Livingstone Council Ready to Allocate Land for Development Projects, Says Mayor Muleabai

Livingstone Mayor Constance Muleabai says the council is prepared to allocate land to investors for development projects that will contribute to national development. 

Ms. Muleabai urged investors to approach the council with their proposals to bring development to the city.

She made this announcement in Livingstone during the launch of Bachelor of Science programs in Hospitality Management and Tourism Management by Texila American University Zambia. 

"We are ready to work with any university or investor who wishes to invest in the city. We are open for development. We are open to showing them a plot where they can put their infrastructure," Ms. Muleabai said.

 She emphasized the importance of education for the country's progress, calling it the best equalizer, and noted that educated individuals can contribute meaningfully to national development. 

She highlighted tourism and hospitality as key pillars of Livingstone and urged the university to ensure their courses are TEVET-accredited to benefit from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Livingstone Hotels, Lodges, and Guest Houses Association (LILOGHA) chairman Abel Mpondela stated that the hospitality industry in the city does not promote the casualization of labor; instead, it is influenced by the seasonal nature of the tourism business. 

He explained that during peak seasons, more temporary workers are employed. 

He noted that a lack of higher academic qualifications has contributed to labor flight in many lodges in Livingstone. 

Mr. Mpondela commended the university for its practical training component, which provides students with hands-on experience through internships and industry partnerships.

He also praised the university for offering online education and flexible payment plans, making education more accessible.

Livingstone Tourism Association (LTA) chairman Shaun Wheeler emphasized the pivotal role of tourism and hospitality in the identity and economy of Livingstone and Zambia. 

He acknowledged the university's new academic programs as a significant milestone for both the university and the tourism sector. 

"This, I believe, will equip graduates with not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills essential for success in the workforce," he said, pledging his full support for the initiative.

Texila American University business development manager Peter Nakalonga highlighted that this is the first bachelor's degree in tourism and hospitality in the country, offering students the flexibility to train both on campus and online.

 He mentioned that course exemptions would be available based on prior training.

This initiative marks a significant step in enhancing and developing the hospitality and tourism industry in Livingstone, aiming to provide necessary skills and qualifications to drive the sector's growth and development.

WSUP Takes Strides in Improving Water Access and Efficiency in Ngwewnya Area

In a bid to tackle the persistent issue of non-revenue water plaguing communities across the region, Southern Water and Sanitation Company Limited has announced the initiation of a groundbreaking project aimed at minimizing water losses and optimizing distribution efficiency.

Speaking on behalf of the company, Wallace Shawa, Director of Operations, outlined the key objectives of the project during a press conference earlier today.

 "We recognize the pressing need to address the issue of non-revenue water within our service areas," Shawa stated.

"To that end, we are launching a comprehensive initiative that focuses on installing water meters and expanding water network coverage to ensure equitable access to clean water for all residents."

The project, valued at a substantial £450,000, is slated to conclude in November 2025 and is expected to benefit approximately 14,000 people residing in underserved areas.

One of the primary strategies of the initiative involves the installation of water meters, which will enable accurate measurement of water consumption and facilitate better management of resources.

Shawa emphasized the importance of water conservation and highlighted the role that metering plays in promoting responsible usage.

"By implementing water meters, we aim to encourage conservation practices among consumers and minimize wastage," he explained.

"This not only ensures the sustainable utilization of water resources but also helps in reducing operational losses associated with non-revenue water."

Furthermore, the project seeks to address the disparity in water network coverage, particularly in areas where access to reliable water supply is limited.

"It is imperative that we extend our water network to cover the entire service area, thus reaching communities that have been underserved for far too long," Shawa emphasized.

In addition to the overarching project, Southern Water and Sanitation Company Limited is launching a pilot program aimed at identifying and rectifying sources of non-revenue water within specific regions.

 "Our pilot project will serve as a testing ground for innovative solutions to combat non-revenue water," Shawa noted.

"We are committed to implementing comprehensive strategies that not only address the symptoms but also target the root causes of water losses."

Shawa expressed concern over the alarming levels of non-revenue water in certain areas, particularly citing Livingstone as a prime example.

"Livingstone is currently experiencing significant losses due to non-revenue water, and it is imperative that we take decisive action to reverse this trend," he asserted.

 "Through collaborative efforts and strategic interventions, we are confident that we can mitigate the impact of non-revenue water and ensure sustainable water management practices for generations to come."

As Southern Water and Sanitation Company Limited embarks on this ambitious endeavor, stakeholders and community members alike are hopeful that the initiative will herald a new era of efficiency, accountability, and accessibility in water management across the region.

And Ruben Sipuma, Senior Country Manager and Regional Policy and Regulatory Lead for Water and Sanitation for the Urban Poor (WSUP), provided insights into the progress of a transformative water project underway in the Ngwewnya area. 

Sipuma highlighted the significant strides made and the projected benefits for the community during an interview.

"With this project, we aim to bring clean and accessible water to approximately 14,000 residents in the Ngwewnya area," Sipuma stated. 

