"The GOAT Media Centre"

Court pauses trial to secure key witnesses, ensuring fair and timely justice. By Francis Maingaila  Lusaka, Zambia24 – (29-08-2025) - The Lusaka Magistrates’ Court has adjourned to September 1, 2025, proceedings in which Chiengi Independent Member of Parliament, Given Katuta, faces charges of threatening Times of Zambia photojournalist, Henry Chunza. Magistrate Idah Phiri granted the adjournment following a request from defense counsel, State counsel Chifumo Banda, who argued that the delay was necessary to guarantee the availability of all witnesses when called. “The adjournment is intended to ensure that every witness is present to give their testimony, so that justice is properly served and seen to be served,” Banda told the court.  He added that the defense had already communicated with the witnesses and emphasized their obligation to appear. While reluctant to seek a postponement, Banda said circumstances left the defense with no alternative. Public Prosecutor Michael Nun...

Strategic partnership between EAZ and CSPR aims to strengthen Zambia’s economy and reduce poverty. By Francis Maingaila ♥️  The Economic Association of Zambia (EAZ) and the Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR) have formalized a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reinforcing their joint commitment to promoting economic growth and reducing poverty in Zambia. The signing ceremony brought together the EAZ delegation, led by National Secretary Dr. Nicholas Mainza, and CSPR representatives under the leadership of Executive Director Ms. Isabel Mukelebai, highlighting the enduring collaboration between the two institutions. Ms. Mukelebai expressed gratitude to EAZ for its sustained support in providing resources and technical expertise that have strengthened CSPR’s initiatives in research, economic development, debt management, and poverty reduction.  She underscored that the MoU reflects years of cooperation and preparation, rather than serving s...

Collaboration focuses on technology transfer, workforce training, and regulatory readiness. By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia24  - (29 August 2025)– Zambia has taken a major step toward strengthening its national health security and contributing to Africa’s vaccine independence by signing a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) to establish local vaccine manufacturing. The agreement, signed at State House in Lusaka, was witnessed by government officials, global health partners, private sector representatives, and civil society stakeholders. It positions Zambia among the first African countries to pursue large-scale vaccine production, in line with the African Union’s 2040 vision for self-reliant health systems. The MoU sets a 10-point collaboration framework between the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI) and IVI, covering technology transfer, GMP-ready facility design, quality systems, regulatory support, w...

High-ranking officials shielded from scrutiny while opposition figures face swift investigations. By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia 24–  (29 August 2025) - Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) has rated the UPND government’s first four years in office low-performing on anti-corruption and governance, citing selective enforcement, weak transparency, and stalled reforms. The assessment, read by Priscila Chikonde, TI-Z Chapter President, at the Secretariat, evaluated 12 key promises from the UPND 2021–2026 Manifesto, covering corruption, rule of law, and economic management. The administration scored 2.1 out of 5, with nine of the 12 promises rated poorly. “While the government has strengthened anti-corruption institutions, overall performance remains low, particularly in asset declarations and lifestyle audits,” Chikonde said.  “These gaps undermine public confidence and fuel perceptions of impunity, especially where enforcement appears selective.” Areas of greate...

Strategic investments and infrastructure upgrades are reshaping trade and commerce in the region. By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia24 – (28-08-2025) -Solwezi and North-Western Province are rapidly transforming into one of Zambia’s most important economic engines, driven by large-scale mining investments, government-led development programs, and public-private partnerships. Chief Whip of the National Assembly and Solwezi Central Member of Parliament, Stafford Mulusa told journalists at a media briefing on Thursday morning at the UPND party headquarters in Lusaka that the region is experiencing unprecedented growth that is “changing the lives of ordinary people” and putting North-Western Province at the centre of national economic progress. Mining Investments Drive Job Creation Mr. Mulusa highlighted the $1.125 billion Kalumbila Mine expansion, a project expected to generate more than 9,000 jobs, extend the mine’s lifespan by 20 years, and produce 500,000 tonnes of copper annua...

Extreme weather, deforestation, and environmental degradation are threatening food security, water supply, livelihoods, and economic growth, demanding urgent action from government, civil society, and communities. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia, 24 – (26-08-2025) – Zambia is grappling with the harsh realities of climate change, as prolonged droughts, floods, erratic rainfall, and widespread land degradation are already affecting millions. At the National Summit on Climate Change Adaptation and Environmental Management in Lusaka, government leaders, civil society, and faith-based organizations convened to push for urgent, inclusive, and accountable action to safeguard the country’s future. Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Hon. Mike Mposha, warned that climate change is no longer a distant threat but a present and growing danger requiring unified action from all Zambians. Speaking under the theme “Climate Action for Inclusive Growth – Protecting Zambia’s Environment, Empow...

