"The GOAT Media Centre"

.. WorldView Institute’s Fight Against Climate Change and environmental restoration Gains Momentum By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia - (31-12-2024) - The World View Institute has launched an ambitious initiative to plant over 5 million trees, positioning itself as a leader in environmental restoration efforts. Board Chairperson Victor Nyasulu announced during a media briefing that 3,500 trees had been donated to the Zambia Army as part of its "Think Green Program" (Program TG), aimed at combating deforestation and promoting sustainability across Zambia. Nyasulu praised the Zambia Army’s commitment to the initiative and highlighted its importance in the fight against climate change. The World View Institute plans to plant 5 million trees to restore ecosystems and combat environmental degradation. Nyasulu emphasized the importance of collaboration with local communities, government bodies, and international partners to achieve this goal. Since the launch of Program TG last y...

By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia –  (31-12-2024) - The Ministry of Energy has assured the nation of a stable fuel supply as 2024 draws to a close.  Despite global and regional challenges, including instability in some oil-producing countries, the government, through the Ministry of Energy, has worked tirelessly with stakeholders to maintain a consistent and uninterrupted supply of petroleum products. In a statement issued by Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Peter Mumba, the Ministry highlighted the steady availability of fuel for both industrial and domestic use throughout the year.  Mumba commended all players in the sector for ensuring the stability of supply under difficult circumstances. Current petroleum stocks stand at 38.5 million litres of diesel, 10 million litres of petrol, 130,000 litres of kerosene, and 1.5 million litres of Jet A-1 fuel.  These reserves are expected to last 9, 6, 13, and 9 days respectively, with additional shipments on the way to bolster ...

.... As Chizinga urges for Public Vigilance on Product Safety and environmental protection  By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia – (31-12-2024) – The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) nationwide market surveillance inspections conducted in 2024 have revealed significant improvements in product safety and compliance, with the overall compliance rate rising from 92.8% in 2023 to 93.4%. ZCSA Executive Director Gerald Chizinga presented the findings at the end-of-year media briefing, highlighting the progress made despite challenges, including the adverse effects of drought conditions. He stated, “As we close 2024, it is an honor to reflect on the year's progress, particularly in the face of challenges. Our national open market surveillance inspections, conducted in Lusaka, Central, Southern, Muchinga, Northern, Northwestern, Western, and Copperbelt provinces, have yielded encouraging results.” The agency regulates 61 product categories under the Compulsory Standards Act No....

... Zambian Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) advocate for an inclusive and equitable global tax system that will help to tackle the widespread issues of tax evasion By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia - (30-12-2024) - Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Zambia are advocating for an inclusive international tax system to address growing inequities and combat tax evasion and avoidance, which remain global challenges requiring comprehensive and collaborative solutions. Speaking at the half-day Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR) CSO and Media Capacity Building Meeting on the UN Tax Convention, supported by Norwegian Church Aid, DCA, and the Joint Country Programme Zambia, Ishmael Zulu, a prominent tax reform advocate, highlighted the framework's shortcomings. He provided an overview of the UN Tax Convention and Zambia's engagement, focusing on two key pillars: Zambia's involvement in the global tax agenda, the implications of the UN Tax Convention, and key advoca...

By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia  - (28-12-2024) - The Ministry of Energy has called for increased investment in solar and thermal power to address Zambia’s growing electricity deficit and ensure energy security. According to a statement issued by Bob Sianjalika, Principal Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Permanent Secretary Peter Mumba assured investors of government support during a meeting with China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), which plans to construct two solar plants in Nalolo and Lukulu districts. The projects are expected to produce a combined 600 megawatts of electricity. Mr. Mumba revealed that Zambia currently generates 1,030 megawatts of power against a national demand of over 2,500 megawatts. He noted that Maamba Coal Mine contributes 300 megawatts to the national grid, with an additional 300 megawatts anticipated by June 2027 upon completion of a thermal power plant. The Permanent Secretary commended CCECC for its investment in renewable ener...

... A New Economic Strategy for Inclusive Economic Development for All People Living in Zambia By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia – The Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR), in collaboration with the Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ) and the Ministry of Finance, has called for a reassessment of Zambia’s economic policies to ensure they address poverty and inequality through inclusivity and equity. This initiative is supported by the Norwegian Church Aid, which has provided crucial backing to strengthen efforts aimed at fostering equitable and inclusive economic policies. Acting Permanent Secretary for Planning and Administration at the Ministry of Finance, Prudence Kaoma, said during a public discussion themed “Is Zambia’s Economic Development Model Truly Inclusive?” held at Radisson Blu that Zambia should urgently tackle poverty and inequality. She noted that 60% of Zambians live below the national poverty line, with rural areas disproportionately affected at 78% compared t...

