HRC Resolves 82 of 100 Cases, Highlights Systemic Labour and Justice Failures

By Daily News Reporter 

In a gowing pattern of labour exploitation, prolonged detentions, and systemic inefficiencies in Zambia’s justice system has come into sharp focus, following a comprehensive review of human rights cases by the Human Rights Commission (HRC).

Presenting the findings in Lusaka, HRC Chairperson Dr. Pamela Towela Sambo painted a picture that goes beyond statistics—one that reflects the everyday struggles of vulnerable workers, detainees, and communities across the country.

Dr. Sambo said that the Commission reviewed 100 cases during its two-day meeting held from April 14 to 15, resolving 82 of them through mediation, redress, and institutional intervention.

" However, 18 cases remain under active investigation, underscoring the persistence of unresolved rights violations. But it is the nature of these cases—not just their number—that is raising alarm," said Dr. Sambo.

Among the most troubling findings is the widespread underpayment of workers, particularly domestic workers, security guards, and general labourers. Despite clear legal provisions, many employers are failing to comply with the statutory minimum wage.

Zambia’s Employment Code sets the minimum wage for domestic workers at K1,300 per month. Yet, the Commission revealed that some workers are earning as little as K800—barely enough to sustain basic living standards.

For many, this is not just an economic issue but a violation of dignity.

“These workers form a critical part of Zambia’s labour force, yet remain among the most vulnerable and least protected,” Dr. Sambo said,

She further emphasising that minimum wage compliance is not optional but a legal obligation.

Dr. Sambo also warned that such practices undermine the right to fair and just working conditions and pledged to intensify engagement with labour authorities to strengthen enforcement.

"Equally concerning are continued violations within the criminal justice system, particularly the over-detention of suspects," she added.

The Commission cited numerous cases where individuals were held in custody beyond the legally permitted 24-hour period without appearing before a court—often for minor offences such as petty theft or use of insulting language.

In some instances, suspects remained detained for weeks or even months due to delays in obtaining essential forensic reports. The lack of adequately equipped laboratories has forced reliance on centralised facilities in Lusaka, leaving suspects in remote areas such as Choma and Mongu in prolonged legal limbo.

In one striking example, suspects accused of serious offences were detained for up to 90 days while awaiting pathologists’ reports.

“These practices constitute serious violations of fundamental human rights,” she  noted, warning that such delays not only erode public trust but also expose the State to costly legal consequences.

The review also highlighted structural challenges within the justice system, including limited judicial infrastructure. In provinces like Muchinga, suspects are often transported long distances to access court services, only to remain in remand due to procedural delays.

This reality makes it difficult for many accused persons—particularly those from low-income backgrounds—to meet bail conditions, effectively prolonging their detention.

The ripple effects are significant. At the latest sitting alone, the Commission referred 56 cases to the Legal Aid Board for potential compensation claims against the State, signalling a growing financial risk linked to human rights violations.

Beyond labour and criminal justice issues, the Commission also raised concerns about land-related disputes involving traditional leaders. Cases were recorded in which individuals were evicted from customary land previously allocated to them—raising questions about property rights and potential discrimination.

While such cases were fewer in number, the Commission stressed their potential to disrupt livelihoods and social stability, calling for stronger engagement with traditional authorities to promote accountability and human rights compliance.

For the Human Rights Commission, the findings are not just a technical assessment—they are a reflection of lived experiences.

“The cases reviewed are not merely statistics. They reflect the lived realities of our fellow human beings,” Dr. Sambo said.

Behind each case lies a story: a domestic worker struggling to survive on below-minimum wages, a detainee waiting weeks for a court appearance, or a family displaced from land they once called home.

In response, the Commission has outlined a multi-pronged approach. This includes strengthening collaboration with the Labour Commissioner to enforce wage laws, enhancing public awareness on rights and responsibilities, and engaging law enforcement agencies to address unlawful detentions.

It also plans to work closely with the Legal Aid Board to support vulnerable victims and push for reforms that reduce the State’s exposure to compensation claims.

At the heart of these efforts is a broader goal: to build a culture where human rights are not only recognised in law.

As Zambia continues to pursue economic growth and institutional reform, the Commission’s findings serve as a timely reminder that development must go hand in hand with the protection of human dignity.

For now, the message from the Human Rights Commission is clear—laws exist, but enforcement must follow. And until it does, the most vulnerable will continue to bear the cost.

Members of the public have been encouraged to report violations through the Commission’s toll-free line 8181 and provincial offices, reinforcing the idea that safeguarding human rights is a shared national responsibility.

 Silwimba Welcomes UPND Convention Results, Appeals for Electoral Peace”

(President of the Bishop’s Council of Zambia, Bishop Martin Suwilanji Silwimba)

By Daily News Reporter 

As Zambia edges closer to the August general elections, calls for peace and political maturity are growing louder, with religious leaders once again stepping into the national conversation.

