Global Leaders Call for Urgent Action to End Violence Against Women and Girls

At the SHE & Rights (Sexual Health with Equity & Rights) session held during the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence, speakers warned that the world remains far behind in achieving the goal of ending violence against women and girls, despite decades of effort. The event also marked International Human Rights Day (10 December) and Universal Health Coverage Day (12 December).

Delivering the plenary keynote, Dr. Pam Rajput, Emeritus Professor at Panjab University and former Chairperson of India’s High-Level Committee on the Status of Women, described gender-based violence as a violation of human rights and a barrier to sustainable development.

“Over 840 million women have faced violence globally. In the past 12 months alone, 316 million women experienced physical or sexual abuse by intimate partners, while 263 million faced violence by others. Over 51,000 cases of femicide have been reported,” she said, calling for zero tolerance in both policy and practice.

Dr. Rajput highlighted that even women parliamentarians and journalists are not spared, with 82% of women MPs reporting psychosocial violence and 73% of women journalists facing online abuse.

Shobha Shukla, Coordinator of SHE & Rights and President of APCAT Media, lamented the lack of progress. “Since 2000, the annual decline in intimate partner and sexual violence is abysmally low at 0.2%. This is unacceptable,” she said.

She noted that while 165 countries have domestic violence laws, only 104 have comprehensive legislative frameworks, leaving nearly half of the world without adequate protections. Even where laws exist, funding has declined since 2022.

Speakers also drew attention to the link between gender-based violence and HIV. Esther Asuquo, of the African Girls Empowerment Network (Nigeria), explained how violence increases women’s risk of HIV infection by limiting their ability to negotiate safer sex.

Albertina Nyatsi, Founder of Positive Women Together in Action (Eswatini), added: “Gender-based violence and HIV are deeply intertwined. Stigma and discrimination fuel violence, creating a vicious cycle that prevents testing, treatment, and safer sex negotiation.”

Dr. Huda Syyed, Founder of Sahara Sisters’ Collective (Australia), warned that female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) remains widespread, with 230 million girls and women worldwide affected. UNICEF data shows a 15% increase in FGM/C in 2024 compared to eight years ago, including 80 million cases in Asia.

“FGM/C violates fundamental rights and medical ethics. Ending it is central to gender justice, bodily autonomy, and sustainable development,” Dr. Syyed stressed.

 Zambia’s Youth Call for Strong Laws to Protect Future Generations from Tobacco Harm

 By Daily News Reporter

Youth voices are rising in Zambia’s tobacco control movement, as advocates call for the swift enactment of comprehensive legislation to protect young people from addiction, disease, and aggressive industry influence.

At a public gathering attended by civil society organizations, public health advocates, and youth leaders, two 18-year-old campaigners delivered powerful statements urging lawmakers to prioritize public health over corporate interests.

Reading a statement authored by Brenda Chitindi, Executive Director of the Tobacco Free Association of Zambia (TOFAZA), youth advocate Jemimah Phiri rejected the framing of “alternative nicotine products” as solutions.

“Nicotine products, regardless of how they are packaged or marketed, continue to harm young people,” the statement emphasized. “Zambia must adopt laws that protect current and future generations from addiction and preventable diseases.”

And speaking at the same event, Kumbuso Phiri highlighted the disproportionate impact of tobacco use on young people and low-income communities.

“The absence of comprehensive tobacco control legislation leaves youths vulnerable to targeted advertising, easy access to tobacco products, and weak enforcement mechanisms,” he said, stressing the need for Zambia to align with global best practices under the UN World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO-FCTC).

The advocates insisted that young people are not passive beneficiaries of policy decisions but active stakeholders demanding accountability.

“Our voices matter because we are the ones who will live with the consequences,” one youth speaker declared. “This law is about our right to health, dignity, and a future free from addiction.”

Ms. Chitindi and Albert Muloboka Phiri, Chairperson of the Tobacco Control Consortium of Zambia (TCCZ), urged Parliament to move swiftly in passing the Tobacco Control Bill 2025, ensuring it is comprehensive, evidence-based, and free from industry interference.

Mr. Phiri noted the double standards of tobacco companies such as British American Tobacco, which operate under strict regulations in countries like the United Kingdom but pursue aggressive marketing strategies in Zambia.

“In their home countries, strong legislation protects children,” he said. “Yet here, tobacco products are sold every 100 metres, even near schools. This double standard must end.”

As Zambia prepares to debate the Tobacco Control Bill 2025, youth advocates and civil society leaders are united in their demand: legislation that safeguards the health and future of Zambia’s young people, ensuring that public health takes precedence over profit.

