"The GOAT Media Centre"

.... UN Urges Zambia to Reform Criminal Laws to End Political Suppression and Protect Free Speech Ahead of 2026 Elections By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 💖 Lusaka, Zambia – 31-01-2025 - The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has called on the Zambian government to urgently implement human rights reforms, raising concerns about political violence, restrictions on freedom of expression, and repressive laws, especially as the country approaches the 2026 elections. Irene Khan, the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression, made these urgent recommendations during a press briefing in Lusaka following her official visit from January 20 to 31, 2025—marking the first such visit by a UN special rapporteur to Zambia in eight years. Khan warned that human rights in Zambia are at a crossroads, with rising political tensions and economic challenges exacerbating the situation. Progress Acknowledged, But Reforms Lagging While Khan acknowledged some positive steps taken by th...

.... ZCCB Launches Campaign for Debt Cancellation and Economic Justice By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia – The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) has launched the Jubilee Debt Cancellation Campaign , calling for urgent global action to relieve Zambia of its unsustainable debt burden. The campaign aligns with Pope Francis’ call for Jubilee Year 2025 , which advocates for debt relief, social justice, and economic renewal for struggling nations. Speaking at the launch of the economic justice initiative, ZCCB President Bishop Ignitius Chama emphasized that Zambia’s mounting debt crisis continues to hinder national development and trap millions in poverty. He stressed that the campaign seeks to free Zambia from the economic constraints imposed by heavy debt , enabling the country to focus on sustainable development. "Zambia remains trapped in a cycle of debt that limits progress and social welfare," Bishop Chama said . "This campaign calls for global sol...

ZamStats blames Copper Export Earnings for the Decline By Francis Maingaila LUSAKA – Zambia recorded a trade deficit of K3.3 billion in December 2024, reversing a surplus of K1.1 billion in November 2024, according to the latest statistics released by the Zambia Statistics Agency (ZamStats). The decline was primarily driven by a sharp drop in non-traditional exports (NTEs) and reduced copper export earnings. Acting Statistician General Sheila S. Mudenda stated that international merchandise trade increased by 41.2% in December 2024 compared to December 2023. The total trade value for the month stood at K57.7 billion, up from K40.6 billion recorded in December 2023. Despite the overall increase in trade activity, exports fell by 14.2%, while imports remained relatively stable, declining by only 0.4%. Mudenda attributed the decrease in exports to reduced earnings from intermediate goods, which dropped by 14.8%, raw materials by 17%, and consumer goods by 2.8%.  Imports of raw materials ...

... Faulty Electrical Goods Identified as Major Safety Hazards for Consumers By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, January 29, 2025 – The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has today destroyed non-compliant electrical products valued at K47,408.50 in Lusaka. The items, comprising electrical plugs and extension cables, were seized between November 11-14, 2024, from various outlets, including Fidelity Store, Naeela Investment, Penz Zhang Investment, Tanzim, Golden Oaklet, and Bhadi Investment, for contravening the Compulsory Standards Act No. 3 of 2017. ZCSA Public Relations Officer Onishias Maamba revealed that there were significant deviations from required safety standards, posing serious risks to consumers. Key issues included non-compliant materials, improper dimensions, missing fuses, and incorrect wiring practices. “The use of steel or alloys of steel instead of brass for plug pins and current-carrying parts is particularly concerning, as it compromises safety, performance, a...

Lusaka, January 8, 2025 – The Advocates for Democratic Governance Foundation (ADEG) has commended the peaceful filing of nominations in Pambashe and Petauke constituencies and urged stakeholders to maintain this atmosphere throughout the campaign period. ADEG Executive Director Gideon Musonda called for issue-based campaigns free from electoral malpractices, citing concerns over violence, intimidation, vote-buying, and provocation observed in the recent Kawambwa by-election. “The people of Pambashe and Petauke deserve a free, fair, and credible electoral process,” Musonda stated. “All stakeholders must uphold the electoral code of conduct.” He urged the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to enforce compliance with electoral laws and raise awareness about District Conflict Management Committees, which help resolve disputes. He also called on the Zambia Police to act impartially, ensuring security for all political players. ADEG stressed that the Public Order Act should facilitat...