Former PF and Socialist Party members officially join the ruling party, strengthening its grassroots presence and highlighting the opposition’s decline. By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia24 (23-08-2025) - The United Party for National Development (UPND) has welcomed 595 defectors from the Patriotic Front (PF) and Socialist Party (SP) in Chawama Constituency, marking another blow to opposition credibility. Presidential Mobilization Team (PMT) National Coordinator, Burden Mfungwe, said the defections exposed the failures of the opposition, which he described as divided, ineffective, and disconnected from the people’s needs. “The PF thrived on violence and division, the Socialist Party has failed to deliver any real solutions, and both have lost the confidence of Zambians,” Mfungwe said. He urged the defectors to fully integrate into UPND, warning against bringing the disunity that crippled their former parties. “UPND is about progress, peace, and development. From today, you are...

Education, jobs, and infrastructure highlighted as milestones under Hichilema’s leadership. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia, 24 - (24-08-2025) - The United Party for National Development (UPND) Presidential Mobilization Team National Coordinator, Bishop Burden Mufungwe, has lauded President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration for delivering tangible development across Zambia and urged citizens to give him full support ahead of the 2026 elections. Speaking before hundreds of cheering UPND supporters at Longacres Lodge on Saturday, Bishop Mufungwe handed over more than 180 defectors from the Patriotic Front (PF) and Socialist Party (SP) to Kanyama constituency.  “We are reporting to you, our employers, through the works all around you!” he declared, highlighting the Free Education policy, Cash for Work program, Constituency Development Fund (CDF), and Social Cash Transfer scheme as evidence of the government’s transformative efforts. “These are not mere promises; they are real re...

Revenue targets set at historic highs while spending on luxuries is ruled out By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24 – (25-08-2025) – Government has directed ministries, provinces, and agencies (MPAs) to exercise strict discipline in the 2026 National Budget. Reduced allocations, rising debt service, and the cost of the 2026 general elections leave no room for waste or unfinished projects. Secretary to the Cabinet for Finance and Economic Development, Patrick K. Kangwa, speaking through Deputy Secretary Siazongo Siakalenge, warned that workshops, excessive travel, and inflated operations will no longer be tolerated. “Deliver more with less. Stop lobbying Treasury for additional funding and show what you can achieve with what you already have,” Kangwa said. The 2026 budget, set for presentation on September 26, closes out the UPND administration’s first term. Kangwa highlighted achievements including the IMF Extended Credit Facility, 92 percent debt restructuring progress, resilience ...

Over 100 bales valued at over K500,000 of banned garments destroyed in three years. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24  - (24-08-2025) — The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has flagged the illegal trade in used undergarments and nightwear as a serious public health hazard, warning that offenders will face strict action. Executive Director Gerald Chizinga said items such as underwear, pyjamas, bras, tights, camisoles and nightgowns pose significant health risks because they are worn in close contact with the skin.    “These products can transmit fungal infections, skin irritations, and even sexually transmitted diseases. This is why the trade in such garments is banned under Statutory Instrument No. 120 of 2006, which enforces the compulsory Zambian Standard ZS 559,” Chizinga explained. He emphasized that violators will be prosecuted and have their consignments seized and destroyed.  “This is not merely a regulatory matter — it is about safeguarding publi...

Muyumba on behalf of NUPPEZ highlighted progress in school infrastructure, curriculum, and higher education support By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia24 -(23-08-2025) - The National Union for Public and Private Educators of Zambia (NUPPEZ) has rated the United Party for National Development (UPND) government at 95 percent in the education sector, citing unprecedented teacher recruitment, free education, expanded school infrastructure, and timely payment of salaries and retirement benefits as major milestones. Union executive president Victor Muyumba said at a press briefing in Lusaka that in the past four years, the government had undertaken reforms that significantly enhanced access to education, though challenges such as the high cost of living and delays in teacher upgrading still remain. Muyumba commended the government for recruiting thousands of teachers, saying the move not only reduced unemployment but also improved the teacher-pupil ratio, thereby raising the quality ...

Government implements digital verification to improve efficiency and transparency. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, August 23, 2025 – The Ministry of Agriculture has confirmed that the redemption of farming inputs under the 2025/2026 Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) will officially commence on Monday, August 25. Principal Public Relations Officer Balewa Zyuulu explained that the Ministry, in partnership with all three mobile network operators, has introduced an electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) system to verify beneficiaries.  Farmers must use mobile numbers registered under their National Registration Cards (NRCs) and linked mobile money wallets. “The eKYC system ensures that only eligible farmers benefit from the programme. It accelerates verification and payments while facilitating agricultural insurance processing,” Zyuulu said.  “This digital approach is part of the Government’s broader goal to modernize financial services in agriculture.” The Ministry also announced ...

