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Pali Akantunse, Kitwe (2026)

20/01/2026

Wife to Paramount Chief Chitimukulu of the Bemba speaking people has died, barely a year after losing two sons! - Lutanda Radio

20/01/2026

POWER DYNAMOS PREP FOR RIVERS UNITED CLASH

Power Dynamos have received a timely confidence boost ahead of their CAF Champions League Group Stage encounter against Nigeria’s Rivers United following an impressive run in the MTN Super League.

After 17 league matches, the Kitwe-based side sit top of the table with 35 points, four clear of second-placed Red Arrows, who have two games in hand. Power Dynamos head into continental action on the back of three consecutive league victories.

They began the year with a 2–0 win over Mutondo Stars at Arthur Davies Stadium on January 10, followed by a 1–0 victory against Green Eagles four days later. The momentum continued on January 18 with a narrow 1–0 win away to Mufulira Wanderers at Shinde Stadium.

The strong domestic form has lifted confidence within the squad as they prepare to host Rivers United at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.

While league performances suggest Power Dynamos are finding consistency and tactical discipline, the Champions League presents a different challenge.

The Zambian champions are still searching for their first win in the group stage after losing their opening two matches, making the clash against Rivers United crucial. Translating domestic form into continental success will be key if Power Dynamos are to revive their campaign and remain competitive in the group.

16/01/2026

CEC Unionized Workers Get 14% Salary Increase

Unionized employees at Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) have been awarded a 14 percent salary increment for 2026 following the conclusion of salary negotiations between the Mine Workers Union of Zambia (MUZ) and CEC Management.

The agreement was signed on Friday at Garden Court in Kitwe.

MUZ Deputy General Secretary John Silungwe said the salary increment was aimed at improving the welfare and livelihoods of workers, describing the outcome as a positive step arising from continued engagement between the union and management.

Mr. Silungwe noted that the increment was achieved against the backdrop of economic challenges facing the industry, adding that the union appreciated CEC Management’s recognition of workers’ contribution and sacrifices.

He further commended CEC Management for the cordial and constructive negotiations, which he said were important in promoting industrial harmony, productivity and mutual respect at the workplace.

Mr. Silungwe urged union members to remain positive, disciplined and committed to their duties, while maintaining high standards of productivity, safety and professionalism.

The Mine Workers Union of Zambia reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and safeguarding the rights and interests of workers, and to advocating for improved conditions of service for mine workers across the industry.

14/01/2026

FNB Zambia Secures $50 million Facility To Boost Green Finance And Climate Resilience

First National Bank Zambia Limited (FNB) has signed a $50 million term facility with FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank, in a move aimed at expanding green finance, strengthening climate resilience and promoting inclusive economic growth in Zambia.

The facility is complemented by a $350,000 technical assistance package from the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), which will support the development of a Climate Adaptation Appraisal Framework at FNB Zambia to enhance the bank’s capacity to assess and manage climate-related risks.
Under the agreement, the entire facility will be directed towards eligible green projects, with 40 percent earmarked specifically for climate adaptation initiatives.

The funding will support investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable agriculture, waste management and water conservation. A dedicated climate adaptation tranche is designed to help businesses and communities better withstand climate-related shocks and is financed through the Dutch Fund for Climate and Development (DFCD), which is backed by the European Commission.

WWF, a DFCD partner, is providing the matching technical assistance, while FMO is also mobilising commercial investors for the uncommitted tranche.
The long-tenor, affordable financing is expected to enable FNB Zambia to support medium- to long-term investments in sectors seen as critical to the country’s sustainable economic transformation. Beyond environmental outcomes, the facility is intended to generate broader economic benefits by strengthening local enterprises, supporting job creation and enabling communities to participate in the green economy.

FNB Zambia Chief Executive Officer Kapumpe Chola said the transaction marked a significant milestone in aligning financial growth with environmental responsibility and inclusive development.

