Truck Drivers’ Union Demands Scrapping of Business Permit Limits

 The Justice for Southern Truck Drivers Union has called on the Zambian government to abolish the 90-day limit on business permits for foreign truck drivers, arguing that the policy has caused widespread job losses within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.  

Union spokesperson Mr. Bernard Ndabambi described the restriction, enforced under the Immigration and Deportation Act No. 18 of 2010, as discriminatory.

 He noted that similar laws do not exist in other SADC countries. 

“Why has Zambia chosen to implement such a punitive measure when our neighboring nations do not impose such limits?” Mr. Ndabambi asked.  

The 90-day limit has led to penalties for drivers who overstay, ranging from 15,000 kwacha in the past to 12,000 kwacha, and now 4,500 kwacha. 

Mr. Ndabambi criticized the fees as unfair and unnecessary, emphasizing that Zambian drivers face no such restrictions in neighboring countries. 

“These penalties are punitive and create a barrier for truck drivers to continue their work, which is vital for regional trade,” he said.  

Truck driver Posta Vandirayi urged the government to acknowledge the essential role of truck drivers in facilitating cross-border commerce. 

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, we were recognized as essential workers. That status must be restored permanently,” he said.  

Adding to the union’s frustrations, Mr. McDonald Chilanga, Vice General Secretary, expressed disappointment at the government’s lack of engagement. 

“Since 2021, we have been seeking dialogue with authorities, but there has been no meaningful response. 

The government’s reluctance to address this issue is troubling and shows a disregard for the livelihoods of drivers,” Mr. Chilanga said.  

The union emphasized that these restrictive policies are at odds with the principles of regional integration and cooperation espoused by SADC. 

They remain resolute in their demands for Zambia to align its travel policies with other member states to ensure fair treatment for all truck drivers.  

The union has vowed to continue advocating for their rights until meaningful changes are made, calling the issue a test of Zambia’s commitment to regional harmony and trade facilitation.  

Be peace makers-bishop kalumba

 **Livingstone Bishop Calls for Peacemakers in Christmas Message**  

**Livingstone, Zambia** – Livingstone Bishop Valentine Kalumba has called on Christians to be peacemakers this Christmas, urging reconciliation and compassion as pathways to building stronger communities. Speaking during the Christmas Vigil Mass at St. Theresa’s Cathedral, Bishop Kalumba reminded the congregation of their role as agents of peace.  

"The message of Christmas encourages us to be peacemakers," the Bishop said. "We should make amends with those we have wronged and work toward creating a community based on love and understanding." He emphasized that true peace is more than the absence of conflict—it is a deep sense of well-being that comes from empathy, compassion, and Christ-like love.  

Bishop Kalumba highlighted the humble birth of Jesus as a profound lesson in humility and divine purpose. "When we think about the Nativity scene, we remember how simple and modest Jesus' birth was, yet it was announced by angels and marked by a guiding star," he said. "This contrast shows the mystery of the Incarnation—God becoming man to live among us."  

He urged the congregation to embody the spirit of Christmas through acts of kindness and generosity, particularly to those less fortunate. "Let us follow the example of the Magi who brought gifts to the Infant Jesus by sharing what we have with our brothers and sisters," he said.  

The Bishop also encouraged the faithful to embrace the joy and hope of the season, even amid life’s challenges. "Despite the difficulties we face, Christmas remains a time for hope and joy," he said. "The light of Christ shines in our darkest moments, reminding us that God is with us—Emmanuel."  

Reflecting on the year’s blessings, Bishop Kalumba called on worshippers to be thankful and to carry the Christmas spirit throughout the year. "This is a time of renewal, a time of hope, and a time to reconnect with our faith and each other," he said.  

In his closing remarks, Bishop Kalumba stressed that the true essence of Christmas lies in love and service. "It is not found in the gifts we give and receive, but in the love we share and the lives we touch," he said. "May the light of Christ, born in Bethlehem, shine brightly in our hearts and in our world, bringing peace and joy to all of us."  

The vigil, which drew hundreds of worshippers, concluded with hymns and prayers, leaving attendees inspired to spread the message of peace, hope, and love in their communities.

