Minister Nzovu Urges Harsh Penalties for Vandalism as Government Secures Funding for Floating Water Intake

 Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Collins Nzovu, has called for severe punishment for individuals vandalizing water infrastructure, emphasizing the urgent need to protect essential resources. 

Speaking during his visit to Livingstone, Nzovu highlighted the widespread vandalism affecting both the water and energy sectors, underscoring the importance of deterrence through strict penalties.

"Only when punishments are brutal will attitudes change," Nzovu stated, pointing to the rampant vandalism plaguing the energy sector as a critical issue that demands immediate attention.

The Minister also announced that the Zambian government has secured €2 million to procure and install a floating water intake system in response to the decreasing water levels in the Zambezi River. 

This development is part of the government’s broader strategy to ensure a reliable water supply for the residents of Livingstone amidst growing concerns over water scarcity.

"We have heard the concerns of the people, and we are here to assure them of the quality of supply," Nzovu said. 

"Currently, we have a fixed intake system, but with the river levels decreasing, it is becoming increasingly difficult to pump water efficiently, especially at the peak of the dry season."

Nzovu revealed that the government has also obtained an additional €3 million from the German government to support this project, which aims to shift the water intake for Livingstone to the middle of the Zambezi River. 

The new floating intake will be designed to adapt to the fluctuating water levels, making it a climate-smart solution.

"In times when we have sufficient water, we will ensure its availability, but we must address the water scarcity challenges we face. 

We need to secure the water supply, particularly for critical periods," the Minister explained.

He further emphasized the importance of reducing non-revenue water losses and called on the people of Livingstone to use water resources responsibly. 

Nzovu also warned against vandalism, noting that most of the manhole covers have been removed, which poses a significant threat to the water supply system.

"We must take care of the infrastructure. If we don't have quality water supply, we risk outbreaks of cholera, and people could die," Nzovu cautioned. 

"The water levels are extremely low, and we are facing the effects of El Niño. We need to ensure that the projects we have started are completed to secure both water and energy supplies."

The Minister’s visit to Livingstone comes at a critical time when the city is grappling with the impacts of climate change on its water resources.

 The government's swift action and investment in new infrastructure are expected to alleviate some of the challenges posed by the decreasing water levels in the Zambezi River.

Government Praises Climate-Smart Water and Solar Project in Kazungula

The government has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing water and solar energy project in Kazungula, highlighting its potential to transform the local community’s access to clean water and sustainable energy.

Speaking during his recent visit to the project site, Minister of Water Development and Sanitation, Collins Nzovu, lauded the initiative for its innovative approach to water generation, which also includes the integration of solar energy production. 

The plant is set to generate 200 kilowatts of solar power, with 50 kilowatts designated for operational use.

“We are impressed with the climate-smart water generation system that the water company has put in place,” Minister Nzovu stated.

 “This project not only addresses the immediate need for clean water but also contributes to our broader energy goals by incorporating solar energy generation.”

The Minister expressed his satisfaction with the contractor's progress and urged them to maintain close collaboration with the client to ensure the timely completion of the project. 

He reiterated the government's commitment to supporting such initiatives, which align with President Hakainde Hichilema's vision of improving access to clean water for all Zambians.

The Kazungula project, once completed, is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for residents by providing reliable access to clean water, a key component of the government's development agenda.

Minister Nzovu assured the contractor that they would be granted sufficient time to complete the project, emphasizing the importance of delivering a quality outcome that meets the needs of the community.

“This project is a testament to our commitment to innovative, sustainable solutions that benefit our people,” Nzovu added.

 “We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on Kazungula and beyond.”

The government’s endorsement of the Kazungula project reflects its broader strategy to promote climate-smart initiatives and sustainable development across the country.

MP Clement Andeleki Calls for Expansion of Water Project to Benefit All Wards in Katombola Constituency

Katombola Member of Parliament Clement Andeleki has called for the expansion of a vital water project to cover more areas within the constituency, emphasizing the pressing need for accessible clean water in all wards.

Speaking during a recent tour, Andeleki lauded the ongoing water project in Kazungula, describing it as a “wonderful” initiative that has significantly improved the lives of the local population. 

He noted that the residents of Kazungula now enjoy better access to clean water, which is crucial for their health and well-being.

“The water project in Kazungula is a game-changer for the people here. It has provided clean and safe drinking water, which is essential for the health of our communities,” Andeleki said.

