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Showing posts from June, 2025

ZDCC Applauds Government’s Economic Gains, Pushes for Diaspora-Led $1B Investment Target by 2030

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By Francis Maingaila, TipsNews, Zambia “This is the moment we’ve been working toward. A billion-dollar dream is no longer distant—it is within Zambia’s reach.” — Freud Musanu, Co-Founder & President, Zambia Diaspora Chamber of Commerce (ZDCC) The Zambia Diaspora Chamber of Commerce (ZDCC), under the leadership of Co-founder and President Freud Musanu, has lauded the Zambian government for ushering in a new wave of economic revitalization. Musanu described recent developments as “a resounding beacon of hope,” aligning directly with the Chamber’s bold mission to channel over $1 billion in diaspora-led investments to Zambia by 2030. The statement follows Zambia’s unprecedented rebound in the sovereign bond market, with dollar-denominated securities surging 18% since July 2024—outpacing most global peers. As reported by Bloomberg News and cited in an analysis by Rachel Mumba, Zambia has now become “one of the best performers in global debt markets.” ZDCC believes that the country’s pos...

Sun-Powered Future

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Zambia’s Energy Ministry goes green with rooftop installation at its headquarters, setting the pace for clean energy adoption across government institutions. By Francis Maingaila  Lusaka, Zambia24 - (27-06-2025) - The Ministry of Energy has officially commissioned a 121.8-kilowatt rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system at its headquarters in Lusaka, marking a major step in the government’s clean energy transition. Energy Minister Makozo Chikote, who presided over the commissioning, described the solar project as a model of how public institutions can lead by example in reducing electricity costs while protecting the environment. “This gives me confidence and hope that Zambia is moving in the right direction,” he said. “We are no longer just talking—we are acting. This is a demonstration of what is possible when government takes the lead.” Chikote called on other ministries to emulate the initiative and announced that he would instruct his Permanent Secretary to encourage replicatio...

Beauty, Brains & Purpose

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... As Lushomo Kaumba (22) Embarks on Universal Mission Lusaka, Zambia – June 27, 2025 – At just 22 years old, Lushomo Kaumba is making bold strides in both the legal world and the world of pageantry.  The former Miss Peace Zambia 2024 has officially been crowned Universal Woman Zambia 2025, earning her the honor of representing the country at the prestigious Universal Woman pageant, slated for 1st to 11th August 2025 in Jaipur, India. Born in Choma and raised in various parts of Zambia, Lushomo is a woman of remarkable versatility — a lawyer, model, actress, and an unwavering advocate for education, healthcare access, and poverty eradication.  A recent Bachelor of Laws graduate from the University of Zambia, she is currently interning at a leading law firm as she prepares to launch her career in legal advocacy. But her ambitions stretch far beyond the courtroom. “I believe in using every platform available to bring attention to the issues that affect us most — especially educ...

One Encounter, A Lifelong Mission

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Dr. Kakusa’s advocacy journey began with a single, life-changing moment. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24 – 25 - 06 - 2025 - Zambia on Wednesday joined the global community in commemorating International Albinism Awareness Day, with a renewed call for the protection, empowerment, and full inclusion of persons with albinism, a vulnerable group that continues to face systemic discrimination and violence. Speaking during the commemoration held in Lusaka under the theme “Demanding Our Rights: Protect Our Lives,” Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, Angela Chomba Kawandami, who was represented by And Nosiku Lifumbela Mulambia reaffirmed  the government’s commitment to enforcing laws that protect persons with albinism and promoting access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. “No one should suffer discrimination or violence because of albinism,” Kawandami said. “We are committed to building a more inclusive Zambia where e...

MISA Exposes Media Gaps

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Community Radio Urged to Prioritise Disability-Inclusive Programming By Francis Maingaila  Lusaka, Zambia24 -  (June 26, 2025) — The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zambia has called on broadcasters, media regulators, and government stakeholders to take urgent action to make community radio programming more inclusive of persons with disabilities. Speaking during the official dissemination of a new research report supported by UNESCO, MISA Zambia National Director Austin Kayanda said the media continues to marginalise persons with disabilities despite existing national and international legal protections. “The right of persons with disabilities to access, participate in, and shape the media that speaks for and about them has remained largely neglected,” Kayanda said.  “Legal and policy commitments alone are not enough. The gap between policy and practice is far too wide.” The report, based on a desk review and supported by UNESCO’s Disability-Inclusive Media Man...

