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Professionals Face Scrutiny Amid Rising Corruption in Zambia Lusaka, Zambia – Zambia’s ongoing battle against corruption is intensifying scrutiny on the effectiveness of professional bodies in regulating their members.Human rights defender Ngande Mwanajiti has highlighted concerns over unethical practices across various fields, calling for stricter accountability measures. Mwanajiti, a respected human rights advocate, expressed alarm at the growing involvement of professionals in financial scandals, citing a case where an individual was found with $25 million. He questioned how such a substantial amount could be linked to a member of a regulated profession. “A professional is expected to adhere to ethical and operational guidelines,” Mwanajiti stated, emphasizing the need for integrity. Professional bodies such as the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) and the Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants (ZICA) have implemented laws and regulations to govern member conduct. While these measures are designed to maintain standards, Mwanajiti argues that they fall short of addressing deeper systemic issues of corruption within these fields. Mwanajiti highlighted a troubling pattern of unethical behavior in multiple sectors. In the legal profession, some law firms have been implicated in transferring large sums of money abroad under dubious “client instructions.” The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) reports on these transactions have underscored the need for enhanced oversight within the legal community. The accounting sector is also under scrutiny, with reports of ZICA members involved in facilitating questionable payments. Such actions undermine public trust and expose governance weaknesses within the regulatory framework. In construction and infrastructure, engineers have certified roads as meeting standards, only for them to fall into disrepair shortly afterward. “Roads that were approved as sound are now in disrepair, raising serious questions about the quality of professional assessments,” Mwanajiti noted. Mwanajiti criticized the state of sanitation and cleanliness in Zambian cities, attributing failures to professionals employed by municipal authorities. “Hiring a professional should ensure quality service, but our cities paint a different picture,” he said. The media, often regarded as the “fourth estate,” was not spared from Mwanajiti’s criticism. He pointed out that journalists are increasingly vulnerable to manipulation by employers, compromising the press’s role in promoting accountability. “The media must uphold ethical standards just like any other profession,” he stressed, calling for self-regulation to restore trust. Mwanajiti emphasized that governance is fundamentally about responsibility and that professional bodies should enhance their regulatory efforts to uphold ethical standards. He argued that while laws are crucial, they are insufficient on their own, and professional bodies must enforce regulations without exploiting loopholes. He cited reports from the Auditor General, the FIC, and the Director of Public Prosecutions as evidence of widespread irregularities and called for more proactive measures to address these issues. Mwanajiti called for a renewed commitment to integrity among professionals and urged the public to demand accountability, warning that inaction could jeopardize efforts to build a sustainable Zambia. “This is our country, and we must hold each other accountable,” he concluded. “Ignoring these challenges is not an option.” Mwanajiti’s remarks underscore the need for professional bodies in Zambia to strengthen regulatory frameworks and improve governance to combat corruption effectively. As Zambia continues its fight against graft, the ethical conduct of professionals will remain under close watch. Professional bodies should regularly enhance regulatory measures to address emerging ethical challenges and strengthen oversight and enforcement actions against members involved in unethical practices. Transparency should be promoted by making reports from oversight bodies accessible to the public. Additionally, secure channels for reporting unethical practices should be established to protect whistleblowers, and ethical conduct should be emphasized in continuous professional development programs. These guidelines are essential steps for professional bodies in Zambia to uphold their integrity and play a critical role in the nation’s broader fight against corruption.  

ZAMREN CONNECTS KK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AND EAST PARK MALL TO FREE WIFI THROUGH EDUROAM 19 September 2024 The Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) has completed the connection of free wifi via eduroam to the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and East Park Malls in Lusaka. This is in an effort to give the two public facilities free internet which the travelling Researchers and Students in public, small and medium enterprises and other stakeholders can use for their daily businesses. ZAMREN Chief Executive Officer Mr. Stein Mkandawire says the connection of Kenneth Kaunda International Airport will give tourists, investors, and frequent fliers in Research and Education an opportunity for them to instantly communicate upon arrival in the country. Mr. Mkandawire says that eduroam will give an opportunity for those travelling to connect with their families and business partners as they arrive in the country. Speaking at a ZAMREN media breakfast in Lusaka this morning, Mr. Mkandawire said the internet is being provided at no cost, and everyone can access it. He added that ZAMREN wants to provide internet to various public institutions like colleges and nursing schools so that students can easily research and do their class work with the help of the internet. He called on the corporate world to partner with ZAMREN and provide internet to various institutions countrywide. Mr. Mkandawire revealed that so far 13 public colleges have been connected by ZAMREN to internet services. ZAMREN Board Chairman Professor Mundia Muya said students deserve access to the internet for them to Excell in class and in the world. Professor Muya, who is also University of Zambia Vice Chancellor, said ZAMREN needs partners who can help scale up the provision of internet to the wider society. Meanwhile, Technology and Science Minister Hon. Felix Mutati has commended ZAMREN for providing internet to various colleges countrywide. Mr. Mutati said in one of the colleges be visited recently, students expressed happiness that they were able to research easily online without worrying about bandwidth and speed of the internet. The Minister encouraged stakeholders to join ZAMREN in providing internet to more colleges. Ends…….  

