casualisation in tourism sector worry ZCTU

 Zambia Congress of Trade Unions President, Blake Mulala, expressed deep concern about the widespread casualization of workers in the tourism sector. He highlighted the detrimental impact of labor consultants providing misguided advice to players in the industry. Mr Mulala emphasized the need for collaboration with the ministry to rectify the situation.

Stressing the importance of addressing casualization, he mentioned plans to engage the ministry of labor for the implementation of statutory instruments. Mr Mulala lamented the prevalence of casual employment in Livingstone, particularly in lodges, guest houses, and hotels, where individuals were often hired as casual workers under the pretext of being interns.

He strongly advocated for an end to the abuse of workers through inappropriate intern classifications and revealed efforts to counteract employers who prevented their staff, especially those in establishments with fewer than 25 employees, from joining unions. Mr Mulala outlined ongoing initiatives to reduce the threshold for union membership to seven, aiming to enhance workers' rights protection.

He concluded on a positive note, stating that discussions with the ministry of labor were progressing well. Additionally, Mr Mulala welcomed the decision to establish a minimum wage for workers, emphasizing the importance of these measures in safeguarding the rights of those in the tourism sector.

Mother Eve School Empowers Vulnerable Students and Advocates Free Education: A Holistic Approach to Learning and Ethical Development

Mother Eve School's executive director, Simuyemba Kutemwa, highlighted the school's commitment by offering substantial support to vulnerable students. Twenty percent of its enrollment receives a 100 percent school bursary, while others benefit from a 50 percent bursary in Livingstone this year.

Reverand Kutemwa also urged other private schools to follow suit in providing bursaries to children in their communities. "It's crucial to extend a helping hand, particularly to those in vulnerable situations. We call upon other private institutions to join this cause and ensure that children in need are not deprived of quality education," he stated.

The school's mission, rooted in the church's ethos, heavily emphasizes providing education to vulnerable communities. Reverand Kutemwa highlighted the school's founding principle, which emerged from a realization of the crucial need for education among the people.

In a compelling speech, Reverand Kutemwa fervently acknowledged and supported free education. He emphasized that despite initial concerns, the school has seen a positive correlation between the implementation of free education and the overall academic performance of its students.

"We initially thought free education might pose a disadvantage to the school, but we've been pleasantly surprised by the outcomes. The association between the school and the enhanced educational achievements of the children is evident," Reverand Kutemwa stated in her speech.

Commending the government for providing free education, Reverand Kutemwa expressed the school's commitment to supporting these efforts and continuing to complement the government's objectives in this regard. Over time, the institution has emerged as a leading school, known not only for academic excellence but also for its dedication to nurturing the moral fiber of its students.

Reverand Kutemwa stressed the vital role of the school in instilling moral values, attributing it to the institution's church background and its management strategy. "As a church institution, our focus remains not just on academic excellence but also on the moral development of our pupils. Quality education goes hand in hand with instilling ethical values, and this is the cornerstone of our approach," she explained.

The school's commitment to providing quality education lies not only in academic prowess but also in cultivating a team of quality teachers who significantly contribute to shaping the moral conduct of the children.

Pupil Philip Mutese, 20, expressed his ambition to become a pilot once his results are out. Confident in his preparedness for the upcoming examinations, Mutese attributed his readiness to the school's guidance and support. "I want to focus on my dreams, and the school has significantly prepared me for what lies ahead," Mutese stated. He expressed gratitude for the privilege of attending a school aided by missionaries, acknowledging their role in his educational journey.

Echoing a similar spirit of determination, Exhildah Mweetwa, 19, shared her aspirations to become a pharmacist. Having spent three years at the same school, Mweetwa reflected on the diverse learning experiences that extended beyond the classroom. "I've learned a lot, both from my teachers at school and the lessons I've absorbed at home. It has taught me not just academic prowess but how to achieve in life," Mweetwa articulated.

She highlighted the challenges that young girls face, emphasizing the importance of dedication and effort. Mweetwa underscored the need to deter early marriages for girls, emphasizing the impact such situations can have on their education and ability to concentrate in school. "Being a girl is not easy," Mweetwa said, highlighting the discrepancy between the rhetoric of 'girl power' and the reality faced by many young women. "I aim to be an example of a child dedicated to schooling, proving that focus and determination can defy societal challenges," she added.

