Biggest Talent Africa: Zambia Champions Youth Voices on Continental Stage

By Daily News Reporter

Lusaka, Zambia — April 19, 2026 

The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Arts has thrown its weight behind the newly launched “Biggest Talent Africa” competition, hailing it as a transformative platform to empower young Africans through creativity and innovation.

Speaking at the unveiling in Lusaka, Director of Arts Ms. Esther N’gambi described the initiative as a milestone for Zambia’s cultural landscape. “The government is focused on transforming the creative industry into a key economic driver,” she said.

“We are doing this through talent development, infrastructure investment, digital innovation and stronger protections for artists.” Ms. N’gambi added.

The event is and will be Organized by Sustec Africa in partnership with the Zambia Is Possible (ZIP) movement, the competition will scout singing talent across multiple African countries. Eight finalists will be selected to compete in a grand finale on May 30, 2026, in Lusaka Zambia.

The program aligns with Zambia’s National Arts Policy, which seeks to build a sustainable and dynamic arts sector that contributes to national development. Ms. N’gambi emphasized that the contest will not only showcase artistic excellence but also foster cultural exchange and youth empowerment.

And Wanina Mtolo Phiri, Executive Director of Sustainable Development and Trading Limited, highlighted the competition’s inclusivity stated that this platform give opportunity to youths who have no chance to showcase their talent but this program it will boost their career.

And speaking at the same media launch Ms. Carol Mokola, President Zambia Is Possible (ZIP), explained that the organization was created to give young people in all ten provinces a platform to display their talents and build sustainable livelihoods. ZIP’s focus spans technology, agriculture, business, and the arts.

Beyond entertainment, the initiative is seen as a strategic investment in Zambia’s creative economy. By equipping participants with practical skills, organizers hope to enable young people to earn a livelihood while contributing to national growth.

Sustec Africa will be spearheading the program, noting its potential to position Zambia as a leading hub for arts and entertainment while strengthening unity among African nations featuring Neyo Slayer Zambia, Tiana, Frank Ro Music, and Chewe Superstar, with more exciting acts set to light up the stage.

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 Observers Flag Legal and Political Risks Ahead of Zambia’s 2026 Elections

Zambia counts down to the August 13 general elections, international observers warn that rushed legal reforms and political tensions could test the country’s democratic maturity.

By Daily News Reporter 

LUSAKA — At a busy roadside market in Lusaka, conversations about prices, jobs, and daily survival are increasingly giving way to another pressing question: Will this year’s elections be free and fair?

With just over 100 days before Zambians head to the polls, a pre-election assessment by the National Democratic Institute (NDI) suggests that while the country’s democratic spirit remains strong, the systems meant to safeguard it may be under strain.

Following a high-level mission from April 25 to 30, the institute raised concerns that ongoing constitutional and electoral reforms—introduced barely months before voting day—could undermine transparency, voter understanding, and confidence in the process.

Key amendments to Zambia’s Electoral Process Act only began taking shape in late 2025, leaving little room for consultation, implementation, and voter education.

“Electoral reforms should ideally be completed at least a year before an election,” said Mohamed Ibn Chambas, who led the delegation. “Late changes risk confusion and erode public trust.”

For many voters, the concern is practical. New rules, unfamiliar systems, and unclear procedures could make it harder to understand how their vote translates into representation.

One of the most significant proposed changes is the introduction of a mixed-member proportional representation (MMPR) system—a hybrid model combining constituency-based elections with party-list representation.

While the reform has been welcomed as a step toward inclusivity, the NDI found that critical details remain unclear, including how seats will be allocated and how voters will engage with the new system.

More controversially, provisions requiring political parties to submit lists of proportional representation candidates after election results have been announced have drawn sharp criticism.

And according to Chambas, this limits transparency and denies voters the chance to evaluate candidates before casting their ballots.

It also raises operational concerns for the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), which must verify candidate eligibility under tighter timelines.