Dr. Clement Andeleki Slams Previous Governments for Neglecting Education, Praises President’s Focus on Development

Dr. Clement Andeleki, Member of Parliament for Katombora, has strongly criticized previous governments for their neglect of the region’s educational infrastructure, claiming they intentionally left communities without proper support to create a generation of uneducated and disillusioned citizens. "The previous governments failed to invest in education because they wanted our children to grow up as junkies or criminals," Dr. Andeleki asserted. "There was no focus on their future, no care for their well-being."

Dr. Andeleki’s remarks came as he welcomed President Hakainde Hichilema to Katombora for the third time in a single year, marking a significant shift in government attention to the region. He highlighted the tangible progress the current administration has made, particularly in the education sector, where over 7,000 desks have been provided to local schools. This is part of a larger investment of more than 7 million kwacha aimed at improving the learning environment and ensuring that no child has to sit on the floor.

"Under President Hichilema, we are finally seeing an investment in our children’s future. Education is no longer a luxury, but a priority," Dr. Andeleki said. "The President’s policy of free education ensures that every child, regardless of their background, has access to a quality learning experience."

The MP also applauded the President’s leadership in responding to the country’s worst drought in decades, comparing President Hichilema’s strategy to that of biblical King Solomon. Dr. Andeleki emphasized the government’s quick action in rolling out social cash transfers, food-for-work, and cash-for-work programs to support vulnerable communities.

"The drought has devastated many parts of the country, but the President has responded with wisdom and compassion. His interventions have been a lifeline for many families in Katombora and beyond," Dr. Andeleki said.

In addition to addressing the drought, Dr. Andeleki celebrated the recent declaration of Kazungura as an economic zone, an initiative he believes will drive local economic growth. "Kazungura is on the rise. The people are excited, and the future is looking bright," he said, noting that infrastructure projects, such as the construction of large dams in Kanchere, will further support the region’s development.

Dr. Andeleki concluded by expressing his gratitude to President Hichilema for his continued focus on Katombora. "Having the flag of Zambia flying high in Katombora is a great honor. We are seeing real change, and I’m proud to be a part of it," he said, reaffirming his commitment to supporting the President’s development agenda for the region.

Livingstone Land Project Lauded as a Visionary Housing Initiative

Zambia National Building Society (ZNBS) Director of Banking and Mortgages, Mwansa Kapeya, praised the Livingstone Land Project as a milestone in advancing Zambia’s housing agenda and fostering public-private partnerships. 

He highlighted the project’s provision of secure, strategically located land in Livingstone, which enables diaspora investments in housing, tourism, and commercial ventures. 

Mr. Kapeya emphasized Zambia National Building Society’s commitment to providing tailored housing microloans for lower-income households to promote inclusivity and bridge the housing gap.  

“This initiative is a shining example of what we can achieve through collaboration. Together, we can reduce housing poverty, empower communities, and build a stronger Zambia,” he said.  

The project, launched by the Zambia Diaspora Organisation, aims to address the housing deficit while fostering economic growth and national unity through diaspora investments.

 It involves the subdivision of 152 hectares into 230 plots, earmarked for housing, business, and farming, and has attracted buyers from around the globe.  

Speaking at the launch, Prof. Albert Malama, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing, and Urban Development, commended the project as a beacon of collaboration and vision. 

Delivering a speech on behalf of Minister Charles Milupi, he lauded the initiative for empowering 230 citizens and creating sustainable investment opportunities for Zambians abroad.  

“This initiative reflects the unwavering determination of Zambians abroad to contribute meaningfully to the country’s growth while investing in their futures,” Prof. Malama stated. 

He emphasized the project’s strategic importance in bolstering housing stocks and underscored the role of public-private partnerships in driving progress and improving lives.  

The government aims to address the housing deficit, currently estimated at 1.5 million units, by constructing 220,000 housing units annually to prevent the deficit from reaching 3.3 million by 2030. 

“Under President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership, housing is recognized as a basic human right. We are streamlining land acquisition and property development processes while prioritizing policies to attract diaspora investment,” Prof. Malama added.  

Zambia Diaspora Organisation President Ferdinand Simaanya described the project as a model for how Zambians living abroad can contribute to sustainable economic growth. 

“The Livingstone Land Project is not just about building homes; it’s about creating opportunities and fostering national pride,” he said.  

The collaboration with the Zambia National Building Society ensures financial support for plot development, aligning with the government’s vision for sustainable and inclusive housing solutions. 