𝑵𝒐𝒕 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒊𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒏 𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒚 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒈𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒂𝒍𝒔𝒐 𝒄𝒍𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒇𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒈𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒔 𝒅𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒊𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒚 𝒆𝒙𝒊𝒕.  By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24 – (August 22, 2025) – Independent Member of Parliament for Chiengi Constituency, Hon. Given Katuta, has denied allegations that she threatened Times of Zambia photojournalist, Henry Chunza, during her exit from Parliament on 21st July 2023. Testifying before Magistrate Idah Phiri, Katuta said the accusations were based on a misunderstanding. She told the court she never spat on Mr. Chunza and never intended to threaten him. Katuta, also a Reverend and co-founder of the Fourth Man Ministries, said she believed the person taking her photographs was a political cadre.  She explained that she only asked security officers to stop the photography and had no intent to intimidate...

ZEJC is “actively exploring legal options and will not hesitate to pursue the various options available to ourselves in the public interest and on behalf of the affected communities should the real status of the scale of the contamination and the results of comprehensive assessment remain undisclosed. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, August 18, 2025 – The Zambia Environmental Justice Coalition (ZEJC) has issued an urgent call for action following the environmental disaster caused by Sino Metals and Rongzhing Mining, which in February 2025 polluted the Mwambashi Stream, Luela Streams, and the Kafue River which left communities with unsafe water, disrupted livelihoods, and increased health risks. Ceasar Katebe, Programmes Manager at the Zambia Alliance for Women, on behalf of the coalition, told journalists in a statement that the coalition is demanding an immediate halt to all illegal mining activities at the site and a suspension of plans to allow Sino Metals to resume operations.  He ...

Chikote says the 20MW new plants will supply households, small businesses, local townships, and help ease electricity shortages By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Aug. 21, 2025 – The Government of Zambia has signed a landmark memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Jiangsu Fanye Power Energy Equipment Ltd of China to install 20 megawatts of solar power at two of the country’s largest sports facilities, a move officials say will ease the nation’s electricity deficit, benefit communities, and empower young people with new skills. The agreement, signed at Lusaka’s National Heroes Stadium, will see the construction of 10-megawatt solar plants each at Heroes Stadium in Lusaka and Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola. Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Elvis Nkandu, said Heroes Stadium consumes only 700 kilowatts at peak, leaving most of the power to be redirected to nearby townships such as Matero, Mandevu, Kabanana, and parts of Kanyama.  A similar arrangement will apply at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium,...

ZMA’s performance supports fair trade and regional competitiveness By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24 (Aug. 21, 2025) – The Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA) has exceeded its mid-year performance targets, reinforcing its role in ensuring accurate measurements, protecting consumers, and promoting industrial efficiency across Zambia. At a media briefing in Lusaka, ZMA Director Humphrey Nkobeni highlighted the agency’s achievements in the first half of 2025, emphasizing the critical role of precise measurements in trade, agriculture, and industry.  He said the briefing provided a “valuable opportunity to reflect on our progress, highlight our achievements, and reaffirm our commitment to excellence in regulating measurements and providing technical support to all sectors of the economy.” Nkobeni revealed that ZMA had type-approved seven new models of measuring instruments for the Zambian market.  He explained that type approval “is the formal process through which ZMA evaluates and...

Civil society sees opportunity for genuine dialogue. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24, (Aug. 21, 2025) – The Advocates for Democratic Governance Foundation (ADEG) has welcomed government’s decision to defer the NGO Bill No.6 to allow for broader consultations, describing it as a positive step for civic space in Zambia. The announcement was made by Community Development and Social Services Minister Doreen Mwamba, who said further engagement with stakeholders was necessary before the Bill is re-tabled. ADEG Executive Director Gideon Musonda said the move showed government was listening to concerns raised by civil society. “This is a positive step towards ensuring that the eventual law reflects the aspirations of the people and strengthens civic space in Zambia,” Musonda said. He urged that the consultation process be transparent and inclusive, ensuring that grassroots organizations are heard alongside larger NGOs.  He also called on government to respect stakeholders’ submission...

