Building Resilience in the Face of Climate Change: For A Better Zambia 

By Daily News Reporter 

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, with far-reaching consequences for individuals, communities, and systems around the world. Rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events are just a few of the impacts of climate change that are already being felt.

In Zambia, the effects of climate change are particularly pronounced, with droughts, floods, and heatwaves affecting agricultural productivity, food security, and human settlements. 

To address these challenges, the CLARExchange Zambia project conference was established to bring together stakeholders and share knowledge and experiences on climate adaptation and resilience.

And this year's CLARExchange Conference will take place on 6th to 9th May 2025 in Lusaka,

The CLARExchange Zambia project conference has the potential to make a significant impact on climate adaptation and resilience in Zambia. By bringing together stakeholders and sharing knowledge and experiences,

As the world continues to face these challenges of climate change, initiatives like the CLARExchange Zambia project conference are crucial. By working together and sharing knowledge and experiences, we can build resilience and promote sustainable development.

Climate change is projected to reduce Zambia's GDP by up to 10% by 2050.

The CLARE initiative is implemented in over 10 countries, including Zambia.

"Climate change is a ticking time bomb for Zambia. We need to take action now to reduce our vulnerability and build resiliences." Siame said.

"The CLARExchange Zambia project conference is a critical platform for sharing knowledge and experiences on climate adaptation and resilience." - Gilbert Siame, CLARExchange Zambia project lead

Zambia Seeks to Boost Trade and Investment with International Business Exchange

(ZDCC PRESIDENT FREUD MUSANU)

By Daily News Reporter  

The Zambia Diaspora Chamber of Commerce (ZDCC) hosted the International Business Exchange (IBEX) conference, bringing together business leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs from around the world.

The two-day event is under the theme: Redefining Diaspora: Connecting Businesses and Unlocking Zambia's Economic Potential", held in Lusaka is aimed to promote trade and investment between Zambia and international markets. Keynote speakers and panelists discussed topics such as business development, investment opportunities, and cultural exchange.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Internal Security Permanent Secretary International Relations and Cooperation Mrs Etambuyu  Anamela emphasized the government's commitment to creating a conducive business environment and promoting economic growth.

"We recognize the importance of international trade and investment in driving economic development," Anamela said.

 "We are committed to working with the private sector and international partners to create opportunities for growth and job creation."   Anamela Added .

The conference also featured exhibitions and business-to-business meetings, providing opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses to connect with potential investors and partners.

The ZDCC aims to boost US-Zambia investment portfolio and trade volume to $1 billion by 2030. The ZDCC president, Mr. Freud Musanu expressed optimism about the potential for growth and cooperation.

"We believe that this conference will mark the beginning of a new era of cooperation and growth between Zambia and international markets," Musanu said.

The IBEX conference is expected to attract over 200 delegates from Zambia, the United States, Europe, and other regions and within Africa.

Meanwhile Chief of Mission of International Organization for Migration (lOM) Keisha Livermore stated that International Organization for Migration Supports Zambia's Diaspora Engagement Efforts where it has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Zambia's diaspora engagement efforts, aimed at harnessing the potential of the Zambian diaspora community for national development.

Speaking at the International Business Exchange (IBEX) conference in Lusaka, IOM's Chief of Mission to Zambia, Keisha Livermore emphasized the importance of diaspora engagement for economic growth and development.

"The Zambian diaspora community has a critical role to play in the country's development," Livermore said.

 "IOM is committed to supporting the government's efforts to engage with the diaspora and leverage their skills, expertise, and resources for national development." She added.

The IBEX conference, organized by the Zambia Diaspora Chamber of Commerce, brought together business leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs from around the world to explore opportunities for trade, investment, and collaboration.

IOM's participation in the conference highlighted the organization's commitment to supporting Zambia's diaspora engagement efforts, including diaspora mapping, capacity building, and policy dialogue.