Self-Regulation, Not Censorship

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Zambia’s New Media Body Launches Independent Secretariat set to enforce media ethics, rebuild public trust, and strengthen press freedom amid rising challenges of misinformation By Francis Maingaila  Lusaka, Zambia24 - (une 25, 2025) - The Media Self-Regulation Council of Zambia (MSCZ) has launched its Secretariat in Lusaka, marking a key step in the country’s efforts to promote ethical journalism and rebuild public trust in the media. Officiating at the launch, Minister of Information and Media Cornelius Mweetwa described the Secretariat’s establishment as a milestone in strengthening democratic governance and media professionalism.  He said the operationalisation of the Secretariat signaled the Council’s readiness to uphold media ethics, investigate complaints, and foster constructive engagement between journalists and the public. “This is not just a bureaucratic milestone,” Mweetwa said. “It is the heartbeat of the Council’s commitment to strengthening journalism, enhancing...

Zambia on Steady Path to Economic Recovery

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Mungule says Kwacha Gains and Growing Confidence Signal Zambia’s Recovery Momentum By Francis Maingaila  Lusaka, Zambia24 - (24 June 2025) – Zambia’s economic recovery is gaining momentum, supported by a combination of favorable domestic policies and external factors, according to Dr. Oswald Mungule, President of the Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ). Dr. Mungule said Zambia is emerging from recent economic challenges with a more stable and resilient outlook. He pointed to a strengthening fiscal position, improved macroeconomic indicators, and increased investor confidence as signs of a steady recovery.  Strong tax inflows have enhanced government liquidity, allowing for the continued implementation of national development programmes and public service delivery. He noted that the recent appreciation of the Kwacha, driven by a weakened U.S. Dollar and increased foreign exchange inflows from mining exports and tax payments, is easing pressure on the exchange rate and stabili...

Grief in Education Sector

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NUPPEZ expresses sorrow over loss of respected teacher advocate By Francis Maingaila  Lusaka, Zambia24 – (24 June 2025) - The National Union of Public and Private Educators of Zambia (NUPPEZ) has joined the teaching fraternity in mourning the passing of Mr. Evans Machayi, former General Secretary of the Secondary School Teachers Union of Zambia (SESTUZ), describing his death as a significant loss to the education sector. In a statement issued Tuesday, NUPPEZ General Secretary Dr. Charity Kampamba said Mr. Machayi was a passionate and selfless leader who tirelessly championed the rights and welfare of teachers. “Mr. Machayi was more than a unionist — he was a voice of reason and a symbol of commitment to the teaching profession,” Dr. Kampamba said.  “His dedication to improving conditions for teachers remains an enduring legacy.” She noted that his leadership was marked by resilience and service, particularly in advancing labor rights and promoting fair policies for educators ...

Weighing in on Fairness

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ZMA Launches National Product Integrity Drive By Francis Maingaila  Lusaka, Zambia24 - (24-06-2025) - The Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA) has launched a new certification system for prepackaged commodities aimed at stamping out underweight products on the market and restoring consumer confidence in trade measurements. Announcing the development during a stakeholder workshop held in Lusaka, ZMA Executive Director Bishop Humphrey Nkobeni said the new system is a bold step toward ensuring fairness, accuracy, and transparency in how goods are measured, labelled, and sold across the country. “Our goal is to protect consumers while supporting local producers to become globally competitive,” Nkobeni said. “We are building a system that advances trust and quality assurance in every corner of the supply chain.” The move follows multiple inspections which revealed widespread issues in local markets, including products being sold below stated weights, tampered packaging, and unsafe reused cont...

Bill 7 Under Fire

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....  Church, Civil Society Unite to Defend Zambia’s Constitution By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambua24 (23-06-2025) — The Oasis Forum, a consortium comprising the Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ), Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia (EFZ), Law Association of Zambia (LAZ), Non-Governmental Gender Organisations Coordinating Council (NGOCC), and the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB), has officially launched a national campaign against Bill Number 7 of 2025, which seeks to amend the Republican Constitution. Speaking at the launch of the campaign dubbed “The Crusade Against Bill 7”, Oasis Forum Chairperson Andrew Mwenda expressed profound concern over the government's determination to proceed with constitutional reforms without adequate citizen participation, inclusivity, or national consensus—both in process and content. “The Constitution is a people’s document,” Mwenda emphasized. “It should not be used to promote narrow partisan interests. The preamble of the Constitution...