The initiative marks a pivotal step in empowering Zambians in the diaspora to invest in their homeland and drive the country’s development.  

UPND Accused of Persecuting Zambian Businesses While Favoring Foreign Firms

The New Heritage Party (NHP) has accused the UPND-led government of financially persecuting Zambian-owned businesses while offering favorable treatment to foreign companies. The opposition party claims the government is using tax holidays and other incentives to favor non-Zambian businesses, while imposing harsh penalties on local entrepreneurs.

According to NHP, the government is exploiting state institutions, including the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), the police, and other agencies, to intimidate and silence citizens. The party cited the case of Spax Mining, a Zambian-owned company that was fined five million Kwacha for tax evasion, while foreign mining firms continue to benefit from tax exemptions, costing the country billions in lost revenue.

NHP also criticized the government's treatment of small businesses, including mobile money operators and market traders. It claims that excessive council fees and the destruction of trading booths in major cities like Lusaka, Livingstone, and Solwezi have driven many local businesses to the brink of collapse.

“The UPND-led government must stop using the rule of law as an excuse to persecute and suppress citizens,” said Aggephrey Brill, Chief Spokesperson for the NHP. “The law is being abused to silence Zambians while foreign businesses continue to exploit our resources without consequence.”

The NHP is calling for immediate reforms, including the abolition of tax holidays and exemptions for foreign businesses, and a fairer, more inclusive approach to supporting local enterprises. The party is also demanding that the government provide viable alternatives and solutions to the challenges faced by Zambian-owned businesses.

“This is not the Zambia we fought for,” Brill added. “We demand a level playing field for all businesses and equal treatment under the law.”

As the battle between the government and local entrepreneurs intensifies, the NHP is rallying citizens to join the fight for a fairer and more just Zambia.

Zambia is plagued by lawlessness and inefficiency- Dr Ndilila

 Shaping Zambia's Infrastructure: The Vital Role of Quantity Surveyors in Addressing Construction Challenges**

Zambia’s construction industry, valued at USD 5.5 billion in 2023, faces deep-rooted challenges, and Dr. Francis Mwape Ndilila, Managing Partner at Ndilila Associates, Architects & Project Managers, is calling for urgent change. 

"The industry is suffering from inefficiency, time and cost overruns, and compromised quality," Dr. Ndilila said at the recent Zambia Institute of Quantity Surveyors (ZIQS) conference.

He drew a compelling analogy: "The construction industry is like a symphony orchestra.

 Architects, engineers, and quantity surveyors must play in harmony to deliver a successful project." 

But too often, professionals work in silos, leading to fragmented results. 

"When professionals don’t share ideas and information, projects suffer," Dr. Ndilila emphasized. 

He advocates for an integrated approach, where professionals from all disciplines collaborate for excellence.

Dr. Ndilila also questioned the adequacy of the term

 "quantity surveyor." "The role goes far beyond estimation—quantity surveyors are cost planners, project coordinators, and cost controllers," he stated. 

"The title doesn't fully capture the broad responsibilities we shoulder." 

He suggested a rethinking of the profession’s title to better reflect its expanded functions.

However, Dr. Ndilila’s concerns go beyond terminology. 

"The construction sector in Zambia is plagued by lawlessness and inefficiency," he said. 

"We see runaway contracts, cost overruns, time delays, and disputes."

 He has long highlighted these issues, noting that they undermine the industry’s potential. 

"We need stronger regulations and enforcement to address the lawlessness that persists in the sector," Dr. Ndilila asserted.

His remarks echoed those made by Vice President Mutale Nalumango and Minister of Infrastructure Charles Milupi at the recent Zambia Institute of Architects’ AGM. 

Both leaders addressed the industry's persistent problems with time, cost, and quality.

 "These are issues we all know but never take seriously," Dr. Ndilila said. 

"It’s time for action. What are the plans to address them?"

Dr. Ndilila also raised a critical point: the limited benefits local professionals are receiving from Zambia’s construction boom.

 "Foreign consultants and contractors dominate, while local professionals struggle to gain opportunities," he observed.

 "This is a lost opportunity for Zambia. We need to ensure that our local talent benefits from the sector’s growth."

In light of these challenges, Dr. Ndilila called for a renewed focus on excellence, integrity, and leadership—qualities that should define Zambia’s construction professionals.

