GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES RURAL WATER SUPPLY PROJECTS

 By Daily News reporter

The Government launched two new water supply projects in Zambezi and Kabompo Districts aimed at improving access to safe and clean water for rural communities, under the 2025 Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Collins Nzovu, announced that the projects will be executed by the North Western Water Supply and Sanitation Company Limited (NWWSSCL), with funding provided through the Zambezi and Kabompo Town Councils.

Mr Nzovu said the Kabompo project, valued at K793,000, will focus on expanding water supply networks in Chikata, Farm Training Centre (FTC), INDECO and M8 townships.

“Each township will receive a one-kilometre water distribution network, initially serving about 40 customers, with the target to reach over 100 customers in the medium term, ultimately benefiting more than 1,000 residents,” Mr Nzovu stated.

He said in Zambezi District, the project costing K564,800 under Phase One will involve the construction of a new water supply line from New Market Compound to Masumpu Village.

“This development will add 100 new customers and benefit approximately 600 people,” he said.

Mr Nzovu expressed satisfaction that both local authorities have already disbursed the necessary funds and that procurement processes are underway.  

 

Improving WASH in Zambian Schools: A Key to Better Health and Education

By Daily News Reporter

The cry for improved Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) in schools is getting louder. Lawmakers are pushing for increased funding, citing inadequate budget allocations and growing climate-related challenges.

 "WASH in schools is a fundamental right essential for children's health and education," says Mutinta Twaambo, PC-WASH Chairperson. Despite this, many schools still grapple with dirty toilets, broken water points, and lack of hygiene facilities.

 The WASH in Schools Sharing Event brought together stakeholders to discuss solutions. Key themes included financing, governance, climate resilience, menstrual health, and gender inclusion. "Education can't thrive without safe WASH facilities," stresses Marlon Phiri, NGO WASH Forum Board Chairperson.

 The Water Voices United project is working to enhance civil society's capacity to support government WASH efforts. But more needs to be done.

 

 

’DON’T TARGET US SCHOOL GOING CHILDREN’- Phiri Warns Tobacco industries

By Daily News Reporter

As schools reopen, the Tobacco Free Association of Zambia (TFAZ) has sounded the alarm on the tobacco industry's aggressive marketing tactics targeting young children.

According to Kumbuso Phiri, Youth Advocate at TFAZ, tobacco companies are exploiting Zambia's weak tobacco control environment to lure children into smoking.

Phiri stated that tobacco products are being sold near schools, making them easily accessible and affordable to minors.

The industry's strategies include advertising and promotion, sale of single cigarettes, and child-friendly flavored cigarettes. These tactics aim to create a new generation of smokers, maintaining the lucrative tobacco business.

Research shows that 60% of smokers start at age 13 and 90% are hooked by 20. With Zambia's ratification of the World Health Organization Framework Convention for Tobacco Control, the government has a legal obligation to protect its population, particularly vulnerable groups like children.

The British American Tobacco and Philip Morris International are accused of intensive marketing around schools, encouraging tobacco use among children.

Cigarettes are advertised in stores, on posters, and using umbrellas, deliberately misleading children into believing they're harmless.

To curb this, TFAZ urges the government to adopt comprehensive tobacco control policies, including:

- Banning tobacco product sales near schools

- Prohibiting flavored tobacco products, small packaging, and single cigarette sales to minors

- Displaying signage in retail outlets

The government must act urgently to protect Zambia's young generation from Big Tobacco's aggressive marketing.

 

 FMO AND FNB PARTNER A $ 50M CLIMATE FINANCE DEAL 

By Daily News Reporter 

The Government of Zambia has witnessed the signing of a landmark of a $50 million agreement between First National Bank (FNB) Zambia and FMO, the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank, to support climate action and green growth in the country.

The facility  will also channel funding towards eligible green projects, including climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy, and sustainable forestry initiatives. This partnership aims to strengthen Zambia's climate resilience and promote inclusive growth.

"FMO is proud to partner with FNB Zambia to drive sustainable development and climate resilience," said Angelica Ortiz de Haas, FMO Manager. 

"This transaction responds to Zambia's macro challenges, providing scarce US dollars to support climate mitigation and adaptation projects." She added.

The agreement is part of FMO's broader commitment to supporting sustainable private sector growth in emerging markets. WWF will provide technical assistance to FNB Zambia to strengthen its capabilities in climate finance.

The facility, co-funded by the Dutch Fund for Climate and Development (DFCD), will channel funding towards eligible green projects, including renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and climate-resilient infrastructure.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, Mr. Dought Chibamba, emphasized the importance of partnerships in driving climate action. "This agreement is a statement of intent, a shared commitment to Zambia's climate resilience," he said.

And FNB Zambia CEO, Ms. Kapumpe Chola, expressed the bank's commitment to sustainable development, saying, "FNB is committed to financing a greener future responsibly."

The agreement is expected to support Zambia's national priorities, green growth strategy, and climate resilience goals, while promoting inclusive growth and job creation.