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 Trailblazer in Healthcare and Women’s Empowerment: Dr. Rasha Kelej Named Among 100 Most Influential Africans 2025

By Daily News Reporter

In a year defined by transformative leadership across Africa, one name continues to shine brightly: Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of the “More Than a Mother” campaign. Recognized for the seventh consecutive year by New African Magazine (UK), Dr. Kelej has been named among the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2025, joining the ranks of continental leaders such as President João Lourenço of Angola, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, and President John Mahama of Ghana.

Dr. Kelej’s recognition underscores her relentless drive to transform healthcare systems and empower women and girls across Africa. “I am deeply honoured to be recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans by New African, and to be named alongside the esteemed leaders of our continent,” she said.

“This recognition acknowledges my continued efforts to build healthcare capacity, empower women living with infertility, and support girl education.” She added.

Under her leadership, Merck Foundation has awarded 2,500 scholarships to healthcare providers from 52 countries, spanning 44 underserved medical specialties. These programs have produced pioneers—often the first specialists in their countries—in fields such as fertility care, embryology, reproductive medicine, psychiatry, and women’s health.

Dr. Kelej proudly notes, “We are building a lasting legacy in Africa. Many of our alumni are now advancing equitable healthcare and transforming patient care in their nations.”

Her flagship initiative, “More Than a Mother”, launched in 2015, has become a continental movement breaking infertility stigma and empowering childless women. Through the “Empowering Berna” program, women are supported to start small businesses, ensuring dignity and independence.

Education remains central to her mission. In partnership with 33 African First Ladies, Merck Foundation has provided 1,200 scholarships to underprivileged schoolgirls across 19 countries, enabling them to complete their studies and pursue their dreams.

And beyond healthcare, Dr. Kelej has harnessed the power of media, fashion, and arts to amplify voices and shift mindsets. From Pan-African TV programs and health media training to awards for best songs, films, and fashion designs, her initiatives have sparked cultural conversations around infertility, gender-based violence, and women’s empowerment.

Her reach extends to 8.5 million social media followers, where she shares empowering content and awareness campaigns, inspiring a new generation of Africans.

Dr. Kelej’s recognition is more than a personal accolade—it is a celebration of a movement that continues to reshape Africa’s healthcare and social landscape. By uniting policymakers, academia, media, and communities, she has built a platform of hope, empowerment, and progress.

As New African Magazine highlights, the 2025 list is a tribute to “leaders, innovators, and change-makers whose influence and impact continue to drive transformation across Africa and beyond.” Dr. Rasha Kelej stands tall among them—a visionary whose work is leaving an indelible mark on the continent’s future.

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Airtel Africa Connects with SpaceX

By Daily News Reporter

Airtel Africa has announced an agreement with SpaceX to introduce Starlink Direct-to-Cell satellite connectivity across all its 14 markets that serve 174 million customers. Through this partnership, Airtel Africa customers with compatible smartphones in regions without terrestrial coverage can have network connectivity through Starlink, which is the world’s largest 4G connectivity provider.

The satellite-to-mobile service will begin in 2026 with data for select applications and text messaging. This agreement also includes support for Starlink’s first broadband Direct to Cell system, with next-generation satellites that will be capable of providing high-speed connectivity to smartphones with 20x improved data speed. The rollout will proceed in line with country-specific regulatory approvals.

Airtel Africa which is the first mobile network operator in Africa to offer Starlink Direct to Cell service, powered by 650 satellites to provide seamless connectivity to its customers in remote areas. This partnership reinforces Airtel Africa’s commitment to bridge digital divide and offer seamless connectivity to its customers. Airtel Africa and Starlink will continue to explore additional collaboration opportunities to further advance digital inclusion across the continent.

Airtel Africa MD and Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar said: “Airtel Africa remains committed to delivering great experience to our customers by improving access to reliable and contiguous mobile connectivity solutions. Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell technology complements the terrestrial infrastructure and even reaches areas where deploying terrestrial network solutions are challenging. We are very excited about the collaboration with Starlink, which will establish a new standard for service availability across all our 14 markets.”

And Starlink Vice President of Sales, Stephanie Bednarek stated that through this agreement with Airtel Africa, we’ll also deliver the next-generation technology to offer high-speed broadband connectivity, which will offer faster access to many essential services.

“For the first time, people across Africa will stay connected in remote areas where terrestrial coverage cannot reach, and we’re so thrilled that Starlink Direct to Cell can power this life-changing service. Through this agreement with Airtel Africa, we’ll also deliver our next-generation technology to offer high-speed broadband connectivity, which will offer faster access to many essential services.” Said Bednarek.

