Human Trafficking a Growing Concern in Livingstone: Sr. Grace Katongo Urges Vigilance

Livingstone – Human trafficking is on the rise in Livingstone and surrounding areas, warned Sr. Grace Bwalya Katongo of the Little Sister of Saint Francis during Sunday Mass at Christ the King Catholic Parish in Libuyu Township.

Addressing the congregation, Sr. Katongo highlighted the alarming prevalence of human trafficking, emphasizing the role of both close relatives and strangers in perpetuating the crime. "People's love for money blinds them to the harm they cause. This makes it easy for them to exploit others, even their own kin," she said.

The nun stressed the particular vulnerability of children, who are often lured by traffickers with false promises. "Children can be easy targets. It’s our responsibility as parents and guardians to safeguard them and ensure they do not fall victim to this heinous crime," she added.

Sr. Katongo called for massive sensitization campaigns to educate the public on the dangers of human trafficking and to foster a collective effort to combat it. "We need to create a strong network against this vice. This is why we are reaching out to every church in the Livingstone Diocese, regardless of denomination. This issue affects all of us, and together we must act to protect our communities."

She encouraged families to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their loved ones, urging the congregation to take part in the anti-trafficking network. "Let us stay alert and united. Together, we can put an end to human trafficking," she said.

The congregation responded with a renewed commitment to join hands in combating the issue. Sr. Katongo's message served as a call to action for Livingstone residents to prioritize the safety of their children and contribute to a community-wide effort to address the menace of human trafficking.

For those interested in joining the anti-trafficking initiative, Christ the King Parish in Libuyu Township is serving as a focal point for coordination and outreach efforts.

Livingstone Bishop Calls for Reflection and Renewal at Christmas Vigil

Bishop Valentine Kalumba of the Diocese of Livingstone delivered a heartfelt homily during the Christmas vigil mass at St. Theresa Cathedral Parish on Tuesday night, calling for renewed faith and reflection on the significance of Christ's birth.  

Addressing a congregation gathered in the spirit of celebration, Bishop Kalumba reminded the faithful of the transformative power of God’s love, which he described as a profound and personal gift to humanity.  

“This sacred day reminds us how deeply God loves each one of us. So deep, in fact, that He sent His only Son into the world to bring light, hope, and salvation,” Bishop Kalumba said.  

The bishop drew parallels between the struggles faced by the people of ancient Israel and those experienced by individuals today. Quoting the prophet Isaiah, he said, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light. On those dwelling in deep darkness, a light has shone.” He emphasized that the birth of Jesus fulfills this promise, bringing renewed hope to a world often filled with uncertainty and conflict.  

**A Personal Savior for All**  

The homily underscored the inclusivity of God’s love. Reflecting on the Gospel of Luke, Bishop Kalumba highlighted the shepherds, ordinary workers who were among the first to witness the birth of Christ. “This reminds us that God’s love reaches every heart, regardless of status or circumstance,” he noted.  

“The angels announced, ‘Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you.’ That word, ‘you,’ is significant,” the bishop said. “It means each of us is included in this divine gift. Christ is a personal Savior, born for you and for me.”  

**Christ as the Bread of Life**  

Bishop Kalumba also reflected on the symbolic significance of Christ’s humble birth in a manger, a feeding trough for animals. He suggested that this was no coincidence, but a divine hint at Christ’s role as spiritual nourishment for humanity.  

“This child laid in a manger is our food for the journey. Jesus himself later tells us, ‘I am the bread of life.’ He satisfies our deepest hungers — for unconditional love, mercy, and light in the darkness,” he said.  

The bishop urged congregants to open their hearts, as the shepherds did, and embrace this gift with humility and gratitude. He also encouraged them to emulate Christ’s love by reaching out to those in need and being instruments of hope and grace in their communities.  

**Renewed Commitment to Faith**  

As the vigil mass concluded, Bishop Kalumba called on the faithful to use this Christmas season as an opportunity to renew their commitment to living out God’s grace in their daily lives.  

“This is a time to reflect on the extraordinary gift we have received and to carry it in our hearts. Let us rejoice and remember that Christ’s gift of salvation is not just for one night, but for all time,” he concluded.  

The mass was marked by hymns and prayers, as worshippers embraced the spirit of Christmas with renewed devotion and gratitude for the message of hope and salvation brought by Christ’s birth.  

Mr. Limbalambala Refutes Claims by Mr. Miles Sampa

 Mr. Gibson W. Limbalambala has refuted allegations made by Mr. Miles Sampa regarding the case of an individual known as "Why Me," accusing him of spreading misinformation and politicizing a sensitive matter for personal gain.  

In a statement, Mr. Limbalambala clarified that the individual referred to as “Why Me” is not 17 years old, as alleged by Mr. Sampa, but is over 20. 

