Praise God for 2016 and seek divine blessings for 2017 - Lungu

Last night, President Edgar Lungu urged Zambians to celebrate the dawn of the New Year responsibly by praising God for 2016 and seek divine blessings for 2017. 

He said that he hopes that Zambians will work towards reconciliation with a special sense of agency to foster peace, unity and development in the country.

Airtime tariffs adjusted

Mobile service providers have adjusted airtime tariffs due to Government's excise duty increase on airtime from 15% to 17.5% as announced in the 2017 national budget. 

Horse Shoe workers sides with minister, dispels HRC findings

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 

Workers of the now famous 'Horse Shoe restaurant in Lusaka have termed the Human Rights Commission (HRC) findings of abuse of their rights by the Restaurant management as untrue. 

In an interview when the affected workers stormed Muvi TV studios in Lusaka said there is no abuse of workers at the restaurant as highlighted by Labour Minister, Joyce Simukoko. 

President Lungu tasks DMMU, Ministry of Agriculture to curb the spread of army worms

President Edgar Lungu President has directed the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) under the Office of the Vice-President to join the Ministry of Agriculture in an emergency operation to curb the spread of army worms that have invaded some districts on the Copperbelt, Luapula and Central Provinces. 

WhatsApp extends blackberry shutdown date

WhatsApp earlier this year announced they would no longer be supporting BlackBerry OS and BlackBerry 10 handsets by the end of 2016 but it seems they have changed their mind. 

According to an update in the FAQ section of the WhatsApp App it has now been extended to June 2017. 

MISA dissociates itself from the ‘Zambia Radio Awards’

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 

The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) has distanced itself from the recently held ‘Zambia Radio Awards’ at a shopping mall in Lusaka on Friday, 16th December, 2016. 

MISA Zambia Chairperson, Hellen Mwale says it has come to the attention of the institution that award recipients were given an impression of the awards being organised in partnership with MISA, with some award recipients still awaiting certificates to be purportedly issued by MISA Zambia. 

YWCA cautions Zambians against over excitement during festive season

The Young Women Christian Association (YWCA) on the Copperbelt has cautioned all Zambians against being over excited during this festive season. 

Regional Coordinator Sharon Chisanga said people should not be careless during this period but to behave responsibly to save their lives and resources.

Increasingly illegal wildlife crime: Plight of Pangolins in Zambia

By Winston Muleba JR 

Stories about illegally trafficked ivory and rhino horns are always in the news. But people hear relatively little about other species of animal and plant heavily plundered around in Zambia. So it might come as a surprise that Pangolins are such major victims in the million dollar deals. However, they could become extinct before most people have even heard of their existence! 

Call for entries: The Michael Elliott Award for Excellence in African Storytelling

The International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) in collaboration with ONE and the Elliott family seek entries for the inaugural 2017 Michael Elliott Award for Excellence in African Storytelling. Mike served as a distinguished editor at The Economist, Newsweek and Time before becoming CEO of ONE. 

Earlier this year, he had spoken of his dream to establish an award that would bring together his belief in great journalism with his commitment to progress in Africa. 

Zambia wins COSAFA under-20 youth championship

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 

Zambia under-20 national team has won the COSAFA Youth Championship for the 11th time in history. 

The Junior chipolopolo boys bagged their 11th COSAFA title with a deserved 2-1 victory against South Africa at Moruleng Stadium in Rustenberg. 

APPLY: United Nations University Fully Funded Scholarship 2017/18 for Developing Countries to Study in Germany

The University of Bonn and the United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) are delighted to announce that thanks to support from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) they will be offering up to eight fully funded scholarships to students from developing countries for the Joint Master of Science (M.Sc.) programme “Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security.” 

Strengthening control and preparedness capacities to manage armyworms outbreaks in Zambia

By Winston Muleba JR 

Zambia is among other countries in the SADC region and the world at large that is vulnerable to a number of hazards both natural and man-made. The frequency and severity of extreme hazards such as pest invasions, droughts, environmental degradation and floods have posed serious implications for natural systems and farming systems as well as crop or plant growing season. Among other hazards, pest invasion has proved to have a profound effect on natural systems and economic sectors especially agriculture and livestock.

Call for Nominations: Knight International Journalism Awards

The International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) seeks nominations for the 2017 Knight International Journalism Awards. 

The Awards recognize journalists who, through their pioneering work or technological innovations, produce quality news and information that make a significant impact on the lives of people in the developing world. 

Youths commends ZB for reducing beer prices

Lusaka youths are overjoyed by Zambian Breweries’  decision to reduce the recommended retail price of its clear beer in the run-up to the festive season. 

Last Monday, Zambian Breweries (ZB) announced promotional savings on the recommended retail price of its products of between 50 ngwee and K2 in recognition of the current tough economic climate for consumers. 

Lusambo awards over six full-scholarships to Journalists

Copperbelt Minister Bowman Lusambo has urged Journalists in Zambia to remain professional and ethical in the execution of their work. 

Mr Lusambo said the media is a key partner in national development hence the need to adhere to highest levels of ethical standards. 

[VIDEO] 27-year-old Zambian sparks controversy, marries a woman 18-years older than him

A 27-year-old Zambian gospel artiste commonly known as Steve G has sparked controversy after marrying his lover who is 18-years older than him. 

Steve tied a knot with a 45-year-old woman who is identified as a Zamtel employee.