“Green finance is no longer a future aspiration; it is a present-day necessity,” Mr. Chola said. “Through this partnership with FMO and WWF, we are enabling Zambian businesses, particularly those in climate-sensitive sectors, to grow sustainably while building resilience against climate risks.”

WWF Zambia Country Director Nalucha Nganga-Ziba said the partnership demonstrated the value of cross-sector collaboration in unlocking investments that protect Zambia’s climate and natural resources while creating opportunities for sustainable businesses.

FMO’s Manager for Financial Institutions in Africa, Angelica Ortiz de Haas, said the development bank was pleased to partner with FNB Zambia in advancing sustainable finance and climate resilience. She noted that the facility reflected a shared commitment to strengthening local financial institutions and ensuring that economic growth delivers long-term benefits for communities, businesses and the environment.

Green Economy and Environment Minister Mike Mposha, who was guest of honour at the signing ceremony, said the facility illustrated how development finance can be channelled through local banks to support green growth. He said directing funding towards renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, water conservation and climate-resilient infrastructure aligned with Zambia’s national priorities and underscored the need for climate finance to reach businesses on the ground.

The agreement also reinforces FNB Zambia’s commitment to strong Environmental, Social and Governance standards. The bank will continue to enhance its Environmental and Social Management System and apply International Finance Corporation performance standards to higher-risk transactions. As part of the facility, FNB Zambia has committed to implementing a robust climate risk assessment framework to strengthen preparedness as climate-related shocks increasingly affect businesses and financial systems.

As the bank approaches its 17th anniversary in April, the transaction highlights FNB Zambia’s long-term commitment to the country and its strategy of aligning financial growth with environmental sustainability and inclusive development.

14/01/2026

Zambia To Introduce Digital Identification Cards By End Of 2026

Zambia is set to introduce digital identification cards by the end of 2026 as part of ongoing efforts to accelerate the country’s digital transformation, the SMART Zambia Institute has announced.

Speaking during engagements in Washington, D.C., SMART Zambia Institute National Coordinator Percy Chinyama said the development is being driven by the Digital Zambia Acceleration Project (DZAP), which was approved by the World Bank Group in March 2025.

The project is supported by a US$100 million grant from the International Development Association (IDA) and is aimed at expanding access to the internet and digitally enabled public services across the country. It also places strong emphasis on digital inclusion, particularly targeting women and girls, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.

Mr. Chinyama said Zambia has recorded significant progress in the expansion of e-government services, resulting in improved efficiency, transparency and security in public service delivery. He noted that the introduction of digital identification cards will further strengthen the country’s national identification system.

“We have made tremendous progress under the project. By the end of 2026, Zambia will have digital identification cards. Our work focuses on digital ID systems, infrastructure development, e-services and capacity building,” Mr. Chinyama said, adding that the World Bank has expressed satisfaction with the pace of implementation, a development that could lead to additional support for Zambia’s digitalisation efforts.

The Digital Zambia Acceleration Project is part of the second phase of the Inclusive Digitalization in Eastern and Southern Africa (IDEA) programme. Under the initiative, Zambia is working alongside Angola, Malawi, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) to advance inclusive digital economies in the region.

Mr. Chinyama also disclosed that President Hakainde Hichilema has directed that key public services be delivered through digital platforms in order to improve efficiency and accessibility for citizens.

He emphasized that digitalization remains a key pillar in strengthening national identification systems, enhancing service delivery and promoting inclusive development in Zambia.

14/01/2026

Zambia elected Vice President on UNDP/UNFPA/UNOPS Executive Board

Zambia has been elected Vice President of the Executive Board of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) for 2026.

The election was secured through Zambia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Dr. Chola Milambo, whose nomination was endorsed by the Africa Group at the United Nations in New York.

In his new role, Dr. Milambo will serve on the Bureau of the Executive Board, which is composed of a president and four vice presidents representing the United Nations’ regional groupings.

