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.

 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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