"Currently, we have completed 5 kilometers of the water network, with plans to extend it further to cover a total distance of 13.2 kilometers."

To address the issue of non-revenue water and ensure efficient usage, Sipuma revealed that WSUP is procuring 700 water meters. These meters will play a crucial role in monitoring water consumption and detecting any losses in the system. 

"The implementation of smart meters will allow us to remotely monitor water usage and identify areas where improvements are needed," Sipuma explained.

 "Our goal is to ensure that the water supplied is accurately measured and accounted for, laying the foundation for sustainable water management practices."

Sipuma emphasized the importance of building the capacity of the water company and fostering community ownership of the water supply.

 "We are working closely with local water authorities to enhance their capabilities and provide 24-hour support for water services," he remarked. "It is only when people have reliable access to water that they will be willing to invest in its sustainability."

Reflecting on WSUP's collaboration with local stakeholders, Sipuma underscored the organization's long-standing partnership with the water utility, SAWSCO, dating back to 2018. 

"Together, we are committed to addressing the challenges posed by climate change and promoting responsible water usage," he stated.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Sipuma noted that non-revenue water in Livingstone currently stands at a staggering 48 percent. 

"Reducing this figure is imperative for ensuring the equitable distribution of water resources and enhancing the resilience of communities," he asserted.

As WSUP continues its efforts to improve water access and efficiency in Ngwewnya and beyond, Sipuma expressed optimism about the project's long-term impact. 

"By empowering communities and strengthening water management systems, we can create a more sustainable future for all," he concluded.

FODEP President Urges Opposition to Follow Hichilema’s Lead and Offer Solutions

 Foundation for Democratic Process (Fodep) president Mwenda Mumbuna has challenged the opposition to learn from President Hakainde Hichilema by offering solutions to Zambia's challenges.

In an interview, Mumbuna urged the opposition to emulate Hichilema's approach of providing hope and actionable plans. 

"To be effective, the opposition must focus on solutions, not just problems," he emphasized.

Mumbuna called for a national dialogue to redefine the opposition's role in a democracy.

 He dismissed allegations of a shrinking democratic space, demanding evidence from the opposition to support such claims.

"The opposition should engage in constructive dialogue and adhere to democratic principles," Mumbuna stated. 

He highlighted the importance of intelligent political discourse for national development, urging opposition leaders to move beyond criticism and contribute viable solutions. 

Mumbuna also pointed out that freedoms of speech, movement, and assembly remain intact, even for opposition politicians.

Health Ministry Slams Nurses for TikTok Habits During Work Hours

The Ministry of Health has issued a stern warning to nurses neglecting their duties by spending time on social media, particularly TikTok, during working hours. 

Professor Christopher Simoonga, Permanent Secretary in Charge of Administration, expressed shock over the trend, calling it unprofessional and unacceptable.

Speaking at the launch of a customer care initiative at Livingstone Teaching Hospital, Prof. Simoonga emphasized the importance of nurses focusing on patient care rather than social media. 

"Young nurses are on TikTok when they should be attending to patients. Phones should not be allowed in the ward," he said. "A nurse must be caring, not distracted by 'tiko tiko.'"

Prof. Simoonga criticized the lack of supervision among health workers, which he believes contributes to the issue. 

He highlighted that this behavior compromises the quality of healthcare, with even hospital laboratories reportedly losing specimens.

In a bid to enforce discipline, he warned that he would personally check laboratory turnaround times and address any missing results. 

He also cautioned against the illegal practice of diverting government drugs to private pharmacies.

Prof. Simoonga underscored that hospitals are meant to inspire hope in patients, not despair.

 He urged Livingstone Teaching Hospital to adhere strictly to its service charter or risk losing patients to lower-ranked facilities.

Southern Province Health Director, Callistus Kaayunga, echoed these sentiments, stressing that health is an investment and that the public expects the best return on this investment.

 He called for a shift towards receiving more praise for services rendered rather than complaints.

This crackdown aims to ensure that public health facilities provide clean, competent, and compassionate care to all patients.

Tenant Fined K5000 for Insulting Landlord in Livingstone

 CHALI MULENGA

Livingstone

A tenant, known for drinking irresponsibly and causing disturbances among other tenants, has been fined K5000 for insulting the landlord.

Lilian Mwiya, residing at house number MC 265 in Maramba, sued Chinyama Chipango of Malota township, seeking compensation of K7000 for insults inflicted by Chipango, her tenant.

Mwiya informed the court that around 02:00 in the morning, she received a phone call reporting that one of her tenants was insulting others.

"As I was preparing to investigate, I received another distress call, indicating that the situation was worsening. Upon rushing to the location, I found that indeed one of my tenants was insulting and disturbing the peace of others. Despite my presence, he disregarded me and continued to insult me," Mwiya said.

She explained that Chipango used unpredictable and offensive language, boldly stating that he did not fear anyone and daring her to take the matter wherever she wished.