The Bureau is chaired by the Permanent Representative of Romania, Ambassador Cornel Feruță, who represents the Eastern European Group. The other vice presidents are Jamaica’s Permanent Representative Brian Wallace, representing the Latin American and Caribbean Group; Tajikistan’s Permanent Representative Jonibek Hikmat, representing the Asia-Pacific Group; and Finland’s Deputy Permanent Representative Lauri Voionmaa, representing the Western European and Other States Group.

The UNDP/UNFPA/UNOPS Executive Board is responsible for governance and oversight of the three agencies, ensuring effective delivery of their mandates while promoting sound management and accountability. Dr. Milambo will continue to carry out his duties as Zambia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations alongside his responsibilities on the Executive Board.

Speaking after his election, Ambassador Milambo thanked the Africa Group for the confidence placed in Zambia to represent the continent’s interests. He stressed the importance of safeguarding the development role of the United Nations and highlighted the critical role played by UNDP, UNFPA and UNOPS in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.

He pledged to support the President of the Executive Board in providing effective oversight and strategic direction to the institutions and reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to supporting development efforts at grassroots level.

Zambia’s election comes against the backdrop of the UN80 Initiative, a system-wide reform process aimed at making the United Nations more efficient, responsive and effective in addressing complex global challenges.

During its one-year vice-presidential term, Zambia is expected to advance Africa’s priorities within the work of the Executive Boards.

Zambia is currently serving the second year of its two-year term on the UNDP/UNFPA/UNOPS Executive Boards. Other African countries represented on the Board in 2026 are Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Madagascar, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda and Tunisia.

The election is widely viewed as recognition of Zambia’s growing leadership at the United Nations, particularly in advancing sustainable development, and aligns with the country’s foreign policy focus on economic diplomacy.

20/06/2025

Lungu Family Confirms Private Burial in South Africa

The family of the late former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has announced that his funeral and burial will take place in South Africa, in line with the family’s wish for a private ceremony.

In a statement issued by family spokesperson Hon. Makebi Zulu, the Lungu family expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support and condolences received from across the continent and beyond during what they described as an emotionally challenging period.

The family extended special appreciation to the Government of the Republic of South Africa for respecting their decision and upholding the family's right to a private farewell, in accordance with the South African Constitution.

“The non-interference and respect for our wishes have allowed us the space to mourn and celebrate the life of our beloved Edgar Chagwa Lungu with dignity and peace,” the statement read.

The family also acknowledged the visit of South Africa’s Minister for International Relations, Mr. Ronald Lamola, who personally delivered a message of condolence on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Calling for peace and unity among Zambians, the family thanked all supporters and members of the public for their compassion and understanding, emphasizing that the former Head of State will be laid to rest in Johannesburg in a private ceremony.

Details of the funeral and burial arrangements are expected to be announced in due course.

20/06/2025

PRESS STATEMENT FROM THE EDGAR CHAGWA LUNGU FAMILY.

For Immediate Release

On behalf of the Lungu family, we wish to announce that the funeral and burial of our beloved Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu will take place here in South Africa, in accordance with the family’s wishes for a private ceremony.

This period has been deeply emotional for family, and we are grateful for the overwhelming support and condolences extended to the family from across the continent and the globe.

We would especially like to extend our sincere appreciation to the Government of the Republic of South Africa for their respectful support and for honouring the family’s decision to hold a private funeral and burial here in South Africa.

Your non-interference and respect of the South African Constitution and rights of the family and the desire of the family is commendable and will give space to mourn and celebrate the life of our loved Edgar Chagwa Lungu in dignity and peace.

The visit of the Honourabke Minister for International Relations, Mr Ronald Lamola, was heartwarming when he came to convey a message of condolences on behalf of President Cyril Ramaposa.