The partnership involves collaboration between FNB Zambia, FMO, WWF, and DFCD, demonstrating the power of partnerships in driving climate action.

 Zambia's Aviation Sector Takes Flight with New Leadership 

By Daily News Reporter 

Zambia's aviation industry is gearing up for a transformative period with the inauguration of the new Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Board and Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL) Board. The government has set ambitious goals for the sector, focusing on strengthening aviation safety, modernizing regulations, expanding cargo operations, and driving digital transformation.

Minister of Transport and Logistics, Frank Tayali, emphasized the importance of aviation in driving trade, tourism, and economic growth. The new Boards are expected to provide strategic leadership, strengthen corporate governance, and support national developments. 

 Zambia's Aviation Sector Takes Off with New ZACL Board 

By Daily News Reporter 

The inauguration of the new Board of Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL) marks a significant milestone in the country's aviation sector. With a clear mandate to strengthen governance, expand cargo operations, and upgrade provincial airports, the Board is poised to drive Zambia's aviation industry forward.

Minister of Transport and Logistics, Frank Museba Tayali, emphasized the importance of aviation in driving trade, tourism, and economic growth, saying, "Aviation cargo is a key economic growth driver. Airports must function as gateways for trade, supporting cargo airlines, logistics operators, and regional exporter.

ZACL Board Chairperson Daan Brink pledged strong oversight, collaboration, and a focus on increasing passenger traffic and improving safety standards.

 Zambia Launches ELECT Project to Boost Energy Efficiency 

By Daily News Reporter 

The main objectives are that to Enhance capacity for energy-efficient lighting technologies, Support Zambia's transition to clean energy and environmental sustainability,  Foster innovation, skills development, and research in energy efficiency and also Strengthen partnerships between universities, industry, and government

The project aligns with Zambia's energy efficiency goals and the EU's Global Gateway initiative, promoting sustainable energy solutions and reducing carbon emissions.

In a significant step towards a sustainable energy future, Zambia has launched the ELECT project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at boosting energy efficiency and promoting clean energy transitions. This ambitious project brings together leading universities from Zambia, Finland, and Greece, with the support of the European Union's Erasmus+ programme.

Speaking at the ELECT Project Launch Ambassador Professor Royson M. Mukwena Vice-Chancellor of Mulungushi University stated that at the heart of the ELECT project is a commitment to equip Zambian universities with the expertise and resources needed to drive innovation in energy-efficient lighting technologies. By fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government, the project seeks to position Zambia as a leader in sustainable energy solutions.

"The true measure of our success will be reflected in the graduates equipped with relevant green skills, informed policy practices, and communities benefiting from more efficient, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions," said Amb Prof Mukwena.

As Zambia strives to increase energy access and reduce its carbon footprint, initiatives like ELECT are crucial. With its focus on capacity building, technology transfer, and human capital development, the project is poised to make a lasting impact on the country's energy landscape. 

Meanwhile speaking at the same launch of ELECT Project Ministry of Energy Permanent Secretary Arnold Simwaba  Representing Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote stated that this is marking a significant milestone in the country's journey towards a sustainable energy future. 'The project aims to strengthen university programs, modernize training approaches, and enhance applied research in energy-efficient lighting technologies.

He further  said that The project will build the human capital required to support Zambia's energy transition and that it will bring together universities, industry, and government to drive innovation and technology adoption.

Also to contribute to Zambia's energy efficiency goals and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

"The ELECT project represents a practical investment in Zambia's energy future," said Mr Arnold Simwaba.

The project is co-funded by the European Union's Erasmus+ programme and involves collaboration between Zambian and European Union and involves collaboration between Aalto University (Finland), Hellenic Open University (Greece), and Mulungushi University and Copperbelt University (Zambia). 

The ELECT project is more than just a research initiative – it's a beacon of hope for a brighter, more sustainable future for Zambia.

 LS-MFEZ Strengthens Climate Resilience with 3,100 Trees Donated by Vivo Energy

By Daily News Reporter

LS-MFEZ BOOST ITS CLIMATE RESILIENCE AND BIODIVERSITY WITHIN THE ZONE 

By Daily News Editor 

The Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone (LS-MFEZ) has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental sustainability by hosting a tree-planting event that brought together government officials, corporate partners, and community members.

The initiative saw the planting of 3,100 trees donated by Vivo Energy Zambia and its partners, aimed at boosting climate resilience and biodiversity within the Zone.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Raphael Chipoma, Chief Finance Officer of the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), urged participants to embrace collective responsibility in protecting the environment. Representing IDC CEO Mr. Cornwell Muleya, he emphasized the importance of “creating lungs for the community” through tree planting and other green initiatives.

“Sustainable industrial development cannot be achieved without deliberate efforts to protect and preserve the environment for present and future generations,” Mr. Chipoma said.

And meanwhile Dr. Douty Chibamba, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Green Economy, commended LS-MFEZ for prioritizing environmental sustainability alongside economic growth. Representing Minister Hon. Mike Mposha, Dr. Chibamba described the exercise as a practical example of responsible development.