PTA Chairman, Malanda Malanda, addressed the impact of the COVID-19 period on the school and its community. He acknowledged the challenges faced during that time, noting a reduction in the school population. Malanda stressed that the school does not offer free education and emphasized the importance of parents paying school fees. "Not all parents are paying for their children's education. It is crucial for parents to realize the significance of contributing to their children's schooling," Malanda pointed out.

While the students articulated their dreams and the challenges they face, the PTA Chairman shed light on the financial dynamics impacting the school.

At the Indo-Zambia Livingstone branch, Peggy Hamukoma urged children to embrace fearlessness and take charge of their aspirations, emphasizing the limitless potential within each of them. Hamukoma's powerful address resonated with a call for bravery, urging students to conquer their fears and envision diverse career paths.

"Children should not let fear hinder their dreams. Instead, they should conquer all their fears and believe in their potential," she asserted. Encouraging a broad spectrum of career ambitions, she highlighted that some of them could become lawyers, bankers, or teachers, underscoring the vast opportunities awaiting them in the future.

Expressing confidence in the preparedness of the students to face the challenges of the 21st century, Hamukoma emphasized that their acquired knowledge and skills form the foundation for their success.

"With the right knowledge and skills, there's nothing they can't achieve. They have the potential to be the best version of themselves," she stated, encouraging them to strive for excellence in their endeavors.

Success, according to Hamukoma, hinges on how effectively they navigate life's challenges, urging them not to remain in their comfort zones. "It's vital to overcome challenges. Success is determined by how they face and conquer difficulties," she emphasized.

Moreover, Hamukoma stressed the pivotal role students can play in shaping a positive future for society. "They should utilize their skill sets to contribute to positive change in society," she urged, highlighting the importance of applying their skills towards beneficial change and progress."

 

Relief Food Urgently Needed in Sinazongwe as Anthrax Outbreak Hits Livestock: MP Gift Sialubalo Appeals for Assistance

Sinazongwe Member of Parliament, Gift Sialubalo, made a compelling appeal for urgent relief food for his constituency as an anthrax outbreak ravages the area, affecting the lives and livelihoods of its 101,617 residents. In his impassioned speech, Sialubalo highlighted the critical need for immediate aid due to the devastating impact of the disease on the region.

Addressing the press, Sialubalo shed light on the grim situation within the Gwembe Valley, emphasizing that the entire area has been severely impacted by the outbreak of anthrax. The disease has taken a toll on the local populace, primarily dependent on cattle trading as a means of livelihood in this low rainfall region.

Reflecting on the recent farming season's failure, Sialubalo stressed that the community is already grappling with food insecurity. He highlighted the dependence of the people on their livestock and lamented the risk of imminent starvation if aid doesn't reach them promptly.

The Sinazongwe MP revealed that he had approached the Disaster Management Unit's national coordinator, seeking immediate assistance for the afflicted region. He expressed gratitude for the intensification of mass vaccination against anthrax, where approximately 60,000 animals in Sinazongwe District received anti-anthrax doses.

Sialubalo also mentioned the implementation of a new law aimed at safeguarding the community from the illegal movement of cattle, a practice identified as a contributor to the outbreak of diseases. He expressed hope that this regulation would play a crucial role in curbing the spread of anthrax and protecting the local population.

The MP conveyed his concern for the people's well-being, emphasizing that the ban on cattle movement was initially met with resistance. However, he underscored the necessity of this measure, as livestock serves as the primary source of sustenance for the residents.

As the community grapples with the far-reaching effects of the anthrax outbreak, Sialubalo's plea for immediate relief food stands as a critical necessity. With the support of the government and concerned authorities, efforts are being made to alleviate the situation and prevent further distress among the people of Sinazongwe.

 And Winter Muvombo, the Chairperson of the And of Gwembe Valley Must Develop (GVMD), emphasized the pressing need for the valley to receive essential food relief. Muvombo stated that the cost of basic food items had escalated significantly, making it unaffordable for the local population due to the current crisis plaguing the valley.

According to Muvombo, the people residing in the Gwembe Valley are facing immense pressure exacerbated by the soaring prices of essential commodities. He highlighted the absence of opportunities for selling their livestock, a situation further compounded by the region's inadequate and insufficient rainfall.

Muvombo stressed that the dire circumstances have led to a sharp increase in the cost of a tin, making it unattainable for the valley's inhabitants. The current crisis has resulted in a situation where the purchase price has become unreasonably high, severely impacting the community's ability to access basic necessities.