The Lungu family continues to seek peace and unity amongst fellow Zambians during this time and thanks all friends, supporters, and members of the public for their understanding, compassion and willingness to mourn the former head of state who, as it has been resolved by the family, will be buried here in Johannesburg South Africa at a private funeral.

Further details regarding the funeral arrangements and burial will be shared to the Zambian and South African public in due course.

Issued by:
Hon. Makebi Zulu
Family Spokesperson

Date: 20th June 2025.

20/06/2025

🇿🇲 EFF Calls for Respect of Lungu Family’s Wishes in Wake of Presidential Funeral Row 🇿🇲

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has responded to President Hakainde Hichilema’s national address on the late Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu’s funeral arrangements with a strong call for compassion, respect, and accountability.

EFF President Kasonde Mwenda, in a statement issued Wednesday evening, welcomed President Hichilema’s message of peace and unity but stressed that the most heartfelt apology should go to the Lungu family and the people of Zambia—not just to regional leaders.

“While we appreciate the President’s call for unity, the family of our late President Lungu has endured immense pain and mistreatment during this period of national mourning. True reconciliation must begin with them,” said Mr. Mwenda.

He expressed full solidarity with the Lungu family, defending their decision to pause and reflect before proceeding with funeral plans. He emphasized that the family’s right to mourn and carry out the late President’s wishes must be protected from political influence.

“President Lungu was not just a national figure—he was a husband, a father, a brother. The family has every right to preserve his dignity according to his instructions, without intrusion or politicization,” he added.

The EFF further noted that there is no legal obligation for the state to take over funeral arrangements, and reminded the nation that families, not governments, carry the emotional weight of such loss.

Mr. Mwenda called on all political actors and the public to support and respect the Lungu family’s decisions, urging a return to compassion, empathy, and unity as guiding national values.

🕊️ “May President Edgar Chagwa Lungu rest in eternal peace. And may his family find strength in the love and support of a grateful nation,” the EFF President concluded.

🔴

20/06/2025

President Hichilema Declares End to National Mourning for Late President Edgar Lungu 🇿🇲

President Hakainde Hichilema has announced the official end of the national mourning period for Zambia’s sixth Republican President, Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, following a deadlock with the Lungu family over burial arrangements.

In a national address on Thursday evening, President Hichilema said Zambia could not remain in a state of indefinite mourning. He noted that government had done everything possible to engage the late President’s family, with a mutual agreement reached on Sunday to repatriate the body and hold a state funeral on Monday, June 23. However, the family withdrew from this plan at the last moment.

The President expressed regret over the cancellation of arrangements that had been made in Zambia and South Africa, including full military honors prepared by the South African Defence Force, and apologized to President Cyril Ramaphosa and the people of South Africa for the inconvenience caused.

🕯️ “We’ve reached a point where a clear decision has to be made,” said the President. “This period of national mourning is officially over as of today, June 19, 2025, so that the country can begin returning to normalcy.”

President Hichilema emphasized that while Mr. Lungu belonged to his family, he also belonged to the Zambian people, and deserved to be laid to rest in his own country.

He thanked Zambians for their patience, unity, and respect during the past 14 days of mourning, and praised the efforts of all who participated in efforts to resolve the impasse, including church leaders, traditional leaders, envoys, and senior government officials.

🙏 “Let us continue to maintain peace and order,” he said. “No amount of lawlessness will be tolerated.”

The President reiterated that the government remains open to further engagement with the Lungu family and extended heartfelt condolences once again to the family and the nation.

🕊️ May the soul of our former President, Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, rest in eternal peace. 🇿🇲

05/06/2025

BREAKING NEWS
UPDATE TO THE TERRIBLE NEWS POST.

Former Zambian & 6th republican President, Edgar Chagwa Lungu has Reportedly Died in South Africa.

Unconfirmed reports suggest that former Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu was admitted to a hospital earlier this morning for a routine medical check-up but later developed complications.

Please note that both the family and authorities are yet to confirm this report.

#

Pali Akantunse

20/01/2026

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