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Government Denies Fuel Procurement, Clarifies Debt

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... Sianjalika explains government policy shift and efforts to manage inherited fuel debt By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia – The government has not only clarified the fuel debt but also denied ever procuring fuel since the New Dawn Administration assumed office in 2021. Principal Public Relations Officer, Bob Sianjalika, told journalists in a statement that the government's policy shift in 2022 placed the responsibility for fuel procurement in the hands of the private sector, led by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). Sianjalika emphasized that the policy change was made to address the unsustainable debt left by the previous administration and ensure the country's fuel supply was managed efficiently going forward. According to the statement issued by Sianjalika, on Sunday, Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote, explained that the policy change was prompted by the "unsustainable debt inherited from the previous administration, the Patriotic Front (PF)." Upon tak...

Energy Shift

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Key players in the Energy sector during the launch ... Zambia’s New Energy Framework – Launch of Electricity Open Access expected to enhance service delivery and reduce costs for consumers. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia – 14-02-2025 The Zambian government has officially launched the Electricity Open Access framework, marking a pivotal milestone in transforming the country's electricity market into a more competitive and transparent one. Energy Minister Makozo Chikote, addressing attendees, clarified that this initiative is intended to open Zambia’s transmission and distribution networks to qualified participants, thus encouraging fair competition and stimulating growth within the energy sector. The framework’s goal is to diminish monopolistic control, encourage private investment, and enhance the efficiency of energy distribution. These changes are expected to lower consumer costs, improve service delivery, and contribute to national economic growth. This initiative fol...

Zambeef Joins End Malaria Fight

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.. Cottan says the partnership aims to strengthen efforts in malaria prevention and treatment across Zambia. By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia – Zambeef Products PLC has partnered with the End Malaria Council (EMC) to support Zambia’s malaria elimination program, pledging financial, logistical, and awareness-driven initiatives to reduce the disease’s impact on public health and the economy. Speaking at the partnership announcement, Zambeef Chief Executive Officer Faith Mukutu emphasized the company’s broader commitment beyond food production. "A healthy workforce is essential for productivity and sustainability, and malaria remains a major public health challenge affecting millions of Zambians," Mukutu stated. Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Zambeef will integrate malaria awareness campaigns, prevention programs, and resource mobilization efforts within its key operational areas, including Mpongwe, Chisamba, Mongu, and Namwala. The Ministry of Health aims to...

Zambia Beats Corruption

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....Cheelo Katambo says the New Dawn administration has set an unmatched standard in fighting corruption, as evidenced by the improved CPI ranking, signaling a shift in governance. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia – The United Party for National Development (UPND) government has established an unprecedented standard in the fight against corruption, achieving tangible results that surpass previous administrations, according to the party’s Deputy Media Director, Cheelo Katambo. Katambo pointed to Zambia’s improving Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) score as a testament to President Hakainde Hichilema’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance. The country’s 2024 CPI score increased to 39, up from 37 in 2023, marking the second consecutive improvement in just three and a half years. “This achievement is a direct result of the UPND government’s firm stance against corruption and the deliberate policies implemented to enhance accountability,” Katam...

MPR hiked to 14.5%

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...Central Bank Moves to Curb Rising Inflation and Currency Depreciation By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia – (12-02-2025) – The Bank of Zambia (BoZ) has raised its Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) to 14.5% , a 50-basis-point increase aimed at addressing persistent inflation and stabilizing the local currency. BoZ Governor Danny Kalyalya told journalists at a press briefing that the decision comes as inflation is expected to remain above the 6-8% target range over the next eight quarters. "High inflation remains a major concern, and if left unchecked, it will undermine economic stability and erode the purchasing power of households," Kalyalya stated. "We have therefore made the decision to raise the policy rate to contain inflationary pressures and anchor expectations." He explained the rationale behind the decision, highlighting inflationary trends and exchange rate volatility. "We have seen increased demand pressures, along with movements in the exchang...

Regional Integration Boost

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... COMESA Accredits New Ambassadors from France, Turkey, and Egypt as New Diplomatic Representatives By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia – (10-02-2025) - COMESA Secretary-General Chileshe Kapwepwe has officially received letters of credence from the newly accredited ambassadors of France, Turkey, and Egypt, formally recognizing them as special representatives to the regional economic bloc. During the accreditation ceremony at the COMESA Secretariat in Lusaka, Kapwepwe praised the three nations for their commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic cooperation within the region. She highlighted their critical roles in advancing trade, investment, and regional integration under COMESA’s framework. "COMESA values its partnerships with France, Turkey, and Egypt, as they contribute immensely to regional economic growth and stability," Kapwepwe stated. "We look forward to deepening our collaboration in areas such as trade facilitation, infrastructure development,...

Matero's Strategic Shift

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A Collaborative Dialogue between UPND's Mukobela and Miles Sampa Lusaka, Zambia - (10-02-2025) - Today, a crucial political meeting took place in Matero, as United Party for National Development (UPND) hopeful Evans Mukobela met with the sitting Member of Parliament for the constituency, Miles Sampa. The discussion, centered on issues like infrastructure, job creation, and social services, has sparked attention across the political landscape. Mukobela’s engagement with Sampa—despite their political differences—could signal a shift in Matero’s political dynamics. Mukobela, a newcomer to Zambian politics, is positioning himself as a unifying force for the constituency. His focus on community development over partisan allegiance has resonated with voters. After the meeting, Mukobela stated, “It’s about the people of Matero. We all have the same goal: to uplift our community,” suggesting his commitment to fostering collaboration for Matero’s progress. The timing of the meeting is signi...