ZAMBIA SCORED 37 OUT OF 100 CPI FOR 2023

By Daily News Reporter

The 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) has shown that Zambia has recorded slight improvement though the country is still among the two-thirds of countries that has serious corruption problems.

The CPI which ranks 180 countries and territories around the globe by their perceived levels of public sector corruption, scores on a scale of 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean).

And according to Transparency International Zambia - TIZ presentation shows that over two-thirds of countries score below 50 out of 100, which strongly indicates that they have serious corruption problems.

Meanwhile, according to the latest 2023 CPI released by Transparency International, Zambia has scored 37 out of 100 from the 33 scored in 2022.

This simply means that Zambia has made a slight progress in moving towards 50 but is still miles away from reaching 100.

But although Zambia has made progress of moving from 33 to 37 out of 100, Zambia still has serious corruption problems according to Transparency International because it’s score is still below 50.

The 2023 perception index has also shown that Zambia has been ranked number 98 out of 180 countries and territories around the globe by their perceived levels of public sector corruption from 116 recorded in 2022.

 

 

Zambia’s aviation industry hits 2 million passengers

By Daily News Reporter

Since its inception in 1989, The Zambia Corporation Airport Limited – ZACL, experienced the highest number of general passengers in 2023 at above 2 million (2, 056, 312) passengers.

This remarkable increase by ZACL, has been attributed to the complete removal of COVID–19 requirements, sporting events held in the country such as the Barcelona vs Zambia Legends Exhibition Football Match, as well as the hosting of various meetings and conferences.

Speaking during the ZACL media breakfast meeting in Lusaka ZACL acting managing director Gillian Mazimba, said the positive domestic performance can be attributed to the competitive pricing being offered by domestic airlines for flights to and from Lusaka as well as the resumption of the Ndola-Mansa route by Proflight Zambia.

Mazimba also disclosed that in terms of the financial performance the Corporation was above budget and the figures will be made public after the external auditing which is currently taking place.

She said in 2024 –ZACL- anticipates continued growth in general passenger traffic largely driven by trade and tourism at all airports.

Meanwhile, Mazimba also commented on the power outage that occurred last month January 2024, when the Runway Lights at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport failed to light up.

 

 

THEY IS NEED TO HAVE TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABLITY IN IMPLEMENTING CDF-AAAZ

By Daily News reporter

The Alliance for Accountability Advocates Zambia (AAAZ) in LUSAKA hosted a gathering stakeholders, media and community representatives at the organization headquarters to review and make submissions on Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Act.

AAAZ executive director Luchembe Chilufya,r, said that the citizen engagement emerged is crucial in governance and development, empowering communities, optimizing public resources, fostering transparency, accountability, and collaborative problem-solving, while also promoting social cohesion and civic participation.

He said that they as been challenges in the implementation of the CDF which lacked transparency, accountability, and community involvement in fund allocation and its utilization.

He emphasized opportunities to enhance the CDF’s effectiveness in driving local development by promoting accountability and transparency to meet citizens’ needs and promote sustainable development.

He further reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for transparency and community participation in CDF management.

According to Chilufya, meaningful citizen engagement requires genuine dialogue, access to information, and respect for diverse voices, serving as a cornerstone of democratic governance and sustainable development.

“Through empowering communities to participate in decision-making processes, governments can foster inclusive and equitable progress for all members of society,” he said.

Meanwhile, stakeholders gathered at AAAZ headquarters to deliberate on the CDF Act, shifted to the pivotal role of project governance in propelling community development forward.

Sitting around the table, they engaged in discussions that illuminated the core principles necessary for meaningful progress.

“It all begins with genuine engagement,” remarked one participant, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that projects resonate with the real needs of local communities and instill a sense of ownership among residents.

The group collectively acknowledged the imperative of considering sustainability and long-term consequences in project planning. “Short-sighted decisions can jeopardize the very communities we seek to uplift,” one stakeholder cautioned, underscoring the need for foresight and strategic thinking.

Turning their attention to community empowerment, the stakeholders recognized the transformative potential of education and capacity building initiatives.

“When communities are equipped with knowledge and skills,” remarked a participant, “they become active participants in shaping their own destinies.”

The conversation concluded with a reflection on the importance of flexibility in adapting to evolving circumstances. “Change is constant,” observed one stakeholder, “and our governance structures must be agile enough to accommodate it.”