Percy Chinyama Zambia Launches A Centralized Platform for Seamless Communication between Citizens and Government By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia - (29-01-2025) - Zambia has officially launched the Citizen Support Service Portal as part of a digital transformation initiative to enhance citizen engagement, improve communication, and streamline public service delivery through innovative e-services. The initiative, led by the Smart Zambia Institute under the Electronic Government Division, underscores the government's commitment to improving public services through technology and citizen involvement. The portal will offer a centralized platform for communication between citizens and government institutions. According to Emmanuel Simuchembo, Acting Senior Engineer at the Government Electronics Division, the system integrates multiple communication channels, including mobile applications, SMS, WhatsApp, voice calls, and email, allowing citizens to submit requests through the...

Bishop Msusu  .. Church Mother Bodies Join Forces to Strengthen Zambia's Electoral Process By Francis Maingaila January 27, 2025 The three Church Mother Bodies in Zambia have announced a collaborative effort aimed at strengthening the country’s electoral process and promoting active citizen participation in the democratic journey. Bishop Paul Msusu, representing the Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia (EFZ), who read the statement on behalf of the two other Church Mother Bodies, the Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ) and the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB), made the announcement during a media briefing on Monday at Kapingila House in Kabulonga.  He highlighted the collective commitment to addressing key challenges in the electoral system, including voter apathy and electoral malpractice. Msusu emphasized the importance of credible elections and democratic values, stating that democracy thrives on inclusivity and accountability.  "This partnership seeks to advan...

Lusaka, Zambia – January 26, 2025 The Zambian Empowerment Hub for Entrepreneurship and Skills Training (ZEHEST) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing youth entrepreneurship as a key driver of economic growth in Zambia. Speaking in Lusaka, ZEHEST Visionary Leader and Founder, Clarence Moonde Muzyamba, emphasized the organization’s dedication to equipping young Zambians with the tools needed to launch and sustain successful businesses. "Entrepreneurship is a catalyst for economic transformation," said Mr. Muzyamba. "Our programs equip youth with practical skills, innovative thinking, and access to resources to succeed in competitive markets." ZEHEST’s initiatives focus on entrepreneurship training, mentorship, and access to funding for small businesses and startups. By fostering innovation and self-reliance, the organization aims to build a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem that contributes to national development. He said the organization partners with loc...

... CSOs Urge Responsible Freedom of Expression, Police Reforms, and Enhanced Anti-Corruption Measures By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka . Zambia – (25-01-2025) - Civil society organizations (CSOs) have called for Zambians to prioritize national unity, responsible freedom of expression, and good governance to strengthen democracy and foster national development. In a media briefing, Luckson Lungu, representing various CSOs, addressed key concerns and offered recommendations on human rights, police reforms, and combating corruption. Lungu praised Zambia’s progress in advancing human rights, particularly the expansion of freedom of expression across both public and digital spaces, including platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp. He commended legislative achievements under the current administration, including the repeal of criminal defamation of the president, the enactment of the Access to Information Act, and the abolition of the death penalty. “These developments highlight the go...

... Chipoka says The plant will focus on high-quality phosphate-based products for local and regional markets By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Chilanga, Zambia – (24-01-2025) - The Sino Great Chemical Company Limited, in partnership with Zambia’s Wonderful Group, on Friday officially launched the groundbreaking ceremony for a $340 million integrated phosphate, industrial, and agricultural products facility in Chilanga. The ceremony, held on Friday was graced by Jin Jun, the Commercial Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Zambia, representing Chinese Ambassador H.E. Mr. Han Jing. The project, aimed at enhancing Zambia’s industrial and agricultural sectors, marks the start of Phase 1 of a two-phase investment. Mr. Shashank Mehta, representing Sino Great Chemical's board chairperson Mr. Zhang Quan, explained that the project represents more than just construction; it is an opportunity to unlock Zambia’s vast natural resources through local value addition. The facility will focus on prod...

.... Muvombo Outlines Strategic Vision for Transforming Zambia’s Economy and Building a Stronger Nation" By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia  - (24-01-2025) - The Muvombo Development Initiative has unveiled a vision aimed at achieving self-reliance for Zambia, with a focus on sustainable growth and local empowerment.  During a media briefing today at Longacre Lodge, Winter Muvombo, the founder and CEO of the initiative, shared practical steps for addressing Zambia’s developmental challenges and fostering a self-sufficient economy. Muvombo outlined key national issues and stressed the importance of building a strong local economy, emphasizing agriculture, infrastructure, and industrialization.  He called for increased support for smallholder farmers, including better access to resources, technology, and markets to boost productivity and food security.  Muvombo also highlighted the need for improved rural infrastructure to connect these areas with markets, creating economic oppo...

