"The GOAT Media Centre"

Government and young innovators push to create homegrown tech solutions ahead of the Digital World Cup. Lusaka, Zambia24  --- (March 31, 2026 ) — Zambia is positioning itself to achieve digital glory on the global stage as the government urges citizens to move from being consumers of technology to creators of solutions that address local challenges ahead of the in Geneva. Minister of Technology and Science said at the E-Mark AI and Robotics Challenge National Finale that strong partnerships between government, the private sector, and civil society are essential for driving progress in digital infrastructure and connectivity. He commended the innovators at the event, noting that the ultimate goal is for Zambians to develop solutions capable of driving meaningful change, citing achievements such as Cobot as examples of local innovation. “We must not be a country that consumes technology. We must be a country that creates solutions to the challenges we face,” Mutati said, adding that...

CSOs Urge Hichilema to Enforce Rule of Law Ahead of 2026 Elections By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24  --- (March 31, 2026 ) — Civil society groups have commended President Hakainde Hichilema for directing the Zambia Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to avoid arrests before completing investigations. “President Hichilema’s directive is consistent with the rule of law and due process,” said Solomon Ngoma, Vice Chairperson of the Consortium of Civil Society Organizations for Good Governance and Constitutionalism . “It also reflects the values he stood for as opposition leader, when many citizens were arrested and victimised.” Ngoma expressed concern, however, that police and other agencies often ignore these directives. “Persistent disregard of presidential guidance risks reducing it to mere rhetoric and undermines public confidence in both the Presidency and law enforcement institutions,” he said. The consortium also warned about the political influence of...

State and Special Hope Network sign MoU that will f ocus on equity, access and community awareness and transform learning for children with disabilities By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24 -- (March 31, 2026 )— Zambia has launched a new push for inclusive education following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Education and Special Hope Network, aimed at improving equity, access and community awareness to transform learning for children with disabilities. The agreement seeks to integrate specialised support into the national education system, strengthen teacher capacity, and ensure learners with intellectual disabilities have equal access to quality education. Speaking during the signing ceremony, Special Hope Network President Eric Nelson said the partnership marks a shift towards a more coordinated and inclusive national approach. “This is not merely the signing of a document, but the formalisation of a shared vision where every child,...

Civil society warns that health assistance linked to mineral access threatens transparency, national sovereignty, and long-term health goals By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24 – (30 March 2026 ) --- A coalition of Zambian civil society organizations (CSOs) has warned that the proposed $1 billion U.S. health aid deal could undermine Zambia if signed without full public disclosure and parliamentary oversight. Ms. Chitimbwa Chifunda, Oxfam Zambia Country Director, told journalists at a media briefing on behalf of other CSOs that proceeding under the current terms could compromise transparency, accountability, and national sovereignty . The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), reportedly worth USD 1.012 billion over five years , is designed to support HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, vaccines, maternal and child health, and pandemic surveillance programs. Ms. Chifunda explained that lifesaving health assistance should not be tied to access to Zambia’s critical minerals or other ...

The ZNPHI days, the survey will examine lifestyle and health risks whereas the  indings will guide future health policies, Data to support prevention and control efforts By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia (30-03-2026) – Zambia is set to probe the growing burden of “silent killer” diseases through a nationwide survey aimed at examining lifestyle and health risks, with findings expected to guide future health policies and strengthen prevention and control efforts. ZNPHI Director General Professor Roma Chilengi told journalists at the media briefing that the institute will soon undertake a nationwide STEPS Survey to assess the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), marking a major step in understanding the country’s rising cases of chronic illnesses. Professor Chilengi said the survey will be conducted across all districts and will involve more than 5,700 participants selected through a scientific sampling process to ensure national representation. He said the exercise ...

ZTA says new Lusaka–Manzini air route will deepen economic and tourism cooperation, improve regional connectivity, and cut travel time By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24-- (30-03-2026) -- Eswatini Air has entered the Zambian market with the launch of a direct flight from Lusaka to Manzini, a development the Zambia Tourism Agency (ZTA) says will deepen economic and tourism cooperation, improve regional connectivity, and significantly reduce travel time. Eswatini Air Director Commercial, Mr. Getaneh Woldemichael, described the route as a milestone for both the airline and the region. He explained that travellers no longer need to make long, often inconvenient connections through Johannesburg, with the new non-stop service cutting travel time from around four and a half hours to about two hours. Woldemichael emphasized the airline’s commitment to affordability, offering competitive fares to make air travel more accessible. He also noted that if demand meets expectations, Eswat...

