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The Resident Doctors Association of Zambia (RDAZ) has warmly welcomed the Ministry of Health's recent announcement regarding the recruitment of 4,029 healthcare professionals and the promotion of 1,322 existing personnel this year. RDAZ President Dr. Mweushi Mphande commended the government's commitment to enhancing the healthcare delivery system, noting that the recruitment drive includes over 400 medical doctors. While acknowledging that the doctor-patient ratio remains a concern, standing at 1:12,000, Dr. Mphande recognized this development as a significant step towards bridging the gap. "The ideal ratio of 1:1,000 and the minimum recommendation of 1:5,000 are still our targets," Dr. Mphande said. "However, this recruitment exercise demonstrates the government's unwavering dedication to addressing the pressing healthcare needs of our population." Dr. Mphande also highlighted the notable increase in budget allocation towards health, from approximat...

The ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) has officially endorsed President Hakainde Hichilema as its sole presidential candidate for the 2026 general election. UPND Elections Chairman, Likando Mufalali, has emphasized that President Hichilema's candidacy is non-negotiable, and the party will not entertain any challengers. Mr. Mufalali has praised President Hichilema's leadership, citing his ability to bring order to the country's political situation, and declared that the party will give him two terms in office. He s has tated that while others may attempt to challenge the President, the party's decision is final, and President Hichilema will be the UPND's candidate in 2026. Mr. Mufalali has also confidently declared the party's victory in the 2026 polls, expressing optimism in President Hichilema's continued leadership. Ends.........................

Bowman Lusambo, Former Kabushi Member of Parliament and Ex-minister, has criticized United Kwacha Alliance members for allegedly disrespecting former President Edgar Lungu. Mr. Lusambo has urged UKA members to tap into Mr. Lungu's wisdom instead of undermining him. Mr. Lusambo has reminded them that the Patriotic Front (PF) is a strong party with structures in all 116 constituencies, over 50 MPs, and control of most local councils. And Mr. Lusambo has warned PF MPs to prioritize party meetings and speak up in parliament, threatening to expose those who don't. He has however clarified that despite internal wrangles, there is only one PF and urged stakeholders to distance themselves from the party's internal issues. Mr. Lusambo has defended his role in protecting all party members, including Mr. Lungu, and warned PF MPs not to take the party for granted. Meanwhile Mr. Lusambo, has rejected President Hakainde Hichilema's claims of constitutional loopholes that could d...

The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has condemned the recent incident of impersonation at the Monze Subordinate Court, where an individual, Felix Mujibelo, posed as a qualified Advocate and represented two clients accused of stock theft. Mujibelo has since pleaded guilty to charges of impersonation and been sentenced to six months imprisonment with hard labor. LAZ President Lungisani Zulu emphasized that this incident highlights the need for vigilance against individuals masquerading as Advocates and providing legal services without proper qualifications and accreditation. Mr. Zulu has reiterated LAZ's commitment to safeguarding the public and the integrity of the legal profession. Mr. Zulu has cautioned the public to exercise caution when seeking legal services, including conveyancing, debt recovery, legal advisory, and litigation services. He has stressed that only registered Advocates, duly licensed by LAZ, are authorized to offer legal services and represent clients in co...

The People's Pact, led by Green Party Leader Peter Sinkamba, has officially endorsed former President Edgar Lungu as its preferred candidate for the 2026 General Elections. Mr. Sinkamba has expressed his confidence in Mr. Lungu's ability to unseat the current administration, citing his popularity and the government's failure to effectively manage the country's affairs. During a press conference in Lusaka, Mr. Sinkamba has emphasized the alliance's commitment to ensuring Mr. Lungu's victory in the upcoming election. He has also cautioned against the disqualification of any presidential candidate on frivolous grounds, stressing the importance of fair play in the electoral process. Mr. Sinkamba says the People's Pact aims to foster collaboration and mutual respect among political leaders across the divide, promoting reconciliation and sustainable rapport within the framework of democratic governance. Mr. Sinkamba has reaffirmed the Pact's dedicati...

The African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) Member States and partners annually celebrate the Africa Copyright and Collective Management Day on September 14th. This occasion brings together stakeholders to raise awareness on copyright and collective management rights in Africa. In Zambia, the Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA) collaborated with ARIPO and collective management organizations to engage key stakeholders and rights holders. The theme, "Empowering Creative Industries Stakeholders – Building a Sustainable Future for Copyright and Related Rights," highlighted the importance of protecting creative industries. Ministry of Youth, Sport, and Arts Permanent Secretary Chama Fumba has emphasized the significance of creative industries in driving innovation and shaping cultural identity. Mr. Fumba has stressed the need to protect the rights of creators, distributors, and consumers to ensure the sustainability of the industry. An...

Economic development advocate Henry Muleya has expressed concerns that the government's plan to install diesel generators in key markets across Lusaka may ultimately prove ineffective. While welcoming the initiative, Mr. Muleya has questioned the choice of solution, citing operational challenges faced by local councils responsible for maintaining the markets. "While the intention is good, the solution may not be sustainable. The fuel costs will be a significant burden, and I fear this initiative may soon turn into a white elephant." Mr. Muleya said. Mr. Muleya has highlighted the councils' struggles with garbage collection, salary payments, and public toilet maintenance, raising doubts about their ability to manage the generators. He has noted that each generator would require 50 liters of diesel per day, costing K1,500 (approximately $75 USD) and translating to K45,000 (approximately $2,250 USD) per market monthly. Mr. Muleya has questioned who would bear...