Download video HERE 

Stop casualization, its against the labour laws, Eastern councils told

The Zambia United Local Authorities Workers Union ZULAWU has condemned the continued casualization of some workers in councils in Eastern Province. 

ZULAWU President, Misheck Nyambose told the media in Chipata yesterday that casualization should be stopped in councils because it is against the labour laws. 

Zambia Breweries slashes beer prices

Zambian Breweries has reduced the recommended retail price of its clear beer in the run-up to the festive season. 

The company has announced promotional savings on the recommended retail price of its products of between 50 ngwee and K2 in recognition of the current tough economic climate for consumers. 

Encroachment on Ndola’s Kafubu river banks: Gateway to disaster

By Winston Muleba JR 

It may seem hard to believe that a small, slow-flowing stream or gentle river could cause serious damage to people and the places in which they live and work, but looks can be deceptive! 

Believe it or not, the rapid growth of Ndola City has necessitated the expansion of settlement and infrastructures to accommodate relative increases in population. The increasing need for human development through rapid urbanization has led to a wide spread horizontal development in the city. As a result of this, streams and river banks have been encroached, vegetal covers removed, soil properties modified and many micro to macro ecosystem have been driven into extinction. Where these changes are not met with complementing planning and management measures, challenges such as water pollution, high risk disaster (flood), and unstable food production are unavoidable, particularly along the river banks. 

APPLY: TRACE Prize ($10,000) for Investigative Reporting – Uncovering Commercial Bribery

Deadline: 31st January, 2017 

TRACE International, the non-profit anti-bribery business organization, is now accepting entries for its annual Prize for Investigative Reporting. The award recognizes reporting that uncovers business bribery with the goal of increasing commercial transparency.

UNICEF launches free online course on Social Change

University of Pennsylvania and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) are jointly launching a free massive open online course on social norms and social change. 

The complete course, which consists of one theoretical and one practical part á 4 weeks coursework, is taught entirely in English.

APPLY: Pan-African Re/Insurance Journalism Awards for Journalist across the Continent

Deadline: January 31, 2017 

The Pan-African Re/Insurance Journalism Awards are open. Sponsored by Continental Reinsurance, the award recognise the outstanding work of journalists from across the continent. 

Successful candidates have to demonstrate how their articles have raised awareness and understanding of the re/insurance sector in Africa. 

ZAFFICO takes over Kawambwa Tea Estate

The Zambia Forestry and Forest Industries Corporation (ZAFFICO) has taken over the ownership of Kawambwa Tea Estate, with immediate effect. 

Kawambwa Tea Company Manager, Johns Bunda confirmed the takeover of the beleaguered State company which he says has since changed its name to ZAFFICO Tea Company. 

Allocating 1.5 million to the office of first lady is theft of public resources - FDD

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 

FDD spokesperson Antonio Mwanza says the decision by the PF Government to allocate 1.5 million kwacha in the national budget to the office of first lady is fraudulent and institutionalized theft of public resources. 

Mr Mwanza says the office of the first lady is an imaginary office which does not legally exist and it is theft of the highest order to allocate public funds to an office which is not only illegal but actually does not exist. 

APPLY: Journalism Fellowship Programme

Are you a mid-career journalist with a minimum of five years’ experience? 

Would you like to develop your academic understanding of the global media industry at one of the world’s most prestigious centres of learning? 

Government campaign for AU seats wrong timing - Chipenzi

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka

Electoral expert McDonald Chipenzi says he reads with great interest and admiration the desire by Zambian government to get some seats at the AU which has led to the dispatch of close to five cabinet ministers who are currently criss-crossing the African continent lobbying for support from other African countries for support to its candidates Dr. Austin Sichinga and Albert Muchanga . 

Mr Chipenzi says this is a move which is important but perhaps taken at a very wrong time.

Chief Hanjalika appeals to DMMU for relief food

Chief Haanjalika in Mazabuka District has appealed to government through the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) for relief food for hundreds of residents facing hunger. 

Chief Hanjalika’s Representative Malambo Chiinjila says the people face hunger because of a poor harvest last season due to inadequate rains. 

Southern PEO urges girl child to desist from having sex at a tender age

Provincial Education Officer in Southern region Florence Chikalekale has advised girls to desist from having sex at a tender age as it may lead to early pregnancies which can hinder girls’ achievement in life. 

She said girls should instead explore a number of career prospects that can help them realize their potential. 

1,245 vulnerable girls to benefit from GEWEL initiative

Over 1, 000 vulnerable girls in Mungwi District are to benefit from the Keeping Girls in School programme under the Girl Education and Women Empowerment Livelihood (GEWEL) initiative, it has been learnt. 

ZANIS reports that Acting Mungwi District Community Development Officer Sandra Sinkamba disclosed this in an interview in Mungwi District today. 

YALI bemoans UPND's directive to its members of parliament

Young Africans Leaders Initiative (YALI) has advised United Party for National Development (UPND) to put national interest first before banning its MPs from attending state functions. 

YALI Governance Advisor Isaac Mwanza says state functions are vital for the opposition as it is the platform where matters of national interest are resolved. 

Unemployment levels contribute to GBV - Sialumaano

Health Help Zambia Executive Director Jonas Sialumaano says high unemployment has contributed to an increase on cases of gender based violence. 

Mr. Sialumaano adds that unemployment has made some couples stay home all day without anything to do but only find faults in each other. 