... Zambia Launches Key Healthcare Initiatives to Address System Gaps and Improve Delivery By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia – Zambia has officially launched the 2024 National Supply Chain Performance Review Meeting and Clinical and Supply Chain Governance Documents, signaling a significant advancement in strengthening the country's healthcare supply chain. The event, which gathered government officials, healthcare professionals, and development partners, marks a pivotal step in improving healthcare delivery nationwide. Maxwell Kasonde, Assistant Director of Pharmaceutical Services, highlighted several key initiatives during the meeting, held at the Mulungushi Kenneth Kaunda International Conference Centre. Among the most notable projects are the construction of critical healthcare infrastructure, such as the Cowboy Hub in Central Province and extensions in Northwestern Province, both of which are expected to be completed by 2025. The Ministry of Health has received a s...

        ... Setting New Benchmarks for Industry and Trade in Zambia By Francis Maingaila Lusaka ,  Zambia  –  (23-01-2024) - The Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA) has achieved a remarkable milestone in 2024 by securing accreditation under the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 17025 standard, which recognizes its calibration and testing laboratories at an international level. According to ZMA’s Executive Director, Humphrey Nkobeni, this accreditation enhances Zambia’s competitiveness in global trade by ensuring that the agency’s calibration services meet global standards. Nkobeni explained in a media briefing that the accreditation signifies that "the agency’s calibration certificates are now internationally recognized." He further noted that ZMA’s services are now listed in the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) database, aligning Zambia’s measurement systems with global standards. This recognition will play a vital role in supporting Zambia’...

Kabuswe says Record Investments and Renewed Production are Driving the Growth By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia – January 22, 2025 – Zambia's mining sector has witnessed significant growth in 2024, largely due to the recommencement of copper production at Konkola and Mopani Copper Mines. According to Paul Kabuswe, Minister of Mines and Mineral Development the surge in production comes as the country embarks on major projects and reforms, positioning the sector for future expansion. Kabuswe, told journalists at a media briefing today that the recommencement of operations at these mines has dramatically increased Zambia's overall production capacity, contributing to a 12 percent rise in total output. The Minister highlighted the achievements of key players in the mining industry, pointing to Mopani and Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) as examples of companies that have made substantial productivity improvements, driving the growth in the sector. Kabuswe responded to claims mad...

By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, January 21, 2025 — The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) is intensifying its efforts to strengthen regulations in the energy sector to improve consumer and environmental safety. In a statement issued by ZCSA Public Relations Officer Onishias Maamba, Executive Director Gerald Chizinga affirmed the agency’s commitment to developing and enforcing mandatory standards aimed at bolstering safety across the energy sector. Addressing the Parliamentary Committee on Energy, Water Development, and Tourism, Chizinga underscored the importance of enhancing the regulatory framework to ensure the sector’s long-term sustainability. "Product safety is essential not only for protecting consumers and the environment but also for the continued viability of the energy sector," Chizinga remarked during the session, which was chaired by Sesheke Member of Parliament, Romeo Kang'ombe. Chizinga also highlighted the need for increased private sector involv...

By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia — (18-01-2025) - Zambia has made remarkable strides under the New Dawn administration led by President Hakainde Hichilema, addressing long-standing challenges in education, healthcare, governance, and infrastructure, and laying a strong foundation for sustainable development. National Democratic Congress (NDC) President Joseph Kasonde told journalists at a media briefing that the New Dawn administration’s achievements deserved recognition. He praised the government’s efforts to address the country’s pressing issues, including unemployment and overcrowded classrooms, while expressing confidence in its approach, which has delivered measurable results in key areas. Kasonde commended the administration for fostering peace and unity across Zambia, noting that political stability during President Hichilema’s tenure has created an environment conducive to national development. This stability has enabled the government to focus on critical economic an...

... Kalaba Urges Nationwide Reform for a Brighter Future By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia  – (21-01-2025) - Opposition party Citizens First has called for immediate national reform, urging Zambians to unite and oust the current government amid the escalating crises facing the country. Harry Kalaba, party president, told journalists at a media briefing that the government's failure to tackle rising living costs, power shortages, and food insecurity were key sources of public frustration. He stressed that 2025 is a crucial year for Zambia, as citizens increasingly express dissatisfaction with the government’s inability to resolve critical national issues. "Enough is enough," Kalaba declared, advocating for a democratic, citizen-centered government that aligns with the people’s aspirations. One of Kalaba's main critiques centered on the government's foreign diplomacy. As a former foreign minister, he expressed concern over the selection of heads of mission a...