The GVMD Chairperson underlined the urgency of providing food relief to the Gwembe Valley, noting that the absence of viable livestock sales, coupled with the area's poor rainfall, has exacerbated the challenges faced by the local population. The critical need for immediate assistance is vital to alleviate the mounting pressure and ensure the community's access to essential sustenance.

 

Livingstone District Welcomes 20 New School Health Rooms, Enhancing Student Well-being and Academic Performance

The Ministry of Education has initiated the commissioning of twenty newly constructed school health rooms in Livingstone District. The aim of these health rooms is to significantly contribute to improved health service delivery in schools. They provide a dedicated space where learners can share personal health information and recover if they fall sick while on the premises, effectively reducing absenteeism and enhancing student performance.

Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima expressed the importance of these health rooms, stating that they epitomize the government's commitment to creating an enabling environment for quality education and health services. He emphasized the pivotal role of these spaces in enhancing the health and well-being of students in the area.

The collaborative effort between the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, and the technical and financial support from Healthy Learners reflects the government's dedication to ensuring that all Zambian children have access to quality education.

Syakalima pointed out the critical correlation between health and academic performance, stressing the essentiality of maintaining adequate health to prevent absenteeism or lack of attention, ensuring the benefits of education are not lost. He also urged Zambian scholars and research institutions to further explore the vital link between good health, nutrition, and quality education.

The success of the School Health Programme in various provinces, benefiting over 850,000 students, has led to increased demand in Livingstone District. This demonstrates the potential to curtail illness-related absenteeism and uplift learner performance, noted Syakalima.

Dr. Kalaluka Malungwe, the esteemed District Health Director, highlighted the ministry's commitment to ensuring accessible healthcare for the local populace. He underscored the significance of bringing healthcare services closer to the community, especially within educational institutions, stressing the importance of health provisions for children who spend a significant amount of their time in schools.

Emphasizing the commitment to ensuring healthcare opportunities are available for all age groups, Dr. Malungwe announced plans for additional facilities to support healthcare activities in the district, underlining the dedication to improving healthcare for both children and the wider community.

The recent handover of twenty newly constructed health rooms in Livingstone District marked a significant step forward in enhancing healthcare access for school children. Vice President Job Milapo of Healthy Learners expressed delight at being part of the event, emphasizing the positive impact these health rooms will bring to the region.

Veronica from the Mukuni Royal Establishment expressed profound delight at the recent handover of the twenty health rooms, emphasizing the critical role of good health in child development and acknowledging the significance of these facilities in providing healthcare services within educational institutions.

Veronica thanked the sponsors of the school health program and the government for their partnership, highlighting the importance of bringing healthcare services closer to the communities and schools. She emphasized the importance of these health rooms in providing a conducive environment and high-level confidentiality for learners seeking help and support.

The support and acknowledgment of the importance of the health rooms in Livingstone District underscored the communal efforts in nurturing and supporting the health needs of the children within educational settings.

Zambian Land Title Controversy: Plot 3099 Cancellation Raises Legal Questions in Fraud and Trespass Case

A 43-year-old Southern Province Principal Land Officer has informed the Livingstone Magistrate's Court that plot number 3099 was cancelled in 1998 by the Surveyor General's office because it was encroaching on another plot, a situation which led it to being renumbered and resized.

This is a case in which Israel Mushoke, Shah Chihanganlal, and Lata Shah are charged with fraud  and criminal trespass.

Mushoke, aged 54, and Chihanganlal, aged 65, are charged with procuring the execution of documents by false pretences.

The alleged offence took place between January 1, and June 30, last year.

The trio are alleged to have used false pretences and fraudulent representations to induce George Sindila, the Acting Lands Officer, to sign a document known as lease number Lt-37146 concerning Stand No. 3099 in Livingstone.

 And Mushoke and Chihanganlal are accused of unlawfully entering the property of Vasanti Chikhalya at Stand No. 2056 and the property of Patel Umashabhai at Stand No. 4416 in Livingstone between January 1, and June 30, last year, with the intent to commit an offence.

Shah, a 60-year-old businesswoman of Indian origin, is another person involved in these alleged activities.

The trio is represented by Swizt Mweemba of Swizt Mweemba and associates.