 Zambia's Insurance Industry Continues to Grow, but Penetration Remains Low

 By Daily News Reporter

Lusaka, Zambia - The insurance and pensions industry in Zambia has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, according to the Pensions and Insurance Authority (PIA) during the media engagement in Lusaka.

Speaking at a recent event, PIA Registrar and CEO Mrs. Namakau M. Ntini highlighted the industry's progress, citing regulatory updates, including micro insurance regulations, market conduct regulations, and reinsurance regulations. These regulations aim to build public confidence, expand financial inclusion, and strengthen the industry's foundation.

Mrs. Ntini also gave the update on the key highlights that Expected to close 2025 with assets over 13 billion Kwacha and liabilities of about 11 billion Kwacha, representing a 12% growth.

For the Net assets value stood at 25.6 billion Kwacha as of September 2025, with contributions increasing to 745 million Kwacha.

 Introduction of micro insurance regulations, market conduct regulations, and reinsurance regulations to promote financial inclusion and industry growth.

Mrs. Ntini noted that the industry is responding to climate-related risks and investing in climate resilience and

“Climate risk solutions can strengthen resilience for farmers and businesses...” She added

So far the industry is working to develop cyber insurance products and promote cyber security practices.

And soon PIA will be launching a regulatory sandbox to foster innovation and address emerging risks.

Mrs. Ntini emphasized the importance of collaboration between the industry, regulators, and stakeholders to promote financial inclusion, strengthen the industry, and contribute to Zambia's economic development.

The PIA's efforts aim to enhance the industry's contribution to Zambia's economic growth, improve financial inclusion, and promote sustainable development. Zambia’s insurance industry continues to post strong growth in premiums, yet penetration remains stubbornly low,

Meanwhile according to remarks made by PIA Manager Market Development (Pensions), Mr. Aaron Mukuwa

Figures show that total industry premiums have risen consistently over the past six years:

2024 • K9, 500,000,000.00 (22%)

2023 - K7, 811,349,000.00 (13%)

2022 - K6, 032,887,712.00 (12.8%)

2021 - K5, 343,896.183.00 (16.9%)

2020 - K4, 568,502,223.00 (21.6%)

2019 - K3, 756,796,261.00 (18.0%)

2018 - K3, 182,855,089.00 (16.2%)

Despite this upward trajectory, insurance penetration stood at just 1.3% in 2023 and 1.4% in 2024, underscoring the challenge of expanding coverage across households and businesses. A Film Scope survey currently underway is expected to provide updated penetration ratios for 2025.

Mr. Mukuwa also highlighted climate change as one of the most pressing issues facing the sector. Droughts and load-shedding have hit farmers’ hard, prompting initiatives such as FISP, which aim to cushion agricultural producers against climate shocks.

Authorities are also promoting green finance, encouraging insurers to provide coverage for institutions engaged in sustainable projects. “Insurance must play a role in building a resilient society,” Mukuwa emphasized.

The Insurance Act of 2021, now in its third year, introduced a risk-based solvency framework. Regulators are also rolling out new rules for micro insurance, medical insurance, marine insurance, and claims settlement procedures.

To foster innovation, regulatory sandboxes have been established, allowing insurers to test products in controlled environments under oversight.

The Zambian insurance industry’s story is one of growth and transformation. While premiums continue to rise, the sector must overcome challenges of penetration, trust, and skills to fully realize its potential. With reforms, green finance initiatives, and innovation through sandboxes, the industry is positioning itself for a more resilient and inclusive future.

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 *Zambia Signs Emission Reduction Agreement, Paving the Way for Sustainable Development*

By Daily News Reporter 

Lusaka, Zambia - The Government of Zambia, through the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, has signed a Nested Emission Reduction Performance Agreement with Biocarbon Partners, marking a significant milestone in the country's efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.

The agreement is part of the Eastern Province Jurisdictional Sustainable Landscape Program, a initiative launched in September 2020 with support from the UN and funding from the Endicott BioCarbon Fund initiative, contributed by Germany, Norway, and the US.

The program aims to reduce emissions and protect ecosystems in the Eastern Province.

 The initiative will empower local communities and foster economic growth in the region and The program will create opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and improve food security.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Nicholas Mudaly, Chief Executive Officer of Biocarbon Partners, said "This agreement represents a continued collaboration between the Government of Zambia and Biocarbon Partners, reflecting a shared commitment to reducing emissions, protecting ecosystems, and empowering local communities."

The program's approach links sustainable landscape and natural resource management projects across the Eastern Province, testing and scaling up integrated natural resource management, community development, climate resilience, and conservation efforts.

