be a part of the AFCON tournament through the sponsorship. He highlighted Airtel Zambia's consistent support for sports in the country, citing initiatives like the Airtel Rising Stars and various other projects.

"Through this commitment, we aim to strengthen our ties with stakeholders and customers by participating in exciting, celebratory events, including those involving our beloved Chipolopolo. This sponsorship with ZNBC marks a milestone agreement, ensuring that millions of Zambians can watch all the games live and most importantly can watch the games on the Airtel TV using the MY Airtel App, “ Baday Said.

He added: “Airtel TV is an innovative platform which enables subscribers to watch matches on the go or from the comfort of their offices or homes. For you not to miss any game, just download the My Airtel App on the app store or Google Play Store to access all the games. We remain dedicated to enhancing the Total Energies Africa Cup of Nations experience for all Zambian football enthusiasts, a reaffirmation of our commitment to sports and community engagement."

 "As Africa’s exports approach $1 trillion, political will and policy alignment are critical for sustainable and inclusive growth," Kaushal 

By Sunil Kaushal, 

At current Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3%, African merchandise exports could reach $952 billion by 2035. But implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
could see this leap to 30% — provided the political will exists.

New research from Standard Chartered suggests that at the current Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3%, African merchandise exports will reach $952 billion by 2035, highlighting the significant potential for the continent. 

But with the political will and a fully implemented African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a World Bank analysis suggests exports could be further boosted by as much as 30%.

Underpinning Africa’s current export potential are key international export corridors linking many of the continent’s economies to South Asia and the Middle East. These are also expected to grow in the coming years, with a CAGR of between 5.1% to 7.1% – higher than the global average of 4.3% over the same period. 

Furthermore, with the African Union becoming a permanent member of the G20, the continent faces a bright socio-economic future. But despite the promise, there are multiple political and structural hurdles to overcome.

Intercontinental governance and alignment One of the continent’s greatest trade challenges is the lack of industrial and trade policy alignment and objectives. 

Standard Chartered Bank Regional CEO, Africa and Middle East Mr. Sunil Kaushal in a statement issued to Daily News stated that the Bank's research shows that 63% of business leaders cite complex and uncertain trade rules as a key challenge to intra-African trade. 

"Greater trade alignment on reporting mechanisms and joint trade initiatives can accelerate trade between African countries. This is where the AfCFTA plays an important role in advancing alignment." Kaushal said.

He added that Operational since July 2019, the AfCFTA’s remit is to create a single and liberalised market to achieve the vision of an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa. Woven through many of its  objectives is a core focus on trade policy alignment and the development of new industrial and value chains. This includes the creation of a continental customs union that would eventually eliminate tariff and non-tariff barriers – a transformational goal that has delivered historic opportunities for continent-wide growth within the European Union (EU).

Similar to the EU, the AfCFTA aims to lay the foundations for pan-African administrative frameworks and institutional mechanisms in areas such as dispute settlement. The World Bank suggests that if such policy infrastructures are fully implemented, total exports from AfCFTA markets in 2035 could potentially increase by 28% over the baseline year of 2035, and total intra-AfCFTA exports could almost double over the same period. This huge potential also offers companies untold opportunities for new market entry, innovation, and the enrichment of national and intra-African value chains.

Enriching value chains 

Having created the world’s largest free trade area, connecting 1.3 billion people with a combined GDP of $3 trillion, the impact of AfCFTA trade policy alignment on consumer choice could be historic. For SMEs, entrepreneurs, and emerging industries, free markets with little or no tariffs offer scalability and a virtual petri dish for invention, product development, risk-taking, and investment. Moreover, as African value chains mature and diversify, the continent will gain greater leverage from its natural resources and commodities.

Africa’s economies export raw materials around the world for further processing and, in return, import finished goods for consumption at many times the price. 

"This means they lose out on value-added and wealth-creating activities and are exposed to balance of payment problems and volatile commodity price fluctuations, Removing trade barriers will make it easier for goods to flow across the continent – and more attractive for foreign investors."He added. 

A liberalised African trading bloc with common standards for trade alignment and zero intra-African tariffs would be extremely attractive to global investors and multinationals.