However, Andeleki stressed that other wards within the Katombola Constituency, particularly Mukuni and Nyawa, are still grappling with limited access to clean water. 

He highlighted the importance of extending the water project to these areas to ensure that all residents benefit equally.

“Our people in Mukuni and Nyawa wards are still facing challenges in accessing clean water,” Andeleki stated. 

“We need to expand this project so that every ward in Katombola Constituency can have the same benefits as those in Kazungula.”

The MP’s remarks resonate with the growing concerns among residents in the constituency, who have been advocating for better water infrastructure in their areas.

 The expansion of the water project would be a significant step toward addressing these concerns and improving the overall quality of life for the people in Mukuni, Nyawa, and other wards.

Andeleki also called on the relevant authorities and stakeholders to prioritize the expansion, noting that access to clean water is a basic human right that should be guaranteed to all citizens, regardless of their location.

“Water is a basic human right, and it is our responsibility to ensure that everyone in this constituency has access to it,” Andeleki emphasized.

The expansion of the water project would not only improve health outcomes but also support local development by providing a reliable water supply for agriculture, sanitation, and other essential needs.

As the Katombola Constituency continues to grow and develop, Andeleki’s call for equitable access to clean water underscores the need for sustained investment in essential infrastructure projects.

 The community now looks to the authorities to take swift action and bring much-needed relief to the residents of Mukuni, Nyawa, and other wards.

Livingstone MP Rodney Sikumba Calls for Media Collaboration in Promoting Constituency Development Fund

Livingstone Member of Parliament and Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba, has called on the media to play an active role in promoting the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), emphasizing its importance as a tool for community development. 

Speaking at a recent meeting with members of the media and the newly established CDF committee, Sikumba stressed the need for accurate and timely dissemination of information to ensure the public is well-informed about the opportunities available through the CDF.

"The media is cardinal in spreading information about the CDF," Sikumba said.

 "It is the most effective way for the public to access this fund, and we need to see how we can collaborate more closely to inform our citizens."

The United Party for National Development (UPND) government, which took office on August 24, has made significant strides in delivering CDF to the people, despite facing challenges in implementing development initiatives. 

Sikumba highlighted that the CDF guidelines are being refined to improve the system and ensure that the benefits reach those who need them most, especially as the country heads towards the 2024 elections.

"We want to ensure that the people at the polling stations in the Livingstone constituency get the benefits of the CDF," he stated. 

"The media has a crucial role in communicating this to the public. We are allocating funds specifically for media engagement and branding to create top-of-mind awareness about the CDF."

Sikumba also addressed concerns about the politicization of the CDF, reiterating that the fund is apolitical and should be accessible to all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations. 

He emphasized the need for media outlets to present balanced stories that reflect the positive impact of the CDF while acknowledging its challenges.

"Every citizen with a green National Registration Card (NRC) is entitled to access the CDF," Sikumba said. 

"We don't want to see any form of segregation or marginalization. The media should help ensure that the true purpose of the CDF is communicated effectively."

In response to questions about his involvement in the procurement process, Sikumba clarified that he does not sit on the procurement committee and has no role in the electronic procurement system currently being implemented.

"I wonder why my name should be dragged into it," he remarked. 

"My focus is on ensuring that the CDF is used for the benefit of the people, and I urge the media to carry positive articles that highlight the fund's impact."

Sikumba concluded by encouraging continuous media coverage of CDF-related issues, expressing his hope that such collaboration would lead to better-informed citizens and more effective use of the fund in driving development across the Livingstone constituency.

Livingstone City Council Unveils Cash for Work Programme

The Livingstone City Council has announced the allocation of a substantial towards the Cash for Work (CFW) programme, an initiative designed to create jobs, enhance community development, and improve public infrastructure in Livingstone.

Speaking on the financial management and implementation of the CFW program, Kalumbu Mumbi, the Socio-economic Planner at the Livingstone City Council, emphasized the importance of the initiative for the local community.

“This K2 billion investment in the Cash for Work programme is a significant step towards addressing unemployment and fostering community development,” Mumbi said.

 “Out of this budget, K1.8 billion will be directly allocated to payments for CFW beneficiaries.

 This will provide much-needed financial support to our community members while creating jobs.”

Mumbi further explained the breakdown of the budget, noting that “K150,000 has been set aside for administrative costs. 

This includes everything from community mobilization and monitoring to the procurement of necessary tools and personal protective equipment. 

We want to ensure that every kwacha is used effectively to benefit our people.”