In the end, the consensus was clear: effective project governance, anchored in consultation, transparency, and accountability, serves as the catalyst for communities to chart their own paths toward a brighter future.

 

 

WHO DONATES $723,580 TOWARDS CHOLERA RESPONSE

The World Health Organization (WHO) has generously donated $723,580.20 USD, equivalent to 20 million Zambian Kwacha, towards the cholera response in Zambia. This significant contribution underscores the global commitment to addressing public health crises in vulnerable regions.

Dr. Nathan Bakyaita, WHO Country Representative, said speaking after a conducting tour of markets in Bauleni

 that the donated funds were raised through a joint initiative by the WHO and the Ministry of Health, demonstrating proactive resource mobilization for ongoing and future response efforts.

He emphasized that this initiative aims to secure additional support to strengthen cholera response activities and build resilience against future outbreaks.

Dr. Bakyaita stated that the WHO's donation serves as a concrete demonstration of solidarity and commitment to the people of Zambia.

He highlighted that this financial contribution will enhance capacity to provide essential services, including medical supplies and personnel, to affected communities.

Additionally, he underscored the significance of receiving additional supplies, such as personal protective equipment (PPE) and medicines, which highlights the ongoing support and collaboration necessary for sustaining response efforts.

He reiterated the commitment to ongoing collaboration and efforts to eradicate cholera from Zambia, emphasizing the collective resolve to achieve lasting public health outcomes and ensure the well-being of all citizens.

Regarding the recent decline in cholera cases and deaths, he credited the combined efforts of government officials, corporate partners, and volunteers in implementing effective control measures.

Furthermore, Dr. Bakyaita stressed the importance of evaluating past actions to identify areas for improvement, which is essential for future response efforts.

He emphasized that conducting thorough assessments can refine strategies and enhance preparedness for similar emergencies.

Addressing Zambia's Challenges through Collaboration

Minister of Health Sylvia Masebo highlighted that despite facing various challenges, including sanitation issues and inadequate water supply, the government and its partners are collaborating to overcome these obstacles.

Masebo emphasized the crucial role of community participation in sustainable development, such as maintaining water tanks and addressing sanitation issues.

She emphasized the importance of strong government leadership, including the president's involvement, in fostering unity and collaboration among stakeholders.

Engaging local businesses helps address logistical challenges, such as transportation to remote areas.

Zambia's reputation as a trusted partner attracts investments and support for its development initiatives.

Through collective action and collaboration, Zambia is laying the groundwork for a brighter future.

With strong leadership and a united front, the nation is poised to overcome its obstacles and emerge stronger.

Meanwhile, Masebo stated that despite ongoing efforts, there persists a significant number of cases outside Lusaka Province, necessitating continued monitoring and response measures.

Since October 2023, a nationwide cholera outbreak has mandated a unified effort to control and prevent future occurrences.

Under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, the government is intensifying efforts to address the cholera situation, including conducting community clean-up campaigns.

She revealed that 163 new cases were reported nationwide, with a notable concentration in Lusaka province and district, highlighting the persistent threat posed by the outbreak.

Over the past 24 hours, Masebo reported that 187 patients were discharged, but three deaths were recorded, underscoring the ongoing severity of the situation.

The total number of recorded cases now stands at 18,262, with 644 deaths, emphasizing the magnitude of the outbreak and the critical need for sustained vigilance and action.

 

 

ZIM TO HOST 27^th ANNUAL MARKETING CONFERENCE.

 

By Daily News Reporter

 

The Zambia Institute of Marketing (ZIM) has announced that the much-awaited 27th annual marketing conference and awards gala dinner, scheduled to be held from 22nd to 24th May 2024 in Livingstone.

This year's conference promises to be truly exceptional, held under the inspiring theme: "Elevate – innovate - thrive: driving prosperity, growth and resilience through strategic insights.” This is intended to equip participants with the tools and insights they need to navigate the dynamic currents and achieve business success.

Speaking during the 27th Annual Marketing Conference & awards ceremony media launch in Lusaka, ZIM President Mwewa Besa stated that the conference is intended to provide a platform for sharing best practices, where participants will have the opportunity to interact with captains of industry who will share their years of experience within the three days of the conference.

The conference's objective is not only to support Zambian businesses in embracing innovation and strategic thinking but also to assist them in evolving and becoming pioneers of strategic transformation.

