Zambia Roundup: Murder investigations, Youth Day marked, food donations

President joins in Youth Day celebrations

Zambia’s president, Hakainde Hichilema joined residents on February 12 to celebrate Youth Day. The President arrived at the administrative centre of the Eastern Province of Zambia, the City of Chipata to meet an enthusiastic crowd of residents who were lined up along the streets and ready to meet the president. Youth Day is marked in Zambia to celebrate the contributions and efforts of the youth in the nation. President Hichilema during the event highlighted the government’s commitment to engaging with and empowering Zambia’s youth, Lusakatimes reports.

Shikapwasha murder case proceeds to court

The wife of the late retired Air Force Commander and Minister of Home Affairs of Zambia is preparing to appear before court for prosecution over the alleged murder of her husband. Jane Lusengo Shikapwasha is said to have allegedly murdered her husband, the late Lieutenant General Ronald Shikapwasha Retired, contrary to Section 200 of the Penal Code Act Chapter 87 of the laws of Zambia. The accused is believed to have shot her late husband on January 14, 2024, in their matrimonial home in Lusaka. The Zambian Eye reports that police have concluded investigations into the matter.

Forestry sector development

President Hakainde Hichilema has called for a strengthened forestry sector expertise in the wake of the adverse effects of climate change. The president called for strong collaborations between Zambia and Finland in this regard to help boost the country’s forestry sector. Speaking during a visit by the Finish delegation at the State House, the president said deepened ties between both countries will ensure that Zambia taps into the strength of Finland’s forestry sector. “Let us not just visit each other’s but deepen relationships in checks. We acknowledge your strength in forestry and must indicate that this is a niche we can work on in damaging of trees, tree cutting and charcoal burning,” he was quoted by local news outlet Mwebantu.

Emergency response formed team to tackle drought

A disaster and emergency response team has been formed in Zambia to tackle the drought situation and improve national food security in the country. The team comprises of the Zambia Army, Zambia Air Force, and the Zambia National Service and is chaired by the Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Norman Chipakupaku. This follows serious drought facing the country. According to the Daily Mail, an estimated six million agricultural households have been affected by the drought and are experiencing food insecurity.

Food donations

Zambian striker Fashion Sakala has donated 1,400 bags of food to the people of Mbenjere area in the Eastern Province of Zambia. The striker who plays for Al-Fayha in the Saudi Professional League donated the bags of mealie meal as part of efforts to help needy persons in the area. According to the Lusakatimes, Sakala underscored the importance of giving back to the community and making positive impact.