The Falcon, Matero (2025)

18/08/2025

‘NINE CDF PROJECTS WORTH OVER K6 MILLION COMMISSIONED IN CHIKANKATA’

Chikankata District has witnessed a significant boost in infrastructure development following the commissioning of nine Constituency Development Fund (CDF) projects valued at over K6 million.

The projects, which include classroom blocks, boarding facilities, water schemes, and maternity equipment, are spread across various communities aimed at improving access to education, healthcare, and clean water.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony held on Thursday, Chikankata Member of Parliament, Honorable Jacqueline Sabao, says the projects are a demonstration of government’s commitment to decentralization and equitable development.

And Chikankata Town Council Chairperson, Mr. Conard Ngoma, in a speech read on his behalf by his deputy, urged community members to take ownership of the projects by safeguarding them against vandalism.

Meanwhile, Chikankata District Commissioner, Mr. Timothy Chipolyonga says the the construction of the facilities will not only uplift the living standards of the communities but also bring essential services closer to the people.

Speaking earlier, Chikankata CDF Committee Chairperson, Mr. Mulyate Mukuwa highlighted how CDF has continued to positively impact the livelihood of the people of Chikankata District.

And beneficiaries have expressed gratitude to government for the development, noting that the projects will address long-standing challenges in their communities, particularly in education and healthcare delivery.

The commissioned projects include:

1.Boarding Facility at Chikani Secondary School (2 Dormitories and 2 Ablution Blocks) - K3, 087, 222.40
2.110 Matresses at Chikani Boarding School - K145, 000.00
3.1x2 Classroom Block at Nameembo School - K554, 386.63
4.1x3 Classroom Block at Kalundu School with 60 Desks - K700, 000.00
5.1x2 Classroom Block at Turnpike School - K405, 000.00
6.Water Scheme in Siamikobo - K199, 362.50
7.Maternity Equipment at Siamikobo - K477, 484.80
8.Water Scheme at Nkupisha School, Kasengo Ward - K250, 000.00
9.Laboratory at Ngangula School (Labor-based) with Stools - K660, 000.00

The nine projects form part of the 2024 and 2025 CDF allocations, with more developments expected as government continues to roll out community-driven projects across the district.

Issued by:
Namasiku C. Njovu
Public Relations Officer
770147733

Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development-Zambia Chikankata Town Council Following fans

18/08/2025

KATUNDA- LUKULU- WATOPA- MUMBEZHI ROAD KWENYU ✅

The long awaited construction of Katunda-Lukulu road has finally been approved and tomorrow the minister of infrastructure Hon Charles Lubasi Milupi will be having the signing ceremony with the contractor to construct the katunda-Lukulu road which will also go to Watopa and reach Mumbezhi which be connecting western province to northwestern province.

18/08/2025

ZAMBIA, QATAR SEAL $19 BILLION PARTNERSHIP ACROSS 11 KEY SECTORS

August 18, 2025

Zambia and Qatar have signed a $19 billion Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation across 11 strategic sectors, marking a major milestone in bilateral relations.

The agreement was signed between the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) on behalf of Zambia and Al Mansour Holdings representing the State of Qatar.

It spans a wide range of sectors, including energy and oil, banking and finance, housing and urban development, agriculture and food security, mining and minerals, logistics and infrastructure, telecommunications, health and education, environment, tourism, and industrial development.

President Hakainde Hichilema, who witnessed the signing, welcomed the agreement, describing it as a step toward unlocking new opportunities for Zambia’s economy.

He called for the development of an implementation plan and urged Qatar to prioritize investment in Zambia’s energy sector.

The Chairman of Al Mansour Holdings reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to investing in Africa, saying Zambia stood to benefit from the company’s technical expertise in driving sustainable development.

The signing ceremony was attended by President Hichilema and Al Mansour Group Chairman, Mansour Bin Jabor Bin Jassim Al Thani. Officials noted that the partnership builds on President Hichilema’s 2023 state visit to Qatar, which paved the way for closer collaboration between the two nations.

Acting Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Rodney Sikumba said the MoU lays the foundation for stronger bilateral ties between Lusaka and Doha.