Police in search of people who started social media racism discourse against Horse Shoe management

Police spokesperson Esther Katongo says investigations have been instituted to find the people who started the whole social media racism discourse against Horse Shoe management. 

“It is not difficult to get hold of the people behind this but we are not going to pre-empt our plans because we are looking at both sides of the coin. I can confirm that this is a matter that we are working on seriously,” she says.

Call to Civil Society Organizations to Apply for Funding

The United Nations Democracy Fund invites civil society organizations to apply for project funding. Project proposals may be submitted on-line between 18 November 2016 and 18 December 2016 at www.un.org/democracyfund/. 

Violence against persons with disabilities is a global human rights issue

Over the past two decades, the disability community has more openly discussed the issue of violence against persons with disabilities. As a result, governments and members of society in more countries are paying greater attention to the issue. This increased awareness is also the result of a stronger, more organized disability rights movement, and the impact of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the more recent Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Siliya in Ivory Coast to campaign for two Zambians seeking senior posts at the African Union

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 

Agriculture minister Dora Siliya has arrived in Abidjan, Ivory Coast to launch a campaign for two Zambians seeking senior posts at the African Union. 

“I have just arrived in Abidjan, ivory coast on a three country tour of Ivory Coast, Togo and Burkina Faso as a special envoy for President Lungu,” she says. 

BoZ dispels rumours that more banks are facing imminent closure

The Bank of Zambia (BoZ) has strongly cautioned members of the public and online media to desist from falsely speculating that certain banks or financial institutions are facing imminent closure following the Central Bank’s takeover of Intermarket Banking Corporation.

Conduct more humanitarian trainings in order to encourage the Media to embrace humanitarian reporting, ZRCS told

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 

The Zambia Red Cross Society has been urged to conduct more humanitarian trainings and simulations that benefit journalists in the country and to initiate a media award in the Humanitarian field so that journalists and media houses are encouraged to cover and report on humanitarian issues in order to encourage the Media to embrace humanitarian reporting and coverage the Zambia Red Cross.

Govt targets over one million farmers under FISP

Agriculture Minister Dora Siliya says Government will support 1,609,187 farmers under the Farmer Input Support Programme in the 2016/2017 farming season. 

Ms Siliya has told Parliament in a ministerial statement yesterday that of the total targeted beneficiaries, one million, six hundred and sixty six farmers will be supported under the conventional system in the sixty four districts while the remaining 602,521 farmers in 39 districts will be provided with the subsidy under the e-voucher system. 

Monze youth project to continue empowering youths - Sr Nyanga

Monze Youth Project Coordinator Sr. Nyanga says the institution will continue imparting youths with various life skills to enable them become viable and contribute to national development.

Speaking at the 42nd graduation ceremony in Monze yesterday, Sr. Nyanga said the youth project has so far produced many students that have excelled and are now operating their own businesses.

Greenish water: common concern of Ndola’s Southern zone residents

Green water supplied by KWSC

By Winston Muleba JR

Ensuring access to safe drinking water is a concern throughout the developing world and Zambia particularly Ndola City is no exception. The water required for each personal or domestic use must be safe; free from micro-organisms, chemical substances and radiological hazards that constitute a threat to a person's health. Regardless of the situation, residents rely on water for basic needs such as drinking, showering, cleaning, cooking, gardening and fire protection.

Meet Dr Kaunda Tamara, Medical Doctor turned Farmer

By Winston Muleba JR 

Deciding on a career path can be one of the most important choices some people make in life. It is believed that a career that one is not only successful in, but also enjoy doing will affect all aspects of their life in a positive way. But do people explore all the options before making a decision? 

Well, the fact is one question that may get ignored by many people looking to start a new career, or simply entering the job market for the first time, is whether or not they want to be an entrepreneur or an employee. In fact, most people struggle with the difference between the two because they only saw employment as the choice that was available for them. 

Dutch bank partners with FNB to finance SMEs

FMO, a Dutch Development Bank, has provided $15 million Subordinated Debt facility for First National Bank Zambia (FNBZ) to finance Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) in the country. 

In a statement, FMO Chief Investment Officer, Linda Broekhuizen, said the tenure of the funding facility will be for the period of ten years.

Cost of beauty: case of harmful effects of makeup on the eyes

By Winston Muleba JR 

Seventh Day Adventist women are just awesome: they appreciate God's creation, natural beauty and look neat to say the least. Don't get it twisted, SDA is among other Churches that promote natural beauty. 

Well! I have observed that majority of women wear makeup and eye lashes so as to look more beautiful I guess. But in trying to look beautiful, those who wear eyes lashes look panic when blinking: they blink like a 'ticker tape timer' and their eyes are always red as a result of pain they incur at the expense of beauty. And those who like eye liner and makeup in general, don't even think of the effect it has on their eyes. 

K1,500 sends a 33-year-old civil servant to prison

The Anti- Corruption Commission (ACC) has arrested a Assistant Social Welfare Officer in the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services–Lusaka for corrupt practices involving K1 500. 00. 

ACC Public Relations Manager Timothy Moono said Mr Stephen Mulongoti, aged 33, of Chilenje Township, was arrested and charged with two counts of Corrupt Practices by Public Officer contrary to Section 19(1) as read with Section 41 of the Anti-Corruption Act Number 3 of 2012 of the Laws of Zambia. 