The creation of 70 new constituencies was intended to improve representation, but observers argue it may not fully address disparities in voting power. In some provinces, a single vote carries significantly more weight than one cast in Lusaka—raising questions about fairness in representation.

For a country marking over three decades of multiparty democracy, such imbalances highlight the unfinished business of electoral reform.

Opposition parties and civil society groups have cited difficulties in holding rallies, expressing dissent, and participating fully in the electoral process.

At the center of this tension is the Public Order Act (POA), a long-criticized piece of legislation governing public gatherings.

Observers say its inconsistent application has historically tilted the playing field, restricting some political actors while allowing others greater freedom.

A proposed Public Gathering Bill, introduced during the NDI mission, could address these concerns—but with elections fast approaching, its impact remains uncertain.

Gemima Barlow, the institute’s Regional Director for Southern and East Africa, noted that meaningful steps can still be taken to strengthen transparency and inclusivity.

These include improving access to voter information, ensuring equal enforcement of the law, and fostering dialogue among political stakeholders.

Meanwhile, Lilian Mahiri-Zaja, a member of the delegation, emphasized the importance of protecting fundamental freedoms.

“Political parties must be allowed to participate freely and fully,” she said, stressing that fair elections depend on freedom of expression, assembly, and equal treatment under the law.

The 2026 general elections are not just another political contest—they are a test of whether the country can consolidate the democratic gains made in recent years while navigating complex reforms.

For voters in Lusaka and beyond, the outcome will shape not only who governs, but how governance itself is defined.

“The credibility of elections ultimately lies in the hands of the people,” Mahiri-Zaja said. “But it depends on systems that are transparent, inclusive, and trusted.”

As the countdown to August 13 continues, Zambia finds itself in a race against time—balancing reform with readiness, and ambition with accountability.

The team included heavyweights: Commissioner Lilian B. Mahiri-Zaja, former Vice Chair of Kenya’s IEBC; Professor Christina Murray,  Professor Emeritus of Constitutional and Human Rights Law, University of Cape Town; Cynthia Mbamalu, Director of Programs, Yiaga Africa, Nigeria; Gemima Barlow, NDI Director for Southern and East Africa; and Richard L. Klein, NDI Director of Elections. 

Pressure Mounts on Hakainde Hichilema to Enact Tobacco Law Amid Hypertension Crisis

By Daily News Reporter 

LUSAKA, May 5, 2026 — Every morning, Grace Chewe checks her blood pressure before she begins her day. It is a ritual she cannot afford to skip.

“I didn’t even know I had it,” she says quietly. “There were no signs. One day I just collapsed.”

Chewe is one of thousands of Zambians living with hypertension — a condition often described as a silent killer because it shows no symptoms until it is too late. Now, as the country marks May Measurement Month 2026, she is turning her personal struggle into a national call for action.

Through the Zambia Heart and Stroke Foundation Ms. Brenda Chitindi is appealing directly to President Hakainde Hichilema to sign the long-awaited Tobacco Control Bill into law.

Her message is simple but urgent: controlling tobacco could save lives.

Across Zambia, hypertension is quietly tightening its grip. Once considered a disease of affluence, it is now spreading rapidly through low-income communities, rural areas, and even among young people.

Health experts warn that many victims never make it to hospitals.

“They die at home, undiagnosed,” says a local health worker in Lusaka’s densely populated Kanyama township. “We only hear about it when it’s too late.”

The global “Know Your Numbers” campaign, led by the International Society of Hypertension, is trying to change that by encouraging people to regularly check their blood pressure.

But awareness alone, advocates say, is not enough.

Behind the rising cases lies a powerful and preventable trigger: tobacco.

Medical evidence shows that every cigarette raises blood pressure almost instantly, while long-term use damages vital organs — the heart, brain, kidneys, and lungs. Even non-smokers are not spared, as secondhand smoke increases their risk.

For patients like Grace, the link is personal.

“We are fighting to control our condition,” she says. “But tobacco is making it harder — not just for us, but for everyone around us.”

