PF National Youth League

UNZA AND ECU LAUNCH BILATERAL COLLOBORATIVE PARTNERSHIP

THE University of Zambia (UNZA) and Edith Cowan University (ECU) of Australia have launched a bilateral collaborative partnership aimed at enhancing teaching and research for the two universities.

The launch of the partnership follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two universities in October 2019. The agreement signed will allow UNZA and ECU partner on two fronts: 1) exchange of students and staff; and 2) enhancement of research and development of joint programs in disciplines of mutual interest.

Speaking during the launch held at Radisson Blue Hotel on Monday evening, 20th January 2020, UNZA Vice Chancellor, Prof. Luke Evuta Mumba, said the partnership forged between the two universities will lead to harnessing the benefits associated with each institution’s competitive advantage and result in use of strategies that lead to enhancing teaching, research and community engagement.

Prof. Mumba reiterated that UNZA appreciates synergies that come with collaborations among academic institutions as they contribute to academic and scientific progress. “Universities the world over are competing for internationalization and rankings which only come through effective networking, collaboration and partnerships. It is only through personal interactions and reciprocal visits by Heads of institutions that such partnerships are cultivated. Often than not, the benefits of such interactions to the University of Zambia far outweigh the cost of air tickets and other associated costs. .” Prof. Mumba said.

Prof. Mumba also paid glowing tribute to the Zambian Embassy in Australia and the Ministry of Higher Education for initiating and facilitating the partnership.

The University of Zambia has a total of hundred and seventy (170) running MoUs with universities and other stakeholders world-over aimed at promoting research, teaching, human resource development, technological innovations, development of academic programmes and financial resources.

One of the immediate benefits associated with the partnership signed between UNZA and ECU is the sponsorship of five (5) UNZA members of staff yearly to study in Australia at PhD level in varying fields.

This is according to press statement issued Brenda Bukowa, Spokesperson at University of Zambia (UNZA)

Marketing a Country is an aggressive undertaking

By Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba

I am travelling to the city of Phoenix in the State of Arizona United States for a Family Policy Conference.

Ignore the Men's Conference being marketed by Mwamba Peni II and Cleophas Phiri.

That Conference is intended to escape Valentine Day obligations and sidetrack the revered values of the Family.

So I have a circuitous route that's taking me to Europe before I get to the USA.

After a 7hrs flight from Addis Ababa to Frankfurt, Germany, we arrived at Frankfurt International Airport.

Disembarking from the Plane and walking through the air bridge, we were greeted by large display adverts about Chinese Cities!

"But I am in Frankfurt, Germany! I said to myself.

It is expected that new arrivals would be greeted by adverts promoting that country.

So I looked up on the electronic board to find information taking me to a United Airline Flight to Chicago.

My gate was across the other side of the airport requiring us to take a skytrain to the Boarding Gates.

Frankfurt International Airport is a mammoth infrastructure and takes you through a labyrinth of sky train, pathways, staircases, and escalators.

Finally I arrived at the border entry checks.

After the immigration checks, you enter the part I dislike to participate in!

The security checks, frisking and literally stripping off your belt, shoes and emptying your pockets is an unwelcome undertaking.

It strikes you to how much Terrorism has brought punishment to air travellers.

As irritable and as inevitable as it is, it however makes you feel that your next flight is guaranteed to be absolutely safe from the scourge.

I walked to the duty free shops on my way to the boarding gates.

Again, I was greeted by more chinese adverts, now marketing the new year.

This is a festival that celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional Chinese calendar.

It falls on January 25th.

This made me thinking.

Countries just don't become!
Countries just don't prosper. Tourism just doesn't boom, and tourists just don't turn up at your door steps looking for tourism spots.

Careful planning, broad investment in marketing abroad, and imposing a narrative about the beauty of your country on the international stage, helps result in those higher tourist figures.