He also dismissed claims that the detainee had been denied visitors, stating that he personally visited the individual in custody, provided food, and offered moral support.  

Mr. Limbalambala criticized Mr. Sampa for what he described as “baseless politicking” and accused him of destabilizing the Patriotic Front (PF) during his brief and controversial leadership.

 He argued that Mr. Sampa’s actions weakened Zambia’s primary opposition party and diminished its ability to represent marginalized communities.  

Turning to the "Why Me" case, Mr. Limbalambala commended the Human Rights Commission for closely monitoring the matter to ensure justice. 

He noted that while bail had been granted, the failure to secure sureties was the responsibility of the concerned parties, not external influences.  

“The government has no involvement in the ‘Why Me’ case,” Mr. Limbalambala stated.

 “The Human Rights Commission worked diligently to protect the individual’s rights and prevent any mistreatment.”  

He called on Mr. Sampa to publicly apologize to both the Patriotic Front and the Zambian people for what he described as “spreading falsehoods and creating unnecessary confusion.”  

“Instead of using sensitive cases for political mileage, Mr. Sampa should focus on rebuilding trust and making meaningful contributions to the nation,” Mr. Limbalambala said, emphasizing the need for integrity in handling matters of justice and human rights.

Small Traders in Southern Province Await Constituency Development Funds

Small-scale traders across Southern Province are voicing concerns over delays in accessing Constituency Development Funds (CDF), despite fulfilling all application requirements.

 According to Frederick Sakala, Provincial Coordinator of the Zambia Micro and Small Traders Foundation, no members of the foundation have benefited from the CDF allocations to date, leaving many traders frustrated and disillusioned.  

Speaking in an interview, Sakala acknowledged that while 2024 has been a challenging year for traders, the foundation remains optimistic about the future. 

“We have been sensitizing our members in Livingstone, Kazungula, Kalomo, and across the province to organize into groups and apply for CDF,” he explained.

“Despite completing all necessary applications and meeting the conditions, none of our members have received the funds.”  

The CDF initiative, designed to promote economic growth and empower local communities, has yet to make an impact for many small traders. 

Sakala emphasized the critical role these funds play in improving the livelihoods of small-scale traders, who are the backbone of Zambia’s economy.  

“Our hope is that by 2025, with the increase in CDF allocations, our members will finally receive the much-needed financial support,” Sakala stated. 

“This will allow them to invest in their businesses and improve their operations significantly.”  

The foundation has consistently advocated for timely and fair distribution of CDF and urged policymakers to prioritize small traders who form a significant portion of the informal sector. 

The lack of funding has hindered traders from expanding their businesses and contributing more substantially to the local economy.  

Sakala’s message to members remains one of resilience and hope.

 “We are praying that this time around, our members will benefit,” he concluded.  

The Zambia Micro and Small Traders Foundation continues its efforts to lobby for greater inclusivity and transparency in CDF distribution, ensuring that the voices of small traders are heard and their needs addressed. 

Pad-A-Girl Campaign Targets Greater Impact in 2025

The Estrol Meleki Foundation has outlined ambitious plans for 2025 as it builds on the success of its Pad-A-Girl Campaign, a program dedicated to improving menstrual hygiene for girls in underserved communities. 

Executive Director Estrol Meleki Mwape says the new year offers an opportunity to expand the initiative’s reach and deepen its impact.  

“This year, we aim to reach more underserved areas, foster stronger partnerships, and advocate for policies that make menstrual health a priority,” Mwape said.

 “Our mission remains ensuring that no girl is left behind because of limited access to menstrual products or education.”  

The foundation’s 2025 agenda includes broadening its distribution of reusable and disposable menstrual pads to more schools and communities.

 Education will continue to play a central role, with plans to increase awareness about menstrual hygiene and address the stigma often associated with menstruation.  

“Education is essential to breaking barriers,” Mwape emphasized.

 “By empowering girls with knowledge, we give them the confidence to focus on their studies and their futures.”  

Advocacy will also take center stage in 2025 as the campaign pushes for systemic change. 

Mwape highlighted the need for national and local policies that prioritize menstrual health as part of public health and education strategies.

 “Menstrual health is not just a women’s issue; it’s a societal one,” she said.  

The foundation attributes much of its success to the support of partners, donors, and volunteers and is calling on more individuals and organizations to join the cause in 2025. 

“Collective action is key to creating lasting change,” Mwape noted.  

Reflecting on the determination of the girls the foundation serves, Mwape expressed optimism for the year ahead.

 “Their resilience inspires us to keep striving for a world where every girl can live with dignity and confidence,” she said.  

As the new year unfolds, the Pad-A-Girl Campaign is poised to make an even greater impact, working toward a future where menstrual health is no longer a barrier to education or opportunity. 

For more information or to support the initiative, the Estrol Meleki Foundation encourages the public to get involved and help drive this critical mission forward.

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.