Testifying before Chief Resident Magistrate Julius Malata, Principal Land Officer Musamai Masheka stated that the plot was created in 1989, and his office maintains all the maps of the plots that have been created.

Mr Masheka also said that there was encroachment, leading to the cancellation of plot 3099.

“The Surveyor General's office is responsible for confirming the existence of the property,” he said.

Moreover, he said there was no remark in the system indicating that the plot had been cancelled, and the change from 3099 to 4416 did not show who had signed the document.

Mr Masheka said surprise regarding how a title was issued despite the plot number being cancelled.

"I can confirm that all the properties in question had titles. Specifically, 2056 and 4416 were issued in 1989, while 3099 was issued in 2022.

I would like to state that 3099 was indeed issued and is on a title, but the plot number was canceled. It's worth noting that only the system reflects its existence," he said.

Furthermore, he said he did not have possession of the title for 3099, which had been issued to Mushoke, because it had been processed by the ministry headquarters, not the province.

He said he did not have the file in Choma; if it exists, it would be in Lusaka.

Mr Masheka also admitted that he did not know when 2056 was created but assumed that the plot had been established in the 1960s.

He said that the creation of plot 4416 had been recommended by the council, and in 1999, it was numbered and mapped, subsequently becoming known as plot number 4416.

“We do not inspect the lands or properties in the province unless there is a request from the council whenever they want to re-enter some properties in their areas,” Mr Masheka said.

Mr Masheka said they only conduct inspections upon request by the local authorities in the province so that such properties can be re-entered.

He said he recalls that his department in Choma had been visited by Zambia Police officers who were investigating three pieces of land in Livingstone.

Mr Masheka said the police were investigating three properties: 3099, 2056, and 4416, which was around April.

Trial adjourned to November 6, 2023.   End

 

Zambia Radiation Protection Authority Holds 5th Annual Conference: A Pledge to Advance Safety and Security

 Radiation Protection Authority (RPA), board chairperson, Adrian Maleya says radiation protection officers are pivotal in advancing radiation safety and security, strengthening the commitment to excellence in facility operations, and ensuring the protection of communities and the environment. He said there is need for Radiation Protection Officers to protect communities and the environment while advancing the frontiers of science and technology in Zambia and across the world. Dr Maleya said it is for this reason that radiation protection officers should leverage their diversity of perspectives and experiences to enrich their understanding in the sector by promoting innovative solutions to the challenges the country faces. He said this at the fifth Annual Radiation Protection Officers Conference convened by the Radiation Protection Authority under the theme "Advancing Radiation Safety, Nuclear Safety, and Security by Empowering Excellence in Facility Operations," in Livingstone . Dr Maleya said their goal was not just to mitigate the risks associated with radiation and nuclear technology, but also to elevate collective capabilities and strive to exceed the highest international standards. He said excellence is not an endpoint but a continuous journey that demands dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders. The conference attracted experts, professionals, and stakeholders dedicated to ensuring the health, welfare, and security of communities and the environment. The conference, in accordance with the RPA's responsibilities outlined in Section 7 of the Ionizing Radiation Protection Act No. 16 of 2005, aimed to collect and disseminate valuable information. He said this event served as a platform for sharing knowledge and promoting the latest advancements in the field of radiation protection. "It demonstrates our collective commitment to protecting the health and welfare of our communities, our environment, and future generations," he stated. He said the collective efforts are expected to have a substantial impact on the trajectory of radiation safety, nuclear safety, and security not only in Zambia but also globally. "We have gathered here to leverage our knowledge, foster cooperation, and promote facility operations excellence," Maleya explained. He said there is need for a commitment by radiation protection officers to safeguarding their own communities and contributing to a safer, more sustainable future for the world. H said the importance of the collaborations and knowledge sharing through international and national partnerships, as catalysts for innovation and progress, further strengthening their commitment to facility operations excellence. He said radiation protection officers, have a significant impact on shaping a safer and more secure environment for both occupationally exposed workers, the public, and the environment. And Livingstone, District Commissioner Mrs. Eunice Nawa emphasized the importance of ensuring that radiological and nuclear activities within the district are carried out with the utmost care, guided by excellence in facility operations, underscoring the district's commitment to a safe environment for its residents and aligning with global safety efforts. Mrs. Nawa also commended the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission for their valuable support and contribution to this noble cause. She emphasized that the conference would offer professionals a unique platform to exchange ideas and experiences, encouraging delegates to interact freely, share best practices, and apply them in their everyday work beyond the conference. Mrs. Nawa recognized the profound influence of radiation protection officers and experts on the lives of Livingstone's residents, highlighting how their work extends beyond professional roles, directly impacting the safety and well-being of the community. She encouraged all conference participants to seize the opportunity to learn, collaborate, and network with open hearts and receptive minds. Mrs. Nawa reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to safety and excellence, expressing her firm belief that the collective dedication of conference professionals would not only enhance community protection but also pave the way for a brighter, more secure future for the country, encouraging attendees to strive for excellence and contribute to the advancement of radiation safety, nuclear safety, and security in the unique and vibrant district of Livingstone. And RPA Boster Siwila said this conference exemplifies a shared commitment to radiation safety and effective implementation of the Authority's mandate. He said the collective responsibility and purpose shared by professionals in ensuring the safety and security of the world through advancements in radiation and nuclear safety. Dr Siwila the crucial role that Radiation Protection Officers play in this mission as their importance of appointing competent Radiation Protection Officers, as mandated by the Ionising Radiation Protection Act No. 19 of 2011. He said this requirement aims to ensure that compliance with the act is maintained in all facilities and institutions. He said the conference also serves as a knowledge-sharing platform, enabling participants to exchange valuable information about the Radiation Protection Authority and to share lessons learned from their experiences. He said through collective learning and improvement, the aim is to bolster institutions and facilities against potential risks. Dr Siwila said the goal of the conference is not only to mitigate risks associated with radiation and nuclear technologies but also to elevate collective capabilities. “This includes continuous investment in training, technology, and transparent communication to ensure that operations are carried out at the highest international standards,” he said. He said government's commitment to protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation. “The conference was described as an opportunity for participants to interact with the Regulator and as a platform for collaboration, learning, and networking to collectively advance facilities and operations to even greater heights,” he said. 

