Sinazongwe Community Radio Station

Sinazongwe Community Radio Station Sinazongwe community radio station is a radio station based in sinazongwe,the only radio station in

ABSA TRAINS WOMEN FOR CLIMATE RESILIENCE, CALLS FOR INCLUSIVE LEADERSHIPABSA Bank Zambia says the institution has traine...
13/10/2025

ABSA TRAINS WOMEN FOR CLIMATE RESILIENCE, CALLS FOR INCLUSIVE LEADERSHIP

ABSA Bank Zambia says the institution has trained over 800 women to build financial and climate resilience in response to climate change.

Organisation's Chief Risk Officer, Sarah Lloyd, stated that the masterclasses covered topics such as sustainability and how to remain financially stable during economic shocks.

She added that more than 200 women had also been trained through innovation labs to strengthen entrepreneurial skills.

Lloyd explained that Zambia had experienced droughts and shifting weather patterns in recent years due to climate change.

She noted that while everyone had been affected, the impacts were felt most by vulnerable communities.

Lloyd emphasised the need for financing that prioritises people and the planet alongside profits.

She highlighted ABSA’s commitment to supporting green financing and environmental guarantees.

Lloyd pointed out that inclusive leadership must amplify the voices of those most affected by climate change.

She stressed that leadership is not limited to executives but includes individuals in families, communities, and workplaces.

Lloyd said every step taken toward environmental justice contributes to bold action and systemic transformation.

This came to light during the 2025 Climate and Environment Justice Rally organised by Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) held at Woodlands Stadium in Lusaka, Zambia, under the theme 'Justice Has No Borders, United for a Greener Tomorrow'.

The event was supported by the European Union, Danish Church Aid/ Norwegian Church Aid, Carter Centre, Environment Africa, Hivos, Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR), Action Aid, Family Development Initiatives, Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, and the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.

Meanwhile, ActionAid Zambia Country Director Faides Tembatemba said communities affected by climate change were not alone, and that the organisation stood with them in pursuit of environmental justice.

Tembatemba stated that Zambia was on the front line of the climate crisis, despite contributing very little to global emissions.

She noted that sectors such as agriculture, forestry, and water were suffering from droughts and outbreaks that had reversed development gains and deepened inequality.

Tembatemba emphasised that civil society remained essential in mobilising voices, demanding accountability, and ensuring climate justice became a reality.

She said this in a speech delivered on her behalf by ActionAid Zambia Business Development Manager Geoffrey Sinzala.

And Family Development Initiatives (FDI) Board Chairperson Abubakar Rwabogo reminded the audience of the Quranic verse from Chapter 7, verse 66, which warns against causing corruption on Earth and calls for invoking Allah with humility and hope.

Rwabogo stated that the rally was more than a gathering — it was a moral and collective call to action rooted in faith and stewardship.

He emphasised that protecting the environment means protecting families, empowering women, and supporting future generations.

Rwabogo reaffirmed FDI’s commitment to strengthening climate resilience in both rural and urban areas and called for shared responsibility among all institutions to address the climate crisis.

CEJ ENVIRONMENT RALLY HIGHLIGHTS ENERGY INJUSTICE, MINING IMPACTS IN ZAMBIASouthern Africa Resource Watch (SARW) says it...
12/10/2025

CEJ ENVIRONMENT RALLY HIGHLIGHTS ENERGY INJUSTICE, MINING IMPACTS IN ZAMBIA

Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW) says it is difficult to speak of justice when half the country still lives in the dark.

SARW Executive Director Dr Claude Kabemba says currently, in Zambia, 8.5 million people still have no access to electricity.

Dr Kabemba said the figures represent nearly half of the population—without the power to light homes, run schools, operate clinics, or charge a phone.

He said only 53.6 percent of households have electricity, despite Zambia’s rich renewable energy potential in sunshine, wind, and rivers.

Dr Kabemba said Zambia is one of the most peaceful countries on the African continent and one of the richest in natural wealth.

