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Protecting Women in Elections

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New push to ensure safe participation in 2026 general elections By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24 --- (March 19, 2026) — Lifeline/Childline Zambia says it is stepping up efforts aimed at protecting women in elections by increasing public awareness of the 933 Violence Against Women in Elections (VAWE) Hotline ahead of the 2026 General Elections Florence Chileshe Nkhuwa said the move is part of a broader push to ensure women participate safely in the electoral process, following growing concerns about sexual exploitation, harassment, and intimidation during political adoption and campaign activities Nkhuwa said the hotline provides a confidential, toll-free platform where women can report election-related violence, including sexual coercion, intimidation, harassment, and abuse linked to political participation. She explained that survivors and witnesses can call 933, 116, or 944 to access counselling, referrals, and immediate support services. Nkhuwa said recent media report...
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Investing in Safe Water for All

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Policies must translate into action, and investments are critical for safe water and sanitation in rural areas and healthcare facilities. Increased funding and tangible actions are needed to ensure equitable access to clean water and sanitation, particularly in underserved communities. By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24 — (18-03-2026) --- WaterAid Zambia, the National Water Supply and Sanitation Council (NWASCO), and partners emphasize that translating policies into real action and increasing investments are critical to ensure safe and equitable access to water and sanitation services, particularly in rural communities and healthcare facilities. The organizations marked World Water Day with a panel discussion at the Taj Pamodzi Hotel under the theme “Gender and Water.” The event focused on fostering inclusive leadership, promoting gender equality, and highlighting the critical role women play in shaping sustainable water and sanitation solutions. Yakho Mataya, Country Direc...
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More Councillors Join UPND

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As Party Cites Development Gains, Unity Agenda By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24 — (18-03-2026) -- More councillors have joined the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), citing ongoing development, economic recovery, and improved service delivery as key reasons for their decision. Speaking during the announcement at the media briefing, UPND National Chairperson Collins Maoma welcomed the councillors, saying the party remains open to all Zambians and encourages broader participation in governance. Mr Maoma said the move by the councillors reflects growing confidence in the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema and the policies being implemented. “The doors of UPND are open to everyone. What is happening in this country shows that anyone is free to join and participate in politics,” he said. He pointed to major government initiatives such as free education, which has enabled many children to return to school, as well as the school feeding programme that is support...
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Sextortion Threatens Women

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Political adoption processes reportedly exploit female candidates By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24  --- (18-03-2026) -- The Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has warned that sextortion—where female aspiring candidates are asked for sexual favours in exchange for party adoption—is threatening women’s participation in politics and must be urgently addressed ahead of the forthcoming general elections. Ms. Annie Mbewe-Anamela said told Zambia24 that the council is deeply concerned over revelations of this abuse, which aligns with long-standing concerns NGOCC has consistently raised during engagements with female aspirants across the country. She said the challenges highlighted by reflect persistent risks female aspirants face during party adoption processes. Many women fear being subjected to sextortion, which creates significant barriers to inclusive governance and equal political participation. Ms. Mbewe-Anamela explained that sextortion d...
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New Line of Credit for Farmers, SMEs

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Government-backed facility aims to boost agribusiness investment and market access and is expected to strengthen agribusiness value chains and support small enterprises By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24 — (17 March 2026 ) — The Government of Zambia, in partnership with the World Bank and participating financial institutions including Zanaco, has launched a new line of credit aimed at expanding access to affordable financing for farmers, agribusinesses and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The government-backed facility is expected to boost agribusiness investment, improve market access and strengthen agribusiness value chains while supporting the growth of small enterprises across the country. Permanent Secretary for Investment and Industrialisation Crusivia Hichikumba said during the launch that the facility represents an important step towards unlocking the growth potential of Zambian businesses operating in the agriculture sector. Hichikumba explained that the Lin...
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Towards Sustainable Mining

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Ministry of Mines and ZEMA back sustainable practices that promote environmental protection, community development, and ensure traceable gold and better incomes for miners By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24 – (17 March 2026 ) -- ZCCM Investments Holdings (ZCCM-IH) and planetGold Zambia Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting sustainable artisanal and small-scale gold mining in Zambia. ZCCM-IH Chief Executive Officer Kakenenwa Muyangwa said during the signing ceremony that the partnership will bring world-class solutions to artisanal and small-scale miners. He explained that the initiative will advance mercury-free mining, promote formalized supply chains, and help create fair markets for miners. Muyangwa added that the collaboration will also improve miners’ incomes, support community development, and reduce environmental impacts. Muyangwa said the partnership introduces practices that promote safer mining operations while protecting the ...
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Underwear, Illicit Alcohol Risk

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Hatyoka says banned textiles and unregulated spirits threaten consumer safety and urges consumers to buy from trusted sources By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia24 — (16-03-2026) — The Zambia CompulsoryStandardsAgency  (ZCSA) has warned that used undergarments, including bras, underwear, camisoles, pyjamas and nightgowns, along with unregistered and illicit alcoholic beverages, pose serious health risks. Speaking in Kabwe during a roadshow at Mukuyu Tree (Green Market), Brian Hatyoka ZCSA Manager for Communications and Public Relations said these banned textiles and unregulated spirits can cause infections, organ damage, poisoning, and even death, urging consumers to buy only from trusted sources. “Used textile products worn close to the skin may cause skin rashes, fungal infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. Consumers must buy new underwear to protect their health,” Mr. Hatyoka said. The importation and sale of such garments is prohibited under Statutory Instrumen...
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