.... Released Report Explores the Zambia's Rural Electrification Challenges that Impede Electricity Access in Rural Areas By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia – (26-12-2024) – The Ministry of Energy, in collaboration with the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) and the Zambia Statistics Agency (ZamStats), has unveiled the findings of the 2023 National Energy Access Survey (NEAS).  This survey provides vital data that will inform future policies and initiatives aimed at improving energy access in Zambia. Conducted in August 2023, the survey sheds light on critical issues related to energy affordability, reliability, and accessibility, identifying areas that require immediate attention from both the government and the private sector to ensure equitable energy distribution across the country. The comprehensive survey covers all ten provinces and goes beyond traditional binary measures of energy access.  It offers in-depth insights into household energy sources, costs, and consumption...

... Aspiring Matero Constituency candidate Mukobela delivers baby hampers to Matero families and support to new mothers and their newborns during the festive season. By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Matero, Zambia – (25-12-2024) – The Christmas spirit was alive at Matero Level One Hospital when Evans Mukobela, an aspiring candidate for Matero Constituency, visited the maternity ward to distribute baby hampers to new mothers and their newborns.  The thoughtful initiative aimed to ease the challenges often faced by families during this period while fostering care and community spirit. The initiative, centered on providing essential support, included hampers filled with practical items to help the mothers during the early days of motherhood.  Speaking during the event, Mukobela expressed the deeper meaning of the hampers, describing them as a gesture of love and compassion. “These hampers are a symbol of love, care, and warmth. Let this Christmas remind us of the blessings we have received,” Muko...

..Katebe highlights Achievements and Challenges, Calls for Action on Women’s Rights By Francis Maingaila  Lusaka, Zambia – December 23, 2024 - The Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has urged the government and stakeholders to address gender disparities and enhance women’s participation in Zambia’s social, economic, and political spheres. Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka, NGOCC Board Chairperson Beauty Katebe outlined reflections on 2024 and presented the council’s expectations for 2025. Ms. Katebe expressed concern over the persistently low number of women in elected positions, citing inadequate political will and an inequitable political framework.  She highlighted the “Hard Time is Now” campaign, which advocates for increased female representation ahead of the 2026 general elections.  She also called for legal reforms to introduce mixed-member proportional representation, enabling more women and youth to enter governance. The ongoing drough...

By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia – December 23, 2024 – The Christian Churches Monitoring Group (CCMG) has called for urgent electoral reforms in Zambia following concerns over voter inducement, inadequate polling station accessibility, and delays in accreditation during the recent Kawambwa parliamentary by-election. In a statement read on his behalf by Fr. Emmanuel Chikoya at a nedia briefing, CCMG interim chairman Andrew Mwenda emphasized the need for the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to enforce the Electoral Code of Conduct more strictly to ensure credible elections. “While the  Kawambwa by-election was conducted peacefully and largely adhered to procedures, persistent issues such as voter inducement and lack of accessibility for persons with disabilities undermine the credibility of elections,” the statement read. CCMG deployed monitors to all 57 polling stations in Kawambwa Constituency for the December 20 by-election.  According to the group's report, polling sta...

TIZ Advocating for Intensified Anti-Corruption Fight By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia, Dec. 23, 2024 — Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) has called on the government to intensify its efforts against corruption, despite a slight improvement in Zambia’s ranking on the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). Speaking during an end-of-year media briefing in Lusaka, TI-Z Executive Director Maurice Nyambe recognized the country’s progress but underscored that corruption continues to pose a serious threat to national development. “While the improved CPI score is encouraging, corruption still deeply affects multiple sectors in Zambia. Tackling it requires more than rhetoric; we need bold actions and consistent enforcement,” Nyambe remarked. Strengthening Anti-Corruption Measures Nyambe emphasized the importance of fully operationalizing the recently launched National Anti-Corruption Policy. He proposed establishing an independent oversight institution to monitor its enforcement and ...

.... Phiri reflects on the company’s promising future, emphasizing its commitment to sustainable investment and the exploration of alternative power solutions for continued success. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia – (22-12-2024) – Legacy Manufacturers Limited marked its fifth anniversary with a grand celebration that brought together key stakeholders, employees, and loyal customers.  The event, held in Lusaka, honored the company’s remarkable achievements and growth since its inception in 2019. Distinguished guests included Prof. Thomson Sinkala as the guest of honor, officials from the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises, ZABS, ZAM, board members, and employees of Legacy Manufacturers Ltd. Speaking at the event, CEO Kumbukilani Phiri reflected on the company’s journey, recalling its beginnings as a mere idea and the significant challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.  “The installation of our equipment coincided with the onset of COVID-19 in 2020. Engineers couldn’t tr...