He said the country has copper, cobalt, manganese, gold, nickel, uranium, and gemstones.

Dr Kabemba said such resources should be ending hunger, creating jobs, and helping build strong, equal communities.

He said the world is rushing to Zambia for copper, lithium, graphite, and cobalt because these minerals are needed to manufacture solar panels, electric vehicles, and wind turbines.

Dr Kabemba said in Serenje, manganese mining has brought diseases never seen before.

He said in Solwezi, crops are covered in mining dust and houses are cracking from constant blasting.

Dr Kabemba said in Kafue, acid from copper mines has poisoned the river, killing fish and destroying livelihoods.

He said he stood in solidarity because climate change knows no borders and justice must know no borders.

This came to light during the 2025 Climate and Environment Justice Rally held at Woodlands Stadium in Lusaka, Zambia under the theme Justice Has No Borders, United for a Greener Tomorrow.

The event was supported by the European Union, Danish Church Aid, Norwegian Church Aid, Carter Centre, Environment Africa, Hivos, Civil Society for Poverty Reduction CSPR, ActionAid, Family Development Initiatives, Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, and the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.

Meanwhile, Centre for Environment Justice CEJ Executive Director Ms Maggie Mapalo Mwape thanked the crowd of government officials, traditional leaders, civil society groups, and youth for backing environmental justice.

Ms Mwape emphasised the urgency of united action in the face of environmental injustice.

She acknowledged the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment and the Ministry of Local Government for their continued support, calling their presence a testament to Zambia’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Ms Mwape highlighted Zambia’s environmental challenges, including extractive pressures, climate shocks, and water insecurity, and called for collective solutions rooted in justice and equity.

She outlined CEJ’s five strategic pillars: extractive industry governance, climate resilience, environmental justice, sustainable agriculture and energy, and water security.

Underscoring the disproportionate impact of environmental harm on marginalised groups, she called for rights-based approaches that leave no community behind.

Ms Mwape urged corporate partners to align profit with responsibility and praised traditional and faith leaders for their role in guiding stewardship and cultural preservation.

She warned of governance gaps and the dangers of unchecked extractivism, calling for transparency, accountability, and community consent.

Earlier, Centre for Environment Justice CEJ Board Chairperson Vincent Ziba said the rally comes at a critical moment as the world prepares for the upcoming climate conference in Brazil this November.

Mr Ziba emphasised that environmental justice messages must be unified and delivered with one voice to government, reflecting the shared desires of citizens for a fair and sustainable future.

Mr Ziba expressed profound gratitude for the gathering, calling it a powerful beginning and a platform to mobilise resources and build momentum across continents.

He highlighted the role of artists and musicians in raising awareness, noting CEJ’s efforts to train and engage creatives in the environmental justice movement.

GODAZA PRAISES PRESIDENT HICHILEMA FOR ADVANCING ECONOMIC RECOVERY, DEVELOPMENTLusaka, Zambia - Governance and Developme...
12/10/2025

GODAZA PRAISES PRESIDENT HICHILEMA FOR ADVANCING ECONOMIC RECOVERY, DEVELOPMENT

Lusaka, Zambia - Governance and Development Advocates Zambia (GODAZA) has commended President Hakainde Hichilema for the progress made in steering Zambia's economic recovery.

In a statement, GODAZA Executive Director Elias Mulenga highlighted the decline in commodity prices as a testament to the President's effective policies, aimed at easing the economic burden on citizens.

Mulenga praised President Hichilema for settling the debt owed to Maamba Energy Company and actualising the Local Content Bill, empowering local suppliers. He noted that prices of essential commodities have decreased, signalling economic recovery and growth.

GODAZA is optimistic about the President's commitment to creating a conducive business environment, investing in infrastructure, and promoting agricultural productivity. Mulenga applauded the President's vision for a prosperous Zambia, with affordable living costs, quality education, and healthcare.