No More Red Tape

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As DEC, RTSA Join Forces to Speed Up Criminal Investigations and curb sophisticated crimes Lusaka, Zambia24 – 10:18 AM — The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) and the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to streamline data sharing and accelerate criminal investigations in Zambia. Speaking during the signing ceremony in Lusaka, DEC Director General Nason Banda described the agreement as a “milestone” in combating organized and financial crime. “With this MoU, we can now access RTSA’s motor vehicle registry directly, without delays caused by bureaucracy,” Banda said.  “This allows us to trace and verify ownership of high-value vehicles linked to criminal activities and prepare cases for court more efficiently.” Banda emphasized that vehicle data is crucial in tracking proceeds of crime and that collaboration among security agencies is key.  “Zambians are tired of stories. They want results. This partnership helps us deliver tho...

"Lungu's South-Bound Send-Off"

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   ... Lubinda, Tembo, and Musoma Accuse State of Breaching Funeral Agreement and Sabotaging Lungu’s Burial Plans By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24 (June 21, 2025) - The opposition Tonse Alliance has accused the UPND-led government of breaching a funeral agreement made with the family of the late President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, resulting in the family’s decision to bury the former Head of State in South Africa rather than Zambia. Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka on Saturday, Tonse Alliance Acting Chairperson Given Lubinda said the government’s alleged failure to honour the agreement had deprived Zambians of the opportunity to bid farewell to the former president on home soil. “From the onset, the Tonse Alliance has respected the wishes of the Lungu family and only offered support when requested. While we regret the decision to bury Dr. Lungu in South Africa, we understand and accept the family’s position,” Lubinda said. According to Lubinda, an agreement was reached o...

New NCC Board Takes Charge

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A fresh team assumes responsibility for steering the construction industry. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24 – (18-06-2025) - The National Council for Construction (NCC) Board of Directors was inaugurated during a ceremony held on Wednesday, 18th June 2025, at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka. The event was officiated by the Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Eng. Charles Milupi, MP. Speaking at the official induction ceremony, Milupi described the appointments as a deliberate call to national service, emphasizing that expectations from the Zambian people, through President Hakainde Hichilema, remain high. “Your selection is not by chance; it is a deliberate call to duty and an expression of the trust that the people of Zambia, through the Republican President, have placed in you,” he said. Milupi underscored the urgent need for durable, safe, and cost-effective infrastructure— including roads, schools, hospitals, and housing— t...

Texila Sets New Standard in Zambian Higher Education system

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Combining academic excellence with cutting-edge infrastructure and global recognition. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia – 19 June 2025 Texila American University Zambia (TAUZ) has been awarded Tier 1 status by the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA), placing it at Level 10, the highest classification on the Zambia Qualifications Framework. The announcement was made during a press conference in Lusaka, where Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Ajay Poddar described the recognition as a major endorsement of the university’s academic standards. “This ranking confirms the quality and relevance of our academic programmes and our role in Zambia’s higher education sector,” Prof. Poddar said. He announced that TAUZ has introduced two new PhD programmes in Public Health and Management, which have already enrolled students. The programmes are aimed at strengthening research capacity and leadership in the region. The university has earned international recognition, including accreditation from the ...

Voices for Justice

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Media Trained to Protect Survivors of Gender-Based Violence By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24 – (19 June 2025) - The National Legal Aid Clinic for Women (NLACW) has called on journalists across Zambia to embrace gender-sensitive and legally sound reporting to safeguard the rights of women, girls, and children. At the conclusion of a three-day media training workshop held at Exotic Hotel in Lusaka, NLACW Executive Director Mandy Mandy highlighted the pivotal role the media plays in amplifying marginalized voices, raising public awareness, and advancing justice. “The media serves as a vital partner in the pursuit of social justice. By adhering to ethical and accurate reporting standards, journalists empower communities with knowledge about their rights and hold duty bearers accountable,” she stated. This training, funded by Sida, the Swedish development agency, aligns with NLACW’s 2025–2029 Strategic Plan, designed to enhance legal literacy and broaden access to justice for vulnerabl...

Voices for Justice

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Media Trained to Protect Survivors of Gender-Based Violence By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24 – (19 June 2025) - The National Legal Aid Clinic for Women (NLACW) has called on journalists across Zambia to embrace gender-sensitive and legally sound reporting to safeguard the rights of women, girls, and children. At the conclusion of a three-day media training workshop held at Exotic Hotel in Lusaka, NLACW Executive Director Mandy Mandy highlighted the pivotal role the media plays in amplifying marginalized voices, raising public awareness, and advancing justice. “The media serves as a vital partner in the pursuit of social justice. By adhering to ethical and accurate reporting standards, journalists empower communities with knowledge about their rights and hold duty bearers accountable,” she stated. This training, funded by Sida, the Swedish development agency, aligns with NLACW’s 2025–2029 Strategic Plan, designed to enhance legal literacy and broaden access to justice for vulnerabl...