Zambia, China deepen cooperation

By BUUMBA CHIMBULU

ZAMBIA and China have reinforced their partnership on global development governance through the ongoing Think Tank Talent Exchange Seminar taking place in China.
A four-member delegation from the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, led by Principal Public Relations Officer Everness Nankala, is participating in the programme aimed at promoting knowledge sharing, international cooperation, and talent development in global governance.
Ms Nankala said the seminar, sponsored by China’s Ministry of Commerce, has brought together participants from several African countries to exchange experiences and best practices in tackling global challenges.
“Through lectures, seminars, and study visits, Zambian officials will engage with Chinese think tanks and experts on issues such as sustainable development, poverty reduction, food security, climate change, economic inequality, trade, and investment,” Ms Nankala said.
She added that Zambia’s participation demonstrates the country’s commitment to international cooperation and recognition of China’s key role in global development dialogue.
Ms Nankala said the programme would help ministry officials gain valuable insights and expertise to craft practical solutions for the country’s economic and social development.
She also noted that the seminar’s objectives align with the country’s broader development agenda and its ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations with China while promoting mutual understanding and cooperation on major global issues.
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Over 100 Isoka residents enrolled for TEVETA skills bursary scheme

MORE than 100 residents of Isoka have been enrolled under the Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training Authority (TEVETA) skills bursary programme at Isoka Trades Training Institute.
Speaking in an interview, Isoka Trades Training Institute Principal Cephas Kangwa said the development is part of the government’s efforts to equip citizens with vocational skills for improved livelihoods.
Mr Kangwa added that more than 50 beneficiaries have already reported for the three-month training.
“We are offering training in general agriculture, electrical, mechanics, bricklaying, and design and tailoring,” he said.
He said the programme is open to everyone, including youths, women, and persons with disabilities.
Mr Kangwa explained that the bursary covers full tuition and is aimed at reducing unemployment by providing practical skills that can lead to self-employment and job creation.
Ms Linda Sinkala, a lecturer, urged more women and persons with disabilities to take advantage of the bursary opportunity.
“Skills training is for everyone. We want to see more participation from women and those differently abled,” Ms Sinkala said.
She noted the importance of inclusive education, stating that the institution is making efforts to accommodate diverse learners.
And a beneficiary, Ms Grace Mulenga, said the bursary has allowed her to pursue tailoring and design despite her age.
“This chance has given me purpose. At 60 years old, I can now afford becoming a tailor,” she said.
Another trainee in bricklaying and plastering, Fred Sinkala, said he plans to use the skills to start a small business.
“These skills will help me build and earn,” he said, thanking the government through the TEVETA programme for granting him such an opportunity. – ZANIS.

Stakeholders welcome establishment of MFEZ in Monze
STAKEHOLDERS in Southern Province have welcomed President Hakainde Hichilema’s announcement on the establishment of a Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ) in Monze, describing it as a major milestone towards boosting economic growth in the province.
President Hichilema made the announcement during the official opening of the Southern Province Trade Exposition 2025 in Livingstone recently, where he revealed that Cabinet had approved the creation of the MFEZ to attract investment and promote industrialisation in the region.
The Livingstone Chamber of Commerce and the Pemba District Administration are among the stakeholders that have expressed support for the initiative.
Livingstone Chamber of Commerce President Banwell Mwila said it has for a long time wished for an economic zone in the province.
Mr Mwila noted that the MFEZ will bring about economic growth as jobs will be created.
“District economic performance will increase, and local authorities will be able to get levy, so we are so excited,” Mr Mwila stated.
Pemba District Commissioner Obey Habeenzu noted that the district, being a neighbour to Monze, stands a good chance of benefitting from the MFEZ.
“We join Monze in celebrating the incoming MFEZ, which we believe is going to benefit our district,” Mr Habeenzu said.
He added that the MFEZ will also open up markets for the people in a number of ways, including agriculture.
Meanwhile, Pemba Town Council Secretary Samuel Chilombo is also optimistic that the economic benefits which will be accrued in Monze will spill over to the district.
“We feel as a sister council which is near Monze, the economic benefits that will be accrued in Monze will extend to Pemba which is about 35 kilometres from Monze,” Mr Chilombo said. – ZANIS.