Mulenga urged all stakeholders to support the President's initiatives and work collectively towards building a stronger, more resilient economy that benefits all Zambians.

GOVERNMENT HIGHLIGHTS NEED TO PROTECT BOY CHILD AS ZAMBIA MARKS GIRL CHILD DAYGovernment has urged equal protection for ...
12/10/2025

GOVERNMENT HIGHLIGHTS NEED TO PROTECT BOY CHILD AS ZAMBIA MARKS GIRL CHILD DAY

Government has urged equal protection for the boy child as Zambia marks the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child.

Central Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Godfrey Chitambala called for equal protection and empowerment of both girls and boys across the country.

The senior government official said this when he officiated at Godfrey Ucar Chitalu Stadium in Kabwe, Central Province, as Zambia joined the rest of the world in commemorating the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, marked every year on 11 October.

The national event, held in Central Province, brought together government officials, civil society organisations and community members to reflect on the progress made in advancing girls’ rights and to renew commitments to gender equality.

This year’s global theme, “The girl I am: the change I lead,” recognised the resilience of girls facing global challenges such as climate change, economic hardship and harmful social norms.

Chitambala said that while the day celebrated the achievements and potential of girls as innovators, peacebuilders and defenders of human rights, the government also highlighted the need to address the vulnerabilities of the boy child.

He stressed that boys, like girls, face serious challenges including exploitation, neglect and abuse, often at the hands of those they trust.

The senior government official reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting all children through a range of initiatives.

He said these include the ratification of international instruments such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, as well as the enactment of the Children’s Code Act of 2022.

Chitambala said the free education policy was a key measure to ensure that no child is left behind due to financial constraints.

He cited efforts to strengthen child protection mechanisms, including the establishment of specialised police units, increased Constituency Development Fund allocations for child-focused programmes and initiatives to amplify children’s voices in governance.

Chitambala called on all stakeholders to work together to create a safe, nurturing environment where every child, regardless of gender, can grow, learn and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Speaking on behalf of the girls, Beatrice Chululuka acknowledged the immense potential within each girl and extended gratitude to the government for its continued commitment to empowering girls.

Chululuka noted the importance of valuing the voices of both the girl child and the boy child, stating that unity can help break barriers and create opportunities for every girl to pursue her dreams.

She encouraged all girls present to recognise their strength, embrace their identity and live with confidence.

ChildFund was in the organising team and joined partners that supported government to create this platform for the girls to participate.

This is contained in a statement issued by ChildFund Zambia Communications Specialist Priscilla Chama Mpengula.

NGOCC CHAIRPERSON BEAUTY KATEBE GRADUATES IN FOOTBALL BUSINESS IN BARCELONAChongwe’s Beka Football Club Founder, Beauty ...
11/10/2025

NGOCC CHAIRPERSON BEAUTY KATEBE GRADUATES IN FOOTBALL BUSINESS IN BARCELONA

Chongwe’s Beka Football Club Founder, Beauty Katebe, has graduated with a Master of Science in Football Business from the Johan Cruyff Institute in Spain.

In an interview, Katebe said she began her studies in October 2023 and completed the programme last week during a ceremony held in Barcelona.

She said the course focused on strategic, commercial, and operational aspects of football management.

Katebe added that after reaching retirement age, she dedicated herself to running Beka FC, which she registered in Chongwe District, Lusaka Province, in 2022.

She said her experience managing the club motivated her to pursue formal education in football business.

she also assumed the role of Board Chairperson for the Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) in 2024.

Katebe described the journey as demanding but deeply fulfilling, highlighting the discipline required to balance studies with leadership responsibilities.

She is hopeful that her achievement is expected to inspire more women to pursue leadership roles in sport and development.

