THEY IS NEED TO HAVE GOOD QAULITY SEED AND SUFFICENT FOR THE FARMERS - Mtolo

By Daily News Reporter

Zambian seed industry such maize is a robust and competitive in Sub-Saharan Africa. It operates within a highly pluralistic system, comprising both formal and informal sectors. The informal sector includes farmer-managed seed systems (FMSS) and NGOs promoting seed exchange. In FMSS, farmers freely share and exchange seeds for various items, including food and labor. This system reflects Africa’s rich cultural heritage.

There’s an ongoing push to transform the seed sector into a commercialized entity owned by a few. However, this transition often remains more theoretical than practical.

Efforts to commercialize seeds sometimes marginalize traditional seed varieties, which are essential for preserving agro-biodiversity and building resilience against climate change.

And Disconnections between policy and law hinder the sector’s ability to address developmental challenges and fulfill human rights related to food security.

While achievements exist, challenges persist. Balancing commercialization with the preservation of traditional seeds is crucial for sustainable agricultural development in Zambia,

To address these advanced seed system in the country, Zambia held its (2) second National Seed Congress in Lusaka under the theme: Repositioning Zambia as a Continental seed Hub in the face of Climate Change”

Speaking on behave of the President of the Republic of Zambia Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, at the conference Reuben Mtolo Phiri, Minister of Agriculture has issued a stern warning against those involved in selling fake seeds and fertilizers.

He emphasized that these counterfeit products hinder economic development in the agriculture sector. Mr. Phiri is committed to putting an end to such practices, deeming them unacceptable.

Also stated that they is need to have sufficient and good quality seed available to farmers to improve the agriculture sector,

“We can’t attain national food and Nutrition security and the sustainable development goal No 2 Zero hunger without good quality seeds,” Mtolo said.

He added that government will continue to support seed industry by aligning the seed certification system to international standards.

Additionally, Marx Mbunji, President of the Zambia Seed Trade Association (ZASTA) has provided reassurance regarding seed stocks.

He affirmed that Zambia has ample seed reserves to cater to local demand, export orders, and business needs.

And that ZASTA will continue to engage in with the Ministry of Agriculture to safeguard these local stocks and prevent any unwarranted speculation. Ensuring a stable seed supply is crucial for sustainable agricultural development and food security in the country.

Collaboration between the government and the seed industry is crucial for enhancing seed systems, especially for resilient crops. They is need of encouraging private sector investment in research and production is essential. By incentivizing companies to invest in developing high-quality seeds, we can improve access to resilient crop varieties.

And ensuring that seeds meet quality standards is vital. The government can establish regulations and certification processes to guarantee seed quality. This benefits both farmers and consumers.

Such as training programs for farmers and seed producers can enhance their knowledge of seed production techniques, storage, and distribution. This empowers them to contribute effectively to the seed system. Highlighting the importance of resilient crops (such as drought-tolerant or disease-resistant varieties) encourages their adoption. These crops contribute to food security and climate resilience.

Additionally Facilitating connections between seed producers and consumers ensures efficient seed distribution. Farmers need access to quality seeds, and consumers benefit from nutritious produce.

By fostering collaboration and implementing supportive policies, we can strengthen seed systems and promote the consumption of resilient crops.

 

CHILD MARRIAGE ITS BONDAGE,

By Daily News Reporter

Despite Zambia being one of the earliest countries to champion efforts to end child marriage, the country still has parents who think Child marriage is the key to success.

Child marriage can be defined as marriage of a person below the age of eighteen.

Shockingly, The State of the World’s Children 2023 report by UNICEF highlights the importance of childhood immunization. It introduces three children—Marwan, Hind, and Iman—who have benefited from vaccination. These stories underscore the child survival revolution. However, the report also reveals that many children, especially in marginalized communities, still lack essential vaccinations. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted immunization efforts, resulting in a loss of progress. We must act urgently to ensure no child is left behind.

