AN era of service has come to an end for
former Zesco managing director Victor Mapani who prayed that God should bless Zesco and its staff so that the utility can serve the country in the best way possible.
Mapani whose contract came to an end yesterday encouraged Zesco employees to unsparingly support the new Corporate Leadership team as they take on the challenges posed by the drought.
In his farewell message, the ex MD said the utility has been a period of immense growth both professionally and personally.
He shared that he was confident Zesco will reach greater heights considering the foundation laid.
On a personal level, Mapani stated that that he had even formed friendships that he shall forever cherish.
“I should point out that any jouney taken, meets along the way both challenges and smooth passages. Through resilience and collaboration, we tackled hurdles and celebrated milestones.”
“I would like to commend you all for the great effort you applied that helped the Corporate Leadership Team and Zesco Board achieve various important milestones,” he said.
He urged the company to continue with the run at great but calculated speed towards the final goal of ending load shedding.
“While I am excited about what the future holds, leaving this incredible team is bittersweet. I will miss our interactions and your variant insights in the efforts to serve the millions of Zambians,” he told the staff.
“However, I take with me valuable lessons of the good and challenging times. Every project, every interaction, and every challenge we embraced together has contributed to an experience that has been both fulfilling and transformative.”
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, December 3, 2024
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MINISTRY of Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana has shed light on the scandal surrounding government’s procurement of hospital ambulances awarded to a company based in Lusaka’s Garden compound.
Kawana said Government was inclusive and gave opportunities to all citizens without discriminating against them even if they are based in compounds such as Garden.
The Permanent Secretary said this when he addressed the matter in response to the concern raised by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), to the effect that one of the companies contracted to supply half of the 156 ambulances under CDF is a pharmacy located in Lusaka’s Garden compound.
Kawana said judging a company negatively because of their location of operation is an insult to the dignity of the Zambian masses living or conducting businesses in compounds.
He therefore said government will distance itself from such an insult.
“First and foremost, we wish to place on record that, as Government, we do not look down on, or discriminate against, any of our citizens based on the compounds in which they live or conduct businesses,” Kawana said.
He added that it was disheartening that a tender to supply ambulances had been termed a scandal merely for being partially awarded to a company based in Garden compound, especially that Zambia Medicines & Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) was not looking for a company that could manufacture ambulances, but supply them.
Kawana said government will not be threatened by the fake stories and will continue providing opportunities to all citizens, regardless of where they live or conduct their lawful businesses from within the Republic.
“In actualising this commitment, Government last year issued the Zambia Public Procurement Authority (ZPPA) Circular No.1 of 2023, with a directive aimed at ensuring that procurement under the CDF empowers our citizens by giving preference to citizen bidders,” He added.
He said this decision was a practical response, by the Government, to the persistent calls by local suppliers for more business opportunities.
“We did this fully aware that some citizen bidders conduct businesses in compounds and villages,said Kawana.
The PS further said that government’s motivation is that the resources that local suppliers would derive from CDF tenders would, in one way or the other, help to develop infrastructure in those compounds and villages.
“For avoidance of doubt, the nation may wish to know that all CDF procuring entities have been directed by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD) to adhere to the Zambia Public Procurement Authority (ZPPA) Circular No.1 of 2023,” said Kawana.
By Buumba Mwitumwa
Kalemba November 29, 2024
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THE Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has continued to benefit from their wide lensed eyes to make sure nothing passes with contributing the right and correct tax.
In a recent development, Dronewave Investments Limited tried to evade customs duties by falsely declaring lower-duty items but ZRA’s vigilant sight was up to task.
The Authority intercepted a fraudulent shipment declared to contain shoe soles, glue, and shoe heels only but upon physical inspection, authorities discovered that the truck was purely carrying undeclared shoes and slippers.
“1, 295 boxes of slippers and 348 boxes of shoes were not declared, respectively. In this case, this translates to 46, 620 pairs of slippers and 8,280 pairs of shoes being smuggled into the country,” shared ZRA corporate communications manager Oliver Nzala in statement.
“The attempt by Dronewave Investments Limited to evade customs duties by falsely declaring lower-duty items resulted in a revenue loss of K215,000 to the Government of the Republic of Zambia.”
The authority warned importers and agents involved in similar schemes that they will face severe penalties, including hefty fines and potential prosecution.
“Agents found to be involved in such illicit practices will also have their licenses revoked,” added Nzala.
He said by taking decisive action against these fraudulent activities, the Authority aimed at protecting legitimate businesses and ensure fair competition.
Nzala said ZRA officers are on high alert to curb smuggling and illicit trade by unearthing of various tax fraud schemes to enhance tax compliance.
Pictures for illustration
By Moses Makwaya
Kalemba November 26, 2024
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Stay informed, entertained, and inspired. Kalemba is your go-to source for authentic Zambian news, culture, and lifestyle. Discover the stories that matter, told with passion and insight.

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