Chaaba says Infrastructure development and regulatory reforms propel sector expansion By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia24 — (27-03-2026) ---The rollout of 5G networks and ongoing infrastructure development are driving significant growth in Zambia’s ICT sector, according to the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA). Hanford Chaaba, Manager of Corporate Communications at ZICTA told Zambia24 that the 2025 ICT and Postal Sector Market Performance Report shows mobile subscriptions rose 13.1 percent, from 23.2 million in 2024 to 26.2 million in 2025, while internet subscriptions increased by 10.1 percent to 14.7 million.  Chaaba, the sector’s growth is fueled by higher demand for broadband services, more affordable ICT packages, and greater adoption of digital platforms. Mr. Chaaba said regulatory reforms and network expansion, including the 5G rollout, are key drivers of the sector’s performance. “Investments in network capacity and digital platforms, comb...

ZCSA Warns Public to Be Wary of Unsafe Products During Kuomboka Ceremony By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24 – (March 27, 2026 ) – The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has warned the public to be cautious of unsafe products and advised actionable steps—buy certified products, read labels, and report suspicious items—to protect their health during celebrations. According to Onishias Maamba, Public Relations Officer of ZCSA , large gatherings such as the Kuomboka Ceremony attract traders selling unverified products, which pose serious risks to public health and safety. Speaking on Thursday, March 26, 2026, ZCSA Manager for Communications and Public Relations, Brian Hatyoka , led a delegation from ZCSA and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) in a courtesy call on Western Province Principal Education Standards Officer (PESO), Richard Imasiku , on the sidelines of the Kuomboka celebrations. The visit aimed to emphasize consumer safety and raise awar...

Bevura App Launches to Expand Financial Inclusion in Zambia By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambis24. ---(March 27, 2026) — Zambians now have a new tool to manage their money securely, conveniently, and inclusively with the launch of the Bevura e-wallet platform by Yafika Mobile Money. The platform is designed to simplify payments, savings, and financial management, addressing challenges faced by traders, farmers, students, and entrepreneurs, particularly those underserved by formal banking systems. Minister of Technology and Science, , who was represented by Bonaventure Mutale, a senior planner at the Ministry, said the launch aligns with Zambia’s agenda of building an inclusive, opportunity-driven digital economy. “Bevura is not just about technology; it is about people,” Mutale said. “It is about making financial services accessible and secure for everyone—from market traders in city markets who lose hours depositing cash, to farmers in Eastern Province struggling to access credit,...

Economic empowerment is both a right and a strategic national priority. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia (27-03-2026) — Experts at the Women’s Economic Empowerment and Wealth Creation Conference in Lusaka said equal access to finance is critical to unlocking women’s economic potential, as limited access to credit, weak market linkages, and restrictive business environments continue to hinder women’s full participation in Zambia’s economy. Speaking at the Access Bank-sponsored Non-Governmental Organisations Gender Coordinating Council (NGOCC) conference held at Urban Hotel in Lusaka, Andrea Habweza, Gender Division Director under the Office of the President, said the government recognizes the persistent challenges affecting women and has taken deliberate steps to create an enabling environment for their economic participation. “Women play a critical role in driving small and medium enterprises, yet many remain underserved due to limited access to affordable credit, markets, and ...

Regional awards boost country’s industrial reputation By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24  --- (27-03-2026) --- The (ZABS) says six local companies have lifted Zambia’s profile after scooping top honours at the held in . The awards, organised by the (SADC), recognise organisations and individuals advancing quality systems and processes in line with regional and international best practices. The recognition follows the companies’ strong performance at the Zambia National Quality Awards hosted by ZABS in November last year. The award-winning companies include , which won Company of the Year in the Large Enterprise category, and Soyalicious Instant Porridge by , which scooped Product of the Year in the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) category. Also recognised was D’Iite Baby Cereal by , named first runner-up for Product of the Year in the Large Enterprise category. The secured first runner-up in the SME Service of the Year category. Meanwhile, was named first runner-up for...

.. As Government and ZIPS urge local authorities to act swiftly to ensure timely delivery of public projects and development outcomes. By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24 – (26 March 2026 ) -- The Zambian government and the Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply (ZIPS) have warned that delayed procurement continues to threaten service delivery and national development, calling on procurement committees, particularly in local authorities, to act swiftly. Wisdom Bwalya, Permanent Secretary Special Duties at Cabinet, representing Patrick Kangwa, Secretary to the Cabinet, said at the 2026 Annual Procurement Committee Training Workshop hosted by ZIPS that local authorities, boards, and procurement committees must embrace timely and accountable decision-making. Bwalya noted that procurement delays remain a significant constraint across government institutions, state-owned enterprises, local authorities, and development partner-funded programs.bdx   “Projects are approved in prin...

