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.

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."