Chali Mulenga

In a historic move towards bolstering transparency and accountability, President Hakainde Hichilema has officially signed the Access to Information (ATI) bill into law, marking a significant milestone in Zambia's democratic journey. "This day further charts a new phase where the true meaning of information is power because corruption, nepotism, and bribery will, if not eliminated, be reduced as information, which is of public good, will be easily accessed by citizens," affirms Mwiya Mukumbuta, Founder/Executive Director of the Centre for Media Rights Watch and Protection of Journalists in Zambia. The triumphant realization of the ATI bill, a two-decade-long endeavor, is a testament to the relentless dedication of civil society, media, and activists. "As an organization, we join other soldiers we ran together in advocating for ATI bill enacted into law, and today is a new dawn in the pursuit of that cause which will benefit every citizen in this country," states ...

A theological storm is brewing as the Catholic Bishop of Northern Malawi, Bishop Mtumbuka, vehemently rejects recent pronouncements from the Vatican allowing blessings for irregular unions, including same-sex couples. The clash centers around the Vatican's "Fiducia supplicans" declaration, approved by Pope Francis, which permits ordained ministers to bless couples in irregular situations without officially validating their status or altering the Church's traditional teachings on marriage. Bishop Mtumbuka, a staunch defender of orthodoxy, declared, "We shall not follow tired pastors who compromise our faith. The recent Vatican declaration undermines the sacredness of marriage, and we cannot be part of this deviation." In direct contradiction to the Vatican's position, Bishop Mtumbuka emphasized, "Homosexuality is not compatible with the word of God. We must not allow the Church to endorse practices that contradict our beliefs." The bishop accuse...

CHALI MULENGALivingstone National Pension Scheme (NAPSA) The Director General of the National Pension Scheme (NAPSA), Mr. Muyangwa Muyangwa, emphasized the crucial role of the media in bridging information gaps regarding the scheme in the country. He underscored that the media's extensive reach plays a pivotal role in eliminating information voids. Mr. Muyangwa stated that NAPSA is committed to enhancing communication continually and encourages proactive collaboration with the media to ensure the accurate dissemination of information to the public. Mr. Muyangwa expressed NAPSA's commitment to dispelling speculations surrounding the pension scheme and highlighted the importance of ongoing media engagement for ensuring accurate information dissemination. He pointed out that speculations often arise due to existing information gaps, emphasizing the need to fill this void. "The media plays a crucial role in helping us reach out to the people and providing essential feedback,...

In a fiery address, President Lungu vows to protect Zambia's democracy against government attempts to stifle opposition parties. Zambia's Sixth President, Dr. Edgar C. Lungu, sounded the alarm on the shrinking democratic space in the country. Speaking at a press conference in Lusaka, President Lungu expressed deep concern about the government's alleged efforts to undermine the democratic process. President Lungu, who recently announced his return to active politics, recounted the events leading up to this decision. He highlighted the government's attempts to destabilize the Patriotic Front (PF), accusing them of a 'coup' during the sacred Independence Day gathering on October 24. The President emphasized the urgency of a united front, calling on opposition leaders to join forces in defense of Zambia's hard-earned democracy. He revealed the positive response he received from opposition parties, expressing confidence that collective action would overcome the c...

 In a powerful speech delivered on behalf of the Livingstone Network of Zambian People Living with HIV/AIDS (NZP+), Mr. Kambole Kambangu, the Board Chairperson, marked World AIDS Day by emphasizing the crucial role of communities in the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS. Addressing the audience, including the Guest of Honor, heads of various departments, partners, stakeholders, and invited guests, Kambangu expressed his rare privilege and honor to deliver a speech on this significant occasion. He highlighted the importance of coming together on December 1st each year to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, show support for those living with the disease, and remember those who have lost their lives to it. The theme for this year's World AIDS Day, "Let Communities Lead," was a focal point in Kambangu's address. He stressed the theme's aim to make community members less passive in decision-making, increase their participation, and hold authorities accountable. The emphasis ...

Chimwemwe Phiri, the Acting Livingstone District Health Director, delivered a compelling speech on World AIDS Day, emphasizing the significance of community involvement and a family-centered approach in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Addressing the distinguished guests, including the Guest of Honor, heads of various departments, partners, stakeholders, and invited guests, Phiri acknowledged the importance of World AIDS Day as a platform for national leaders to publicly recommit support to the response, encompassing material, human, infrastructure, monetary, and supportive policy and legal reforms. Phiri noted that since 2004, Zambia has been commemorating World AIDS Day in alignment with United Nations initiatives. The day serves as an occasion to celebrate the lives of those who lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses and showcase various interventions undertaken by communities and partners throughout the year. Livingstone, being a border area with a steadily increasing populati...

In a compelling speech delivered by Her Worship, the Mayor Constance Muleabai, during the commemoration of World AIDS Day on December 1st, 2023, the spotlight was cast on the profound impact of the HIV epidemic on the nation, urging collective action to combat the ongoing challenges. With the overarching theme for this year's World AIDS Day being "Let Communities Lead," Mayor Muleabai emphasized the critical role that community engagement plays in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The speech resonated with a clear understanding that without active community involvement, the nation's progress in addressing the epidemic would be impeded. Mayor Muleabai highlighted the frontline role of organizations representing communities affected by HIV and emphasized the need to empower these communities. However, she acknowledged the obstacles faced, such as funding shortages, policy hurdles, and capacity constraints, hindering the full potential of community-led initiatives. The speech ...