(Delegates attending the International Business Exchange (IBEX) conference at the Taj Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka, Zambia).

Living with Sickle Cell Disease: A Story of Resilience and Hope

As she sits in her small apartment, surrounded by the vibrant colors of her artwork, 25-year-old Chikondi Mwamba exudes a sense of calm and determination. But behind her bright smile and infectious laugh lies a story of struggle and resilience.

Mukoka was diagnosed with sickle cell disease (SCD) at the age of six. Since then, she has faced countless hospitalizations, painful crises, and the stigma that often accompanies this genetic disorder.

"I remember feeling so alone and scared," Mukoka recalls. "People would say, 'Oh, you're sick, you can't do this or that.' But my parents were always there to encourage me, to tell me that I was capable of achieving anything I set my mind to."

Despite the challenges, Mukoka refused to let SCD define her. She pursued her passion for art, using her creativity as a way to cope with the pain and frustration. Today, her artwork is a testament to her strength and resilience.

"My art is my escape," Mukoka explains. "When I'm painting, I forget about the pain and the struggles. I'm free."

Mukoka's story is not unique. Thousands of people in Zambia live with SCD, facing similar challenges and stigma. 

But Mukoka s determination and refusal to give up have inspired countless others to do the same.

"She's a true warrior," says Dr. Bwalya ( name withheld), a hematologist at the University Teaching Hospital.

 "Mukoka's story is a reminder that SCD is not a death sentence. With proper care and management, people with SCD can lead active and fulfilling lives."

As Mukoka looks to the future, she remains committed to raising awareness about SCD and promoting education and understanding. She knows that by sharing her story, she can help break the stigma surrounding this disease and inspire others to do the same.

"I want people to know that SCD is not something to be ashamed of," Mukoka said 

"It's a part of who I am, but it doesn't define me. I am strong, I am resilient, and I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to."

Facts About Sickle Cell Disease:

1. SCD is a genetic disorder that affects the production of hemoglobin.

2. the proper management and care, people with SCD can lead active and fulfilling lives.

1. Sickle Cell Disease Association of Zambia

2. Ministry of Health, Zambia

3. World Health Organization (WHO)

Photo caption: Given Mukoka a 25-year-old artist living with sickle cell disease, sits in her apartment surrounded by her vibrant artwork.

 BESTLIFE INSURANCE AND YANGO TO IMPROVE DRIVER'S SAFETY 

By Daily News Reporter 

Bestlife insurance and Yango has partnered to support and protect the drivers through their transportation yango clients.

Recently yango's drivers have passed set backs interms of drivers being kidnapped, accidents or killed during their transportation operation.

This lack of support has been closed through Bestlife insurance limited in partnership with Yango Zambia.

Speaking during the Memorandum of Understanding signing with YANGO, Bestlife insurance limited Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Christabel Michel stated that this is the shared commitment with Yango to protect safety of Yango drivers during operation as long as they are insured with bestlife insurance limited.

Michel also said that this to bridge the gaps which drivers face so that they can have a peace of mind in their operation activities.

And Yango Zambia Chief Executive Officer Kabanda Chewe added that this will ensure that all Yango drivers to be protected and safe so that Yango clients can fee safe as they are enjoying their ride.

She further urged Yango drivers to come and being covered by bestlife insurance limited through Yango initiative of insurance.

 Did you know that…

⚠️ Over 200 diseases are caused by eating contaminated food.

🥘 1 in 10 people worldwide fall ill from contaminated food each year.

👶🏽 40% of the foodborne disease burden is carried by children under 5.

💵 US$ 110 billion is lost each year in productivity and medical expenses resulting from unsafe food in low- and middle-income countries.

Foodborne illnesses are usually infectious or toxic in nature and caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemical substances entering the body through contaminated food.

💡 Access to sufficient amounts of safe and nutritious food is key to sustaining life and good health.