CHILDFUND ZAMBIA CALLS FOR STRONGER ACTION TO EMPOWER GIRLS AND END INEQUALITY  ChildFund Zambia has called for strength...
11/10/2025

CHILDFUND ZAMBIA CALLS FOR STRONGER ACTION TO EMPOWER GIRLS AND END INEQUALITY

ChildFund Zambia has called for strengthened collaborative efforts to address numerous challenges facing girls in the country.

In a media statement to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child, ChildFund Zambia Country Director, Mr. Victor Koyi, stated that his organisation proudly stands with girls across the country — and around the world — to celebrate their strength, resilience, and leadership.

Mr. Koyi described this year’s theme, “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead,” as a powerful declaration.

He emphasised that the theme reminds all that girls are not just future leaders — they are already leading today — in their homes, in their schools, and in their communities.

Mr. Koyi affirmed that ChildFund believes that when girls are given equal opportunities, their impact is immeasurable.

He highlighted that the organisation has seen girls leading school clubs that challenge harmful norms, advocating for an end to child marriage, and using their voices to demand access to education, healthcare, and protection.

Despite this strength and promise, Mr. Koyi pointed out that too many girls in Zambia still face significant and deeply rooted challenges.

He listed these challenges as child marriage, gender-based violence, poverty, and limited access to education and leadership opportunities.

Referencing the Zambia Demographic and Health Survey and UNICEF, Mr. Koyi revealed that 1 in 3 girls in Zambia is married before the age of 18 — with rural girls being the most affected.

According to the Zambia police, the country recorded a total of 10,170 cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) between April and June 2025.

During this period, Children accounted for 22.1% of all GBV victims, with girls comprising a staggering 73.4% of the cases.

Mr. Koyi stressed that these are not just girls’ issues — they are society’s issues, and they demand action from all of us.

As we pass the halfway point toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, Mr. Koyi warned that progress is too slow.

He observed that poverty, inequality, climate shocks, and conflict continue to deny many children — especially girls — the opportunity to grow up healthy, educated, and safe.

Mr. Koyi cautioned that if we fail to act now, the cost will be measured in lost childhoods, lost potential, and lost lives.

He reiterated that ChildFund believes every child, everywhere, deserves the chance to grow up safe, healthy, educated, and skilled — whether at home, in school, in the community, or online.

Mr. Koyi underscored that this includes every girl, because the SDGs are about leaving no one behind.

He explained that ChildFund Zambia is working hand-in-hand with children, youth, families, local organisations, and all levels of government to accelerate progress where it matters most.

From rural villages to urban neighbourhoods, Mr. Koyi noted that their programmes respond to the real needs of children and address the daily barriers they face.

He outlined that the organisation is strengthening child protection systems, building community resilience, supporting girls to stay in school, and ensuring their voices are heard.

Mr. Koyi added that the organisation is helping communities lead sustainable change so that no child is left behind.

That is why, he concluded, ChildFund Zambia continues to collaborate with government, civil society, communities, and families to strengthen child protection systems, keep girls in school, and promote positive and gender-equitable social norms.

He affirmed that the organisation is creating safe spaces where girls can grow, lead, and thrive.

"You are not too young. You are not too small. You are enough. You are powerful. You are the change we need. Never let anyone tell you otherwise. Let us celebrate the girl you are — and support the change you are already leading," Mr. Koyi declared.

Mr. Koyi expressed confidence that together, it is possible to build a Zambia where every girl is safe, valued, educated, and free to shape her own future.

This is contained in a statement issued by ChildFund Zambia Communications Specialist, Priscilla Chama-Mpengula.

ZAM FEARS TAX UNCERTAINTY RISKS ILLICIT TRADE, INDUSTRIAL SLOWDOWN  The Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) Presid...
10/10/2025

ZAM FEARS TAX UNCERTAINTY RISKS ILLICIT TRADE, INDUSTRIAL SLOWDOWN

The Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) President, Ashu Sagar, says adjustments to excise taxes on alcohol, to***co, and FMCGs introduced in 2025 created uncertainty.

Sagar said sudden and unpredictable changes discourage reinvestment and may fuel illicit trade, posing a severe threat to both public health and national revenue in 2026.