Nigerian public university graduates are brainless, cannot communicate in English -former Veep

According to Guardian Newspaper Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has described graduates of Nigerian public universities as brainless, saying they cannot communicate in English with the students of his private secondary school, the American University of Nigeria (AUN) Academy.

Global campaign promoting the right of young people to run for public office to be launched on Tuesday

The Office of the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth (OSGEY), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the European Youth Forum and the Youth Initiative for Advocacy Growth & Advancement (YIAGA) will lead the launch of a global campaign focused on elevating the issue of young people’s right to run for public office, highlighting the wide-spread issue of age discrimination. The campaign is called “Not Too Young To Run” (NTYTR). 

Government is not ready to create employment for youths - Siambeta

Monze based Youth Activist Loyd Siambeta says it clear that government is not ready to create employment for youths as observed from the 2017 national budget. 

Mr. Siambeta told Radio Chikuni News that unskilled youths in Monze have no hope that they will be employed as Finance Minister Felix Mutati indicated that government will only recruit people from the education and health sectors. 

Zambeef embarks on a smallholder cattle development project in Northern Province: Musika donates vehicle, motorbikes

Musika is supporting Zambeef’s US$800,000 smallholder cattle development project in Northern Province with the delivery of a new Toyota Hilux that will be used in implementing the farming project.

The scheme is aimed at increasing animal productivity among small-scale farmers in the region, and the vehicle from Musika is intended to bolster Zambeef’s smallholder cattle development project in Mbala, where Zambeef already has infrastructure in place together with staff on site including a vet and animal disease specialists and trainers.

Instruction to reduce check points cheers motorists

Inspector General of Police Mr Kakoma Kanganja has directed all Provincial Police Commissioners to implement the directive by government on the reduction of permanent security and traffic check points.

And motorists across the country have welcomed the pronouncement.

Sign up: WWF Zambia launches a youth conservation initiative

The World Wide Fund in Zambia (WWF Zambia) has announced the launch of a youth-led initiative aimed at conserving the environment for generations to come. 

In a brief statement, WWF Zambia is calling on young people aged between 18 and 29 years of age to participate in its first ever youth engagement platform dubbed The Young Conservation Trailblazers Initiative (YCT). 

High school students in Montgomery County protest Trump’s election

Hundreds of students at a Maryland high school walked out of class and into the streets Monday morning to protest Donald Trump’s election as president, a march that gained strength as their peers from nearby schools joined them. 

The demonstration involving Montgomery County students was among numerous protests in the Washington area and around the country since Trump’s surprise victory in the Nov. 8 election. 

Vodafone Zambia champions youth empowerment by bridging digital divide

Vodafone Zambia opened its latest retail outlet at the University of Zambia (UNZA) main campus in a move that will see university students easily access the company’s ultra-fast 4G-LTE internet and devices. 

Speaking during the opening ceremony of the store, Vodafone Zambia CEO Lars Stork said: “Fast and affordable internet access will be this generation’s greatest leveler. Access to the internet means access to information, and access to communication networks; access that will improve education, and career outcomes. That’s the rationale behind the opening of this store at the University of Zambia campus.” 

M'membe's wife justifies legality of The Mast newspaper

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka
The Managing Director of the Oracle Media Productions Ltd, Mutinta Mazoka M’membe says the current discussion of The Mast in the government media is wrong and has no basis in law. 

In a statement monitored by WM Media, she stated that some sections of the media have suggested that The Mast is an illegal publication for allegedly not being registered with the Zambia Revenue Authority. 

APPLY: Reporting Contest on Early Childhood Development

Journalists in Asia, Africa and Latin America have a chance to win a prestigious international study tour as part of a contest to recognize the best stories on early childhood development.

ICFJ will recognize in-depth, investigative or innovative reporting that has helped raise awareness on issues such as early nutrition, early child care, early education and their impact on a child’s future well-being and contributions to society.

Reducing the impact of HIV: Young women and adolescent girls in Malawi, Kenya and Uganda take the lead

Around 180 young women and adolescent girls from Malawi, Kenya and Uganda have led a pilot project that aims to strengthen the leadership of young women and adolescent girls in the AIDS response. Called Empowerment + Engagement = Equality, the programme aims to build stronger leadership among young women and adolescent girls to engage in national assessments initiated by the All In to #EndAdolescentAIDS platform. 

The programme addresses issues of gender inequality that heighten adolescent girls’ vulnerability to HIV infection and provides safe spaces where experiences can be shared. 

Zambian-American girl suffers racist abuse at BU in America for being a black person

Nearly 300 Baylor University (BU) students walked Natasha Nkhama to her class after she alleged that a student pushed her, called her the n-word, and told her he was “trying to make America great again.” 

Twitter user Jaileene Maite posted a video of her friend Natasha Nkhama describing an incident that took place on Nov. 9 at Baylor University in Texas. 

Zambian-born social enterprise founder named Commonwealth Youth Worker of the Year 2016

Robin Lockhart, the founder of a social enterprise which supports at-risk teenagers and young adults through music and sport, has been named Commonwealth Youth Worker of the Year. 

The Briton, who was born in Zambia, received the accolade at the 2016 Commonwealth Youth Worker Awards. 

Zambia's first Diploma programme in Heavy Equipment Engineering launched at NORTEC

The ZAMITA (Zambian Industrial Training Academy) Programme, Zambia's first Diploma programme in Heavy Equipment Engineering was officially opened on the 7th of November at Northern Technical College, NORTEC, in Ndola. 