Court Acquits Carpenter in Marijuana Case

In a surprising turn of events at the Livingstone magistrate's court in 2023, Charles Namuchana, a 49-year-old local carpenter, found himself facing charges of trafficking in marijuana. This case unfolded when the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) failed to weigh the marijuana they had seized from him in his presence.

Namuchana, residing at house number 2578 Dambwa North Extension, Livingstone, was charged with "trafficking in psychotropic substances," a contrary to section 15(1)(2) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, Chapter 35 of 2021 of the laws of Zambia. The alleged incident took place on July 31, 2023, in Livingstone, where Namuchana was found in possession of 10.3 grams of marijuana, a herbal product of Cannabis Sativa, without lawful authority.

The prosecution's case relied on information received by DEC officers about a male individual involved in drug dealing. They formed a team and apprehended Namuchana, conducting a search that resulted in the seizure of the marijuana. However, crucially, the drugs were not weighed in the presence of the accused person. Instead, they were taken to UTH (University Teaching Hospital), where public analysis confirmed the substance to be Cannabis Sativa.

Senior Resident Magistrate Leya Kabalata emphasized that the court's judgment should be based on facts, not rumors or assumptions. The content of the marijuana was reported to be over 0.5 percent, and the public analyst's report confirmed its nature. However, the court noted that the prosecution had not provided sufficient grounds for seizing the K9000 found in Namuchana's possession or demonstrated that the money was the proceeds of a crime.

The defense argued that the prosecution had not proven their case beyond a reasonable doubt, highlighting the lack of bank details to establish Namuchana's income. Magistrate Kabalata concluded that the prosecution had failed to meet the burden of proof and subsequently acquitted Namuchana, setting him at liberty.

Following Namuchana's acquittal, jubilation erupted at the court premises. Defense lawyer Anthony Bwalya of KBF and partners requested that the seized money be returned to his client. Still, the state, represented by Michael Akamonia, objected, asserting that the money was tainted property defined under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Akamonia further argued that the marijuana should be forfeited to the state since no one was claiming it and suggested that it be destroyed by the senior clerk of court in the presence of DEC officers. He insisted that the money should be deposited into the government account, in accordance with the court's judgment.

Bwalya continued to press for the money's return to his client, contending that the state had not provided adequate reasons for his client's suffering, nor had they proven that the money was derived from criminal activities.

Magistrate Kabalata reserved her ruling on the matter, particularly the state's second application, to October 31, 2023. This decision left the fate of the seized money in limbo, pending further legal deliberation.