He said the current excise duty regime itself is a primary driver of this problem — notably, the ad valorem system for spirits and the inflation-linked hikes for to***co create market distortion and uncertainty.

The ZAM President, therefore, recommends predictable, phased, and industry-aligned reforms that will support both revenue mobilisation and continued investment.

He said the introduction of the Minimum Alternative Tax (MAT) in 2025, based on turnover rather than profit, poses challenges for capital-intensive industries with narrow margins.

Sagar encouraged consideration of exemptions or a tailored application to support industrial growth.

He said the 2026 National Budget reflects Government’s recognition of manufacturing as a driver of inclusive and sustainable development.

Sagar said with consistent implementation and continued public–private dialogue, these measures can enhance Zambia’s competitiveness, deepen value addition, and create more jobs for Zambians.

He reaffirmed ZAM's commitment to working with Government, Parliament, and stakeholders to ensure that these policies are translated into concrete outcomes, while jointly addressing persistent challenges such as electricity supply, high production costs, and access to affordable finance.

ZAM is a private sector-led, membership-driven organisation, established in 1985 and registered under Cap 119 of the Societies Act of Zambia.

It represents the interests of manufacturers in Zambia, with a membership of over 200 firms involved in more than 20 sub-manufacturing categories.

This is contained in a statement issued by Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) Chief Executive Officer Muntanga Lindunda.

FDI WELCOMES COST OF LIVING RELIEF, CALLS FOR INCLUSIVE ECONOMIC JUSTICEFamily Development Initiatives (FDI) Team Leader...
08/10/2025

FDI WELCOMES COST OF LIVING RELIEF, CALLS FOR INCLUSIVE ECONOMIC JUSTICE

Family Development Initiatives (FDI) Team Leader Sheikh Yusuf Ayami has welcomed the slight reduction in the cost of living reported in the September 2025 Basic Needs and Nutrition Basket (BNNB) by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR).

JCTR figures show a decrease in the average monthly cost for a family of five in Lusaka, from ZMW 11,432.17 in August to ZMW 11,289.98 in September.

Sheikh Ayami acknowledged JCTR’s consistent efforts in highlighting the realities faced by ordinary households and commended the organisation for its evidence-based advocacy.

The Muslim Faith Leader described the development as encouraging and a sign that ongoing efforts to stabilise the economy are beginning to bear fruit.

He noted, however, JCTR's observation that rising prices for essential protein sources such as Kapenta, beef, and beans continue to strain household budgets and pose risks to nutritional security.

Sheikh Ayami highlighted the importance of sustaining cost-of-living relief through inclusive economic measures.

Among the key areas he emphasised were support for small-scale farmers, expansion of social protection programmes, and empowerment of SMEs.

These, he said, are critical to ensuring that families not only survive but thrive.

Sheikh Ayami also stressed the need for collaborative action between government, civil society, and faith-based organisations.

He said economic justice must be rooted in values of solidarity and stewardship, with a strong focus on the needs of the poor.

Sheikh Ayami said FDI remains committed to working with stakeholders to promote family-centred development and ensure that every Zambian household has access to affordable food, stable income, and dignified living conditions.

ZAM OPTIMISTIC AS IT APPLAUDS GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO DEVELOPMENT OF DOMESTIC INDUSTRYThe Zambia Association of Manuf...
07/10/2025

ZAM OPTIMISTIC AS IT APPLAUDS GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT TO DEVELOPMENT OF DOMESTIC INDUSTRY

The Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) applauded the 2026 National Budget presented by Minister of Finance and National Planning, Situmbeko Musokotwane, under the theme “Consolidating Economic and Social Gains Towards a Prosperous, Resilient and Equitable Zambia,” although challenges lie ahead.

ZAM President Ashu Sagar said while the manufacturing sector grew by 2.3% in 2024 and contributed 9.5% to GDP—the highest it has been since the 1990s—this remains well below the targeted 36.1% contribution by 2030.

