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The Centre for Peace Research and Advocacy (CPRA) has strongly condemned a viral video circulating on social media showing cadres at the Patriotic Front (PF) Secretariat chanting “No Tonga Song,” calling it a dangerous display of tribal hate speech. CPRA Executive Director Cliffton Chifuwe, has warned that such rhetoric threatens Zambia’s national unity, social cohesion, and long-standing peace. Mr. Chifuwe has  also expressed deep concern over remarks made by Socialist Party President Dr. Fred M’membe, a key figure in the PF/Tonse Alliance. While visiting the PF Secretariat, where a parallel funeral gathering has been set up to mourn the late President Lungu, Dr. M’membe allegedly stated: “ These are bad people, let us not vote for them in 2026.” He said such comments   especially during a period of national mourning   are highly irresponsible and risk inflaming tribal divisions. “This is not a moment for political opportunism. It is a moment for unity and emotional rest...

In a major leap for sustainable agriculture, Syngenta Crop Protection  has officially launched Laudento® , a groundbreaking pesticide powered by PLINAZOLIN® technology , marking Zambia as one of the first countries globally to deploy this advanced solution. Designed to combat mites and insects at both adult and immature stages, Laudento® works through contact and ingestion   shutting down pest feeding instantly and causing death within 3 to 7 days. The product offers long-lasting residual protection , reducing crop damage while increasing productivity. Syngenta East and Southern Africa, Managing Director Given Mudenda , has called the launch a breakthrough in resistance management.   “Laudento® features a novel Mode of Action (IRAC Group 30), offering farmers a powerful tool in the fight against rising pest resistance   especially in crops like potatoes, tomatoes, cabbage, and soybean,” he said. “With superior UV stability and rain-fastness, it allows for fewer appli...

The National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA) and Ecobank Zambia have officially launched the SmartPay  platform, a digital payment solution aimed at simplifying and securing healthcare contributions across the country. The launch follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two institutions, reflecting a shared commitment to improving access to health services for all Zambians. Speaking during the launch, NHIMA Director General Michael Njapau   has described the platform as more than just a technological milestone , it is a strategic step toward enhancing service delivery and financial accessibility in healthcare. “This partnership with Ecobank provides a reliable, convenient, and secure gateway  for making contributions to the National Health Insurance Fund,” said Mr. Njapau. “It is particularly targeted at informal sector members , making it easier for them to stay compliant and access healthcare services.” Mr. Njapau  has  ad...

Ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) 2026 Lusaka Mayoral Aspirant, Rev. Dr. William Njombo, has reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive and community-driven leadership following a productive engagement with Libala Ward officials. Dr. Njombo spent the afternoon discussing critical development issues and reviewing progress in establishing Polling Station Management Committees. The meeting, also attended by members of the Kabwata Constituency Committee, reflected the UPND’s commitment to grassroots engagement and collaborative leadership. “This interaction strengthens my vision for a Lusaka where every community has a voice and access to opportunities for growth,” said Dr. Njombo. “I remain dedicated to working tirelessly for the people of Lusaka to ensure our city becomes more inclusive, responsive, and prosperous.” He has further urged local party structures to remain united and proactive as the 2026 general elections approach, emphasizing the need for community empowermen...

Democratic Union Party (DUP) President Ackim Njovu has called on President Hakainde Hichilema to personally intervene in the ongoing scandal involving the theft and illegal sale of government-supplied drugs, citing the failure of ministers to effectively manage the crisis. Mr. Njovu has expressed deep disappointment with the government’s slow and inadequate response, noting that recent public remarks by the U.S. Ambassador highlight Zambia’s lack of timely and decisive action on the matter. He has criticized  the focus of recent arrests, which he said have primarily targeted low-level pharmacy workers, while those believed to be the true masterminds   possibly senior government officials   have remained untouched. “The press briefing held by three ministers was unimpressive and deflective. Instead of addressing the issue head-on, they chose to blame the previous regime. That is not leadership   Zambians expect accountability,” Mr. Njovu said. He  has  quest...

UPND  Sikongo Member of Parliament, Simushi Mayungo, has called on the Ministry of Agriculture and the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) to review and increase the current crop purchase price in light of the challenges and resilience demonstrated by farmers across the region. Mr. Mayungo said  despite devastating droughts and significant losses in the previous farming season, farmers did not lose hope. “Our farmers remained committed to planting even with the risk of another drought looming,” he said. “Government must take into account the losses suffered last season and the unwavering resilience of our people when setting this year’s crop prices.” Mr. Mayungo has proposed an increase in the price of rice and other key crops above the previous K380 per 50kg bag, suggesting a K20 increment as a necessary incentive. “We must reward the perseverance of our farmers if we want to secure food production and national food security,” he added. He has also noted that while rains have been more...

The Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has attributed the growing levels of poverty in the country to widespread corruption and has urged citizens to hold corrupt individuals accountable. ZCTU President Blake Mulala  said the first quarter of 2025 has been marked by a high cost of living, troubling signs of systemic failure, and deepening mistrust in both government and private institutions. He has warned that unless urgent and inclusive reforms are undertaken, Zambia risks facing prolonged economic and social instability. “While we acknowledge progress in sectors such as legal and mining reforms, the economic reality for most workers remains bleak,” Mr. Mulala said. He has noted t he need for decisive action against corruption, calling on the Church, traditional leaders, and citizens to expose individuals who have enriched themselves at the expense of public welfare. “We elect leaders to serve the public   not to amass personal wealth. Those in politics for personal gain ...