Transfer of skills and technology 

Foreign direct investment (FDI) is particularly important in the context of value chain formation because it not only brings capital and jobs but also introduces new technologies into local industries. 

Mr. Kaushal further said that every economy that has succeeded in attracting FDI – the GCC countries, for example – manufacturing capabilities are becoming more sophisticated by facilitating the development of knowledge and skills. 

"Similarly, the adoption of digital finance platforms such as digital supply chain finance solutions can help democratize access to trade finance and unlock up to $34 billion in export value in five key African markets by 2035." Said Kaushal.

He added  that digital solutions can also help Africa to leapfrog traditional trade barriers, enabling African markets to reduce trade costs by digitizing customs and border procedures, reducing the time spent on manual processes and making trade more efficient. For Africa’s businesses, digitized information can increase transparency and lead to a smoother flow of information, boosting cross-border connectivity between vendors and-buyers.

"None of these outcomes is impossible. In fact, with shared ideals and a willingness to cooperate, policymakers and bodies like the AfCFTA have everything they need to transform Africa’s potential and unleash a new era of sustainable and inclusive growth for generations to come." Kaushal said. 

 EPILEPSY IN PREGNANCY

By Daily News Reporter

Let me begin by reminding you that globally the month of February is seriously dedicated to the epilepsy disease.

This means that worldwide many organizations embark on various activities and disseminating epilepsy messages ahead of the International Epilepsy Day which falls on February 14 – also Valentine’s Day. Zambia, through the Ministry of Health in conjunction with many stakeholders, also joins the rest of the world to observe that important day. 

Last week I talked about epilepsy disease in general, as usual I received a lot of calls, as people wanted to know more information on that neurologic disease. 

Today I thought of discussing epilepsy in pregnancy. Science has revealed that: ‘’pregnant women with epilepsy have a greater risk for complications of pregnancy and adverse pregnancy outcomes.’’

Problems that may arise during the course of pregnancy include an increase in seizure frequency, reduction of serum antiepileptic drug levels, and an increase in bleeding during pregnancy and after delivery.

Epilepsy and pregnancy: what you need to know

If a woman suffers from epilepsy, becoming pregnant might seem risky. But the odds are in your favour. Find out how to promote a healthy pregnancy.

In my research last week I came across informative information in an article which was written by a Mayo Clinic staffer. In that article I found the following information which I thought to share with you:

Epilepsy during pregnancy raises special concerns. While most people who have epilepsy deliver healthy babies, a certain woman might need special care during her pregnancy. Here's what you need to know:

Does epilepsy make it more difficult to become pregnant? Epilepsy alone doesn't have an effect on a woman’s ability to get pregnant. Some drugs used to treat seizures might make it more difficult to become pregnant, though.

Certain anti-seizure medications can reduce how well hormonal birth control methods work. If a woman is thinking about having a baby, she should ask her healthcare provider if there is a need to make changes to her medication.

How does epilepsy affect pregnancy?

There is a risk of the following problems when a seizure happens during pregnancy:

slowing of the fetal heart rate, decreased oxygen to the fetus, preterm labour, low birth weight and premature birth among other things.

Trauma to the mother, such as a fall, that could lead to fetal injury, premature separation of the placenta from the uterus (placental abruption) or even fetal loss.

Does epilepsy change during pregnancy?

Everyone's body reacts differently to pregnancy. For most pregnant people who have epilepsy, the number of seizures remains about the same, or seizures become less frequent. For others, particularly those who are deprived or don't take medication as directed, pregnancy can increase the number of seizures.

What about medication?

The medication you take during pregnancy can affect your baby. Birth defects — including cleft palate, neural tube defects, skeletal problems, and heart and urinary tract problems — are some of the potential side effects associated with anti-seizure medications. The risk seems to increase with higher doses and if you take more than one anti-seizure medication.

If you haven't had a seizure for nine months before you conceive, you're less likely to have a seizure during your pregnancy. If you haven't had a seizure for two to four years, you might be able to taper off medications before you conceive to see if you remain seizure-free. Talk to your healthcare provider before you stop taking any of your medications.

It’s my sincere hope that after writing two articles on epilepsy, people out there will now learn that epilepsy can be treated by modern medicine, rather than the myth of thinking that it can only be treated by traditional healers.