Politics
UPND Government Urged to Clarify Stance on Forest 27, Says Harrington
Former Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, William Harrington, emphasizes the need for the New Dawn Administration to publicly clarify its stance on Lusaka National Forest number 27.
Harrington recalls that Second Republican President Dr. Frederick Chiluba officially designated Forest 27 in response to a petition from Robert Chimambo, then Secretary of the Chalimbana Rural Headwaters Community Trust, who had garnered 3000 signatures.
Regrettably, Harrington notes that the Chiluba legacy was undermined by the annulment of a Statutory Instrument (SI) by subsequent government administrations.
The former Environment Minister expresses concern that in 2022, the government allowed a substantial housing project within Forest 27, casting doubt on the possibility of preserving the forest.
These sentiments were shared at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka during a farewell ceremony for Robert Kunda Chimambo, an environmentalist born on February 1, 1947, and who passed away on January 27, 2024. He was laid to rest at Leopards Hill Memorial Park in Lusaka.
Harrington laments that Mr. Chimambo departed without witnessing the resolution of the Forest 27 issue, urging the government to posthumously honor him for his role as an Environmental Defender. Mr. Chimambo had faced arrests for opposing activities such as mining in the Lower Zambezi National Park and addressing Kabwe Lead Poisoning issues.
During the same commemoration, Boniface Mumba, a Board Member of the Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ), lauds Mr. Chimambo as a courageous and fearless Environmental Defender. Abel Musumali, a member of the Zambia Climate Change Network (ZCCN), highlights Mr. Chimambo’s influential guidance in hosting a significant 2010 conference on environmental protection issues in Zambia, which drew the participation of youths from across Africa.
In an effort to strengthen the Zambian economy, the United States Government has affirmed its dedication to fostering investments in the Lobito Corridor. Amos Hochstein, Senior Advisor to U.S. President Joe Biden on Energy and Investment, emphasized the corridor’s potential to promote regional integration and interdependence.
During an exclusive interview with ZNBC’s Franklin Tembo Junior, Mr. Hochstein highlighted the keen interest of numerous American companies in investing along the corridor in Zambia. He stressed the importance of constructing the Lobito Corridor in facilitating trade and spurring economic development in the region.
Zambia is slated to host the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, Lobito Corridor private sector investment forum on Thursday, February 8, 2024. The forum, to take place in Lusaka, has attracted participation from the private sector and collaborating partners, including the USA.
Both the United States and the European Union are extending their support to the Lobito Corridor project, aimed at fostering trade and connectivity among Zambia, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This initiative marks a significant stride toward enhancing regional economic cooperation and promoting sustainable development across the participating nations.
Nikki Haley Urges Supporters to Stand Firm After Nevada Primary Setback
Following a defeat in Nevada’s non-binding primary, where she lost to “none of these candidates,” Nikki Haley rallied her supporters in California, urging them to remain steadfast in her campaign. Speaking at the Wild Goose Tavern in Costa Mesa, Haley expressed determination to persevere despite challenges.
Addressing a crowd of supporters, Haley emphasized her commitment to the fight ahead, declaring, “If you will stay with us in this fight, I’m not going anywhere!” She acknowledged the obstacles and criticism her campaign has faced but urged her backers to stand by her side.
Despite strong fundraising efforts and outlasting former President Donald Trump’s primary challengers, Haley’s path to securing the GOP presidential nomination remains challenging. Trump’s continued dominance in upcoming primary states and growing support among Republicans pose significant obstacles to Haley’s candidacy.
Speculation about Haley’s political future has intensified amid Trump’s hold on the party. However, Haley’s campaign has reiterated her determination to stay in the race, emphasizing her focus on the current election and its implications for the country’s future.
Haley’s team has dismissed rumors of her exit from the race, highlighting efforts to bolster her presence in Super Tuesday states like Massachusetts and California. With a series of campaign events and successful fundraising efforts, Haley remains committed to challenging Trump’s candidacy and offering voters an alternative choice.
Despite facing setbacks in previous primaries, Haley’s campaign continues to emphasize her viability as a candidate. With a focus on delegate accumulation and support from moderate and independent voters, Haley remains determined to stay in the race and shape the future of the Republican Party.
While the path to victory may be narrow, Haley’s allies remain optimistic about her prospects. With ongoing fundraising success and opportunities in Super Tuesday states, Haley’s campaign sees a path forward, determined to let the electoral process unfold.
Politics
Namibia’s Vice-President Nangolo Mbumba Sworn in as New President After Hage Geingob’s Passing
Namibia’s New President Sworn In After President’s Passing
Namibian Vice President Nangolo Mbumba has taken the oath of office to become the new President of Namibia following the passing of President Dr. Hage Gottfried Geingob.
The swearing-in ceremony occurred at State House this afternoon, presided over by Chief Justice Peter Shivute.
Dr. Mbumba is set to complete the remainder of President Geingob’s term until the upcoming elections.
Having served as Namibia’s vice-president since 2018, President Mbumba has held various government positions, including Minister of Finance, Minister of Information and Broadcasting, and Minister of Agriculture, among others.
Additionally, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been sworn in as the country’s new vice-president.
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