In Lusaka, President of the Bishop’s Council of Zambia, Bishop Martin Suwilanji Silwimba, has welcomed the outcome of the United Party for National Development (UPND) general convention, which saw President Hakainde Hichilema re-elected unopposed as party leader.

Speaking to the Daily News, Bishop Silwimba described the convention outcome as a sign of continuity within the ruling party and urged members to remain united as the country prepares for a highly anticipated election season.

“Leadership comes from God, so there is need for unity in the country,” he said. “The church is here to promote peace and unity.”

His remarks come at a politically sensitive moment, with parties intensifying internal mobilization and positioning ahead of the August polls.

Bishop Silwimba further appealed to both ruling and opposition political players to ensure that the electoral period remains peaceful, warning against any form of violence or division.

“Before the general election, the church expects the opposition and the ruling party to remain in peace,” he said. “We don’t want to see confusion and violence during, before and after general elections.”

The UPND recently concluded its general convention, where delegates reaffirmed confidence in President Hichilema’s leadership ahead of the national vote. The event was widely seen as a show of internal cohesion within the ruling party.

The Bishop’s Council of Zambia, which regularly issues statements on governance and national issues, has in recent years positioned itself as a moral voice calling for dialogue, restraint, and national unity during politically charged periods.

As campaign season gathers momentum, religious voices like Bishop Silwimba’s are expected to remain central in shaping public discourse—particularly around peace, tolerance, and democratic conduct.

For many observers, his message reflects a familiar but urgent reminder: that beyond political competition lies the deeper challenge of preserving national stability before, during, and after elections.

Zambia’s Construction Boom Meets Reality as 24-Hour Economy Push Gains Ground”

(Left: professor Paul L.K. Makasa Executive Director NCC and Right side Arch.  Mr. Chance Kaonga, Director Registration and Regulation)

By Daily News Reporter 

On the outskirts of Lusaka, the sounds of construction echo through the morning air—steel striking steel, engines humming, and workers moving with quiet urgency. It is a familiar scene in a sector that is rapidly expanding. But if government ambitions take hold, this activity may soon continue long after dark.

Zambia’s construction industry is entering a transformative phase, driven by rising contractor registrations, increased infrastructure demand, and the push toward a 24-hour economy. Yet beneath the momentum lies a complex mix of opportunity, imbalance, and growing regulatory pressure.

According to the National Council for Construction (NCC), more than 10,000 contractors were registered in the first quarter of 2026—a 23 percent increase from the same period last year. The surge signals a shift toward formalisation, bringing more players into the regulated system.

Speaking to the media in Lusaka NCC Executive Director Paul L. K. Makasa,  that the trend is encouraging—but not sufficient.

“Formalisation is important, but it does not automatically translate into quality or compliance,” he said.

Most of the newly registered contractors fall into lower categories, particularly Grade 6, which is dominated by small and medium-sized enterprises. 

 He also noted that These firms play a critical role in delivering community-level projects such as schools, clinics, and local infrastructure.

"however, their growth is constrained by limited access to financing, equipment, and technical expertise—factors that often affect project delivery," Mr. makasa said.

Industry observations show that while some sites meet required standards, others struggle with delays, poor supervision, and funding challenges. In certain cases, regulators have been forced to shut down non-compliant projects, underscoring the gap between registration and actual performance.

Mr Makasa added that despite the high number of local contractors, a significant imbalance persists in the allocation of construction work. Zambian-owned firms make up over 96 percent of registered contractors but account for only about 12 percent of the total value of projects. Large-scale developments remain largely in the hands of foreign companies.

The disparity highlights longstanding challenges around capacity, access to capital, and procurement systems that tend to favour more established international firms.

At the same time, the sector continues to be a major source of employment, with over 94 percent of jobs going to Zambian workers. Yet participation remains uneven, particularly for women, who are still underrepresented on construction sites.

Efforts are underway to address this imbalance. The NCC has introduced outreach programmes aimed at encouraging young women to pursue careers in construction-related fields, including engineering and skilled trades.

Meanwhile, Arch. Chance Kaonga, Director Registration and Regulation also added that the government’s push for a 24-hour economy is expected to reshape the sector even further.

Mr Kaonga said that implemented effectively, round-the-clock operations could accelerate project delivery, reduce costs, and boost economic activity. But industry experts warn that construction presents unique risks that cannot be ignored.

Unlike manufacturing, construction sites require high levels of supervision and safety control. Night work introduces additional challenges, including reduced visibility, worker fatigue, and security concerns.

There are also broader logistical questions, including the reliability of power supply and the readiness of supporting infrastructure to sustain continuous operations.