Additionally, UNICEF emphasizes the need to end child marriage by 2030. The international community committed to this goal through the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The report “Towards ending child marriage: Global trends and profiles of progress” analyzes historical trends and focuses on countries that have made significant strides in reducing child marriage prevalence2. Despite progress, crises like conflict, climate shocks, and COVID-19 threaten to reverse gains shows that about 7% of women are married by the age of 15 and 31% are married by 18 years.

In a country where Government is committed to end child early and forced marriage by 2030 in line with target 5.3 of sustainable development goals, people, especially parents should take up a lead role in insuring children are protected from bondage of child marriage.

It is called bondage because it robes the children their freedom to play children games and make them adhere to the programmed set of tradition needed to be observed by a mature married woman.

A divorced 36-year-old woman of Sansamwenji of Isoka district, Natalie Nankamba said she got married at 17 years because of pregnancy and she described her former marriage a bondage and a ring of torcher.

She said when she married at 17, she didn't know what was expected of her from the husband or the in-laws.

Natalie recalls that immediately she was taken to live with her mother in-law, all house chores were assigned to her.

She said she had no time to rest, neither did she had any right to get tired or complain to the In-laws about the bad treatment she received.

“I could go to the farm and cultivate with my six to seven months old pregnancy. “She said.

“My mother in-law used to talk a lot and she will shout at me if I dare to stretch up." She added.

"It was then that I realized that life has become a bondage due to marriage and only I can do something about it." She added.

Natalie endured her abusive marriage for thirteen years until she finally gave up in 2013.

She has five children from the marriage, and she wants them all educated and independent before getting into marriage.

She encouraged parents to rather charge damage and keep the girl that send her into forced marriage citing that child marriage was child bondage in disguise.

Parents should desist from sending their children into marriage and send them to school to acquire formal education which will in future raise the standard of life of the family.

 Airtel Business partners with ZICB to support SMEs with Digital Connectivity  

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Zambia Industrial Commercial Bank (ZICB) has today signed an agreement with Airtel Business to provide digital connectivity via 4G and 5G internet devices to the bank's SME customers.

Speaking at the partnership signing in Lusaka today at Airtel Head Office, Zambia Industrial Commercial Bank Limited (ZICB) Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Louis Kabula said the Bank supports the growth of local wealth by offering an innovative digital value proposition to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and corporate clients.

"Through various collaborations and partnerships, ZICB has developed a comprehensive digital banking platform that promotes capital management efficiency and business convenience for our clients. One of our core values is to lower the cost of doing business in Zambia, particularly for SMEs who, by their nature, handle the largest number of low-margin commercial transactions in our economy. Therefore, we are excited to partner with Airtel Business to provide digital connectivity that will allow our customers to conduct their business more efficiently” Dr. Kabula said.

Adding: “We appeal to our customers to take advantage of our partnership with Airtel Business so they can enjoy the full range of ZICB’s digital banking products and services.”

And speaking on behalf of Airtel Networks Zambia Plc, Airtel Business Director, Ms Lindiwe Banda said the World had gone digital more especially after the Covid pandemic where small and medium businesses had to look at other ways to still do their business and still connect with their banks. 

“We are firm believers that when great companies come together, great things happen. And this is testament of our memorandum of understanding that we have signed today with ZICB as this agreement will enable SMEs banking with ZICB to easily access internet banking services in the comfort of their business premises or even home. This is a significant milestone for us as we witness the evolution of technology and how it is now helping us create strategic partnerships.,” Ms Banda said.

Adding: “What is important to note is that the Airtel devices will come at no cost to the SME as they will only need to sign a contract of activating monthly bundles thus empowering the businesses and making it easy for them to do any online invoicing and keep record of their transactions.”

The partnership aims to continuously support the digital transformation of SMEs in Zambia. Airtel and ZICB plan to explore further collaborative opportunities to introduce innovative solutions and drive sustained economic growth.