“Sustainable development requires intentional actions, not just policy statements,” he noted. “This initiative demonstrates LS-MFEZ’s understanding of the balance between industrial growth and environmental protection.”

Mr. Boster Chiyaba, Chairperson of LS-MFEZ, highlighted that the tree-planting exercise, now in its second year, reflects a shared commitment among stakeholders. He announced plans to scale up the initiative in 2026 by planting at least 5,000 trees within and around the Zone.

He reaffirmed LS-MFEZ’s dedication to integrating sustainability into its operations and encouraged continued collaboration with partners and the community to ensure a greener, healthier future.

The event united government officials, corporate partners, and local residents under a common goal: building a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable economic zone.

By planting trees and fostering environmental stewardship, LS-MFEZ is setting a precedent for how industrial zones can lead in climate action and green development, creating a legacy of resilience for generations to come.

 MTN Zambia Launches AppJoy to Drive Digital Inclusion

By Daily news reporter

Zambia’s digital transformation journey has taken another decisive step forward with the launch of MTN Zambia’s AppJoy application, a platform designed to accelerate digital inclusion, expand access to affordable services, and empower citizens to participate meaningfully in the global digital economy.

At the launch, Hon. Felix Chipota Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science, commended MTN Zambia, Huawei, and other partners for their leadership and collaboration. He emphasized that digital inclusion is not a journey any single institution can undertake alone.

“Government, the private sector, and development partners must work together to close both the access and usage gaps,” Mutati said.

“It is encouraging to witness this partnership in action through initiatives such as AppJoy, which bring practical and inclusive solutions to our people.”

Mutati also appealed to media and digital influencers to help raise awareness and build trust in digital services, noting that Zambia’s digital literacy levels remain below 30 percent. The government’s ambition is clear: to connect 80 percent of the population with digital access and literacy and onboard 20 percent into the digital economy.

MTN Zambia CEO Abbad Reda described the launch as a bold step toward ensuring every Zambian can participate fully in the digital world.

“Digital inclusion is a cornerstone of national development,” Reda said.

“It enables individuals and communities—regardless of income, location, or digital experience—to access affordable, reliable technology and the skills to use it effectively.”

He highlighted MTN’s earlier success with the Alola 4G smartphone, which introduced more than 100,000 Zambians—many first-time internet users—into the digital world. AppJoy builds on this progress, offering entertainment, gaming, cloud storage, and secure digital access in one safe and engaging environment.

Huawei Vice President Alex Xing praised the launch as a global milestone and reaffirmed Huawei’s long-standing commitment to Zambia’s digital inclusion agenda.

“For over two decades, Huawei has aligned its mission with Zambia’s vision for digital inclusion,” Xing said. “From rural connectivity projects and digital villages to national data centres and ICT talent development, our focus has remained on ensuring that digital services are accessible to all.”

Huawei’s collaboration with MTN Zambia has spanned the rollout of 3G, 4G, and 5G networks, demonstrating the power of shared vision and innovation. Xing noted that AppJoy represents a practical response to barriers such as high device costs, combining locally relevant content with reliable infrastructure to ensure meaningful participation.

For a student in a rural area, a farmer, a market trader, or a small-scale artisan, AppJoy offers equal access to information, skills, and markets. It represents a future where every Zambian can learn, transact, connect, and dream bigger.

As Minister Mutati concluded, “Digital transformation is about people. It is about creating equal opportunities and improving livelihoods. AppJoy is a step toward that future.”

 Zambia’s Digital Economy Leaps Forward with MoMo Virtual Mastercard

By Daily News Reporter

Zambia’s digital economy has entered a new era. On December 18, 2025, the MoMo Virtual Mastercard was officially launched, marking a milestone in the country’s journey toward financial inclusion and global digital participation.

For the first time, Zambians can make secure international payments without the need for a physical card. Accessible via USSD and the MoMo App, the Virtual Mastercard empowers citizens to shop online, pay for services, and transact across borders—breaking geographical barriers that have long limited access to global markets.

“This is a national milestone,” declared Hon. Felix Chipota Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science, at the launch. He emphasized that the innovation aligns with Zambia’s Digital Transformation Strategy, which focuses on universal connectivity, interoperability, trust, progressive reforms, and partnerships.

For Zambia’s entrepreneurs, small businesses, and creators, the Virtual Mastercard is more than a financial tool—it is a gateway to opportunity.

MoMo CEO Komba Malukutila highlighted how the product enables local businesses to earn, pay, and transact globally without leaving their communities. “This empowers Zambians to participate in the global economy while staying rooted in their local environments,” he said.

The launch reflects Zambia’s broader vision of combining visionary leadership, enabling policies, and strong partnerships to drive inclusive growth. By ensuring accessibility for all users—whether through smartphones or basic mobile phones—the Virtual Mastercard is designed to democratize digital finance.

With this innovation, Zambia positions itself as a rising player in the digital economy. The MoMo Virtual Mastercard is not just about transactions—it represents a shift toward digital empowerment, where every citizen has the tools to connect, compete, and thrive in a globalized world.

 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.