Youth-Led Briefing: Targeting Poverty and Education for Peace

Nations Department of Public Information’s NGO Youth-Led Briefing brought hundreds of youth, from all over the world, to the UN Headquarters in New York to discuss Sustainable Development Goals 1, 4 and 16. 

A panel of experts talked about how targeting poverty and education can help advance peace. The panel consisted of Mitchell Toomey, Director of SDG Action Campaign at the UNDP; Pilar Harris, an NYU Student and Urban Practice Fellow; Austin Schiano, Partnerships Director for the Give Me 5 Campaign; andUmazi Mvurya, a Development Fellow for the African Leadership Foundation.

K2,000 towards your water bill is up for grabs!

Download the WaterVoice Issue 3 Newsletter, enter the puzzle and stand a chance to win!. 

Email your answers to mails@nwasco.org.zm by 16th December 2016. 

The winner will be announced by 22nd Dec. 

Kindly note that family and friends of Nwasco staff are not eligible to participate. 

Click HERE to download the Newsletter.

Zambian youths have no one to look up to, those in positions of power use young people as ladders of their dreams - Former ZANASU Veep

Former ZANASU Vice President Prince Ndoyi has expressed disappointment with the state of affairs in the nation. 

Mr Ndoyi explained that youths in the country are disappointed with the turn of events as regards a number of challenges in the country including the nation’s economy, the civil society, the Church and the state of the media among other challenges in the country. 

Youthful Kalulushi MP takes over from Chishimba Kambwili as Minister of Information and Broadcasting

By Staff Reporter, Ndola 

His Excellency Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu President of the Republic of Zambia has appointed Hon. Kampamba Mulenga, MP as Minister of Information and Broadcasting Services taking over from Hon. Chishimba Kambwili, MP, whose services have been terminated with immediate effect. 

Dambisa sparks controversy again, set to release switch (I took a pill in Chibolya)

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 

A controversial songbird real names Dambisa Lunda has divided public views after releasing the snippet of her EP dubbed Switch (I took a pill in Chibolya). 

A snippet of 'Switch' preceded by an album art has been received by the public with mixed feelings.

Proposed 7-years term of office for elective positions hindrance to young people - Luneta

The African Initiative for Youth Participation in Politics and Governance has called on parliamentarians to reflect on how much the proposed extension would hinder young people from participating in national duties. 

Initiative President John Luneta says Zambia is not ready to have an extension in the period of office for elective position from 5 to 7 years. 

Stanbic Chief Executive urges young people to develop the habit of saving money

Young people could face a global financial crisis if they don’t develop the habit of saving money, Stanbic Bank Zambia Chief Executive Charles Mudiwa has warned. 

“Increased financial literacy among the youth is vital in ensuring a sound economic future for the country,” said Mr Mudiwa, who is also chairman of the Bankers’ Association of Zambia (BAZ). 

Govt targets 200, 000 HIV negative men to undergo male circumcision

Government has targeted to have 200, 000 HIV negative men and children circumcised countrywide during the October- December 2016 campaign of the male circumcision exercise.

Health Minister Dr. Chitalu Chilufya notes that the end year target of 419, 097 is achievable with concerted efforts from all stakeholders.

Iconic image of Ghanaian boy goes viral, demands donation of $20,000

A crowdfunding initiative to support Jake Amo, the five year- old boy from Asempanaye, in Ghana who has become a social media sensation because of his iconic image is gathering momentum. 

The campaign team has set a $20,000 target and the money will be used “to support Jake’s education and many other children like him” Solomon Adufah, the artist who worked with Jake told This is Africa. 

Zambian student commits suicide in India

Shock waves ran through the African student community in Ahmedabad on Tuesday after news of a 20-year-old Zambian student's death became public. 

Muleya Zuka Syakavuba, a student of third year BA, economics at St Xavier's College, had allegedly hanged herself in her room in a paying guest facility near Vijay crossroads. 

Nortec students riots, says they can't tolerate abrupt loadshedding during exams

By Staff Reporter, Ndola 

Northern Technical College students staged riot last night (Wednesday) over the abrupt loadshedding. 

The unruly students blocked Kwacha Road in Ndola with burning tires around 20:00hrs leaving motorists with no choice but to use alternatives routes. 

Turn up in large numbers to commemorate independence, youths told

PF Lusaka province Youth chairman Kennedy Patriotic Front (PF) Lusaka district Chairperson, Kennedy Kamba, has called upon youths in the country to turn up in large numbers to commemorate the 52nd Independence Anniversary. 

Mr Kamba says shunning the Independence celebrations is exhibiting disrespectful to the freedom fighters that liberated Zambia from the colonial master, Britain. 

Help reduce unemployment in Kanchomba, area youth appeals

A concerned youth of Kanchomba in Pemba District has called on various stakeholders and government to create opportunities for youth employment in the area. 

Tsarai Makwembo says with the coming up of the electricity in the area investors should settle in Kanchomba to help reduce unemployment. 

He explained that there has been high unemployment rate in the area which has contributed to elicit activities among young people. Source: CCRS

President Lungu tasks a 25-year-old and other technocrats to examine causes of the political violence before and after elections

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 

President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has appointed a recent graduate of the University of Zambia as a member of the Commission of Inquiry into 2016 electoral violence. 