He said the conference will delve into key areas of sustainability, reducing the carbon footprint, leveraging digital marketing, building and sustaining brands, and leveraging data in building lasting customer journeys. “All of these are intended to equip participants with the tools and insights they need to navigate these dynamic currents and achieve business success.”

The marketing conference and awards gala dinner is an excellent opportunity for marketing experts to gain insights into industry trends, network with other professionals, and learn from industry leaders. This is a must-attend event for anyone interested in marketing and business development in Zambia.

And he further added that the institution, through its corporate social responsibility (CSR) plans to visit an orphanage, and beyond CSR and the conference, the institute plans to engage with students, create a platform for students to interact with professionals, and provide internship opportunities.

"To ensure that members understand the legal implications of not being members or practicing marketing without being duly registered, the institute will continue to encourage members to practice marketing independently." He said.

He, however, admitted that the institute has not made much noise around the legal approach, which includes awareness programmes, committees that enforce the law, and publishing information about the organisation's actions, but has started sensitising members to the potential consequences of not practicing marketing without proper registration.

"In addition to the annual marketing conference, the institute has a series of CPD events for training and up skilling members. The institute is committed to ensuring that its character is reflected in its engagement with various members and promoting a culture of marketing excellence."Besa added.

 

“WE WON’T BE AGAINST THE FORMATION OF AN ALLIANCE THEY ARE FREE TO FORM” Mweetwa

By Daily News Reporter

The opposition coalition, United Kwacha Alliance (UKA), is committed to fostering national unity in Zambia, which has struggled with division since gaining independence in 2964.

Jackson Silavwe, leader of the Golden Party of Zambia (GPZ), along with representatives from eight other opposition parties, highlighted the persistent divisions hindering Zambia's progress, which has not spared the church.

Silavwe told a media briefing, that historical grievances and socio-economic disparities which is more pronounced now has contributed to the divisions, posing significant challenges to the nation's stability and development.

He stressed the need for a comprehensive approach, including inclusive dialogue, targeted development projects, and proactive engagement, to address Zambia's post-independence challenges effectively.

Silavwe underscored the importance of inclusive dialogue to tackle exclusion, poverty, and social divisions, advocating for peaceful resolutions instead of resorting to militaristic approaches.

He said the opposition alliance has formulated a "Marshal Development Plan" aimed at addressing poverty and inequality in underdeveloped provinces, ensuring fair distribution of resources and opportunities.

Prioritizing tailored development initiatives is crucial to bridging regional gaps and fostering inclusive growth across Zambia.

Silavwe identified the unresolved Barotseland issue as a significant obstacle requiring immediate attention through respectful dialogue and, if necessary, external mediation.

Silavwe, while reading the statement co-signed by various party leaders including President Harry Kalaba of Citizens First, President Edith Nawakwi of Forum for Democracy and Development, President Jackson Silavwe of Golden Party of Zambia, President Saboi Imboela of National Democratic Congress, President Chishala Kateka of New Heritage Party, President Edgar Chagwa Lungu of Patriotic Front, and President Sakwiba Sikota of United Liberation Party, emphasized the urgent need to address deep divisions caused by exclusion, poverty, and deprivation.

Meanwhile Minister of Information and Media Mr. Cornelius Mweetwa welcomes the formation of the United Kwacha Alliance (UKA) and that THE UPND Government will not stand on its wa way as long as they meet the legal requirements.

Mr. Mweetwa said that the formation of the alliance to show that they is freedom of democratic space in the country and that many are enjoying since the ascendance to power of the United Party for National Development (UPND) Alliance in 2021.

He was speaking this during a media briefing at his office where he disclosed that before they formed government, the environment was toxic for anyone to do what they are doing now.

He has further urged the opposition to state the true picture on the ground especially to the international community that the democratic space in the nation is what has been allowing them conduct Press briefing weekly.

He added that the alliance has done well to join hands as individually they are not a factor, and that it is the PF which has Members of Parliament (MP), Mayor's, Council Chairpersons and Councilors in the alliance.

"The opposition in the alliance excluding the Patriotic Front (PF) are not popular as I have more votes in the 2021 general elections and are not giving us sleepless nights," he stated.

He also noted that the PF has finally rebranded itself to UKA alliance as the real PF is tainted and none sellable brand but now hiding in the alliance.

He alleged that the other opposition political parties are being used by the PF without them realizing it.

He advised the opposition to stop the crusade of saying that the democratic space has shrank because there are speaking contrary to what is happening as evidenced by the peace they are enjoying.