Zambia’s Tobacco Control Bill, already adopted by Parliament, is designed to reduce smoking, protect non-smokers, and limit exposure — especially among young people.

“The solution is right there,” Chitindi says. “It just needs one signature.”

Public health advocates argue that enacting the law could:

Reduce hypertension rates nationwide

Prevent strokes and heart attacks

Protect vulnerable communities with limited access to healthcare

Strengthen Zambia’s fight against non-communicable diseases

In a country where health systems are already stretched, prevention may be the most powerful tool available.

 Zambian Anaesthesiologist Dr. Mack Kalenga Wins Global Rising Star Award

By Daily News Reporter 

LUSAKA, May 1, 2026 — Zambian anaesthesiologist Dr. Mack Kalenga has been internationally recognised after receiving the prestigious Rising Star Award from the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists (WFSA), in acknowledgement of his contributions to patient care, training, and the strengthening of anaesthesia systems.

The award honours emerging leaders in anaesthesiology who are making meaningful impact within their countries and globally. Dr. Kalenga’s recognition places him among a select group of clinicians advancing safe surgical care in resource-constrained settings.

In Zambia, where universal access to safe anaesthesia remains a major challenge, Dr. Kalenga’s work has focused on improving both clinical care and health system capacity. The country currently has fewer than 40 anaesthesiologists serving a population of over 20 million people—equivalent to approximately 0.2 specialists per 100,000 population. This is significantly below the benchmark of five per 100,000 recommended by the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists. Zambia also produces only two to four new anaesthesiologists each year, highlighting the scale of the workforce gap.

Dr. Kalenga is the lead for anaesthesia services within Zambia’s national renal transplant programme at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, where he has played a key role in supporting the development of the country’s transplant capacity. He is also co-principal investigator on a nationwide study assessing anaesthesia capacity across government hospitals, aimed at identifying gaps in workforce, infrastructure, equipment, and medication availability.

In addition to his clinical and research work, he leads simulation-based training and numerous quality improvement initiatives within his department, with a focus on patient safety, standardisation of care, and strengthening perioperative systems.

“This recognition is deeply encouraging, but it is not mine alone,” said Dr. Kalenga. “It reflects the collective effort of the many hardworking anaesthesia providers I have the privilege of working alongside every day. At the same time, it highlights the urgent need to strengthen anaesthesia systems in Zambia. With such a limited workforce, improving patient safety will require coordinated national investment in training, infrastructure, and standards.”

The WFSA described Dr. Kalenga as a committed practitioner whose work aligns with its mission to improve access to safe anaesthesia worldwide. His contributions span frontline clinical care, mentorship of trainees, and advocacy for safer surgical systems. 

Health sector stakeholders say the recognition reflects both individual excellence and the growing presence of Zambian clinicians on the global stage. It also underscores the importance of continued investment in specialised medical training and system strengthening to address critical workforce shortages.

As global efforts to improve surgical care expand, achievements such as Dr. Kalenga’s highlight the role of local leadership in driving meaningful change. For many in Zambia’s healthcare community, the award is not only a moment of recognition, but a signal of what is possible with sustained focus on patient safety and capacity building.

 TBZ, ZAMCOM Sign MoU to Strengthen Communication in Tobacco Sector

By DAILY News Reporter

The Tobacco Board of Zambia (TBZ) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Zambia Institute of Mass Communication Educational Trust ( ZAMCOM) aimed at strengthening communication, visibility, and capacity building within Zambia’s tobacco sector.

The agreement, signed at TBZ Head Office in Lusaka on Thursday, will see the two institutions collaborate on strategic communication, digital content production, and training initiatives.

Speaking during the ceremony, TBZ Executive Director Mr. Robert Mwale said the partnership is part of the institution’s broader strategy to enhance stakeholder engagement and improve how the tobacco industry is communicated to the public.

Mr. Mwale noted that tobacco remains a key crop in Zambia’s agricultural sector, contributing to job creation, rural livelihoods, and export earnings.

“We are expanding our footprint to bring services closer to farmers, while also ensuring that our story is told effectively through modern communication platforms,” Mr. Mwale said.