Wilfred Chilufya, 25, is the youngest member of Commission of Inquiry appointed by President Lungu last evening. 

I have not been arrested with 20kg of Cocaine - Able Chungu

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 

A Zambian gospel musician Abel Chungu Musuka has refuted claims that he has been arrested at Los Angeles International Airport for trying to smuggle 20 kilograms of cocaine hidden in two bags of coffee inside two suitcases. 

UPP President suffers theft at home, loses TeleMed laptop worth US$20,000

By Staff Report, Lusaka 

The United Progressive Party (UPP) President, Saviour Chishimba has lost a TeleMed laptop worth almost US$20, 000.00 which he says he worked very hard for to get support from the US Government.  

Bus fare go up by K1.5

Bus fares in Lusaka have gone up by 25 percent with immediate effect, representing an average increment of about K1.50 on all routes. 

And Road Transport and Safety Agency public relations manager Fred Mubanga said it was an agreed position by all stakeholders that bus fares should be increased in view of the recent of fuel pump prices hike. 

APPLY: Fully Funded Global Food Security Symposium In Washington -

The Chicago Council on Global Affairs is now accepting applications from students to participate in the Global Food Security Symposium 2017. The Next Generation Delegation provides an opportunity for promising students to engage in symposium discussions and to interact with business and policy leaders, civil society, and social entrepreneurs working on agriculture, food, and nutrition issues. Deadline to apply is November 4th. 

24-year-old civil servant nabbed for stealing more than K82, 000

Police in Mpika district of Muchinga Province have arrested an employee of the department of National Parks and Wildlife for allegedly stealing more than K82, 000. 

Mr. Busuma Sombe, 24, an accountant under the department National Parks and Wildlife, is alleged to have stolen about K82, 000 from Bangweulu Management account in Mpika district. 

Promoting Safe Abortion in Southern Africa

Hivos Southern Africa is currently spearheading a regional advocacy campaign on safe abortion in partnership with Students and Youth Working on reproductive Health Action Team (SAYWHAT). SAYWHAT facilitates students and youth to discuss sexual and reproductive health challenges and further develop advocacy initiatives. 

CBU students shines in South Africa, wins the 2016 CFO case study competition

 

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 
A team of Zambian youths dubbed 'Athena' from the Copperbelt University (CBU) has been announced winner of the 2016 Chief Financial Officer ( CFO) Case Study Competition. 

Deon Fredericks, Chief Judge announced the final results of the competition yesterday. 

In July this year, the Project Board of The CFO Case Study Competition announced the Top 6 teams that were competing for the semi-finals. The 6 teams included: Team Allez Consulting from Australia; Team Athena from Zambia; Team Dolphins from Indonesia; Team Snipers from Ghana; Team UKZN from South Africa and Team UP 116 from South Africa. 

Lack of electricity in Choma likely to affect pupils ICT results

Southern Province minister Edify Hamukale says lack of electricity has obviously affected the performance of pupils in the Information Communication Technologies (ICT) examinations, in Choma district. 

Dr Hamukale says there is need to implement a robust programme that will ensure schools in rural areas are electrified. 

Child marriage threatens the achievement of SDGs

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 

Child marriage continues to violate the rights of girls, but also boys, and threatens the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). 

The AU Campaign to End Child Marriage was launched in 2014 in order to bring about change and make countries take responsibility to end this vice. 15 countries in Sub Saharan Africa have launched national campaigns to end Child Marriage. 

Youths in Northern reluctant to pay back empowerment loans

Northern Province Youth Development Coordinator Felix Lengwe has bemoaned the failure of youths in the province to pay back the loans obtained under the Youth Empowerment Programme. 

Mr. Lengwe said that despite the province recording tremendous progress in youth projects, some beneficiaries are reluctant to pay back the loans. 

Luapula DPS warns youthful medical staff against seducing patients into aphrodisiac relationships

Government has implored medical staff countywide to stop enticing patients into aphrodisiac relations because it dents the good image of the medical profession. 

Luapula Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Joyce Nsamba implored both young and old medical staff at Mansa General Hospital during the combined graduation ceremony for St. Pauls and Mansa Schools of Nursing and Midwifery. 

South African students call for immediate closure of universities until Government provides free education

South African students protesting high tuition fees have demanded that all universities be shut until the government provides free education, Johannesburg’s University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) said on Friday. 

The protests have forced Wits and Cape Town universities to suspend classes twice in less than a month. 

Police arrests six grade 9 pupils in Kasama for Exam leakages

Police in Kasama have arrested six Grade 9 pupils of Kasenda Primary School for allegedly being in possession of Examination materials. 

Northern Province Deputy Police Commissioner Lizzy Machina has confirmed the development today saying the arrests were made last night around 21:30 hours at the said school following a tip-off from members of the public. 

World leaders deliberate the role of youth in shaping a better future at 71st UN General Assembly

During the High-Level Segment of the 71st UN General Assembly, an unprecedented number of world leaders emphasized in their national statements the role of youth in shaping a better future. Specifically, 59 Member States highlighted the importance of youth development and participation, recognizing young people’s contributions to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and to international peace and security.

Twenty African eco-enterprises to receive prestigious SEED Awards

Twenty innovative start-ups from eight African countries announced as winners of UN-backed SEED Awards for eco-inclusive innovation. 