President Hakainde Hichilema has emphasized the need for constitutional reform to ensure that the country's founding document accurately reflects the aspirations of all citizens. “ Despite previous efforts, a consensus on this critical national document remains elusive, ”he said. The President has reaffirmed his government's commitment to facilitating a cost-effective, efficient, and credible reform process, building on the substantial work already done. He has underscored the significance of the constitution as a defining document for the nation's identity. Furthermore, President Hichilema has reiterated his dedication to upholding the rule of law, deepening democratic credentials, and respecting the principle of separation of powers. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening oversight institutions. The President assured citizens that his government remains committed to protecting and upholding their rights, while also acknowledging the accompanying obligatio...

The Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA) is currently revising the Copyright and Performance Rights Act to align it with international standards, according to Registrar and Chief Executive Officer Benson Mpalo. Mr. Mpalo says the revised legislation aims to reflect modern realities and provide creators with enhanced protection and avenues for recourse. “Once the draft is complete, stakeholders will have the opportunity to review and comment on the document before it is submitted to the Ministry of Justice,’ he said. Speaking at the Commemoration of Africa Copyright and Collective Management Day Mr. Mpalo has noted that many musicians are unaware of their right to compensation for the use of their work on radio and television stations, not only in Zambia but also across Africa. “ Copyright ensures that creators receive fair remuneration for the use of their works, and collective management organisations (CMOs) play a vital role in facilitating this process. A music...

President Hakainde Hichilema has highlighted his administration's commitment to expanding civic and democratic space, citing the absence of media institution closures for political reasons since taking office three years ago. Instead, President Hichilema has noted an increase in community radio and television stations operating freely, with all stakeholders able to access media platforms without hindrance. The President has also emphasized the enactment of the Access to Information Act No. 24 of 2023, which enables citizens to access information from public institutions, promoting transparency and accountability. While acknowledging the importance of media freedoms, President Hichilema has cautioned against the misuse of social media platforms for spreading hate speech, misinformation, and propaganda that could threaten national security. He has emphasized that criminal activity will be prosecuted, regardless of the medium used. In his address to the 4th Session of the 13...

Gilbert Mwila, a member of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), has urged the party leadership to initiate a mobilization drive after the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) released the 2026 General Election Roadmap. Mr. Mwila has emphasized the need for inclusiveness, stating that politics is about numbers. He called for the removal of obstacles preventing new members from joining the party, citing interest from councilors and MPs from other parties. He has noted that the strategy for retaining power differs from winning power and warned against complacency due to the current state of the opposition. Mr. Mwila has cautioned the party against complacency, emphasizing the need to remain proactive despite the current lack of strong opposition. With the 2026 elections on the horizon, the UPND official has stressed the importance of activating party structures and recruiting grassroots politicians. Mr. Mwila has noted that the dynamics of politics in a democ...

The government has recognized that the media industry's financial struggles, caused by increased competition and limited advertising opportunities, have made it susceptible to manipulation by politicians and business entities. Speaking on behalf of the Information and Media Ministry Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana, Bernard Domingo Human Resource and Administration Director has expressed concern over the financial challenges facing the media industry. "The proliferation of free online content has further diminished the willingness to pay for news, exacerbating the financial challenges. This trend has made it increasingly difficult for the media to finance public interest journalism", he said. He has emphasized the need for sustainable solutions and partnerships to secure the future of media in Zambia. "These financial challenges have made the Media more vulnerable to external pressures and crises. Sadly, this has led to situations where some media houses are ...

In a groundbreaking move to drive financial inclusion and expand access to credit, Emerald Finance Limited has partnered with Airtel Mobile Commerce Ltd (Airtel Money) to launch the "Ka'Starta Loan" digital micro term loan product on the Airtel Money platform. This innovative service aims to bridge the gap between traditional financial services and the underserved population in Zambia, providing a seamless and accessible solution for instant access to loans via mobile phone. Speaking at the launch, Emerald Finance Limited CEO Kabeke Mulenga expressed his excitement about the collaboration, highlighting the company's belief in financial inclusion as a catalyst for economic growth and financial freedom. "Our partnership with Airtel Mobile Commerce Zambia ensures that affordable credit is available to everyone, regardless of location or income level," Mulenga said. And speaking at the same event, Airtel Mobile Commerce Country Director Andrew Chuma emphasi...

Currently, 33 per cent of the population use a basic sanitation service (41 per cent in urban areas, 28 per cent in rural areas), Zambia from the 2018 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) https://www.unicef.org/zambia/reports/zambia-demographic-and-health-survey-2013-2014 The government aims to declare at least five chiefdoms free from open defecation each year. According to National Water Supply and Sanitation Council (NWASCO) Water Supply and Sector Report 2023, efforts have been made in water and sanitation coverage with 249,193 and 274,714 more people accessing water and sanitation services respectively. This was as a result of the increase in the number of new domestic water supply and sanitation connections made in the year. The Macha chiefdom in Choma District, Southern Province, was the first in Zambia to achieve and verify its open defecation free (ODF) status. This success set the tone for a campaign that has seen 66 out of 288 chiefdoms, including eight in Northwest...