... WOZA for the 4th republic Adopts Reform Agenda, Calls for United Opposition By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24  -- (26-03-2026) --- ⁷3The We Are One Zambia Alliance (WOZA) for the 4th Republic has unveiled its leadership and adopted key governance and economic reform frameworks following a convention described by its leaders as transparent, inclusive and reflective of the will of the people. Speaking during a media briefing, WOZA Chairperson Sakwiba Sikota said the alliance took deliberate steps to ensure that its leadership was not imposed but emerged from a credible and participatory process. Sikota explained that an independent electoral commission was constituted to oversee the entire election process at the convention in order to guarantee fairness and transparency. He said the composition of delegates went beyond political parties, as the alliance allowed equal representation from participating political parties, independent candidates and non-political actors. T...

ZCSA tells SMEs that adhering to mandatory technical requirements enhances competitiveness, boosts productivity and profitability, and shields local products from unfair foreign competition. By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24 – ( March 26, 2026 ) --- The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has urged Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to comply with compulsory standards to gain easier access to lucrative markets, both locally and internationally. ZCSA Communications Manager, Brian Hatyoka, said the Agency that products meeting mandatory technical requirements are more likely to penetrate high-value markets. According to Hatyoka, ZCSA Regional Manager, Elias Kansembe, said implementing standards helps businesses develop customer-focused products, increase productivity, and improve profitability. He added that standards also protect consumers from potentially harmful products. Mr. Kansembe made the remarks during a presentation at the Access Bank SME Business Masterclass...

... African Disab i l i t y prptocal advocates urge urgent ratification across the r e g i o n By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24 -- (March 25, 2026 ) – The Disabled Women in Africa (DIWA) network is calling on governments across the continent, including Zambia, to urgently ratify and domesticate the African Disability Protocol (ADP), warning that continued delays are prolonging discrimination and exclusion for persons with disabilities, especially women and girls. Ruth Mkutumula, Executive Director of DIWA, told journalists at the media briefing that the African Disability Protocol is a crucial framework for protecting the rights of all persons with disabilities, with a particular focus on women and girls. Mkutumula explained that women and girls with disabilities face serious challenges across the region. She said these include ritual attacks on women with albinism, denial of education for girls with physical disabilities, and discrimination in healthcare. Mkutumula ad...

...As Clement Tembo Breaks ties with PF, Signals 2026 Endorsement By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka , Zambia24 – (25-03-2026) -- Former Presidential Empowerment Initiative Fund National Coordinator Clement Tembo has resigned from the Patriotic Front (PF), warning of major political shifts ahead of the 2026 general elections and signalling that he will soon endorse a presidential candidate backed by what he described as “well-organised grassroots structures.” Tembo, who is aspiring to contest the Kabwata parliamentary seat, said his decision to leave PF and relinquish his position as Lusaka Province Vice Secretary was both “timely and lawful,” adding that it clears his path to participate in the upcoming elections. He accused the former ruling party of abandoning its founding pro-poor ideology, arguing that it had shifted from serving ordinary citizens to benefiting a small group of elites within its leadership. “The PF was built on the strength of the grassroots, but over time that v...

... UNZA Staff unions not only warn government and key authorities to resolve delayed payments and benefits or face industrial action but also set deadlines on longstanding issues. By Francis Maingaila  Lusaka, Zambia24  -- (24-03-2026) -- Two unions at the University of Zambia — the University of Zambia Professional Staff Union (UNZAPROSU) and the University of Zambia and Allied Workers Union (UNZAWU)— have warned that industrial harmony at UNZA is at risk if the government and relevant authorities fail to resolve longstanding issues within set timelines. Likezo Pumulo, president of UNZAPROSU, said the delayed release of negotiation parameters by the Emoluments Commission has stalled 2026 collective bargaining talks. Under Section 69 (1)(a) of the Industrial and Labour Relations Act, negotiations should begin three months before the expiry of existing agreements, but talks for 2026 have not started even three months after the 2025 agreements lapsed. “The delay is a blatant disregard o...

... Government and private sector unite for strategic planning, targeting 3 million international visitors and boosting tourism and jobs toward a $1B goal By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24 – 23 March 2026 – Zambia is intensifying efforts to grow its tourism sector, targeting 3 million international visitors and a $1 billion industry , with the Zambia Tourism Agency (ZTA) leading preparations for the Zambia Travel Expo (ZATEX) 2026 , a strategic platform designed to connect investors, buyers, local operators, and government institutions to foster partnerships, showcase authentic tourism experiences, and generate real business opportunities. At the media launch held at Sarovar Hotel in Lusaka , Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba highlighted tourism as a key driver of economic transformation , capable of creating jobs, attracting investment, and boosting foreign exchange earnings. “Tourism must benefit communities directly. People need to see how investments translate into ...