Mr. Mwale also added that the collaboration with ZAMCOM will help TBZ produce high-quality branded content, including videos and digital media, to showcase the impact of the crop across the country.

Mr. Mwale further revealed that TBZ is targeting the production of 80 million kilograms of tobacco in the 2025/2026 marketing season.

And ZAMCOM Executive Director Kennedy Mwila said the MoU represents a shared commitment to enhancing communication effectiveness in the tobacco sub-sector.

Mr. Mwila explained that ZAMCOM will provide a range of services, including training in communication and public relations, production of radio jingles, digital content creation, and documentary production.

He emphasized that effective communication is critical in highlighting the value chain of tobacco—from farmers to processors—and its contribution to the national economy.

“This partnership demonstrates the importance of communication as a strategic tool in national development,” Mr. Mwila said.

The collaboration is also expected to strengthen ZAMCOM’s role as a multimedia institution offering training, consultancy, and production services tailored to industry needs.

Both institutions expressed confidence that the partnership will deliver meaningful results and improve public understanding of the tobacco sector.

 Zambia’s Regulators Join Forces to Protect Flyers and Strengthen Aviation Fairness

By Daily News Reporter

At the Civil Aviation Authority headquarters in Lusaka, a new partnership was sealed that promises to reshape Zambia’s aviation sector. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen oversight of airline pricing, promote fair competition, and safeguard consumer rights.

Speaking at the Signing MOU ceremony in Lusaka CCPC Executive Director, Mrs. Eunice Phiri Hamavhungwa, described the MoU as a shared pledge to ensure “the wings of commerce in our skies operate under the highest standards of integrity.” She emphasized that aviation is more than transport—it is a lifeline for trade, tourism, and connectivity. With liberalisation opening Zambia’s skies to new players, she noted, stronger safeguards are essential to protect consumers and ensure fair market practices.

The agreement aligns Zambia with international and regional frameworks such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, the Yamoussoukro Decision, and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). These initiatives encourage liberalised air services but also demand robust competition and consumer protection.

The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation in information sharing, market monitoring, joint investigations, complaint handling, and capacity building. Mrs. Hamavhungwa explained that this will help tackle issues such as abuse of dominance, price fixing, and unfair trading practices. Importantly, both institutions will remain independently mandated, ensuring regulatory balance while strengthening collaboration.

And Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Director General Captain Derrick F. Luembe called the partnership a significant step in improving regulatory coordination. He stressed that aviation is a key driver of economic growth, tourism, and regional integration. Grounded in the Competition and Consumer Protection Act, the MoU empowers the CCPC to prevent anti-competitive behaviour while supporting the CAA’s oversight role.

Captain Luembe highlighted that the collaboration will enhance transparency in airfares, improve complaint handling, and strengthen regulatory consistency. A Joint Working Committee will be established to facilitate technical cooperation, including joint market studies, investigations, and information sharing.

Both leaders warned against anti-competitive practices such as price fixing and abuse of dominance, which distort markets and harm consumers. They clarified that the MoU does not introduce price controls or regulate airfares—pricing will remain determined by market forces such as demand, operating costs, and airline business models. Rising fuel costs, driven by global geopolitical factors, were acknowledged as a major challenge for the industry.

Mrs. Hamavhungwa reiterated that the agreement is not about controlling prices but about ensuring fair competition and transparency. Captain Luembe reaffirmed the CAA’s commitment to working with the CCPC and other stakeholders to promote a transparent, competitive, and consumer-focused aviation sector.

With this MoU, Zambia’s regulators have signaled a clear message: the skies must remain open, fair, and accountable—where consumers are protected, competition thrives, and aviation continues to drive national and regional progress.

 Mercury use in gold mining in Mpika, a ticking time bomb

By Lloyd Mwape, Caesar Sindele, Sarah Kayombo, Alliness Zulu, Purity Mafunga & Lucy Nambela

What once flowed as life-giving water in Kanyelele and surrounding areas now carries a hidden danger. As mercury use in gold extraction intensifies, communities downstream face a silent but escalating threat, one that risks widespread poisoning and turns daily survival into uncertainty.