For regulators, the priority remains clear: ensuring that increased productivity does not come at the expense of safety and quality.

He added that as Zambia pushes forward with its development agenda, the construction sector stands at a critical juncture—balancing rapid growth with the need for stronger oversight, greater inclusivity, and long-term sustainability.

The foundations being laid today, industry observers say, will determine not only how fast the country builds—but how well it builds for the future.

 Embrace Your God-Given Role, Rev.  Pushi Tells Women and Youth

By Daily News Reporter 

In a modern aspirations often meet at a delicate crossroads, Reverend Dr. Agness Kaposa Pushi is urging Zambians—especially women and young people—not to choose between the two, but to embrace both with purpose.

Her message is not delivered from a place of abstraction, but from deep conviction: that within every woman and every young person lies a God-given role waiting to be fulfilled.

Standing at the intersection of faith, culture, and leadership, Reverend Dr. Pushi speaks with clarity about the enduring influence of women in society. She describes them as “keepers and tutors”—a phrase that evokes images of mothers, grandmothers, and mentors shaping lives far beyond the walls of their homes.

In many Zambian communities, the role of a woman extends beyond caregiving. She is the first teacher, the custodian of values, and often the quiet architect of character. It is this responsibility that Reverend Dr. Pushi believes must not be lost in a rapidly changing world.

“A mother is a child’s first teacher of tradition and respect,” she emphasizes, calling on older women to intentionally pass down moral values, faith, and life skills to the younger generation.

Yet her message does not end in the home—it expands outward.

At a time when conversations around gender equality and youth participation are gaining momentum, Reverend Dr. Pushi is clear: women and young people must not remain on the sidelines. Whether in governance, civil society, business, or public service, their presence is not optional—it is necessary.

“Your voices are needed,” she says, in what feels less like encouragement and more like a call to action.

For women in ministry, her words carry a special weight. She reminds them that their calling is valid and vital, urging them to step forward and serve faithfully, even in spaces that have traditionally been male-dominated.

But perhaps the most striking part of her message is directed at Zambia’s youth.

She refers to them as “potential Zambians”—a phrase that captures both promise and responsibility. In her view, young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are already shaping the Zambia of today through their choices, values, and ambitions.

Her advice is simple but profound: pursue education, uphold integrity, and recognize the power within.

In a nation rich with cultural heritage, Reverend Dr. Pushi also raises a gentle but firm warning—modernity must not come at the expense of identity. She calls on women to preserve and pass on Zambia’s customs and traditions, ensuring that future generations remain rooted even as they reach for new horizons.

Ultimately, her message is one of unity.

Unity between generations.

Unity between faith and action.

Unity between tradition and progress.

As she closes her remarks with a blessing over the nation, one thing becomes clear: Reverend Dr. Agness Kaposa Pushi is not just speaking to women and youth—she is shaping a vision of Zambia where leadership is inclusive, values are preserved, and every individual understands their role in building the future.

 China Community in Lusaka Pays Tribute to Kaweche Kaunda 

By Daily News Reporter 

Chinese community in Lusaka joined Zambians in mourning the death of Kaweche Kaunda, describing his passing as a significant loss to the long-standing friendship between Zambia and China.

Kaweche Kaunda, son of Zambia’s founding President Kenneth Kaunda, died suddenly in Ndola last week.

Speaking to Daily News after a memorial church service held at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross, Zambia–Chinese Association Executive President Wu Ming said that Kaweche’s death had brought deep sorrow to both Zambia and China.

Mr Wu also said the late Kaweche played an important role in preserving and strengthening the historical ties between the two countries, which date back to the early years of Zambia’s independence.

“His passing is a great loss not only to the Kaunda family but also to the people of Zambia and the enduring friendship we share with China. He will be greatly missed,” Mr. Ming said.

Zambia and China have maintained strong diplomatic and economic relations since 1964, built on mutual cooperation, trade, and infrastructure development. Among the most enduring symbols of this partnership is the TAZARA Railway, constructed in the 1970s with Chinese support during President Kaunda’s administration.

The railway remains a powerful symbol of solidarity between the two nations, particularly during Southern Africa’s liberation struggles.

In recent years, China has continued to play a key role as one of Zambia’s major development partners, investing in sectors such as mining, energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure.

The memorial service attracted a diverse gathering of mourners, including government officials, diplomats, church leaders, and members of the public, underscoring the wide-reaching influence of the Kaunda family.

Kaweche Kaunda’s death has been widely felt across the country, with tributes continuing to pour in from various sectors of society.

(c) All Rights Reserved.

 No Bail for Sexual Offenders: Zambia Takes Tough Stand on GBV

By Daily News Reporter 

The Non-governmental Gender Organisations' Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has welcomed the enactment of the Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) Act, No. 4 of 2026, which makes all sexual offences non-bailable in Zambia.