 

 

STORES CLERK AT FIC ARRESTED FOR STEALING MONEY AND BUYING MARK II

A 28-YEAR-OLD stores clerk at the Financial Intelligence Centre(FIC) has been arrested and dragged to court for alleged fogery, theft and using part of the money to buy a Toyota Mark lI.

Eric Ndhlovu of Lilayi, Lusaka, is accused of forging instruction for payment of staff allowances at FIC, presented the same document to the bank and allegedly got the money.

Mr Ndhlovu was arrested and taken to court after being charged with more than 40 counts of theft by public servant, forgery, uttering false documents, fraudulent false accounting and money laundering.

In one of the counts, allegations are that between May 9,2022, and April 10,2022, Ndhlovu forged and instruction for payment of staff always involving K8,950

He purported to show that the same allegedly forged document was issued and authorized by FIC, when infact not.

Further allegations are that he then presented an alleged forged letter of instruction for payment of K8,950 to a banker at Investrust Bank for payment.

In other counts, the accused allegedly forged several other instruction for staff allowances documents and later presenting alleged forged letter of instruction for payment of allowances at the bank.

Ndhlovu is also accused of possesion of a Mark ll suspected of being proceeds of crime.

Ndhlovu has pleaded not guilty and trial has began .

 

 

THE United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Improves Nutrition for Women, Children, and Adolescent Girls with $70 Million Community Nutrition Project

 

By Daily News Reporter

 

The project aligns with the U.S. government’s sustained, comprehensive investments in health, agriculture, WASH, education, and other sectors to address high malnutrition situation in Ethiopia

 

On February 8, USAID Mission Director Scott Hocklander and the Minister of Health Dr. Lia Tadesse, on her last day as Minister, launched a new $70 million Feed the Future Ethiopia Community Nutrition Activity. The project aligns with the U.S. government’s sustained, comprehensive investments in health, agriculture, WASH, education, and other sectors to address high malnutrition situation in Ethiopia.

 

The Community Nutrition Activity focuses on women, children, and adolescent girls throughout the stages of their lives, from birth, through school, to becoming a mother and grandmother. “This is how to break the intergenerational cycle of malnutrition,” commented USAID Mission Director Scott Hocklander during his opening remarks.

 

In addition, the Community Nutrition Activity provides nutritional support in humanitarian emergencies by re-establishing routine services and interventions. This means women and children will receive essential nutritional support during an emergency and once the situation improves, they continue to get services from the health facilities and extension workers.

 

The Community Nutrition Activity will be implemented by Family Health International 360 and its consortium partners in more than 155 woredas of Afar, Amhara, Central Ethiopia, Oromia, Sidama, Somali, Southwest Ethiopia, South Ethiopia, and Tigray regions as well as Dire Dawa city.

 

For 120 years, the United States and Ethiopia have partnered in health, education, agriculture, food security, science and the environment, and many other areas to improve the lives of all Ethiopian

 

 

Council Worker's Traumatic Ordeal: Vi0lated and Robbed in Terrifying Home Invasion

A 34-year-old council worker from Southern Province has been left reeling after enduring a harrowing experience at the hands of two unidentified assa!lants.

The terrifying incident unfolded in the quiet town of Monze, where the victim was subjected to unspeakable acts of vi0lation and theft. Startling details reveal how the perpetrators callously broke into her home, leaving her traumatized and in fear for her life.

 In an act of sheer audacity, the criminals not only perpetrated s£xual abuse but callously snatched her laptop, valued at K6,000. As authorities launch a manhunt for the fugitives, the community remains on edge, grappling with the unsettling reality of this heinous crime.

 

 STOP PUPILS FROM STARVING-NUPPEZ

By Daily News Reporter

The National Union of Private and Public Educators of Zambia –NUPPEZ has urged the government to review the K1000 boarding fees or finance requirements for all public boarding schools in the country to stop pupils from starving.

"This has made it difficult for school authorities to sustain healthy feeding of the children," he said.

Speaking to the media in Lusaka, NUPPEZ Executive President Victor Muyumba said with the increasing cost of living, boarding schools were by the second term of 2023 unable to operate effectively as the fees are insufficient to support their day to day running.

He also called on the parents to consider making donations to the boarding departments of various schools in term one of 2024.

Meanwhile, Mr. Muyumba has also challenged leadership at all local authorities especially the Lusaka City Council to save their cities from filth, resulting in high cholera cases thereby causing a prolonged closure of schools.