 "This year's conference theme is spot on, but is it just rhetoric, or will we see real change?" he asked.

 "The industry needs to move from talk to action."

Zambia’s infrastructure future depends on professionals working together and upholding high standards. 

"If we want a successful future, collaboration is key," Dr. Ndilila said. "Let’s ensure our projects are built on integrity, leadership, and professionalism."

Zambia is not a dumping ground for dental amalgam

Livingstone University Teaching Hospital’s dental surgeon, Dr. Robin Mwewa, has raised critical concerns about the dangers of mercury in dental amalgam fillings.

 Speaking at a recent health forum, Dr. Mwewa detailed the adverse effects of mercury on human health and the environment, urging for greater awareness and action.  

Mercury, a key component in dental amalgam, has been used globally for over a century to treat cavities.

 Its introduction in dentistry originated in Europe, with countries like France and Britain pioneering its application. 

However, the long-term consequences of mercury exposure were not understood until much later.  

Health Risks Associated with Mercury Exposure

Dr. Mwewa highlighted several health complications linked to mercury exposure from dental amalgam fillings:  

1. Tremors: Mercury can cause involuntary muscle contractions, commonly affecting the legs.  

2.  Emotional Instability: Excessive mercury can lead to mood swings, irritability, nervousness, and excessive shyness.  

3.  Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, resulting from mercury poisoning, impacts productivity and overall well-being.  

4. Neuromuscular Issues: Weakness, muscle shrinkage, and poor coordination are common, particularly in individuals performing physically demanding tasks.  

5. Headaches: Persistent headaches may be misdiagnosed and treated with painkillers, while the underlying cause—mercury poisoning—remains untreated.  

6. Sensory Impairment: Mercury can dull taste sensations and disrupt nerve responses.  

7. Cognitive and Developmental Problems: Mercury exposure during pregnancy or early childhood can impair learning, concentration, and speech development.  

Dr. Mwewa also pointed to mercury contamination in food, particularly in shellfish, which compounds these health risks. Consumption of mercury-laden fish can lead to twitching pains, impaired movement, and speech and hearing difficulties.  

Environmental Concerns

Beyond its impact on health, mercury poses significant environmental threats.

 Improper disposal of dental amalgam waste can lead to mercury contamination in soil and water, harming ecosystems and wildlife.  

“The effects of mercury on both human health and the environment are profound,” Dr. Mwewa emphasized. 

“It is especially harmful to children and pregnant women. Addressing these risks is a matter of urgency.”  

Dr. Mwewa called for the proper disposal of amalgam waste and increased public education about mercury’s dangers.

 He also advocated for alternatives to mercury-containing dental fillings, which are safer for patients and the environment.  

As awareness grows about mercury’s risks, Dr. Mwewa’s message serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of transitioning to safer dental practices and protecting the environment from toxic exposure.  

And Livingstone Deputy Mayor Robert Wandila officially launched the Africa Mercury-Free Dentistry Week in Livingstone, reaffirming the city's commitment to a healthier and safer environment. 

Speaking at the event hosted by the Children’s Environmental Health Foundation, Wandila emphasized the dangers posed by mercury exposure, particularly to vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women.  

The event brought together officials from the Livingstone City Council, the District Health Office, the Health Professional Council of Zambia, the Livingstone University Teaching Hospital, and the Livingstone Chamber of Commerce. 

While representatives from the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) could not attend, Wandila acknowledged their critical role in promoting environmental safety.  

“It is truly touching and saddening to learn about the effects of mercury exposure,” Wandila said.

 “Your fight is noble, and I will join you in this campaign to ensure that the ban on dental amalgam is done legally.”  

Dental amalgam, a material containing mercury, is commonly used in dental fillings. 

However, its potential health risks have prompted calls for its phased removal in Zambia. 

Wandila committed to collaborating with stakeholders, including the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment and the Ministry of Health, to develop legislation prohibiting its use.  

The deputy mayor expressed his appreciation for the Children’s Environmental Health Foundation’s efforts to create a mercury-free environment and pledged to work alongside the organization to make Livingstone—and Zambia as a whole—a leader in mercury-free dentistry.  

“I will gladly advocate for the phasing out of dental amalgam,” Wandila said.