The health authorities amd activists says While treatment targets are met, new infections, pediatric gaps, and TB co-infections persist. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia, 24 Aug. 2025 – Zambia has made remarkable strides in its fight against HIV, surpassing key treatment targets, but health experts warn that high new infections, persistent pediatric gaps, and tuberculosis (TB)-HIV co-infections continue to pose serious challenges. Dr. Chimika Phiri, HIV Prevention Adviser at the Ministry of Health, detailed Zambia’s progress and ongoing challenges during a briefing in Lusaka.  “Zambia has achieved 98-98-97 in the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets,” he said. “This means nearly all people living with HIV know their status, almost all are on treatment, and nearly all on treatment have achieved viral suppression. This is a huge national milestone that reflects decades of effort by government, partners, and communities.” Between 2016 and 2021, Zambia’s national HIV incidence fell from 0.6% to ...

Nkulukusa ueges beneficiaries to invest funds in their original projects for sustainable impact. By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia24 – August 19, 2025 – Central Province Minister and Katuba Member of Parliament, Hon. Mwabashike Nkulukusa, has handed over K2,489,063.19 in 2025 Constituency Development Fund (CDF) empowerment grants to 83 cooperatives in Katuba constituency. Hon. Nkulukusa said the grants target youth and women-led cooperatives to address financial barriers and improve economic opportunities.  “President Hakainde Hichilema deliberately introduced these grants to empower youth and women,” he said. He urged beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly to transform their economic status and communities, while apologizing for the delayed disbursement. Chibombo Town Council Secretary, Grace Kanyata, speaking through Denny Sichula, the District Agriculture Coordinating Officer, called for accountability in using the funds. Katuba CDF Committee Chairperson, Kennedy ...

Zambia’s capital markets record strong growth in Q2, but fraudulent schemes targeting investors are on the rise. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24. 19, 2025 – Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chief Executive Officer Phillip K. Chitalu says Zambia’s capital markets recorded strong growth in the second quarter of 2025, posting major gains in market capitalisation, investor participation, and collective investment schemes, while warning of rising fraudulent schemes targeting the public. Chitalu told journalists in Lusaka that market capitalisation grew by 15% to K296.2 billion, pushing the Market Capitalisation-to-GDP ratio to 53.1%.  The figure already exceeds the 2027 Capital Markets Master Plan target of 30%, bringing total savings in the market to K304.4 billion, or 55% of GDP. He, however, cautioned that the market remains heavily concentrated in Shoprite Plc, which accounts for more than 60% of Zambia’s equity market.  “Excluding Shoprite, the market capitalisat...

Students demonstrate superior knowledge and teamwork to clinch the top prize at the event. Lusaka, August 17, 2025 – Students from Texila American University Zambia (TAUZ) were crowned champions at the Zambia National Medical Quiz held yesterday at the University of Zambia Ridgeway Campus, in a competition that tested medical knowledge, teamwork, and quick thinking. The quiz, organized by the National Medical Quiz in partnership with 1 Day Africa, attracted top medical students from some of the country’s leading institutions, including Cavendish University, University of Zambia (UNZA), Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, Apex University, Mulungushi University, and Eden University.  Over several challenging rounds, TAUZ students consistently outperformed their peers to secure the coveted first-place title. Dr. Paul Chibwe, President of the Resident Doctors Association of Zambia (RDAZ) and Guest of Honour at the event, commended all participating universities for nurturing the next ge...

Federation says new limits on drugs and lab tests make adequate treatment harder, demands fair play By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia, (18 August 2025) - The Health Care Federation of Zambia (HFZ) has raised concerns over delayed payments and tariff challenges under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), warning that the situation threatens the survival of private health facilities. HFZ President Dr. Desai Shaileni said the private sector has played a critical role in delivering healthcare since being accredited under the scheme in 2021, but operational difficulties have made service delivery increasingly unsustainable. “Since the roll-out of NHIS to private facilities, citizens have benefited immensely, with hundreds of thousands accessing quality healthcare outside public institutions. Our members have diligently served the people of Zambia despite several impediments,” Dr. Shaileni said. He explained that NHIMA, created in 2018 to manage the scheme, committed to paying healt...

Muvombo Warns Against CBPP Threat to Animal and Human Safety By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia – 18 August 2025 The Muvombo Development Initiative (MDI) has backed the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock’s controversial decision to slaughter 70 cattle in Kalomo District, warning that failure to enforce animal health laws could expose both animals and humans to catastrophic risks. Addressing journalists in Lusaka, MDI Managing Director Winter Muvombo said the destruction of the cattle—though painful for farmers—was unavoidable under the Animal Health Act because the animals were illegally moved from a quarantined CBPP-infected zone in Moomba, Kazungula. “We cannot allow emotions to cloud the bigger national interest. CBPP is a deadly disease, and once it spreads, it can wipe out entire herds and destabilize rural economies. Protecting the national herd also means protecting human survival, food security, and public health,” Muvombo stressed. CBPP: A Silent but Deadly Threat CB...