Mr. Muyumba added that there should be no further extension of the school holiday after February 12th, saying the government through councils needs to aggressively address sanitation challenges failure to which the country will continue to witness high cholera cases and the continued closure of schools.

"No extension of the school holidays after February 12th," Muyumba said. 

 COST OF LIVING GOES UP BY OVER K398.12

By By Daily News Reporter

The cost of living for a family of 5 in Lusaka has increased by K398.12 from K9,157.41 in December 2023 to K9,555.53 in January 2024 as measured by the Jesuit Center for Theological Reflection basic needs and nutrition basket.

And JCTR Executive Director, Father Alex Muyebe said that these significant increases were observed in both food prices and non-food categories, exacerbating the challenges faced by individuals and families, especially in the low- income category.

He also added that the upward movement in the basket is driven by commodities such as charcoal, whose price increased on account of seasonality, kapenta and cooking oil while over the last four months, there has been a sustained increase in prices of commodities like potatoes, chicken, and vegetables.

Further He noted that Lusaka's living wage is definitely on a runaway train, leaving many passengers behind as reflected by statistics in December last year where the survey indicated the cost of living as K9,157.41, but since last month, it has ballooned to K9,555.53.

"There has been a significant increase which was observed in both food prices and non-food categories," Said Muyebe.

This translates to a tightening grip on wallets and a growing struggle for low-income families, already teetering on the edge.

But the sting doesn't stop there. Over the past four months, potatoes, chicken, and vegetables have been steadily marching upwards, leaving many gasping for breath.

government to take immediate and decisive steps such as ethical price control measures to prevent individuals from being exploited through frequent commodity price adjustments and supporting low income households to alleviate hardships they face through meaningful and robust social safety nets that ensure access to necessities, for every individual.

"We call upon the government to take immediate action and Implement ethical price control measures to stop predatory price hikes and support low-income households," Muyebe said.

 ZRA DIGITALISES PAYMENT PROCESSES

By Daily News Reporter

Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) Corporate Communications Manager Mr. Oliver Nzala has disclosed that the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has digitalised its payment processes, with 99% of payments currently being performed electronically.

Mr. Nzala added that the milestone reflects the authority’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, transparency, and modernization in the tax payment system. The strategic shift towards electronic transactions is expected to create a streamlined, secure, and technologically advanced system for revenue collection.

He shared this through a statement were he noted that ZRA’s digitalization of payments serves a comprehensive purpose, including reducing collection costs, enhancing the taxpayer experience, mitigating fraud risks, minimizing queues, improving efficiency and accountability, and expanding payment options.

"Electronic payments (e-payments) in the Authority were introduced between 2012 and 2013 after the replacement of the Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) for large payments which had marked the first step towards incorporating electronic systems into the payment framework," he stated.

Mr. Nzala narrated that the introduction of e-payments saw a modest uptick in electronic transactions, although 90% of taxpayers continued to rely on manual payment methods.

He said that by the year 2020, ZRA had successfully collaborated with all banks in the country, three major mobile network providers, and a payment integrator. This partnership marked a substantial shift towards digitalization in revenue collection as it significantly boosted the adoption of electronic payment transactions to an impressive 80% mark.

Mr. Nzala reminded that in December 2023, the Authority implemented the Integrated Payment System (IPS), leading to the introduction of customs payments on mobile platforms. This development was a significant move towards embracing digital solutions, as ZRA leveraged IPS along with platforms like TaxOnApp, TaxOnPhone, Customs Portal, TaxOnline Portal, and WhatsApp Payment.

He added that the introduction of the Integrated Payment System (IPS) has played a pivotal role in making customs payments more accessible and convenient for taxpayers through various mobile platforms.

Mr. Nzala stated that the IPS is aimed at simplifying the payment and collection of taxes by offering greater convenience to taxpayers.

The Authority is keen on process improvements that stimulate compliance by leveraging the appropriate technology to reduce the time and cost of doing business.

He said that ZRA recognizes the benefits of digitalised payment processes both to the Authority and the taxpayer. The Authority will, therefore, ensure that taxpayers are provided with improved, secure, and efficient digitalised payment processes.

Mr. Nzala revealed that digitalization has led to the closure of most cash offices receiving Domestic Taxes (DOMT) payments and re-assigning staff to other areas. The goal is to have all cash offices receiving DOMT and Customs payments go 100% and 50% electronic, respectively, by June 2024.