"The GOAT Media Centre"

... As Government and Partners Launch 2021 GYTS Report, Underscoring the Urgent Need for Action to Combat the Increasing Tobacco Use Among the Nation's Youth By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia —(16-12-2024) - The Government of the Republic of Zambia, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), has launched the 2021 Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) Report, underscoring the urgent need for action to combat the increasing tobacco use among the nation's youth. Civil society organizations (CSOs), health experts, and stakeholders renewed their calls for the Zambian government to pass the long-awaited tobacco control legislation. Speaking at the December 16, 2024, event in Lusaka, Albert Phiri, a representative of the CSOs, called for the urgent implementation of concrete measures to tackle the tobacco epidemic among young people.  He emphasized that the survey data must lead to legislative changes that protect Zambia’s...

... Zone 8 members bring festive joy to hospital patients and pledge to continue executing signature projects that impact the community By Francis Maingaila  Lusaka, Zambia –  (14-12-2024) - Zone 8 Lions Club of Lusaka carried out its annual Christmas Cheer Initiative at Chinama Hospital, uplifting over 150 patients with festive joy and essential support.  This event reflects the club's unwavering commitment to addressing health and social welfare needs in the community. Spreading Festive Cheer and Support Lions Club President Ln. Chishimba Chansa Mazokera described the initiative as a heartfelt way to connect with the vulnerable during the holiday season.  "This program ensures no one feels forgotten or isolated during Christmas. It’s our way of showing that the community cares," she said. Mazokera added that the initiative goes beyond material donations, focusing on emotional support and building a sense of belonging for patients.  "It’s about reminding people that...

... Mweetwa says Defence Forces have been Mobilized to Support Irrigation Farming in Key Agricultural Areas By Francis Maingaila  Lusaka, Zambia  (12-12-2024) - The government of the Republic of Zambia (GRZ) has contracted 41 commercial farmers to participate in contract maize farming, which is expected to produce 145,000 metric tons of maize by April 2024.  This initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to combat food insecurity caused by prolonged dry spells and climate change. Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa, speaking at a media briefing this morning, outlined additional measures aimed at ensuring a stable food supply.  He revealed that the Defence Forces have been deployed to support food production in the Northern Corridor, particularly in the Luena and Nanzanga farming blocks in Kawambwa and Serenje.  These areas are being developed for intensive irrigation farming to boost maize yields. “To stabilize the food supply, we are establishing a continuous...

... The Matero parliamentary hopeful reiterates his dedication to safeguarding Zambia's democratic principles through his support for the legal ruling. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia (12-12-2024) – UPND parliamentary candidate for Matero, Evans Mukobela, visited Attorney General Dr. Mulilo Kabesha this morning to congratulate him on successfully defending the case against former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.  The ruling, which disqualified Lungu from contesting future elections, marks a significant moment in Zambia's political landscape. Mukobela commended Dr. Kabesha and his legal team for securing the judgment that found Lungu ineligible for a third term based on constitutional grounds.  He pledged to continue upholding democratic principles and ensuring that the rule of law prevails in Zambia’s political processes. “This victory reaffirms the importance of upholding the Constitution and ensuring that all political leaders abide by the same legal standards,” Mukobela sta...

... Financial Barriers and Illicit Spending Undermine Zambia's Electoral Integrity By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia  - (11-12-2024) - Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) has launched a report revealing the significant financial barriers that threaten the country's electoral process, including high campaign costs and widespread illicit spending.  The study found that the average cost of winning a parliamentary seat in the 2021 general elections was K3.8 million (USD 192,266), exacerbating financial inequalities and raising concerns about the integrity and fairness of Zambia's electoral system.   The study found that winning a parliamentary seat in the 2021 general elections cost an average of K3.8 million (USD 192,266), highlighting the growing financial inequalities within Zambia’s electoral system. According to Bright Chizonde, an advocacy and research manager at TI-Z, “The bulk of the campaign expenditure occurred during the pre-adoption phase, with candidates...

By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia – 10/12/2024 Safety Management Training Services (SMTS) Zambia is proud to announce its official affiliation with The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), a globally recognized leader in safety advocacy and accident prevention. Founded in 1916, RoSPA has spent over a century championing safety through education, advocacy, and the development of safety standards. The organization, under the patronage of His Majesty King Charles III, has been instrumental in shaping safety laws, including the introduction of seatbelt regulations and drink-drive laws. The royal family's ongoing support highlights the profound societal impact of RoSPA's mission to create a world free from accidental injury. RoSPA focuses on reducing accidents in all aspects of life—at home, on the road, at work, and during recreational activities. Its wide-ranging programs promote safety awareness, provide expert guidance, and offer professional training des...

Mrs Chimuka Manyepa Mwila (left) By Francis Maingaila ♥️  Lusaka, Zambia - (10-12-2024) - The government has pledged a united fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), calling on all citizens to play their part in ending the scourge that continues to affect communities across the country. Speaking at a workshop in Mumbwa today, Ministry of Commerce, Trade, and Industry (MCTI) Principal Planner Chimuka Manyepa Mwila emphasized the importance of collective action, noting that GBV remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations with far-reaching social and economic consequences. “GBV affects individuals in every aspect of society—homes, workplaces, and schools—leading to reduced productivity, lower income generation, and poor mental health outcomes,” she said. Mrs. Mwila further highlighted that GBV often goes unreported due to its perpetration by trusted individuals.  “GBV is often perpetrated by people we trust and depend on, making it even harder for victims to come forward,...