© Falcon News

18/08/2025

EDUCATION MINISTER URGES GLOBAL ACTION TO BRIDGE DIGITAL DIVIDE AT TECH SUMMIT

Beijing, China – August 18, 2025

Zambia has joined global leaders at the Global Smart Education Conference 2025 in Beijing, China, as part of its push to advance digital learning, strengthen policy, and forge partnerships in infrastructure and teacher training.

This year’s conference is being held under the theme “Human-Machine Collaboration: Reshaping the Educational Ecosystem for the Future” and brings together policymakers, academics, and technology experts to explore how artificial intelligence (AI), digital platforms, and smart tools are transforming education.

Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima delivered a high-level address, stressing that the digital divide remains a pressing challenge at a time when digital learning has become essential rather than optional.

“Today, we meet at a critical juncture where technology has given us unprecedented capacity to connect, create, and collaborate, yet many learners around the world remain on the margins of these opportunities,” Mr. Syakalima said.

He noted that Zambia, like many landlocked developing nations, faces limited internet access, with only a fraction of learners reliably connected. He warned that the gap between the connected and disconnected will increasingly determine not just access to education, but also economic opportunity.

Highlighting Zambia’s progress, the Minister outlined efforts to integrate digital literacy from early childhood through higher education.

Key initiatives include the rollout of Community Digital Learning Hubs in rural areas and programs designed to give learners adaptable skills such as problem-solving, creativity, entrepreneurship, and climate action awareness.

“Digital education must be a tool of empowerment, one that ensures inclusivity for marginalized groups, from girls in underserved regions to adult learners and people with disabilities,” he emphasized.

Mr. Syakalima also underscored the importance of investing in teachers.

He disclosed that Zambia is developing digital teacher colleges, where educators are trained to design, curate, and deliver interactive lessons, supported by AI-powered tools that personalize learning to individual student needs.

This is according to statement issued by Second Secretary Communications Catherine Muumba Kashoti in Beijing, China.

© Falcon News

18/08/2025

UPND SG CALLS FOR MORE GRASSROOT COLLABORATION AHEAD OF 2026 ELECTIONS

August 18,2025

The United Party for National Development (UPND) Secretary General Batuke Imenda has urged party members to intensify grassroots collaboration as the nation heads toward the 2026 elections.

Speaking during an engagement with party structures in Kabwata Constituency, Mr. Imenda emphasized the importance of building a stronger party to guarantee President Hakainde Hichilema’s victory in 2026.

He reminded party members across the country that mobilization efforts must not be reserved for campaign periods but should be continuous, including in areas where the UPND did not perform well in 2021.

The party CEO further encouraged unity and called on members to warmly embrace new entrants from other political formations who may wish to join the UPND.

Mr. Imenda expressed confidence that the party’s resilience and strengthened structures will secure victory in the forthcoming elections.

Mr Imenda's structural engagement tour continues in all 156 Constituencies across the country.

©️UPND MEDIA TEAM

18/08/2025

Press Statement
For Immediate Release
EDUCATION MINISTER ADDRESSES GLOBAL TECH SUMMIT: CALLS FOR BRIDGING DIGITAL DIVIDE

Beijing, China, 18th August, 2025 – Zambia is participating at the Global Smart Education Conference 2025 in Beijing, China, to advance the country’s digital education agenda and leverage global innovations that can inform national policy and foster strategic partnerships for infrastructure and teacher training programmes.

The Global Smart Education Conference 2025 is focused on the theme: “Human-Machine Collaboration: Reshaping the Educational Ecosystem for the Future."

Hon. Douglas Syakalima Minister of Education is participating in the Conference which brings together global leaders to explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital platforms, and smart technologies are reshaping education systems worldwide.

Speaking when he delivered a high - level dialogue speech, Hon. Syakalima observed that the digital divide continues to persist despite digital education no longer being a luxury but a necessity in the 21st Century.
The Minister highlighted that Zambia, like many other Landlocked Developing Countries, only has a fraction of learners with reliable internet access. Hon. Syakalima thereby underscored that the divide between the connected and the disconnected will define not only access to learning but also economic opportunity if there is not targeted intervention in place.