Mr. Sagar, nonetheless, said the 2026 Budget provides encouraging measures that, if effectively implemented, will accelerate industrialisation and broaden Zambia’s economic base.

He commended several progressive measures announced in the 2026 Budget.

On SME Tax Relief, he praised the raising of the turnover tax threshold to K2,500 and reducing late payment penalties from 5% to 0.5%, which will ease compliance pressures and improve cash flow for small businesses.

Mr. Sagar observed that the upward revision of the tax-exempt threshold and increased allocation to empowerment funds are welcome.

He, however, stressed that affordable finance and timely disbursements remain essential to translate these measures into tangible growth.

Regarding access to finance, the ZAM President stated that the expansion of the Zambia Credit Guarantee Scheme and the operationalisation of a K5 billion SME Fund in 2026 will address one of the most critical constraints facing local enterprises.

Regarding Preferential Procurement, he said the implementation of Statutory Instrument No. 45 of 2025, reserving portions of government procurement for Zambian SMEs, ensures guaranteed local market access and supports business formalisation.

On Economic Zones Expansion, Mr. Sagar observed that additional investment in Multi-Facility Economic Zones (MFEZs) and industrial yards builds on the US$3.3 billion already attracted, boosting exports and job creation.

The ZAM President urges Government to prioritise local manufacturers in accessing these facilities, alongside incentives for technology transfer, skills development, and domestic supply chain integration.

On infrastructure and energy, he said continued investment in roads, dams, and rural electrification will lower transport costs, strengthen water security, and expand access to reliable energy—critical enablers of industrial growth.

Mr. Sagar observed that the Budget also introduces sector-specific measures aimed at stimulating local production and competitiveness.

Commenting on agro-processing and dairy, he said increased customs duties on yoghurt, powdered milk, processed meat, and cheese will stimulate domestic processing while supporting local farmers.

For steel and construction inputs, Mr. Sagar observed that removal of surtax on coated steel and float glass will reduce input costs, while customs duty on imported finished steel products safeguards local producers.

For the leather and agro-industrial linkages, he said extension of the 2% local content allowance to milk, hides, and skins is a critical incentive for value addition.

Regarding the Automotive Industry, he said removal of customs duty on Complete Knock Down (CKD) kits lowers assembly costs and opens opportunities for local vehicle manufacturing.

He said ZAM has advocated for this measure for a number of years.

Mr. Sagar called for extension of this progressive measure to all assembly plants to unlock job creation and value chain development.

On Industrial Gases and Materials, he said the introduction of Selected Goods Surtax (SGS) on carbon dioxide strengthens local industrial gas production, while removal of SGS on float glass lowers costs for construction and manufacturing.

He emphasised that incentives for renewable energy and green manufacturing are also timely.

Mr. Sagar urged greater support for clean technologies, including tax rebates for energy-efficient equipment and local production of renewable energy solutions.

The ZAM President appreciated Government’s ambitious target for domestic revenue to reach 81.6% of the 2026 Budget.

He believes that a balanced approach to taxation is essential for industry sustainability.

Mr. Sagar said ZAM remains concerned about the sharp proposed increase in excise duty on single-use plastics from 30% to 100%, which risks job losses if not phased in gradually.

He further said adjustments to excise taxes on alcohol, to***co, and FMCGs introduced in 2025 created uncertainty.

Mr. Sagar said sudden and unpredictable changes discourage re-investment and may fuel illicit trade, posing a severe threat to both public health and national revenue in 2026.

He said the current excise duty regime itself is a primary driver of this problem—notably, the ad valorem system for spirits and the inflationary-linked hikes for to***co create market distortion and uncertainty.

The ZAM President, therefore, recommends predictable, phased, and industry-aligned reforms that will support both revenue mobilisation and continued investment.