 VERY FEW TAXPAYERS COMPLYING TO ZRA'SREGULATIONS 

 

By Daily News Reporter

The Smart Invoice system launched by the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has shown significant uptake since its inception in March. According to ZRA Commissioner General Dingani Banda, over 12,000 taxpayers have registered on the system. This registration has facilitated the transmission of more than 100,000 invoices, amounting to a total value of 7.2 billion Kwacha.

From this invoiced amount, ZRA anticipates collecting over 400 million Kwacha in taxes. It's noteworthy that among the registered taxpayers, there are over 21,000 who are registered for Value Added Tax (VAT), out of which more than 8,000 are actively engaged in tax transactions.

During a media briefing, Mr. Banda emphasized that the deadline for mandatory registration on the Smart Invoice system remains July 1, with a grace period extending until September 30, 2024, before penalties are enforced. This timeline underscores the authority's commitment to integrating digital solutions to enhance tax compliance and streamline administrative processes.

Yvonne Mwanza, ZRA's Director of Data Analytics, highlighted the Smart Invoice system as a crucial tool in combating revenue leakages and enhancing overall service delivery in tax administration. This initiative reflects ZRA's proactive approach in leveraging technology to improve transparency, efficiency, and accountability within the tax system.

Overall, the Smart Invoice system represents a significant step forward for ZRA in modernizing tax administration, ensuring compliance, and optimizing revenue collection processes in Zambia.

 SMART ZAMBIA  MARKS A TRANSFORMATIVE STEP IN BRIDGING THE DIGITAL IN ZAMBIA

BY Daily News Reporter

About 1,200 delegates from across the globe, representing governments, technology firms, and various stakeholders interested in advancing digital infrastructure and connectivity across Africa. The summit aims to address critical issues such as digital inclusion, technological advancement, and economic growth through innovative solutions and strategic partnerships. And Zambia, under the leadership and vision of Smart Zambia National Coordinator Percy Chinyama, has showcased significant achievements in implementing its technology policy, including the successful launch of the Starlink Network.

The Starlink Network, heralded as the world's largest satellite constellation for delivering broadband internet, marks a transformative step in bridging the digital divide in Zambia. By extending high-speed internet services to remote and underserved areas, Zambia aims to integrate these regions into the global digital economy, fulfilling the ICT connectivity guidelines set forth in its technology policy.

John Glassey, CEO of African Brains, highlighted the summit's focus on unlocking digital dividends through cost-efficient service delivery in various sectors. This emphasis underscores the potential for digital technologies to drive socio-economic development across Africa, including Zambia, by fostering innovation, investment, and digital connectivity.

Moreover, Zambia's strategic initiatives, such as digital incentives and investments in fiber connectivity, position the country as a burgeoning digital hub in Africa. These efforts are set to attract international investors who are keen to support Zambia's digital transformation journey and contribute to its vision of becoming a leader in digital infrastructure on the continent.

Overall, the Digital Africa Summit serves as a platform for Zambia to showcase its achievements, discuss challenges, and forge partnerships that will accelerate its digital agenda, ultimately leading to inclusive growth and development across the region.

 Muchila Smart Village Project Launched

by Daily News Reporter

President Hakainde Hichilema recently officiated at the launch of the Muchila Smart Village Project in Namwala District, Southern Province. This groundbreaking initiative aims to advance rural development through digital innovation and was made possible with the support of Huawei Technologies Zambia. The Smart Village model includes a communication tower and a solar system capable of powering numerous homes, exemplifying the strong bilateral relations between Zambia and China. President Hichilema’s meeting with President Xi Jinping and Huawei Technologies in China last year further strengthened these relations, leading to the successful implementation of projects like the Muchila Smart Village.