  Press Statement: Fire Investigation Involving a House in Libala South

AAD EXPO IN SOUTH AFRICA HAS PROVIDED A PLATFORM-ARMY COMMANDER LT. GEN GEOFFREY CHOONGO ZYEELE Pretoria – Thursday 19th September 2024 Zambia Army Commander Lt. Gen Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele says the 12th edition of the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) expo currently going on in South Africa has provided a platform to interface with stakeholders who are key in the modernisation of the army. Speaking yesterday in South Africa, Lt. Gen Zyeele says he is happy that in line with President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive to have the army modernised, the ongoing expo has met transformation expectations of the Zambia Army. He says the Africa Aerospace and Defence expo is Africa’s largest exhibition of air, land, and sea hardware and that strategically, the type of equipment exhibited is the type of equipment that the Zambia Army is looking for and that what remains is to engage various stakeholders to partner with. “As you are aware, the Commander-In Chief made a directive that we have to modernise the army and in the line of modernisation, we take advantage of such platforms to interface with industries that are charged with production, realignment, and refurbishment of hardware. “It has been an opportunity for us to interface with a lot of companies. We have now interacted in real time with those stakeholders we interacted with online, and we are delighted that our expectations have been met. We will go back ready to start realigning in real time,” Lt. Gen Zyeele said. And Zambia Air Force (ZAF) Commander Lieutenant General Oscar Msitu Nyoni says the ZAF Enstrom 480B helicopter being exhibited at this year’s event has attracted a lot of attention because of the different roles that it plays. Lt. Gen. Nyoni says ZAF was able to showcase the fact that this aircraft is valuable in certain operations such as looking out for poachers as well as people involved in illegal mining and that because of the various capabilities of the helicopter, most of the exhibitors are interested in seeing what the aircraft is able to achieve. “I must say that we are so proud because it has shown in the region our competences through the capabilities that the pilots have exhibited,” Lt. Gen. Nyoni said. The Africa Aerospace and Defence exhibition is taking place from September 18 to 22, 2024 at the Waterkloof Air Force Base in Centurion, Gauteng and showcases the latest technological innovations in aviation, aerospace, and defence industries. This year’s event has attracted over 30, 000 trade visitors who have the opportunity to engage with more than 140 exhibitors from the aerospace and defence sectors.  

ZAMBIA SCORES 92.6% IN GLOBAL CYBER SECURITY INDEX 19 September 2024 The Republic of Zambia is proud to announce the nation’s significant progress in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2023, attaining an impressive score of 92.6%, compared to 68.8% in 2020, 43.6% in 2017, 29.2% in 2016, and 14.7% in 2014. This milestone reflects Zambia’s commitment to enhancing its cyber security landscape and safeguarding its digital infrastructure. The GCI, launched by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), measures the commitment of countries to cyber security development across five critical pillars: legal measures, technical measures, organizational measures, capacity building, and cooperation. Zambia’s exceptional rise in the GCI demonstrates the Government’s robust approach to protecting the nation’s digital economy, critical information infrastructure, and safeguarding Zambian citizens from cyber threats. This remarkable achievement is a testament to Zambia’s consistent efforts over the past decade to prioritize cybersecurity. We have steadily advanced from a score of 14.7% in 2014 to an impressive 92.6% in 2023. This progress is a direct result of our strategic focus on developing a strong legal framework, fostering international cooperation, and improving our technical capabilities to ensure that Zambia remains at the forefront of cybersecurity in Africa. Key Achievements Driving Zambia’s Success: Legal Framework: Zambia has established comprehensive laws and regulations on data protection and cybersecurity, ensuring a secure and trustworthy digital environment. Organizational Measures: The Government has implemented a National Cybersecurity Strategy and established institutions like the Computer Incident Response Team (CIRT) to detect, prevent, and mitigate cyber threats. Cooperation: Zambia has strengthened its international partnerships and is actively involved in multilateral agreements that enhance information sharing and cross-border cybersecurity efforts. Capacity Building: Zambia continues to invest in training and education, aimed at raising cybersecurity awareness among the general public, youth, and professionals. Moving Forward: While Zambia’s 92.6% score places it among the leaders in cybersecurity in Africa, the Government is committed to further improving its capacity-building programs and fostering public-private partnerships to ensure that our digital infrastructure remains resilient and secure in the face of evolving global cyber threats. Future Projections: The Government of Zambia envisions further progress in the coming years, with plans to enhance the cybersecurity skillset within the country through targeted training initiatives, continuous improvement of technical measures, and deeper international cooperation. Zambia’s GCI performance progression highlights the country’s dedication to creating a secure digital ecosystem that supports economic growth, innovation, and the protection of all citizens. This achievement underscores the Government’s vision of a safer, more connected Zambia.