He said while digital education is no longer a luxury but a necessity in the 21st Century, the digital divide continues to persist.

“Today, we meet at a critical juncture where technology has given us unprecedented capacity to connect, create, and collaborate, yet many learners around the world remain on the margins of these opportunities. Our shared task is to ensure that digital education does not widen inequalities, but rather empowers and energises every learner,” The Minister added.
Hon. Syakalima highlighted Zambia’s digital education journey, with the country embedding digital literacy from early childhood through to higher education and emphasized initiatives such as Community Digital Learning Hubs in rural areas.

“Furthermore, teacher professional development in digital pedagogy, low-cost device programmes that bring learning into the hands of the most marginalised, and digital content in local languages aim to ensure that technology serves the country’s cultural and linguistic diversity,” He emphasized.

The Minister also disclosed that digital education should empower by equipping learners with adaptable life skills including problem solving skills, creativity and adaptability, drive innovation using peer to peer learning and entrepreneurship training and climate action projects, as well as ensuring inclusive access for marginalized groups; from girls in under-served regions to adult learners and people with disabilities.

“The most advanced technology requires empowered teachers. We are investing in digital teacher colleges where educators learn to design, curate, and deliver interactive learning with AI-assisted tools helping teachers tailor learning to individual needs,” Mr. Syakalima stated.

Issued by
Catherine Muumba Kashoti
Second Secretary Communications
Beijing, China.

18/08/2025

HH HIGHLIGHTS FOUR YEARS OF REFORM AND GROWTH: “TOGETHER, LET US DELIVER ZAMBIA’S HARVEST”

Lusaka, Zambia — President Hakainde Hichilema has marked his fourth year in office with a call for unity and perseverance, highlighting key achievements that have transformed Zambia’s economic and social landscape since 2021.

In a statement titled “Together, Let Us Deliver Zambia’s Harvest”, President Hichilema has reflected on both the challenges and milestones of his administration, pointing to renewed growth, restored stability, and opportunities expanding across the country.

He drew inspiration from the story of Dorothy Kamanisha, a 42-year-old pupil from Solwezi who returned to Grade Nine, saying her courage reflects the resilience and determination that underpin Zambia’s recovery.

“Dorothy’s story is not just inspiring. It is instructive, because it shows what is possible when opportunity meets determination,” President Hichilema said.

The President has recounted that when the UPND took office in 2021, Zambia faced a debt crisis, with public debt at 120 per cent of GDP and investor confidence severely undermined.

Mr. Hichilema recalled the nation’s 2020 sovereign default, saying his government inherited an economy “on the edge of collapse.”

Four years later, he pointed to major reforms and breakthroughs, including the debt restructuring deal of June 2024 which covered 90 per cent of inherited liabilities and reduced debt-to-GDP to below 100 per cent for the first time in seven years.

He said since 2021, $54 billion has been pledged in investment, spurred by renewed stability and confidence.

According to Bloomberg, Zambia is now projected to become the world’s fastest-growing economy in 2025, with growth forecast to exceed six percent, while the kwacha has emerged as one of the best-performing currencies globally.

“These are not just numbers, growth means more jobs, better pay, improved public services and expanding opportunities for our people,” President Hichilema said.

The President also noted significant reforms in mining and agriculture, with copper production on track to surpass one million tonnes this year, alongside new smelters and refineries aimed at ensuring more value addition within Zambia.

On agriculture, his government has expanded extension services and input programmes, while supporting SMEs and reforming tax systems to stimulate local enterprise. Despite a once-in-a-generation drought that triggered load-shedding, President Hichilema has pledged energy diversification, including major investments in solar power to stabilize supply and strengthen food security.

Mr. Hichilema emphasized that reform is not just economic, but social and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to education, healthcare, and empowering young people and women.

“Our agenda is about building a Zambia where every citizen can find their own path to dignity and progress and that Zambia’s democracy and stability remain key foundations for sustainable growth,” he said.