 “We aim to achieve this through the development of legislation that will prohibit its use, ensuring a safer future for our communities.”  

The initiative aligns with broader efforts across Africa to eliminate mercury use in dentistry, contributing to the continent's environmental health goals. 

Wandila urged the District Health Office to monitor progress and pledged his unwavering support for the campaign.  

With his concluding remarks, Wandila declared the Africa Mercury-Free Dentistry Week officially launched in Livingstone, marking a significant step forward in environmental and public health advocacy.  

"Together, we can make Africa dental amalgam-free," Wandila stated. 

And in  a passionate call for change, the Children’s Environmental Health Foundation (CEHF), led by Executive Director Micheal Musenga, has urged Zambia to join the global movement towards mercury-free dentistry.

 Speaking during the Africa Week of Mercury-Free Dentistry, Musenga highlighted the health and environmental hazards posed by dental amalgam, a material that contains up to 45% mercury.

Musenga emphasized the critical need for Zambia to phase out dental amalgam, aligning with global standards set by the Minamata Convention on Mercury, an international treaty to protect human health and the environment from mercury exposure. 

"Dental amalgam is a primitive pollutant, harmful to dental workers, patients, and particularly children and women of reproductive age," he said.  

Global Progress and Local Challenges  

While Europe has successfully banned dental amalgam, both in its production and export to developing countries, the material still finds its way into Zambia, raising concerns over border enforcement. 

Musenga urged the Zambian government to strengthen laws to prevent the import and use of dental amalgam, which he described as “disastrous to the environment and public health.”  

The CEHF is collaborating with organizations such as the World Alliance for Mercury-Free Dentistry and the Africa Centre for Environmental Health to advocate for legislative measures. These efforts are in line with the European Union's zero-pollution ambition and aim to make Africa mercury-free.

### Health Risks and Environmental Impact  

Mercury from dental amalgam is a significant pollutant, poisoning fish and endangering communities reliant on aquatic ecosystems. "Children who consume mercury-contaminated fish risk brain damage," Musenga warned. He noted that safer alternatives to dental amalgam are available and should be adopted nationwide.  

### Call to Action  

Musenga appealed to key stakeholders, including the Minister of Health, Hon. Elijah Musuma, and the Minister of Green Economy and Environment, to take decisive action. "We need national laws to prohibit the use of dental amalgam and ensure its phase-out in hospitals and private dental clinics," he said, adding that community support would be crucial for success.  

Zambia’s commitment to the Minamata Convention provides a framework for this transition. Musenga stressed the importance of immediate action, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers.  

### A Vision for the Future  

With a strong legislative push and coordinated efforts among stakeholders, Zambia could become a leader in mercury-free dentistry in Africa. "Zambia is not a dumping ground for toxic dental amalgam. The people of Zambia have a right to health and a safe environment," Musenga declared.  

As the Africa Week of Mercury-Free Dentistry continues, the CEHF hopes its message will resonate, inspiring Zambia to join the growing list of countries prioritizing health and environmental sustainability.  

And The Children's Environmental Health Foundation has expressed gratitude for a free dentistry program that ran from December 2 to December 13, 2020, which aimed to educate and provide essential dental care to the community. Speaking during the closing of the program, Chilunga Muzala, a representative of the foundation, highlighted the significance of the initiative and the knowledge imparted on the use and impacts of dental amalgam.

“We are grateful for the opportunity and the knowledge provided through this program,” Muzala said. The program not only offered dental services but also raised awareness about the adverse effects of dental amalgam, which contains mercury—a substance linked to several health issues.

Muzala noted that dental amalgam, once a common material used in fillings, has been associated with adverse health effects, including emotional changes such as mood swings, nervousness, insomnia, neuromuscular changes, headaches, and cognitive impairments. “We are grateful for this knowledge and appreciate that amalgam use has been phased out in hospitals,” she added.

However, Muzala stressed the need for further action, urging local authorities to enact legislation that would make Zambia a dental amalgam-free country. “We still request that a law be established so that, together, we can ensure safer dental practices and protect the health of our communities,” she appealed.

The program’s success is seen as a step forward in improving oral health while promoting safer, mercury-free alternatives in dentistry. Advocates like Muzala hope that the knowledge shared and the appeal for legal reforms will pave the way for a healthier future for Zambia.

End