The Muchila model will be replicated in 100 other rural and remote sites across Zambia. This initiative reflects the Zambian government’s strategic approach to forming collaborative partnerships, aiming to achieve a digitally inclusive society as they strive to become a middle-income country by 2030. The project particularly targets rural schools, providing teachers and learners with e-education resources to enhance their research capacities and essential digital skills. It’s part of a broader effort to foster a culture of digital innovation and entrepreneurship, driving economic growth and job creation at the grassroots level.

President Hichilema emphasized the importance of community stewardship in ensuring the project’s success and sustainability. With initiatives like the Muchila Smart Village, Zambia aims to create a more digitally inclusive society, paving the way for substantial economic progress and an improved quality of life for its rural population.

Meanwhile Huawei Technologies Vice President Phil Li’s commitment to the Muchila Smart Village Project underscores the importance of reliable and sustainable energy for rural communities. By aligning with Zambia’s Vision 2030 development goals, the project aims to enhance the lives of residents in Muchila Village and beyond. The collaboration between Huawei Technologies and the Zambian government exemplifies the positive impact of international partnerships in driving progress and connectivity.

Additionally, Charge d’Affaires Wang Sheng from the Chinese Embassy emphasized the scale of the initiative. With 100 villages in Muchila Chiefdom set to receive electricity, phone network, and internet services, the project will significantly improve communication, education, and economic opportunities. As the project expands to all 10 provinces, it is expected to create 5,000 jobs and benefit approximately 400,000 people. The Chinese government’s encouragement of investment in rural areas reflects a commitment to promoting livelihoods and corporate social responsibility, fostering sustainable development for communities across Zambia.

By combining technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and community engagement, the Muchila Smart Village Project represents a powerful step toward a more connected and prosperous Zambia. It demonstrates the transformative potential of digital infrastructure in shaping the future of rural development and improving the quality of life for citizens.

 STOP THE BLEEDING!

By Daily News Reporter

In a unified effort to address the critical issue of resource depletion in African nations, Zambia has joined Tanzania, Uganda, Cameroon, and Malawi in launching the “Stop the Bleeding” campaign. This initiative, championed by the African Forum and Network on Debt and Development (AFRODAD), aims to combat Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs)—resources lost due to debt repayments and financial leakage. IFFs drain essential resources needed for human rights and sustainable development, hindering economic growth and investment in crucial sectors like health and education.

According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), countries with high levels of IFFs allocate significantly less to essential sectors compared to those with lower IFFs. For Zambia, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa reports a 10% annual GDP loss due to corporate tax evasion, with copper trade mis-invoicing accounting for 65% of such incidents in Africa. 

These leakages impact the cost of servicing debt, which now averages around 10.6% of Africa’s GDP, compared to 6% for health spending. By advocating for transparency, accountability, and gender-responsive policies, the campaign seeks to halt the hemorrhage of national resources and promote sustainable development in Zambia.

 Protect the world’s children: Do not allow Tobacco to export kiddie packs of cigarettes to Zambia

By Daily News Reporter

"I urgently call to action to protect children and young adults from the harmful effects of tobacco," MASEBO 

she noted that Zambia has seen a significant increase in the sale and use of new and emerging tobacco and nicotine products, particularly among young people.

In a speech read on her behalf by Youth, Sport, and Arts Minister Elvis Nkandu during the launch of World No Tobacco Day in lusaka, she pointed out that 7,000 tobacco related deaths are recorded per year in Zambia.

She added that government has made progress in domesticating the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO-FCTC) and has introduced the Tobacco Control Bill in Parliament.

"We, public health advocates in countries across the African continent have worked tirelessly for years for the adoption and implementation of tobacco control laws and policies. Just like in other countries have passed the law, these laws protect children, vulnerable populations and the general public in Africa," she said.

In Pakistan for example and many other countries, regulations don’t allow packs smaller than 20 cigarettes to be sold. These smaller packs of cigarettes, known as “kiddie” packs, make it easier, cheaper, and more likely those children will buy them. The 20-cigarette rule is a global standard.