So to grab those tourists from top cities such as Newyork, Paris, Singapore, the rise of chines cities such Macau and Shenzen among the top 20 most visited cities in the world, is a result of painstaking planning and investment.

And China also forms the largest number of citizens visiting abroad.

120 million chinese leave their country every year as tourists to destinations across the world.

So here I am, travelling to the USA, through Germany but talking about China.

It's not an accident, it's not a coincidence!

It's as a result of careful planning, detailed work and focused investment.

And while I was writing this, I sat next to a statue of Albert Einstein.

Einstein a nobel laureate, was a Jewish German-born theoretical physicist who developed the theory of relativity, one of the two pillars of modern physics.

He is also the man behind the world's most known equation- E=mc2.

In April 1933, German government passed laws barring Jews from holding any official positions, including teaching at universities.

Einstein together with other Jewish scientists is among the lucky few that escaped Germany and didnt not become victims of the Holocaust that claimed over six million lives.

Einstein later migrated to the USA and was conferred his citizenship in 1940.

He died a USA citizen.

But here we are, Germany is subtly reclaiming his heritage and marketing him as a Germany citizen.

Marketing a country requires all sorts of ways, both aggressive and subtle, using traditional and unorthodox ways to capture a share of this lucrative pie.

Okey guys, they are now calling us to board our flight from Frankfurt, German to Chicago Ohare International Airport.

Pray for our further travelling mercies.

KALULUSHI MUNICIPAL COUNCIL COMPLETES CONSTRUCTION OF THE 2 CDF FUNDED CLASSROOM BLOCKS

Monday, 20th January 2020

The Council has completed the construction of two (2) 1x3 class room blocks at Chavuma Secondary and Mugala Primary schools respectively.

The handover of the two 1x3 class room blocks is a clear example of prudent utilisation of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) by the local authority. Proper management and utilisation of Government resources is critical in achieving equitable distribution of development to our people in the District.

The two classroom blocks were handed over today by the Minister of Community Development Hon. Kampamba Mulenga Chewe who is also the Member of Parliament for Kalulushi. My office was represented by the Deputy Mayor His Worship Cllr. Paul Chivunda. The projects for Chavuma and Mugala costed K422,000 and K408,000 respectively.

Also present was the DC, Mr Kenny Siachisumo, Kalanga Ward Councillor Hon. Cllr Percely Chibuye, Ichimpe Ward Councilor Hon. Cllr. Harrison Malunga, DEBS Kalulushi.

IN PICTURES;

20:01:2020.

Yesterday, Honorable Kelvin Mutale Sampa Joined the inspections in Chingola, which were Led By Home affairs Minister Honorable Steven Kampyongo. He was accompanied by; all Senior Security Government officials, Provincial Government and Political leaders, Constituency leaders and many others.

His Excellency DR Edgar Chagwa Lungu has despatched senior security Government officials to Chingola following a spate of suspected ritual killings in mining town. President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has appealed to the Residents of Chingola to Work with the Police and ensure that they are given all the necessary information concerning suspected ritual killers.

During a press briefing, Honorable Steven Kampyongo also appealed to all residents not to take the law into their own hands by burning and killing people suspected to be connected to the crimes. He also gave a directive that no resident should be loitering after 22:00 Hours.

Issued by: The PF Youth League Information And Publicity Desk.

PRESIDENT EDGAR CHAGWA LUNGU WRITES;

Fellow Citizens,

Join me in celebrating Natasha Mwansa, aged 18 years of age.

Natasha was born and raised in Zambia, where she advocates for the health and well-being of young people, particularly against child marriage. Through her roles as junior reporter and journalist and as social accountability monitor in various health organizations, she gathers and shares information on women and girls’ rights and tracks stakeholder progress. She also founded the Natasha Mwansa Foundation to promote a world in which young people are heard, valued, and healthy. Through her work, she was selected to be part of the African Union Commission’s Youth Advisory Board and became the youngest recipient of the World Health Organization’s Global Health Leaders Award.