Highlighting the inclusive nature of the program, Mumbi stated, 

“We are committed to ensuring equal opportunities for both men and women in this program. People living with disabilities will also be considered for tasks that they can perform. 

We are particularly mindful of the workloads of women, disadvantaged individuals, and overburdened households. Our goal is to promote fairness in task allocation and work norms.”

Mumbi elaborated on the criteria for selecting beneficiaries, saying, 

“We will focus on individuals who are not in formal employment, residing within the district, and not currently receiving benefits from other social welfare programs. 

Priority will be given to those in areas with high poverty levels, both in urban and rural settings.”

Regarding the scope of work under the CFW program, Mumbi explained, 

“The projects will include a range of activities such as road maintenance, garbage collection, and the construction of community infrastructure. 

These efforts are designed not only to meet local needs but also to provide meaningful employment opportunities.”

Mumbi assured the public of the programme's effective management: 

“Local Authorities at the ward level will oversee the implementation of the CFW programme. 

We will work closely with engineers and the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit to ensure that all work is up to standard and that payments to beneficiaries are fair and timely.”

On the issue of payments, Mumbi said, “Each beneficiary will receive K600.00 for ten days of work each month. Payments will be made through banks and mobile platforms to ensure ease of access. 

We are also putting strict accountability measures in place, with monthly expenditure reports to ensure that funds are used for their intended purposes.”

Mumbi emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, “Religious leaders and community members will play a critical role in the sensitization, monitoring, and evaluation of the programme.

 Their involvement is key to ensuring that the CFW initiative is implemented transparently and effectively.”

Concluding, Mumbi reaffirmed the council’s commitment to the programme:

 “The Livingstone City Council is dedicated to managing the CFW program with the utmost transparency and efficiency. 

We are confident that this initiative will uplift our community through meaningful employment and infrastructure development.”

Livingstone City Council Unveils Milestones in Constituency Development Fund 2024

The Livingstone City Council has reported significant progress in the implementation of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) for 2024, highlighting key achievements across various sectors aimed at improving community welfare and fostering economic empowerment.

William Chifunilo, the Socio-economic Planner at the Livingstone City Council, outlined the ongoing initiatives under the CDF, emphasizing the fund's critical role in driving local development. 

"The Constituency Development Fund is the backbone of our efforts to uplift the lives of our people," Chifunilo stated. 

"It enables us to address pressing community needs, from infrastructure to health services, and we are committed to making every Kwacha count."

Chifunilo provided an update on the 22 community projects that have been approved and are currently underway, with a strong focus on enhancing infrastructure. 

"One of our top priorities is the construction of a staff house at Katubya Primary School in Simoonga Ward," he said. 

"This project will not only improve the living conditions of teachers but also contribute to a more conducive learning environment for students."

In Zambezi Ward, a 370-meter-long stone-pitched trapezoidal drainage system is being constructed to tackle water drainage issues.

 "This project is crucial for improving sanitation and reducing the risk of flooding in the area," Chifunilo added.

The council is also making strides in public health and sanitation with the procurement of a skip loader for waste management and an ambulance to enhance emergency health services.

"These investments are vital for improving the overall health and cleanliness of our community," Chifunilo noted.

Other projects include the installation of solar street lights, borehole drilling, and road maintenance through grading and gravelling.  

"We are ensuring that every ward benefits from the CDF, and these projects are spread across various areas to address the unique needs of each community," he said.

Empowering local businesses and cooperatives remains a key priority under the CDF 2024. 

"We believe in the potential of our local entrepreneurs to drive economic growth," Chifunilo remarked. 

"That’s why we have disbursed loans totaling ZMW 3,491,518.00 to 37 organizations. These loans are not just about money; they are about creating opportunities for our people to thrive."

He highlighted some of the ventures that have benefited from these loans, including carpentry and metal fabrication, which received ZMW 325,000.00, and general trading and hardware supply, with an allocation of ZMW 833,640.00. 

"These businesses are vital to our local economy, and we are proud to support their growth and success," Chifunilo said.

The CDF 2024 also focuses on empowering women, youth, and vulnerable groups through grants.

"Our commitment to inclusivity is reflected in the 94 grants we've distributed, totaling ZMW 2,353,308.00," Chifunilo said.

 "We are particularly proud of the support we've provided to small-scale businesses, including poultry farming and village banking. 

These grants are designed to uplift the most vulnerable members of our community and provide them with the resources they need to sustain and grow their enterprises."