In Pakistan, British American Tobacco(BAT) is pushing you to change regulations so that it can manufacture 10-stick cigarette packs and export them to Sudan. However, WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control in its Article 16 calls Parties to prohibit the sale of cigarettes in small packets, which increase the affordability of such products to minors. Consequently, Pakistan as a party to the Convention should not allow manufacturing of 10-stick cigarette packs.

British American Tobacco’s claim is that it will not sell kiddie packs in Pakistan, but only in Africa. It is unconscionable that British American Tobacco (BAT) thinks it is ok to change a law on one continent in order to target vulnerable populations on another. InSudan, and other countries in Africa, people need food, medicine and other lifesaving supports. What they do not need is kiddie packs of cigarettes that put them at increased risk of tobacco addiction, diseases and death. And once BAT gets kiddie packs into one country, they will make their way across Africa.

British American Tobacco claims to care about protecting children in some parts of the world, yet in Africa, it is scheming to hook more people into its addictive products and to increase cigarette consumption.

If a product is too dangerous for one country’s children, it is too dangerous for children anywhere. Putting other people’s children at risk of tobacco addition, disease and death is unacceptable.

"Do not put African kids at risk by changing the strong tobacco control regulations in zambia," she added.

What are the risk factors of type 2 diabetes?

By Daily news Reporter

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, and exercise and diet, along with medication, can help people manage it. There are two types of risk factors: some you can modify, and some you might not be able to modify. The generally non-modifiable risk factors include:

Family history of the disease race: African Americans, Asian Americans, Latino Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, or Pacific Islanders all have a higher risk for type 2 diabetes being over 45 years old a history of gestational diabetes, which develops during pregnancy depression having a baby that weighs over 9 pounds at birth having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) Some typically modifiable or preventable risk factors include:

A sedentary lifestyle with little to no exercise

Hypertension, or high blood pressure

Obesity or being overweight

Heart or blood vessel disease and stroke

Low levels of “good” cholesterol or high-density lipoprotein (HDL)

High levels of the fats called triglycerides

An unhealthy diet

Sometimes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other risk factors listed as modifiable can be hereditary or a result of other health conditions that cannot be avoided. However, experts say healthy diet changes and managing your modifiable risk factors can benefit anyone.

How does diet affect type 2 diabetes risk?

According to Dr Kelvin Kaunda (name Changed due to privacy) said that before the 1960s, type 2 diabetes was not nearly as common, but mass production of processed food had a huge impact on the global rates of the condition.

“Its prevalence surged with the global adoption of the Western diet rich in processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and animal proteins, contributing to the widespread rise in obesity and diabetes. Factors like familial dietary habits passed down through generations and socioeconomic conditions affecting access to diabetes-promoting foods also play significant roles in its development,” Dr Kaunda said.

"Diets high in refined sugars, processed foods, and animal proteins (high in saturated fats), typical of many Western countries, have been linked to higher rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes. In fact, we’ve seen the onset of diabetes emerge in countries like Mexico, China, and India after beginning to adopt Western eating styles.”

Dr.Kaunda added that Type 2 diabetes primarily stems from diet and lifestyle choices influenced by the widespread availability of processed foods and the promotion and glorification of unhealthy habits. Despite this understanding, it’s often perceived in healthcare circles as a lifelong condition necessitating medication.

While medications are vital for some, many individuals can effectively modify or even reverse this condition through dietary adjustments and lifestyle changes, often reducing or eliminating their need for medications over time,” Dr. Kaunda said.

 “Encouragingly, healthy habits can be passed down through generations, highlighting the critical importance of early nutrition education and government-led initiatives to ensure all communities can access and afford nutritious foods. These efforts should be central in research and health discussions surrounding type 2 diabetes and other chronic conditions influenced by diet and lifestyle choices.” He added.