  The Zambia Civil Society Organisation Debt Alliance urges the government to provide a comprehensive update on the ongoing debt restructuring negotiations with the remaining non-bonded commercial creditors. In a statement today, CSO DEBT ALLIANCE Coordinator Peter Mumba said while recognising the progress made in restructuring debt, the Alliance acknowledges the complexities of negotiating with these creditors, particularly the risk that they may seek to secure more favourable terms compared to other creditors, potentially complicating the overall debt restructuring process. He said despite restructuring 77% of its US$13.4 billion restructuring perimeter, Zambia is yet to finalise negotiations with its non-bonded commercial creditors, who hold over US$3 billion of the country’s debt. Mr. Mumba noted that these creditors consist of several international banks, asset managers, and hedge funds from countries such as China, the United Kingdom, Israel, and South Africa, as well as international financial institutions like the African Export-Import Bank. He said although Zambia has been restructuring its debt under the G20 Common Framework, there are notable differences in how various creditor groups are engaged. And Mumba said as the government prepares to present the 2025 national budget next week, the Debt Alliance has key expectations and these include outlining concrete steps and setting realistic timelines for concluding negotiations with non-bonded commercial creditors. He added that the budget should align with the objectives of the Medium-Term Debt Management Strategy, which emphasize prioritizing concessional financing and gradually reducing the Debt-to-GDP ratio towards the 2027 target of 65%. Mr. Mumba said it is also crucial for the budget to allocate sufficient resources for debt servicing, particularly for restructured Eurobonds and other existing multilateral loans. “For instance, official creditors and Eurobond holders generally follow a unified and coordinated approach, requiring the formation of committees such as the Official Creditor Committee (OCC) and an ad hoc bondholder steering committee. Meanwhile, negotiations with commercial non-bonded creditors often follow an individual and case-by-case basis as opposed to engaging collectively. This makes it relatively more challenging to negotiate and align restructuring terms with the Common Framework’s principle of comparability of treatment. Moreover, one of the commercial non-bonded creditors was flagged in the recently published Special Auditor General’s report on external debt, citing issues of over overpricing, expired contracts, non-delivery of goods, irregular charges, and questionable procurement practices. This raises uncertainty around their inclusion in the restructuring perimeter. Therefore, in as much as finalising these negotiations remains important in completing Zambia’s debt restructuring process, timely and detailed updates are also essential to offer a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Such transparency promotes informed policy debate, helps manage public expectations, and garners public support for the government’s ongoing efforts.” Mr. Mumba said  

MWIIMBU COMMENDS IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT FOR INSTITUTING REFORMS. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Hon.Jack.J Mwiimbu has commended the department of immigration for instituting reforms that confone to emerging trends in global immigration laws and standards. Speaking when he officiated at the pass-out parade of 367 Assistant immigration officers at the Zambia Police Lilayi training college, Hon.Mwiimbu commended the immigration department for the forward thinking approach as can be seen in the realigning of the Development curriculum of trainees and recruits adding that it was important for the department to incorporate new trends if they are to continue carrying out their mandate effectively. Mr.Mwiimbu also tipped the department of immigration to abrace themselves for the shifts in the acquisition of Visas, adding that the Visa Weaver process will see an increase of up to 3 million tourists visiting Zambia this year alone. He noted that a boom in tourism and the discovery of new mining areas will help increase foreign direct investments but that the downside of this development may result in an influx of illegal immigrants in the country. North-Western Province Minister, Hon.Reuben Lihefu and Lusaka Mayor, Her Worship, Ms.Chilando Chitangala were among some of the notable figures present at the colourful pass-out parade.  