Winners will receive technical assistance and six months of free, tailor-made support to develop their business.

Shoes made from old tires by disabled artisans in Ghana, roads built from recycled plastic in Kenya, natural fertilizers made from water hyacinths in Burkina Faso. Those are just some of the 20 African eco-innovations honoured this year with the prestigious SEED Awards. 

System fault characterize september salaries for civil servants

Abnormalities have characterized the September salaries for civil servants. 

This is despite the salaries delaying to be deposited into their personal accounts for over a week as normally civil servants get paid before monthend. 

PF endorses a youth for LGAZ presidency

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 

The Central Committee of the Patriotic Front (PF) which met on Saturday, October 1st, 2016 at State House in Lusaka to deliberate a number of important issues endorsed the Candidature of Kitwe Mayor Councillor Christopher Pikiti-kang'ombe for the position of President of Local Government Association of Zambia (LGAZ). 

18-year-old Zambian, Mphatso Simbao, wins National Geographic Explorer Award at Google Science fair

A Zambian youth, Mphatso Simbao has won a National Geographic Explorer Award at Google Science fair.

18-year-old Mphatso took part in the National Geographic Explorer category.

AfDB Injects USD 1 billion to end youth unemployment in Africa

ITA Youth Agripreneurs learning how to work in the field. Credit: IITA

The African Development Bank (AfDB) together with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is embarking on the initiative “Jobs for Youth in Africa”, aimed to put an end to youth unemployment in the continent by creating 8 million agribusiness jobs within five years. 

The president of the AfDB, a former Nigerian minister of agriculture, Akinwumi Adesina visited the Agripreneurs training centre at IITA today, and reiterated his commitment to the initiative.

Blackberry to stop making smartphones

BlackBerry CEO John Chen. Picture: Official BlackBerry Facebook page.

BlackBerry is shutting down its phone business after 14 years of making handsets. The company confirmed that it’s out of the smartphone manufacturing business.

The company’s devices were once the phone of choice for professionals, providing access to emails on the move, but BlackBerry has struggled to keep up with competition from rivals Apple and Samsung as mobile users increasingly opt for touchscreens.

President Lungu's daughter launches a feeding program in Misisi compound

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 
The newly elected Nkoloma Ward Councilor, Tasila Lungu has launched a feeding program in Misisi Compound that is anticipated to benefit atleast 250 children. 

Tasila said she has launched the program in a quest to reducing the poverty levels and promote education among the school going children. 

Commonwealth youth award winner earns United Nations accolade

An education advocate from Bangladesh who was honoured in the Commonwealth Youth Awards earlier this year has now been named as one of 17 United Nations Young Leaders. 

Shougat Nazbin Khan, aged 27, was recognised at a UN ceremony in New York this week for her outstanding achievements to use technology to widen access to education and reduce poverty in rural India. 

Illegal abortions among girls in Chadiza worries headman

Headman Kaliza, Apiton Banda from Chief Mwangala’s area has said that some elderly women in the area have a habit of giving traditional medicines to young girls who are pregnant to terminate their pregnancy. 

Mr. Banda says such habit is not only tarnishing the name of the village but also puts the lives of these teenagers in danger. 

Play a role in uniting the country, youths told

Southern Province Minister Edify Hamukale has challenged young people in the country to take a leading role in restoring unity in the country. 

Dr Hamukale said young people today have a pivotal role to play of unifying the country especially that their parents hail from different provinces and are beneficiaries of ethnic co-existence. 

Kantu's life on the line, thugs want her dead

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 

The life of a Lusaka based singer, stage name Kantu is under threat by unknown thugs. In the early hours of today (Sunday), 'Mungeli' singer was attacked by unknown people. 

“I was unfortunately attacked early this morning around 02 as I was coming from the sling beats festival where I was performing,” she says. 

UPND youths, women are being victimized - HH

By Staff Reporter, Lusaka 

Opposition leader, Hakainde Hichilema says United Party for National Development (UPND) youths and women are being victimized in bus stops, markets, taxi ranks and other trading places for being UPND sympathizers. 

Mr Hichilema popularly known as HH says hundreds of UPND sympathizers yesterday afternoon went to the party secretariat in Lusaka to petition the party to pursue all avenues both locally and internationally in order for justice to prevail over the stolen elections. 

CEEC funds yield a stock feed production company in Kasama

A stock feed production company is set to start production in Kasama district of Northern Province. 

Global field Farm Limited Company, which is also funded by the Citizen Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) has become the second firm to be manufacturing stock feed after Northern Province Cooperative Marketing Union. 

GCE results out, 108,595 obtain certificates

A total Number of 108,595 candidates who sat for the General Certificate of Education, GCE, in 2016 have obtained certificates. 

ZANIS reports that Ministry of General Education Permanent Secretary Henry Tukombe announced the results at a press briefing in Lusaka yesterday. 

East women calls for inclusion in empowerment programs

Some women in Chipata district have asked that they should be fully included in women empowerment programs. 

Mbenjele Market Committee vice chairlady, Sarah Tembo, notes that less women access empowerment programs compared to those in urban areas. 

Fashion designing has potential of creating employment - Bulongo

Zambian fashion designer Betty Bulongo says fashion designing has a huge potential of creating employment in the country. 

She observed that there is need to incorporate creative fashion design in the Zambian school curriculum in order to equip students with creative art skills. 