To the youth of Zambia, you too can become the next Natasha Mwansa. Believe in yourself. Let no one look down on your potential. Let no one tell you that it's impossible.

I believe in you and together we can build a better Zambia for Natasha Mwansa's generation and those coming after her.

Congratulations Natasha Mwansa. As your President, I am so proud of your story!

ST. CHARLES LWANGA CATHOLIC CHURCH CELEBRATES 80 YEARS OF EVANGELISM AT REGIMENT PARISH, 1939 - 2019

R-L: Justice Minister Given Lubinda, Religious Affairs Minister Godfridah Sumaili and President Edgar Chagwa Lungu attends the celebrations to marking 80 years of Evangelism at Regiment Parish under the theme: "Baptised and Sent: The Church on the Mission, 80 Years of Evangelisation at Regiment Parish (1939 - 2019)" in Lusaka on Sunday, January 19,2020- Picture by EDDIE MWANALEZA

HONORABLE KELVIN MUTALE SAMPA WRITES;

It is time to work and not to respond to negativity. I embrace each and every Youth across Zambia and it is my duty to serve all Youths in this country. I thank The President His Excellency DR Edgar Chagwa Lungu For believing in me and I will deliver.

United we stand Divided we fall.

Viva Youth POWER✅

MCC KELVIN MUTALE SAMPA COMES TO THE AID OF CHINGOLA BASED SMALL SCALE YOUTH MINERS.

18:01:2020.

Today, The Patriotic Front National Youth Chairman MCC Hon. Kelvin Mutale Sampa and The National Youth Executive attended a Youth led meeting of small Scale Youth Miners in Chingola.

During the meeting, MCC Hon. Kelvin Mutale Sampa gave chance to all the Youths who attended the meeting to freely express their views and challenges which they face during their small scale Mining and Trading.

The Copperbelt Provincial Youth Chairman Don Mungulube and members of the small scale miners Executive in Chingola thanked the President of the Republic of Zambia DR Edgar Chagwa Lungu for empowering Chingola Youths in their field of interest, which is the field of Mining. They also aired out the various problems and challenges they face in the small scale mining industry.

Honorable Kelvin Mutale Sampa has assured the Youths of Chingola that he will give them a positive feedback by tomorrow pertaining the various issues discussed in today’s meeting. MCC Kelvin Mutale Sampa, also urged the Youths to have Unity of purpose as opposed to fighting one another with malice and propaganda. “Let us not waste our energy fighting one another because the common political opponent we have is the opposition.”

During the concluding remarks, Copperbelt Provincial Youth chairman Don Mungulube strongly urged all Youths to always respect and protect our party leaders. He highlighted that if we the Youths are vigor to destroy the appointed/chosen leaders we are destroying our party and the name of our President DR Edgar Chagwa Lungu. He also cautioned his fellow Youths not to misuse the Various WhatsApp blogs by disrespecting one another.

Some of the Youths in attendance included the Famous Spax Mulenga (Baba Spax) and Maxwell Mofya (Tablet). The dual denied allegations by some “WhatsApp Politicians“ that Honorable Kelvin Sampa wants to work with either in any mining deal but what he only does is provide great leadership as the National Youth Chairman.

Issued by: The National Youth League Information and Publicity Desk.

LATEST!!!!!

Tomorrow, Patriotic Front National Youth Chairman Honorable Kelvin Mutale Sampa Will be live on air at Kwithu FM (09:00 Hours) and at Christian Nation FM (106.5).

For your comments and contributions Contact: ‭097 2225550‬

PARIS🇫🇷 15/01/2020

TOURISM and Arts Minister Hon. Ronald Chitotela is expected to travel to Madrid, Spain to participate in the 40th Edition of the Spanish International Tourism and Trade Fair (FITUR) slated for 22 to 26 January 2020, Ambassador Dr. Christine Kaseba-SATA has disclosed.

The Minister will be accompanied by Technical officials from the Ministry of Tourism and Arts, Zambia Tourism Agency and the Zambia Development Agency.