ADEG Condemns Electoral Malpractices in Kawambwa Parliamentary By-Elections By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia - December 22, 2024 The Advocates for Democratic Governance Foundation (ADEG) has condemned the electoral malpractices that occurred during the Kawambwa parliamentary by-elections held on December 20, 2024.  Despite the victory of UPND candidate Mr. Nasson Musonda, ADEG's monitoring team reported several incidents that undermined the integrity of the electoral process. Gideon Musonda, Executive Director of ADEG, said in a statement that the organization had observed a range of violations during the elections.  "We deployed Field and Result Centre Monitors to track the proceedings, and the findings revealed a number of troubling practices that contravened the electoral code of conduct," he explained.  According to Musonda, these included violence, intimidation, harassment, character assassination, and provocative actions from both ruling and opposition party ...

... Collaborative Effort to Remove Trade Barriers Through Harmonization of Regulatory Standards Between Zambia and Malawi By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia - December 22, 2024 - Zambia and Malawi are taking steps to improve bilateral trade by harmonizing regulatory standards, aiming to remove trade barriers and promote smoother commerce between the two nations. A partnership involving the Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS), Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA), Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA), and the Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS) is central to this effort. The collaboration seeks to streamline regulations and foster more efficient cross-border trade. According to a joint statement issued by ZABS Senior Marketing and Communications Officer Nzali Chella (Ms.), ZCSA Acting Manager – Communications and Public Relations Brian Hatyoka (Mr.), and ZMA Senior Public Relations Officer Sandra Mwila (Ms.), MBS Director General Bernard Thole highlighted the commitment to finalizing a Me...

... TopStar Zambia unveils new documentary series to foster cultural understanding overseas By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia – December 18, 2024 TopStar Zambia has launched a captivating new documentary series titled A Glimpse of China in the New Era, designed to strengthen cultural connections and inspire audiences with stories of innovation and collaboration. The series, airing throughout December, is available on the ST Zone and ST Novela E channels, as well as the StarTimes ON streaming app. Speaking at the launch event in Lusaka on Wednesday, TopStar Communications Company Limited Chief Executive Officer John Zhuang, represented by Public Relations Manager Joy Chula, expressed the company’s commitment to showcasing cultural diversity through innovative broadcasting. “This documentary series is a gateway to understanding the beauty of cultural exchange,” Chula said, quoting Zhuang. “We are dedicated to ensuring that viewers can access such rich and inspiring content on multiple ...

... ZCSA and MBS Seek Collaborative Solutions to Drive Regional Trade Growth By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia  - (18-12-2024) - The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) and the Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS) have called for greater collaboration to enhance trade between the two countries by ensuring better compliance with compulsory standards, aimed at facilitating access to regional and international markets. According to a statement issued by Brian Hatyoka, Acting Manager for Communications and Public Relations at ZCSA, Executive Director Gerald Chizinga emphasized the importance of closer cooperation between ZCSA and MBS.  "The role of both institutions is crucial in advancing the economic priorities of their respective governments," Chizinga said. Chizinga further highlighted that ZCSA’s mandate includes collaborating with international organizations, such as MBS, to enforce compulsory standards.  He noted that the recent visit by MBS officials to Zambia pro...

...MISA Urges Stronger Protections for Press and Digital Rights in Zambia  By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia – (17-12-2024) - The latest Fox Report Zambia paints a gloomy picture of the state of media freedom, freedom of expression, and digital rights in the country. The report, covering January to June 2024, outlines challenges such as restricted access to information, harassment of journalists, and inadequate digital rights protections, all of which threaten Zambia’s democratic foundations. According to MISA Zambia Consultant and Researcher Dr. Freeborn Kibombwe, the findings demand urgent reforms to safeguard press freedom, ensure access to information, and protect digital rights. “The media is critical to Zambia’s democratic processes, but these findings reveal a worrying trend of increasing restrictions on access to information and press freedom,” Kibombwe said. The report highlights that 75% of respondents found accessing information difficult, with only 15% reporting ease ...

... Civil Society Organizations Warn of Rising Corruption, Economic Hardships, and Social Inequalities Undermining Zambia’s Stability By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia (17-12-2024) - A consortium of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has called on the government to urgently address pressing governance, economic, and social challenges that are undermining the country's stability. Speaking on behalf of the group, Transparency International Zambia (TIZ) Executive Director Maurice Nyambe highlighted concerns over worsening corruption, economic hardships, and social inequalities.  “The country’s governance landscape is deteriorating, and this requires immediate intervention to restore trust and stability,” said Nyambe. The CSOs emphasized that corruption continues to impede progress, warning that Zambia risks losing both local and international confidence.  They also urged the government to strengthen oversight institutions and improve transparency in public resource management. Nyamb...