 CSOs Raises awareness on Debt, Development, and Gender Justice

By Daily News Reporter

The Civil Society Organizations Debt Alliance in partnership with (CTPD) Centre for Trade Policy and Development held a National Conference on Debt and Development in Lusaka which is a significant platform for discussing critical issues related to debt management, sustainable development, and gender justice in Zambia. 

During at the conference Alex Muyebe, Chairperson of the Civil Society Organizations Debt Alliance, emphasizes the need for solutions that promote fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability in managing the country’s debt. These principles are essential for sustainable economic growth and stability in the country to develop.

He also highlighted the importance of ensuring that public resources contribute effectively to achieving national development goals. This aligns with Zambia’s commitment to the 8th National Development Plan and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals aim to address poverty, inequality, and environmental challenges.

The conference's theme was, “Debt, Development, and Gender Justice,” underscores the crucial role of gender equality in inclusive development. 

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Also Gender justice ensures that opportunities are accessible to everyone, regardless of gender. It’s a fundamental aspect of sustainable progress.

The conference serves as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and action. Participants discuss debt-related issues and explore ways to advocate for sustainable development. 

Meanwhile Shem Otieno, from Africa FORUM and Network on Debt and Development (AFRODAD), expects the meeting to raise awareness about resource mismanagement and advocate for inclusive development and respect for economic, social, and cultural rights.

And at the same forum the panelists highlighted on Domestic Resource Mobilization (DRM) which plays a crucial role in sustainable development and economic growth. 

They highlighted that Zambia currently relies on a mix of external and domestic financing, with a ratio of 70:30. However, there’s a strategic shift underway. By 2025, the country aims to rebalance this ratio to 45:55, favoring more domestic borrowing.

Also understanding Zambia’s domestic debt is essential for effective resource mobilization. Analyzing factors such as interest rates, repayment terms, and debt sustainability helps shape policies and strategies.

The point which come also Zambia’s mining sector remains pivotal in driving domestic resource mobilization. As the country seeks to reduce reliance on external financing, maximizing the mining sector’s contribution becomes crucial.

In summary, Zambia’s pursuit of sustainable development hinges on effective domestic resource mobilization. By optimizing domestic borrowing, managing debt, and leveraging key sectors like mining, the nation can enhance its economic prospects

This conference brings together stakeholders to address debt challenges, promote gender-responsive policies, and work towards a more sustainable and inclusive Zambia.

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 KATUBA CONSTITUENCY PEOPLE ENJOYED THEIR WEEKEND

 

"Empowerment is the key to development of any community of the country, women and youth need to be engaged in national development.........Mwachikoka

By Daily News Reporter

Governance Activist Chooma Mwachikoka of KATUBA CONSTITUENCY spend his weekend with the people of katuba by empowering women and the youths in different skills programs.

During the handover of certificates and Equipements to over 57 groups in KATUBA CONSTITUENCY Governance Activist Chooma Mwachikoka highlighted the importance of empowering the community and Women’s empowerment is a crucial aspect of development, and it involves enabling women to have control over their lives, make informed decisions, and access opportunities and resources that were previously unavailable to them.

And Mr. Mwachikoka indicated that Education and Awareness " Empowering women often begins with education and awareness. By providing women with knowledge and information, we enable them to make informed choices and advocate for their rights," Mwachikoka said.

He added that Economic empowerment allows women to control and benefit from resources, assets, and income. It helps improve their well-being and resilience. For instance, increasing women’s empowerment in agriculture positively impacts food security and child nutrition.

"This Women’s empowerment enables them to make strategic life choices that were previously denied to them. This includes decisions related to education, career, family planning, and participation in public life," he added. (© Copyright Reserved)

Women faces Challenges and Progress, so they are need of Implementing programs and policies that empower women benefits not only individuals but also communities and nations. It enhances the quality and quantity of human resources available for development.

Women’s empowerment is about giving women the tools, knowledge, and agency to shape their own lives and contribute to the betterment of society. It’s a critical step toward achieving sustainable development goals and creating a more equitable world.

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