Investigations reveal that unskilled and illegal miners operating in Kanyelele are openly using mercury to extract alluvial gold.

During panning, miners mix water, mercury and ore in small basins, allowing the mercury to bind with gold particles for easier separation.

“When the mercury binds with the gold, it helps us separate it from the soil,” one miner explained.

Due to limited water at mining sites, miners admitted they frequently relocate operations to nearby streams, including the Munenshi stream, one of the main water sources for local communities.

“We don’t have enough water at the site, so we go to the river,” another miner said.

The process does not end there. After extraction, miners burn the mercury-gold amalgam in open air, releasing toxic mercury vapour into the environment.

“The heat evaporates the mercury and leaves the gold behind,” a miner added.

But the environmental and health consequences are severe.

Ward Development Committee Vice Chairperson Davies Chama says the situation has spiraled out of control, with miners polluting water sources with little regard for regulations or community safety.

Residents are already feeling the impact. Amos Chisenga, a local villager, says access to clean water has become a daily struggle.

“The river water is discoloured. We now have to walk long distances to find safe water,” he said, calling on authorities to intervene urgently.

Health expert Teddy Mulenga warns that mercury exposure poses long-term and often irreversible health risks.

“Mercury is extremely dangerous. It can be absorbed through the skin and attacks the central nervous system,” he explained. “In the short term, people may experience tremors or numbness. Over time, it leads to memory loss and chronic neurological conditions.”

He added that mercury exposure can also damage vital organs.

“The liver is affected first, and as it begins to fail, the kidneys are also compromised,” he said.

Mulenga further explained that when mercury enters water bodies, it is converted by bacteria into methylmercury, a highly toxic compound that accumulates in fish. Communities consuming contaminated fish are unknowingly exposed, with pregnant women and children facing the highest risk.

Environmental expert James Matches has described the situation as a “ticking time bomb,” citing the unregulated use of mercury and cyanide in the gold rush.

“The contamination of water bodies is already evident. What we are seeing is a double impact- both the soil and water systems are being polluted,” he said.

Matches noted that most of the mining activities are being conducted without oversight, certification, or adherence to environmental safeguards.

Under the Zambia Environmental Management Act No. 12 of 2011, it is an offence to discharge or apply any poisonous, toxic, or polluting substance into the environment in a manner that causes harm to human health, water resources, or biodiversity. The law further requires that any activity likely to have an environmental impact, such as mining- must undergo an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and be approved by the Zambia Environmental Management Authority (ZEMA).

The Act also sets strict guidelines on the handling, storage, transportation, and use of hazardous chemicals such as mercury and cyanide. Failure to comply can result in penalties, including fines, imprisonment, or both.

“In this case, it is clear that these operations are not compliant,” Matches said. “There is no evidence of ZEMA certification or adherence to safe chemical handling procedures.”

He said that the lack of accountability in waste disposal is worsening the crisis.

“These mining processes require large volumes of water, yet no one is monitoring where contaminated water or tailings are discharged. This is dangerous for both ecosystems and human settlements downstream,” he said.

The environmental cost is equally alarming. Contamination threatens aquatic life, vegetation, and the broader ecosystem, raising concerns about long-term biodiversity loss in the area.

Matches also questioned the apparent lack of political and traditional leadership intervention, accusing some local authorities of prioritizing short-term economic gains over environmental protection.

“We risk sacrificing the future for immediate financial benefit. This is something we will regret if urgent action is not taken,” he warned.

While acknowledging that many residents have turned to gold mining as a means of survival, Matches stressed that economic opportunities must not come at the expense of public health.

“We cannot have a wealthy but sick population. Development must be sustainable and protect human life,” he said.

Experts are now calling for urgent intervention, including stricter enforcement of environmental laws, community sensitization and the introduction of safer, mercury-free mining technologies.