While acknowledging that challenges remain, the President has expressed confidence that Zambia is on the right path.

“We do not mistake progress for completion; transformation is a journey, not a destination,” he said.

Closing his reflections, President returned to the story of Ms. Kamanisha as a metaphor for national resilience.

“Dorothy’s return to the classroom teaches us that determination can rewrite any story. So too can Zambia’s resolve to rewrite our national story,” he said. “Four years ago, we chose change. Today, we are proving that change is possible. And tomorrow, we will show that nothing can stand in the way of a united and determined Zambia.”

© UPND Media Team

18/08/2025

HERE ARE THE KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM PRESIDENT HICHILEMA’S “TOGETHER, LET US DELIVER ZAMBIA’S HARVEST” REFLECTION ON FOUR YEARS IN OFFICE:

1. Economic recovery:

• Zambia has rebounded from the 2020 debt default, with debt-to-GDP reduced below 100 per cent for the first time in seven years.

2. Debt restructuring breakthrough:

• The June 2024 deal covered 90 per cent of liabilities, easing the burden on communities and freeing resources for development.

3. Strong growth outlook:

• Bloomberg projects Zambia to be the fastest-growing economy in the world in 2025, with growth above 6 per cent.

4. Investment surge:

• Since 2021, $54 billion has been pledged, and the kwacha ranks among the world’s best-performing currencies.

5. Mining and agriculture gains:

• Copper output is set to exceed one million tonnes this year, with reforms supporting farmers, SMEs, and local value addition.

6. Energy diversification:

• Solar and renewable projects are being accelerated to overcome drought-related load-shedding and strengthen food security.

7. Social progress:

• Government focus includes education, healthcare, and youth and women empowerment, aiming for inclusive national growth.

8. Resilience and determination:

• The story of Dorothy Kamanisha, who returned to school at 42, was highlighted as a symbol of Zambia’s capacity to rewrite its national story.

9. Transformation ongoing:

• Hichilema stressed that progress is real but unfinished, Zambia’s journey to prosperity is a long-term effort requiring unity and discipline.

© UPND Media Team

18/08/2025

OVER 4,000 LEARNERS IN EASTERN PROVINCE EMPOWERED

The Ministry of Education has recorded another milestone as over 4,000 learners in Eastern Province are set to benefit from educational and health materials donated by corporate institutions. This initiative supports the government's free education policy, as outlined in the United Party for National Development (UPND) manifesto.

Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Dr. Kelvin Mambwe, expressed gratitude to the corporate organizations for their donation, aimed at enhancing learning standards in the country. He emphasized that these contributions have been instrumental in providing learners with essential materials since the introduction of free education.

In a handover ceremony held in Nyimba district, Nkhalamu Safaris, Mopane Safaris, and the Nyimba Foundation donated a range of materials, including desks, tables, textbooks, wheelchairs, walking sticks, medicines, and a seven-tonne light truck for the Luembe Community Resource Board (CRB). The donations were delivered in five 40-foot containers.

Ministry of Education Director for Primary Education, Felix Ngoma, representing Dr. Mambwe, described the donation as a significant step forward for the rural community. The initiative will benefit eight schools and six health centers, impacting approximately 4,500 learners. Mr. Ngoma also highlighted the government's efforts to improve education infrastructure, having supplied 244,000 double desks nationwide.

And Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) Director, Dominic Chinda, commended the safari companies for their contributions, noting that community-led conservation efforts have positively impacted education and healthcare.

Mopane Safaris Director, Saeed Kareem, reaffirmed the company's commitment to improving livelihoods in the West Petauke Game Management Area (GMA). He explained that the company's needs assessment in schools and health centers informed the prioritization of these development projects.

Nkhalamu Safaris' representative highlighted additional donations, including a banana boat for water transport on the Luangwa River, thrift clothing for families in need, and borehole drilling to enhance community resilience during droughts.

Senior Chief Luembe urged the government to engage communities in decision-making processes regarding outgrower companies in Game Management Areas, citing the successful donation as evidence of the benefits of collaboration.