President Lungu assigns youthful ministers to head provinces

By Staff Reporter, LUSAKA 

His Excellency Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu President of the Republic of Zambia has appointed part of his Cabinet and named all the ten (10) Provincial Ministers. 

President Lungu has also nominated 8 members of Parliament (MPs) and subsequently appointed as Cabinet and Provincial Ministers respectively. 

APPLY: Reporting Contest on Early Childhood Development

Deadline: December 1, 2016 

Journalists in Asia, Africa and Latin America have a chance to win a prestigious international study tour as part of a contest to recognize the best stories on early childhood development. 

International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) will recognize in-depth, investigative or innovative reporting that has helped raise awareness on issues such as early nutrition, early child care, early education and their impact on a child’s future well-being and contributions to society. 

Million-Dollar Fund Launched for Media Innovation in Africa

Media pioneers and organizations in Africa will benefit from a new $1 million fund designed to spur digital innovation that can improve news distribution, revenue flows and audience engagement in news coverage about the health and well-being of Africans. 

The new innovateAFRICA Fund offers seed money, technology support and expert mentorship to media organizations and individual innovators. 

APPLY: Call for Innovations - Securing Water for Food

Are you a scientist, entrepreneur, or a passionate problem solver interested in helping produce more food with less water in developing countries? Do you have a piloted innovation that you seek to share with others, highlight before experts, publicize, and accelerate? 

Vendors, Marketeers and Traders optimistic that presidential empowerment fund initiative will continue

Traders, who benefited from the presidential empowerment fund initiative, have testified that their businesses have greatly improved. 

Association of Vendors, Traders and Marketeers of Zambia president Fredrick Tembo said the association was therefore optimistic that re-election of President Edgar Lungu will enable the empowerment fund to continue. 

Govt to empower 47,000 east farmers

Government says it will this farming season sponsor slightly over 47,000 farmers in Chipata district. 

This is from the previous 45,800 farmers assisted through FISP, the Farmer Input Support Programme, under the E- Voucher system in the district.

Develop your skills, NGOCC urges young people

The Non-Governmental Organisations Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has challenged youths across the country to equip themselves with skills that will help contribute to the country’s development. 

NGOCC Board Chairperson Sara Longwe urged the young people in the country to discover their potential and develop their skills, in order to contribute positively to the country’s economic development. 

What is the World Programme of Action for Youth?

The United Nations youth agenda is guided by the World Programme of Action for Youth (WPAY). 

The WPAY, adopted by the General Assembly in 1995, provides a policy framework and practical guidelines for national action and international support to improve the situation of young people around the world. 

China offers 200 Zambian youths university scholarships

The Chinese government has offered 200 Zambian students scholarship awards this year to pursue various degree programs in China, a Chinese envoy said Wednesday. 

Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Yang Youming said at a pre-departure ceremony held for the beneficiaries in Lusaka that education is one of the important areas of cooperation between China and Zambia. 

“At present, more than 2,000 Zambian students are studying in China, and China has become the favorite destination for Zambian youth to study overseas,” he said. 

Obama lauds young people, says they have the ability to improve the future of humanity

By Winston Muleba JR, Zambia 

United States President Barack Obama says US is committed to providing opportunity for young people to ensure they are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but also change agents today. 

He says whether it is ensuring boys and girls have equal access to education, building skills to strengthen youth leadership in civil society, business and academia, or providing a young entrepreneur with the capital and network to grow a start-up, US is investing in the potential of the next generation. 

Young people are offering bold and inspiring solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges - UN

By Staff Reporter 

UN Youth Envoy Mr. Ahmad Alhendawi says every year on August 12, UN celebrate young people everywhere and the tremendous contributions they make to their communities and the world. 

He says this year, the celebration is even more special given the adoption of the boldest vision for sustainable development in history: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

Mr Alhendawi adds that by adopting these Goals, governments made a commitment to combat climate change, end extreme poverty, and reduce inequalities and injustice everywhere. 

Beneficiaries of Youth Empowerment Fund in Eastern impresses government

Government is impressed with how beneficiaries of Youth Empowerment Fund are paying back the loans. 

Youth and Sports Minister, Vincent Mwale says that the payment process has improved because of the stringent measures, which have been put in place. 

Govt embarks on recruitment of health workers

Government, through the Ministry of Health, will next year recruit 9,500 health workers to man the modernised health facilities, upgraded institutions that include nursing schools and all the newly-created district hospitals and health posts. 

Ministry of Health Deputy Minister, Chitalu Chilufya said at the 40th, Copperbelt Nurses and Midwives graduation ceremony held at the Copperbelt University (CBU) in Kitwe on Friday that government is eager to addressing human resource challenges in the healthy sector. 

Call for participants: 5th Global Education and Youth Training Course for youth multipliers

Deadline: 14 August 2016 

Are you a young key multiplier playing an active role in a youth organisation, willing to gain skills to promote and disseminate principles of Global Development Education (GDE) to other young people? 

Do you want to develop competences to facilitate peer-learning processes with other young people based on the practice of GDE? 

No one will create us jobs apart from ourselves, CBU graduate alerts other graduates

By Staff Reporter, NDOLA 

A former Copperbelt University (CBU) student, Oliver Mwanza says graduates should strive to become their own bosses. 

He says graduates ought to change their attitudes for the betterment of mother Zambia adding that no one will create jobs for graduates apart from themselves.