Chifunilo emphasized the importance of these initiatives in improving livelihoods. 

"These grants are more than just financial support; they are lifelines for many families, enabling them to break the cycle of poverty and build a better future," he stated.

Education is a cornerstone of the CDF 2024, with a significant portion of the fund dedicated to providing bursaries for secondary school students and supporting skills development programs for the youth. 

"We have approved 210 secondary school bursaries and 665 skills development bursaries, amounting to ZMW 7,045,645.00," Chifunilo announced. 

"This investment in education is crucial for ensuring that our young people have the opportunities to pursue their academic and professional aspirations."

Chifunilo highlighted the long-term impact of these educational initiatives. 

"By investing in education, we are not just supporting individuals; we are building the future of our constituency," he said.

 "These bursaries ensure that no child is left behind, regardless of their financial background."

The total allocation for the CDF 2024 stands at ZMW 30,635,641.97, which has been strategically divided among various sectors. 

"Our approach to fund allocation is rooted in a deep understanding of the needs of our community," Chifunilo explained. 

"Community projects received the largest share, amounting to ZMW 16,589,200.13, followed by allocations for youth, women, and community empowerment at ZMW 7,934,115.80. 

We have also prioritized education, with ZMW 5,820,771.98 allocated for secondary school bursaries and skills development, and ZMW 1,531,782.97 set aside for administrative costs."

Chifunilo emphasized the council's commitment to transparency and accountability in managing the CDF. 

"We are fully committed to ensuring that these funds are utilized effectively and for the benefit of all our residents," he stated. 

"Transparency and accountability are at the heart of our operations, and we encourage community members to actively participate in monitoring the progress of these projects."

He concluded with a message of hope and determination: "The 2024 CDF allocation reflects our unwavering dedication to fostering development, empowering our citizens, and enhancing the quality of life in our constituency.

 We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure these funds are used wisely, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for all."

As the CDF 2024 initiatives continue to unfold, the Livingstone City Council remains committed to driving progress and creating opportunities for all residents, particularly the youth, women, and vulnerable groups, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for the community.

Three-Year-Old Perishes in Nyimba Fishing Camp Blaze; Twin Brother in Critical Condition

A tragic fire tore through Nyimba Fishing Camp in Monze District on August 15, 2024, claiming the life of three-year-old Richard Kamanda and leaving his twin brother, Moses Kamanda, severely injured. 

The Southern Province Police Command confirmed the incident, which has devastated the local community.

"This is a heartbreaking loss for the family and the entire community," said Southern Province Police Commanding Officer Auxension Daka.

 "Our hearts go out to them during this incredibly difficult time."

The fire broke out around 13:00 hours in the Malozilozi section of the fishing camp, located in Chief Hamusonde's area.

 "The fire spread quickly due to strong winds and the close proximity of grass-thatched homes," Mr. Daka explained.

 "Generators, which were common in the area, fueled the blaze further with their explosions."

The twins were under the care of their aunt, Ms. Sandra Nyambe, while their mother, Ms. Namukolo Sitali, attended a nearby funeral. Mr. Daka described the frantic scene: 

"Residents rushed back from the funeral house when they noticed the flames, but despite their desperate efforts, the fire was too overwhelming."

"Ms. Nyambe heroically managed to save Moses from the inferno," Mr. Daka continued,

 "but tragically, young Richard was struck by a collapsing iron sheet as he tried to escape.

 He succumbed to his injuries before he could receive proper medical attention."

The fire has left the Malozilozi section in ruins, with over a thousand families displaced.

 "The destruction is immense," noted Mr. Daka.

 "The estimated value of the lost property runs into the millions of kwacha, leaving families with nothing but the clothes they were wearing."

The incident was reported to Monze Central Police Station the following day by Ms. Sitali, who originally hails from Chitulwa Village in Kabwe District. 

"We have opened an inquiry file and are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire," Mr. Daka stated

. "Our officers are committed to finding answers and ensuring that such a tragedy does not happen again."

Mr. Daka urged the community to take preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.

 "This tragic event highlights the need for increased awareness and preparedness in our communities," he said. 

"We must work together to ensure the safety of our homes and families."

As investigations continue, Mr. Daka reiterated the police's dedication to safeguarding the public. 

"The Southern Province Police Command remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting our citizens," he concluded.

 "We will do everything in our power to bring clarity to this situation and to support the affected families."