 

🍎 Safe food supplies also contribute to food and nutrition security, support national economies, trade and tourism, and underpin sustainable development.

Food safety is everyone’s business, here’s what you can do:

*Practice* safe food handling at home: keep it clean, separate raw and cooked food, cook food thoroughly, keep food at safe temperatures and use safe water and raw materials.

*Learn* how to keep food safe before, during, and after emergencies, such as floods, fires, natural disasters or the loss of power.  

*Know* how to report poor hygiene standards and misleading food labeling.

(WHO)

Harmonizing Veterinary Medicine Regulation in Southern Africa

By Daily News Reporter 

In a significant step towards harmonizing the regulation of veterinary medicinal products in Southern Africa, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) recently conducted its first physical joint assessment. 

This groundbreaking initiative, held in collaboration with the UK's Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), aims to enhance the availability and accessibility of quality veterinary medicinal products across the region.

The joint assessment, as part of the Zambia , Zimbabwe, Botswana, Nambia, South Africa , Malawi and Tanzania ( ZAZIBONA) project, brought together regulatory experts from SADC Member States and the UK-VMD. Over  five (5) days, the team evaluated the regulatory framework, procedures, and capacity of participating countries in regulating veterinary medicinal products.

Speaking during the meeting Zambia Medicine Regulatory Authority ( ZAMRA) representing Director General, Director Finance Mr Mathews Banda stated that this initiative of collaboration among SADC counties will improve the access quality of veterinary medicine products in the region.

"This joint assessment marks a crucial milestone in our efforts to harmonize veterinary medicine regulation in Southern Africa," said Mr Banda said.

"By working together, we can ensure that our region has access to safe, effective, and quality veterinary medicinal products." Mr. Banda said.

The assessment team also evaluating compliance with regional and international standards. The team further shared best practices and experiences from the UK-VMD and other regions, discussing how to adapt and implement these in the SADC region.

"This collaboration with the UK-VMD has been invaluable," said mr Banda 

 "We have gained valuable insights into international best practices and are committed to implementing these in our own regulatory frameworks." He added.

And the joint assessment culminated in the development of an action plan and recommendations for improving the regulation of veterinary medicinal products in SADC Member States. 

This plan will guide future efforts to enhance regional cooperation, capacity building, and the sharing of best practices.

As the SADC region continues to work towards harmonizing veterinary medicine regulation, this joint assessment marks a significant step forward. 

By collaborating with international partners and sharing expertise, Southern Africa can ensure the availability of quality veterinary medicinal products, ultimately enhancing animal health, public health, and regional economic development.

The ZAZIBONA project aims to harmonize the registration of veterinary medicinal products across the SADC region. By streamlining regulatory processes and enhancing cooperation, ZAZIBONA seeks to improve the availability and accessibility of quality veterinary medicinal products.

 

ZATEX TO BOOST REVENUE FOR LOCAL TOURISM AND GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS 

By Daily News Reporter 

The Zambia Travel EXPO ( ZATEX ) which is set to become the leading tourism event in Zambia, it's aim is to evolve into a globally recognized platform over the next five years.

This year's ZATEX is under the theme " Sustainable Tourism: Driving Inclusive Growth".

Speaking during the launch of ZATEX in Lusaka Ministry of Tourism Permanent Secretary Mr. Evans Muhanga stated that this will give opportunity to local tourism sector especially Small Business in the tourism sector and engaging the Ministry of Tourism.

He also stated that private sectors and public to start working together and ensure that the industry improve and grow.

He further added this Will boost revenue for local operators and enabling global partnerships.

And Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba said, this is a call to action and ensure that the sector explore to international and local tourists.

He add that it will attract to key buyers from international markets by improving the country's position in the global tourism industry and strengthen domestic tourism also by promoting sustainable growth in the sector.

Mr Rodney urged the private sectors in the sector to bring out those tourism attention such as lodges, Hotels and other facilities to attract investors.