The Minister will also be joined by the Private sector that includes, Tour operators who will be showcasing Zambia’s rich Tourism products and varied services.

The Zambian Mission in France will be headed by Ambassador Dr. Kaseba-SATA who doubles with Spain and the Country’s Permanent Representative to the UNWTO.

FITUR is the Spanish annual International Tourism Trade Fair held in Madrid, Spain. Last year more than 9,893 Tourism companies from across the globe exhibited at the Fair.

The Minister will be in Spain at the invitation of the UNWTO Secretary-General Ambassador Zurab Pololikashvili.

Zambia is currently Chair of the UNWTO Regional Commission for Africa.

THE PF NATIONAL YOUTH LEAGUE VISITS UPND VICE YOUTH CHAIRMAN.

14:01:2020

Today, the Patriotic Front National Youth League payed a visit to the UPND Vice Youth Chairman Gilbert Liswaniso at his Residence.

Mr. Liswaniso has been unwell and the team used the opportunity to pray and gave Mr. Liswaniso words of encouragement and comfort.

The PF Youth League exhibited family Values and moral obligations of what our Great President His Excellency DR Edgar Chagwa Lungu always Preaches.

Among those that accompanied the PF Youth National Chairman Hon. Kelvin Sampa was PF Mangango Constituency MP Hon Godwin Putu, PF Kaumbwe Constituency MP Listed Tembo and other National Youth Committe members.

VIVA YOUTH POWER

KWA SIMUKALE (THE PLACE OF HISTORY)

13:01:2019.

Today on “Kwa Simukale” we will focus on the life and legacy of late Wilson Mofya Chakulya.

Mr. Chakulya was a real force and influential player in liberation and post independence politics in Zambia. It is a wonder that he is not mentioned in the same breath as names that easily come up when discussing Zambian politics. In 1959 as a member of the Zambia African Congress (ZANC) he was convicted on a charge of sedition and sentenced to sixteen months imprisonment with hard labour.

As a unionist, Chakulya was as influential and stands amongst the great names such as Lawrence Katilungu, Matthew Nkoloma, Basil Kabwe and others. He was General Secretary of the Northern Rhodesia Trade Union Congress (1956-1964) and General Secretary of the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (1967-1971). A staunch supporter of Dr. Kaunda and having served in other important portfolio’s including being the first African to be Managing Director at Nchanga Consolidated Mines (himself an ardent advocate for Zambianisation), Labour Minister and High Commissioner to Canada, it was a real scandal for him and the Zambian government after his wife was arrested.

He was appointed Defence minister in December 1980 after a turbulent year in the security of the country and re-organisation of the security apparatus by Dr. Kaunda. It was a few months after in September 1980 then chairman of the ZCTU Fredrick Chiluba was threatening nationwide strikes, an attempted coup was reported to have been foiled with a shootout at a farm house in Chilanga on 15th October 1980 and alleged coup plotters detained.

A dusk to dawn curfew was imposed on the eve of the 16th anniversary of independence on 23rd October 1980 as a result of the security situation. On 27th October 1980 Dr. Kaunda accused South Africa of being behind a coup plot and on 7th November 1980 announced that all was under control and those behind the coup plot involving Zairean (Congolese) mercenaries sponsored by South Africa’s apartheid regime had been detained. Among those arrested were prominent lawyer Edward Shamwana, former Bank of Zambia Governor Valentine Musakanya, former Diplomat and banker Elias Chipimo (Sr.), top civil servant Patrick Chisanga, newly sworn-in Airforce Commander Major-General Kabwe and two air officers, Godwin Yoram Mumba, Anderson Kabwili Mporokoso, Thomas Mpanga Mulewa and Zairean nationals Deogratis Symba, Albert Chimbalile and Laurent Kanyembu.

