Posts

Fuel Tax Risks Fiscal Gains

Image
ZICA raised concern over emerging fiscal risks despite encouraging macroeconomic improvements recorded in early 2026. By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24 --- (5-5-2026) - The Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants (ZICA) has cautioned that the government’s decision to suspend fuel import taxes may undermine recent fiscal gains, as Zambia continues to navigate external shocks linked to global oil price volatility arising from the US–Iran conflict. Speaking at a quarterly economic briefing, ZICA President Yande Siame Mwenye said Cabinet’s 31st March 2026 decision to zero-rate VAT and suspend excise duty on fuel imports, though intended to stabilise prices, has effectively reintroduced subsidy-like pressures on the national budget. “The distinction between a tax suspension and a subsidy is minimal,” Mwenye said. “Both effectively redirect government revenue towards stabilising fuel prices.” She warned that the resulting fiscal gap could threaten key budgetary allocations, inc...
Post a Comment
Read more

Shock Cancellation of RightsCon 2026

Image
Zambia’s last-minute withdrawal from hosting global digital rights forum raises concern over democratic openness and international credibility By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24  --- (5-5-2026) -- The shock cancellation of RightsCon 2026 —an event widely expected to position Zambia prominently on the global stage as a champion of digital rights, civic engagement, and democratic openness—has triggered concern among civil society actors and international stakeholders. George Shonga, Executive Director of the Measures of Justice and Democracy Foundation, described the decision by the Government of the Republic of Zambia to call off the conference just days before its scheduled commencement in Lusaka as “both regrettable and deeply concerning.” He noted that the sudden cancellation represents more than a logistical setback. According to him, it is a missed historic opportunity for Zambia and the Southern African region to host one of the world’s most influential platforms on huma...
Post a Comment
Read more

DIGITAL MATERNAL HEALTH

Image
Zambia to advances digital systems, AI strategy, and ethical data use to improve women’s health outcomes By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24. --- (4 May 2026) -- Zambia is accelerating its shift toward digital maternal healthcare systems, as government officials, UN agencies, and development partners warn that technological innovation must be matched with stronger safeguards for data protection, equity, and trust to improve outcomes for women and girls. The discussions, held under the theme “Data, Dignity and Delivering Impact: Scaling Women’s Health Innovation through Equitable and Ethical Technology in Zambia”, focused on how digital transformation can strengthen maternal health services, reduce preventable deaths, and improve health system efficiency without compromising patient rights. UNFPA Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Ms. Lydia Zigomo, said digital technology must be treated as a human rights enabler, warning that unequal access and weak governance ris...
Post a Comment
Read more

Ethical Media Reporting on Women

Image
NGOCC Calls for Responsible Journalism and Positive Portrayal of Women and Girls Ahead of the August General Elections By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24  --  (3rd May 2026 ) -'The Non-governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has called on the media in Zambia to strengthen positive and inclusive reporting on women and girls, warning against the continued use of harmful stereotypes and gender-based attacks, particularly as the country heads towards the August general elections. NGOCC Board Chairperson Beauty Katebe told Zambia24 that the media must play a responsible role in promoting gender equality and protecting women from harmful portrayals. She said NGOCC joins the global community in commemorating World Press Freedom Day under the theme: “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security.” She also praised the media for its role in promoting democracy, accountability, and gender equality. Katebe sai...
Post a Comment
Read more

Media Faces Misinformation Threat

Image
Stakeholders urge ethical reporting, unity, and press freedom ahead of 2026 elections By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia24, (May 3, 202 — The media not only in Zambia but world over continue to face the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation. Speaking after a match past to mark the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day in Zambia, Minister of Information and Media Cornelius Mweetwa warned the media to uphold professionalism and accuracy to safeguard democracy ahead of the 2026 general elections. “The media should guard the truth about the state of the nation and ensure citizens are informed by facts, not misinformation,” he said. Mweetwa urged journalists to remain professional and ethical, especially as the country approaches the August 13, 2026 general elections, noting that media narratives can influence electoral outcomes. He highlighted reforms undertaken by government to enhance media freedom, including the enactment of the Access to Information law and...
Post a Comment
Read more

NGOCC Warns Against Electoral Malpractice

Image
The civil society body says seizure of candidates’ documents by political parties is not only illegal ahead of elections but also undermines the electoral process The Non-governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has expressed concern over reports that some political parties are demanding original documents from aspiring parliamentary and local government candidates, describing the practice as illegal and unacceptable. NGOCC Board Chairperson Beauty Katebe told Zambia24 that original documents such as National Registration Cards (NRCs) and Grade 12 certificates remain the personal property of individuals and must not be surrendered to any political organisation. She emphasised that political parties are only permitted to request certified copies. Katebe urged aspiring candidates to retain their original documents at all times and advised those who may have already submitted them to immediately retrieve them from party offices. The organisation also raised co...
Post a Comment
Read more

ZCSA recognises Staff Excellence

Image
Agency honours 15 employees for outstanding performance during Labour Day commemorations By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24  -- (1/5/2026) ---  Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has honoured 15 outstanding employees drawn from its Head Office, provincial offices and border posts in recognition of staff excellence and exemplary performance in service delivery during the 2026 Labour Day commemorations held in Lusaka. According to a post published on the ZCSA official Facebook page, the recognition formed part of the Agency’s activities to mark the 2026 Labour Day commemorations under the theme “Securing Zambia’s Future Work: Protecting Jobs, Skills and Pensions for Decent Work for All.” The initiative was aimed at promoting staff excellence, motivation and accountability within the institution. ZCSA Executive Director, Gerald Chizinga, said the awards reflect management’s appreciation of the commitment shown by employees in carrying out the Agency’s mandate of ensuring...
Post a Comment
Read more