© Falcon News

18/08/2025

ARC DONATES ICT EQUIPMENT TO STRENGTHEN ZAMBIA’S DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

The Africa Risk Capacity (ARC), through the Swedish Development Cooperation, has donated information and communication technology equipment worth $50,000 to Zambia’s Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU).

The donation includes 34 laptops, 20 tablets, and one camera. ARC’s Head of Government Services for East and Southern Africa, Mr. Koffi Konin, officially handed over the equipment at the DMMU offices, emphasizing the importance of readiness in responding to natural disasters across the region.

Mr. Konin said the ARC remains committed to supporting Zambia at a national level and revealed that the organisation is considering establishing a temporary base in the country to serve both Southern and Eastern Africa.

Receiving the donation, DMMU National Coordinator Mr. Norman Chipakupaku described the gesture as a significant milestone in efforts to enhance Zambia’s disaster preparedness and recovery capacity.

“This donation aligns with our vision of building resilient and disaster-prepared communities. The equipment will greatly improve our ability to collect, store, and analyze critical data,” Mr. Chipakupaku said.

He stressed the importance of leveraging technology for informed decision-making, efficient resource allocation, and coordinated disaster response in the wake of increasing climate change impacts and extreme weather events.

“Tools such as satellite imagery, drone mapping, real-time weather tracking, and predictive modelling are no longer luxuries, they are lifesaving instruments,” Mr. Chipakupaku noted.

He further expressed gratitude to the Zambian Government for its continued support and to ARC for its commitment to strengthening disaster risk management in the country.

In recognition of ARC’s contribution and as part of its continued partnership, the Government of Zambia has pledged K100,000 towards ARC’s operations as it establishes its presence in the country.

© Falcon News

18/08/2025

LETS TALK SINE DIE

When the Appellate Court says the matter be adjourned sine die ( indefinitely) , in the issue in Pretoria, they are basically saying that because they do not know how long it would take the Concourt to conclude on the application made by the Lungu family , it is difficult for the court of Appeal to set the date for hearing the appeal from the Lungu family ; thus the Concourt may hear the application or dismiss it . After that , the appellate court now set dates with counsel from both sides to hear the Lungu family appeal .

Remember , there are two matters that are active ; one is the appeal against the judgement to repatriation, the other is an application at the Concourt .

So for the court to know the date which is available , the Concourt must first conclude and this is what made the court to talk of “indefinitely”.

UPND MEDIA TEAMLETS TALK SINE DIE

When the Appellate Court says the matter be adjourned sine die ( indefinitely) , in the issue in Pretoria, they are basically saying that because they do not know how long it would take the Concourt to conclude on the application made by the Lungu family , it is difficult for the court of Appeal to set the date for hearing the appeal from the Lungu family ; thus the Concourt may hear the application or dismiss it . After that , the appellate court now set dates with counsel from both sides to hear the Lungu family appeal .

Remember , there are two matters that are active ; one is the appeal against the judgement to repatriation, the other is an application at the Concourt .

So for the court to know the date which is available , the Concourt must first conclude and this is what made the court to talk of “indefinitely”.

UPND MEDIA TEAM

18/08/2025

HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION SAYS CHISHIMBA KAMBWILI RECEIVING ADEQUATE MEDICAL CARE IN CUSTODY

By Leah Ngoma

The Human Rights Commission has confirmed that former cabinet minister, Dr. Chishimba Kambwili, who is currently detained at the Lusaka Central Correctional Service facility is receiving medical care, with no indication so far that his health needs exceed the capacity of the medical personnel attending to him.

Commission Spokesperson Mwelwa Muleya says the Commission’s findings, following a recent visit to the facility, revealed that Dr. Kambwili has been receiving adequate medical attention since his transfer to Lusaka from Kasama on August 5, 2025.

Mr. Muleya says Dr. Kambwili was placed in the facility’s clinic to accommodate his health needs, including access to an elevated bed.

He has since assured the public that the commission will continue to monitor Dr. Kambwili’s health and take further action, if necessary, based on professional medical assessments.

The Commission’s visit came in response to media reports and concerns raised by some stakeholders regarding Dr. Kambwili's alleged deteriorating health.

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