He said the introduction of the Minimum Alternative Tax (MAT) in 2025, based on turnover rather than profit, poses challenges for capital-intensive industries with narrow margins.

Mr. Sagar encouraged consideration of exemptions or tailored application to support industrial growth.

He said the 2026 National Budget reflects Government’s recognition of manufacturing as a driver of inclusive and sustainable development.

Mr. Sagar said with consistent implementation and continued public–private dialogue, these measures can enhance Zambia’s competitiveness, deepen value addition, and create more jobs for Zambians.

He reaffirmed ZAM's commitment to working with Government, Parliament, and stakeholders to ensure that these policies are translated into concrete outcomes, while jointly addressing persistent challenges such as electricity supply, high production costs, and access to affordable finance.

ZAM is a private sector-led, membership-driven organisation, established in 1985 and registered under Cap 119 of the Societies Act of Zambia.

It represents the interests of manufacturers in Zambia, with a membership of 200+ firms involved in 20+ sub-manufacturing categories.

UNZA PARTNERS WITH BORDA ZAMBIA TO LAUNCH SANITATION HUB, SEEKS K173 MILLION FOR SYSTEM OVERHAUL  The University of Zamb...
03/10/2025

UNZA PARTNERS WITH BORDA ZAMBIA TO LAUNCH SANITATION HUB, SEEKS K173 MILLION FOR SYSTEM OVERHAUL

The University of Zambia (UNZA) says it requires 173 Million Kwacha to overhaul its ageing sanitation infrastructure, which has become a growing concern for the institution’s health and safety standards.

Speaking during the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony at UNZA Great East Campus in Lusaka with the Bremen Overseas Research and Development Association (BORDA) Zambia, UNZA Vice Chancellor Professor Mundia Muya said the university is facing serious challenges linked to outdated sewer systems, invasive tree roots, and deteriorating underground infrastructure.

He noted that some of the original construction materials, including asbestos pipes, pose health risks and are no longer suitable for modern use.

Professor Muya described the MoU as a milestone in UNZA’s journey towards innovation, sustainability, and community transformation.

He said the partnership with BORDA Zambia will support the establishment of a Sanitation Hub, which will serve as a policy-responsive knowledge centre for decentralised sanitation solutions.

He added that the initiative aligns with UNZA’s 2023–2027 Strategic Plan and national development priorities outlined in the Eighth National Development Plan and Vision 2030.

The hub is expected to promote research, innovation, and capacity building, while also demonstrating technologies such as anaerobic treatment, biogas recovery, and wastewater reuse.

Professor Muya appealed to development partners and the private sector to support the university’s efforts, stressing that investment in sanitation is an investment in the health, safety, and productivity of over 30,000 students and staff.

He said UNZA must lead by example, ensuring that its own systems reflect the principles of inclusive and sustainable sanitation it advocates for.

Meanwhile, the Bremen Overseas Research and Development Association (BORDA) Zambia has expressed satisfaction with the strategic partnership with the University of Zambia (UNZA), aimed at tackling the country’s sanitation challenges through research, innovation, and capacity building.

BORDA Zambia Country Director Amanda Mallaghan said the partnership marks a significant milestone in promoting sustainable decentralised sanitation systems.

She stated that the initiative is designed to support evidence-based solutions to sanitation issues, particularly in the context of rapid urbanisation and the growth of informal settlements.

Ms Mallaghan explained that the Sanitation Hub will serve as a dedicated space for knowledge exchange, research, and learning, bridging the gap between academia, practitioners, and communities.

She emphasised that the hub will provide students with opportunities to work on real-world challenges, while ensuring that Zambian communities benefit directly from the innovations and research generated.

Ms Mallaghan further noted that lasting solutions in sanitation require multi-sectoral collaboration, and expressed gratitude to UNZA’s leadership and other stakeholders for their support.

She said BORDA Zambia remains committed to ensuring the hub delivers on its vision to become a centre of excellence for sanitation research and innovation in Zambia and the region.

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