The signing of this agreement demonstrates Zambia's commitment to meeting its global climate targets and promoting sustainable development. The initiative is expected to bring tangible benefits to the people of the Eastern Province, including improved livelihoods, food security, and economic growth. 

And speaking at signing ceremony Ministry of Green Economy and Environment Permanent Secretary Dr. Douty Chibamba stated that This Nested Emission Reduction Performance Agreement signing follows the successive conclusion of the 56th Chieftain Emission Reduction Performance Agreements under the Eastern Province to the Sustainable Landscape Program. 

These agreements reflect the strong commitment of our traditional leaders and rural communities to conserving forests, adopting sustainable practices, and participating actively in climate mitigation efforts."

And further after the signing ceremony BCP presented two cheques for Luangwa Community Forest Project (LCFP-EP) K32m and Eastern Province K32M.

The Government of Zambia and Biocarbon Partners are working together to ensure the successful implementation of the program and to make a lasting impact on the lives of the people in the Eastern Province.

 Innovation Takes Flight: Zambia Celebrates International Civil Aviation Day

By Daily News Reporter

Zambia today joined the global aviation community in commemorating International Civil Aviation Day, with leaders underscoring the country’s strides in safety oversight, infrastructure modernisation, and regional connectivity.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Transport and Logistics, Hon. Frank Tayali, MP, said the theme “Advancing Innovation for Global Aviation Development” reflects Zambia’s drive to position aviation as a key enabler of economic growth, tourism, and trade.

The Minister also highlighted the potential of air cargo growth to transform airports into economic hubs, while reaffirming Zambia’s support for open skies under the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

And CAA Director General, Captain Derrick Luembe, reported strong regulatory progress over the past year, through Enhanced surveillance and increased safety audits, Strengthened alignment with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and Expand drone sector regulation, with a dedicated Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) unit.

He also emphasised that the Authority will prioritise digital transformation, capacity building, cybersecurity readiness, and stakeholder engagement, stressing that “aviation safety is a shared responsibility.”

The commemoration brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including the Civil Aviation Authority, airlines, airports, aviation training institutions, the Aircraft Accidents Investigations Board, the Zambia Air Force, and industry partners. Together, they reaffirmed Zambia’s collective commitment to building a future-ready aviation industry that embraces innovation, strengthens safety, and enhances regional and global connectivity.

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Zambia’s Social Protection Dialogue Calls for Stronger Investment Case

By Daily News Reporter

The Government of Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening social protection systems with the launch of the 2025 National Social Protection Dialogue, commemorated under the theme “Social Protection as a Human Right: Bridging Gaps for Financing for Inclusive and Sustainable Development.”

Speaking through Permanent Secretary Ms Angela Kawandami, Minister of Community Development and Social Services Ms Doreen Mwamba underscored the Government’s dedication to ensuring that social protection remains comprehensive and inclusive. She highlighted that the Dialogue serves as a vital platform for stakeholders to reflect on progress made, while identifying gaps that require sustainable solutions.

Ms Mwamba noted that Zambia has continued to make significant strides toward achieving Vision 2030, which seeks to guarantee sustainable security against deprivation and extreme vulnerability. She emphasized that social protection is not only a safety net but also a powerful tool in reducing poverty and fostering resilience among vulnerable populations.

Adding to the discussion, Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR) Executive Director Ms Isabel Mukelebai stressed the importance of aligning social protection with broader economic frameworks. She cautioned that social protection cannot operate in isolation from fiscal and monetary policies, urging for stronger policy harmonisation.

And one of the delegates from kafue Ms Judith Maamba (name with held) stated that this meeting has gave her an opportynunity through CSPR to express her views on social protection in the rural areas. 

The Dialogue, which brought together government officials, civil society, and development partners, aims to strengthen investment in social protection systems that are inclusive, sustainable, and resilient. Stakeholders agreed that financing remains a critical gap, but with coordinated efforts, Zambia can build a robust social protection framework that ensures no citizen is left behind.

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“Zambia Advances Climate-Resilient Development With Green Finance Taxonomy”

 

By Daily News Reporter

As climate change continues to surge across the globe, threatening ecosystems, economies, and communities, Zambia has stepped forward with a bold homegrown solution: the launch of its first-ever Green Finance Taxonomy (ZGFT).

The initiative, unveiled by Minister of Green Economy and Environment Mike Mposha, positions Zambia among Africa’s frontrunners in sustainable finance. Developed in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme’s Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) and other partners, the taxonomy provides a science-based framework for identifying environmentally sustainable economic activities.