In a statement issued to Daily News Today, NGOCC described the development as a landmark legal reform aimed at strengthening the fight against gender-based violence (GBV).

NGOCC Executive Director, Ms. Anne Mbewe-Anamela, said the amendment sends a strong message that offences such as rape, defilement, and incest are serious crimes that require firm legal action.

She noted that removing bail for such offences will help prevent suspects from interfering with investigations, tampering with evidence, or intimidating witnesses, thereby improving the chances of successful prosecution.

“The law enhances the integrity of the justice system and reinforces public confidence,” she said.

She further stated that the reform reflects sustained advocacy efforts by civil society organisations, which have long called for stricter legal measures to address the growing cases of GBV in the country.

The organisation observed that women and girls remain the most affected by sexual violence, describing the situation as a crisis that requires urgent and decisive action.

It expressed hope that the new law will contribute to a shift in societal attitudes by discouraging impunity and addressing the normalization of sexual violence.

NGOCC has since urged government to complement the reform with the establishment of fast-track courts dedicated to GBV cases to ensure timely delivery of justice for survivors.

The Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) Act, No. 4 of 2026, is expected to play a critical role in strengthening Zambia’s legal framework in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence

Government Unveils $1.5 Billion Rural Electrification Roadmap for Universal Energy Access

By Daily News Reporter 

At the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, a familiar development challenge met a renewed national ambition: how to ensure that every Zambian, regardless of location, has access to electricity.

The answer, presented during the launch of the Updated Rural Electrification Master Plan (REMP) 2025–2030, signals one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure commitments in recent years—a decisive shift toward universal electricity access by 2030.

Speaking at the Launch of the Updated Rural Electrification Master Plan (REMP), Minister of Energy Hon. Makozo Chikote described the plan as more than a technical roadmap, calling it a “national development instrument” designed to unlock economic potential and improve livelihoods across rural Zambia.

For years, Zambia’s rural electrification efforts were guided by a 51 percent access target. That benchmark has now been retired.

In its place, government has adopted a far more ambitious goal: 100 percent electricity access within the decade.

MR Chikote said that the shift reflects changing realities—rising rural populations, expanding economic activity outside urban centres, and increasing demand for energy in agriculture, education, and healthcare.

The new direction also aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 7 and Zambia’s broader Vision 2030 agenda, which positions energy as a cornerstone of inclusive development.

At the centre of the updated strategy is a significant change in planning philosophy.

Instead of relying heavily on national grid expansion alone, the plan introduces a least-cost, technology-neutral approach, allowing different energy solutions to be deployed based on local conditions.

Under this model Mr Chikote highlighted the following are of focus,

Grid extension will serve viable high-demand corridors,

Mini-grids will power clustered rural settlements,

Solar home systems will reach remote and dispersed household

This flexible framework is designed to ensure efficiency, affordability, and faster delivery of electricity to underserved communities.

And Rural Electrification Authority (REA) Chief Executive Officer Mr Alex Mbumba stated that under the Rural Electrification Authority, will lead implementation using advanced geospatial mapping systems to guide investment decisions.

A standout feature of the new plan is the introduction of a dynamic geospatial planning platform, replacing static, paper-based planning models.

He also added that the system will allow authorities to Track electrification gaps in real time and update project data dynamically, Reduce duplication of infrastructure, improve targeting of investments.

He added that this marks a shift toward evidence-based, data-driven electrification planning—ensuring that resources follow need with greater precision.

And the roadmap of the project estimates that US$1.52 billion will be required between 2025 and 2030 to achieve universal access.

While the state will continue to provide leadership and regulatory oversight, the private sector is expected to play a central role in financing and implementation.

Also Mr Chikote emphasized that the plan is designed as an investment-ready roadmap, offering structured opportunities for developers, investors, and development partners.

He repeatedly stressed that electrification is not an end in itself, but a catalyst for broader development.

Expanded electricity access is expected to:

Boost rural enterprise development, Enhance agricultural productivity and value addition.

In this vision, electricity becomes the foundation for inclusive economic transformation.

The success of the plan, officials noted, will depend on collaboration across government, cooperating partners, civil society, traditional leadership, and the private sector.

The development process itself was highly consultative, involving multiple stakeholders, technical experts, and support institutions that helped refine the final framework.

Government says this inclusive approach has strengthened both the technical quality and implementation readiness of the plan.

As the launch concluded, one message stood out: Zambia’s challenge is no longer planning, but delivery.

The Updated REMP 2025–2030 now moves the country into an execution phase where success will be measured not by policy documents, but by illuminated homes, powered schools, and energized rural economies.

If achieved, the plan will mark a historic shift—transforming electricity from a privilege of geography into a universal right of citizenship in Zambia.