Subsequently, the matter was reported to the police as Chipango had broken windows on one of the flats and damaged the mortice lock.

Mwiya emphasized her desire for Chipango to be held accountable for his actions so that he could learn a lesson, asserting that he showed no fear of consequences.

In his defense, Chipango expressed remorse for disregarding the court summons after being duly served.

"It was this very month when I had been drinking and became unruly. I admit that I had been intoxicated, and I feel remorseful. I ask for forgiveness," Chipango said.

"I was apprehended by the police while I was drunk and conveyed to the police station," he added.

Chipango admitted to not being afraid of the landlord and referred to the landlord as stupid. He explained that he did not have the K700 to pay the landlord immediately.

"I propose paying the money in installments of K2000, starting from January 2024. I want to emphasize that I never troubled the landlord in paying my rentals," Chipango said.

When questioned about his actions, Chipango attributed them to the alcohol he had consumed, saying, "It led me to say many things against the landlord. I assure the court that I will never drink beer like that again."

In passing judgment, Senior Local Court Magistrate Esau Daka ordered Chipango to pay K250 per month as installments.

"Chipango, you are directed to pay a total of K5000," Magistrate Daka said.

"Chipango is a tenant of the landlord, and he admitted to the claim of having insulted his landlord," Magistrate Daka noted.

End

Victoria Falls Welcomes 42,000 Visitors: Minister Launches Public WiFi Initiative

 CHALI MULENGA

Livingstone

MINISTER of Tourism Rodney Sikumba has announced that the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site received 42,000 visitors in the first quarter of the year.

Mr. Sikumba stated that this figure averages to 13,000 visitors monthly, which equates to around 2,000 visitors daily.

“I am delighted that the public WiFi installed in the Victoria Falls rainforest has the capacity to accommodate 1,500 people at a given time. When comparing the number of visitors to the falls, they can access fast internet,” he said.

He made these remarks yesterday during the launch of public WiFi in Livingstone at the Victoria Falls.

Mr. Sikumba emphasized that this initiative will enable people to share real-time experiences on location.

“This collaboration will, in turn, help increase the number of people visiting the site as it enhances the visibility of the World Heritage Site,” he said.

Mr. Sikumba added that the launch of the site with public WiFi is significant as the ministry aims to attract more visitors to the country, targeting 2 million tourist arrivals by the end of 2024.

He emphasized the importance of digitalization in today's world, stating that it increases global visibility. The Ministry of Tourism, he said, will ensure that facilities are digitalized to enhance efficiency.

He proposed a centralized system where all government office transactions are conducted and funds pooled into a single account for redistribution among government departments.

Mr. Sikumba advocated for collaboration between Zambia and Zimbabwe in marketing the Victoria Falls instead of competing for tourists.

Shaun Wheeler, Chairman of the Livingstone Tourism Association, expressed delight at the introduction of WiFi at the Victoria Falls, stating that it signifies progress for the city.

Livingstone Mayor Constance Muleabai described the introduction of public WiFi in Livingstone as a game-changer, aligning with the government’s agenda and boosting the tourism sector by connecting more tourists to the internet.

Mike Townsend, Chief Executive Officer of Liquid Intelligent Technologies Zambia, stated that the launch of public WiFi in Livingstone is a response to the needs of the tourism sector, marking a significant initiative for the company.

Advocate Calls for Merit-Based Government Appointments to Combat Tribalism

 n a passionate plea for unity and progress, Joseph Moyo, founder, and president of The African Woman Foundation and a distinguished gender and development activist, has spoken out against the divisive practice of labeling government appointments as tribalistic.

Moyo's remarks come at a crucial juncture in Zambian politics, as tribal affiliations continue to overshadow merit and qualifications in discussions surrounding government appointments. In a statement to the press, Moyo condemned the tendency to prioritize tribal considerations over the skills and expertise that appointees bring to their roles.

"The cry of tribalism each time the president makes appointments is unrealistic and in itself tribalistic," Moyo asserted, calling attention to the detrimental impact of such attitudes on national cohesion and development. He highlighted the need for a paradigm shift in the way appointments are perceived and evaluated, stressing the importance of meritocracy as the cornerstone of effective governance.

Drawing attention to the broader implications of tribal politics, Moyo criticized opposition leaders for perpetuating a cycle of division by immediately scrutinizing appointments based on tribal backgrounds. "Looking for where all appointees come from is childish and narrow politics," he remarked, urging political stakeholders to prioritize the common good over narrow interests.

Emphasizing Zambia's rich diversity, Moyo underscored the impracticality of expecting every tribe, ethnicity, or region to be represented in every appointment. Instead, he advocated for a collective focus on national development, urging leaders to recognize the value of expertise and competence in driving progress.

As the nation grapples with the complexities of governance and representation, Moyo's call for a merit-based approach to appointments serves as a rallying cry for a more inclusive and equitable political landscape. With his impassioned advocacy for unity and progress, Moyo continues to inspire a renewed commitment to the principles of meritocracy and national unity among Zambians from all walks of life.