  18 September 2024 Government says it is ready to use nuclear science and technology for peaceful means to address some of the country’s challenges such as the ongoing drought which has affected the nation. Technology and Science Permanent Secretary Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu says the integration of nuclear science and technology into national development strategies is vital in addressing some of the major challenges the world faces today. Dr. Habeenzu says food insecurity and the spread of emerging diseases can be addressed by peaceful means of using nuclear science and technology. Speaking when he addressed the 68th General Assembly of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, Austria, Dr. Habeenzu said many of the challenges countries face are exacerbated by climate change which has led to extreme weather events like prolonged droughts and severe flooding. Dr. Habeenzu said Zambia recognizes the many global challenges being tackled through nuclear science and technology. “We commend the agency for its ongoing efforts to promote the peaceful applications of nuclear technology worldwide. In this regard, the Zambian government reaffirms its commitment to collaborate with the agency,” said Dr. Habeenzu. Dr. Habeenzu said Zambia is implementing its second Cancer Control Strategic Plan on radiotherapy which was developed in 2022 to increase access to cancer treatment. He also disclosed that the country has embarked on upgrading the current Cancer Diseases Hospital. Dr. Habeenzu said the old equipment at the hospital has been decommissioned and currently, staff are reinstalling four advanced linear accelerators, two brachytherapy units and new diagnostic and simulation imaging technologies. “I am pleased to announce that Zambia has been approved by the International Atomic Energy Agency as a second-wave country under the Rays of Hope Initiative. As a result, we will receive a linear accelerator for one of the new radiotherapy centers. With all these developments, Zambia shall continue to provide regional training in the fields of radiotherapy technology, radiology and radiation oncology,” said Dr. Habeenzu. The Technology and Science Permanent Secretary also said a lot of work is being done in other sectors using nuclear science and technology. “On fisheries and livestock, the Zambian government has identified the fisheries and livestock sectors as key drivers of economic growth and diversification. To this end, we are implementing a strategic plan aimed at enhancing production and productivity in these sectors using nuclear technology,” he said. Dr. Habeenzu is accompanied to the IAEA General Assembly in Austria by Director Science and Technology in the Ministry of Technology and Science Dr. Larry Mweetwa, Radiation Protection Authority Executive Director Dr. Boster Siwila and National Institute of Science and Industrial Research Chief Executive Officer Dr. Henry Kambafwile. Ends……  

  18 September 2024 Government has proposed in the new Cyber Crimes Bill and Cyber Security Bill that the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security will take charge of cyber-crimes while the Zambia Information and Communication Technology Authority (ZICTA) will be in charge of cyber security. Technology and Science Minister Hon. Felix Mutati says the current scenario where ZICTA is handling both cyber-crimes and cyber security is not enough because the regulator cannot enforce the law and arrest culprits. Mr. Mutati says in the new laws to repeal the Cyber Crimes and Cyber Security Act, government has resolved that the regulator ZICTA will concentrate on cyber security. Speaking when Swedish Ambassador to Zambia Johan Hallenborg paid a courtesy call on him in Lusaka this morning, Mr. Mutati said government has decided to separate the law into two in order to promote efficiency. He said the current legislation puts ZICTA in an awkward situation where it is sensitising on cyber-crimes and also conducting enforcement. Mr. Mutati says the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security has the legal mandate to enforce the law and arrest wrongdoers. The Minister says government will table the Cyber Crimes Bill and the Cyber Security Bills before Parliament in the current session. And Swedish Ambassador to Zambia Johan Hallenborg says the collaboration between Zambia and Sweden on the Double Digital Compact is helping drive the agenda at the international level. Mr. Hallenborg says Sweden wants to work with Zambia on this front and will also collaborate on the repealing of the Cyber Crimes and Cyber Security Act. Meanwhile, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) wants to collaborate with a number of Zambian institutions in research and development. SIDA Research Advisor Dr. Markus Moll said his institution is ready to work with the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) to further research which can promote development. Ends……  

CHIENGE DISTRICT COMMISSIONER FAVOURITE MUSANGU DONATES BABY HUMPERS CHIENGE DISTRICT COMMISSIONER Favourite Musangu has donated baby humpers worth undisclosed amount to more than 20 mothers at the Chienge district Hospital’s maternity wing and children’s ward. Ms. Musangu says mothers at maternity wards are used to receiving such gestures only during festive seasons. She says expectant mothers and new mothers are in need of various items and gifts which good Samaritans must seek to assist.The District Commissioner has also called on Non-Governmental and charitable organizations to emulate the gesture and not to wait until the festive seasons.She has further encourage residents with the ability to help to visit the hospital and see where they can render the needed assistance.Ms. Musangu adds that there are many needs at the hospital and that in the spirit of love and oneness it is imperative that people including churches find time to encourage those in need either emotionally, financially or spiritually.The District Commissioner was accompanied by Chienge Town Council Chairperson Mr. Francis Mwanto who says that the gesture is not political but an expression of love and implementation of President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision to improve lives.