Africa remains one of the regions most vulnerable to climate change. Despite contributing the least to global emissions, countries like Zambia face recurring droughts, floods, and rising temperatures. Financing adaptation and resilience has been a persistent challenge. In 2023, Africa received $15 billion in adaptation finance, far short of the $70 billion needed annually. Between 2021 and 2022, total climate finance to the continent was $44 billion, only a fraction of the $200 billion required annually for clean energy transition.               Contributions from developed nations often arrive as loans, leaving low-income countries struggling to raise resources for survival.

It also defines six environmental objectives, ranging from climate change mitigation to biodiversity protection, ensuring investments align with both national priorities and global sustainability standards.

By establishing a credible rulebook for green investments, the taxonomy enhances transparency, limits risks of green washing, and equips regulators, banks, pension funds, insurers, corporates, and investors with a common reference point to identify and report green economic activities.

Zambia now joins South Africa, Rwanda, Kenya, and Ghana as one of the few African nations with a green finance taxonomy. Senegal is developing its own, which will be the first in French-speaking Africa.

Importantly, Zambia’s taxonomy is interoperable with EU, South African, and Kenyan frameworks, positioning the country competitively in regional and global markets seeking credible sustainability standards.

The government, alongside financial regulators and partners, will begin a national roll-out of the taxonomy.

The aim is to mobilize domestic and international green capital, support the issuance of green bonds and sustainability-linked loans, and accelerate private sector participation in Zambia’s green economy.

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Radiation Protection Authority Unveils New Board Chairperson

(picture by RPA)

By Daily News Reporter

The Radiation Protection Authority (RPA) has officially unveiled its newly appointed Board Chairperson, Mr. Msafiri Sinkala, in a ceremony officiated by the Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Mutati.

Speaking at the event, Minister Mutati underscored the importance of transparency, accountability, and collective responsibility in the governance of the Authority. He reminded the new board of the weighty mandate before them, urging members to align their operations with national priorities and remain firmly accountable to the citizens of Zambia.

Mutati challenged the board to handle internal disagreements constructively while upholding strong risk management practices.

He urged the Authority to grow its revenue base without compromising fiscal responsibility, stressing that all resources must be properly accounted for as they belong to the citizens. He also cautioned that government will not hesitate to act if the board fails to uphold performance standards.

 RURAL & PERI URBAN ELECTRICITY CONNECTION FEES REDUCED AS GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES ASCENT PROGRAM

By Daily News Reporter

Government has announced a landmark reduction in rural and peri-urban electricity connection fees, lowering the cost of a standard on-grid household connection from K4,846 to just K300 under a new nationwide subsidy mechanism.

Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote, announced during the launch of the Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation in Zambia (ASCENT–Zambia) Program in Lusaka today. The more than 90 percent reduction is expected to make electricity significantly more affordable and accessible to rural households across all ten provinces.

Mr Chikote explained that the subsidy forms part of the US$250 million ASCENT Program supported by the World Bank, which aims to connect more than 1.6 million Zambians to electricity and clean cooking technologies over the next five years.

He disclosed that the 2026 application window for the subsidy will open on 22nd December 2025, targeting 100,000 new household connections in its first year. The Minister urged citizens to take full advantage of the opportunity and directed ZESCO and the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) to intensify nationwide awareness efforts.

REA Acting Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Alex Mbumba, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to delivering the project efficiently and transparently. He said REA will strengthen collaboration with ZESCO to ensure smooth implementation and timely service delivery, particularly in underserved rural areas.

ZESCO Managing Director, Eng. Justin Loongo, described the ASCENT Program as a “game changer” with the potential to transform lives by expanding access to clean, reliable, and affordable electricity.

The World Bank pledged continued financial and technical support to the initiative, commending Zambia for its reform efforts and commitment to expanding modern energy services. COMESA also announced that it will provide technical assistance to the ASCENT project, further strengthening regional cooperation aimed at enhancing institutional capacity and accelerating energy access.

On the broader significance of the programme, Mr Chikote noted that Zambia’s electricity access rate currently stands at 51 percent, with rural access at only 33 percent. He said the ASCENT Program aligned with Vision 2030 and the continental Mission 300 initiative will help close this gap by promoting electrification, advancing clean cooking solutions, and improving socioeconomic conditions.

 “Our desire is that a farmer in Eastern Province can refrigerate his produce, a schoolgirl in Northern Province can study under proper lighting, and an expectant mother in Western Province can access safe and reliable health services,” he said.

The Minister commended the World Bank, COMESA, the Ministry of Finance, REA, ZESCO, and other cooperating partners for their continued support. He expressed confidence that the AS