Subsequent arrests included absconding military man Godfrey Miyanda (Now retired Brigadier General) on May 22, 1981, who was on the run and taken into custody in Zaire by the Zambian security officers and immediately flown to Lusaka, Zambia, where he was then served with Presidential detention order, pursuant to Regulation 33 (1) of the Preservation of Public Security Regulations, and was, in terms of Article 27 (1) (a) of the Republican Constitution.

Others whose passports were seized and more or less put under house arrest were former Foreign Affairs minister Vernon Johnson Mwaanga.

The environment in which Wilson Chakulya became Defence minister was one of tension and unease by the presidency of Dr. Kaunda. Chakulya's hardline stance on many things including his dislike of foreign domination made him a strong candidate for the position. This was a crucial time as the treason cases went on in the Courts in Zambia resulting in death sentences for the accused. It was also a time Zambia was still home to a number of liberation movements and the nerve centre of the Frontline States.

The changes made by Dr. Kaunda were not only at cabinet level but also at state house where Mr. Mark Chona who was Special Assistant to President Kaunda for Political Affairs was replaced by Mr. Wilted Phiri who was pulled from Home Affairs (a demotion) to be his replacement and former Attorney-General and minister of Legal Affairs Frederick Chomba to take his place as Home minister.

Chakulya had in 1979 as Foreign minister famously labelled former British Foreign Secretary Lord Carrington as an ‘Arch-fascist’ for what he saw as his role in installing Bishop Muzorewa as the black face of racist Rhodesia and sidelining the Patriotic Front of Nkomo and Mugabe. This was at the height of poor relations with Britain and angry anti-British demonstrations outside the British High Commission in Lusaka by UNIP cadres and days after Dr. Kaunda declared Zambia in a ‘state of war’ with reservists called up for duty.

The Zambian Government held the British responsible for Rhodesian bombings of three bridges including the main bridge on the TAZARA railway, key to imports and exports through Tanzania. The Rhodesians also bombed six Zimbabwe African People’s Union – Patriotic Front [ZAPU-PF] camps in the country. this was after enduring the bombing of Joshua Nkomo's residence and raiding a ZIPRA safe house in Lusaka's Roma township.

A toll plaza has been named after him along Kitwe Chongola Road.

UNZA DON MAKES HEADWAYS IN CANCER DRUG RESEARCH

A UNIVERSITY of Zambia (UNZA) Lecturer and Researcher, Dr. Lubinda Mukololo has identified ways in which the process of cell division in cancer cells can be slowed down.

In his groundbreaking research that has also received funding from The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), Dr. Mukololo has identified key proteins whose depletion from cancer cells slows down DNA replication and cell growth.

Dr. Mukololo who is a Lecturer and Researcher in the School of Medicine at UNZA’s Ridgeway campus, has found that specific proteins called PDS5A, PDS5B, ESCO1, and ESCO2 play an important role in DNA replication and cell division. Using scientific methods that include DNA combing, Dr. Mukololo has found that depletion of either PDS5A, PDS5B, ESCO1, or ESCO2 results in delay in DNA replication and a reduction in cancer cell growth.

Dr. Mukololo says this discovery is important as it provides a novel insight into proteins that have the potential to form cancer drug targets.

He adds that processes such as DNA replication and mitosis (cell division) are some of the crucial cellular events that are usually exploited in cancer drug design. “Halting DNA replication and cell division prevents the growth and spread of cancer. Limitless cell division is a contributing factor to the growth and spread of cancer in human bodies” Dr. Mukololo says.

Meanwhile, UNZA Vice Chancellor, Prof. Luke Evuta Mumba, has congratulated Dr. Mukololo for showing commitment to the fight against cancer and receiving funding for his research from The World Academy of Sciences.

Prof. Mumba says cancer is a fatal condition that needs urgent attention to combat through research. The VC adds that UNZA is proud that this kind of research is coming from one of its own. “We are extremely delighted that UNZA is leading in research aimed at fighting cancer. This is an undertaking that will no doubt contribute to improving the lives of millions of people afflicted by cancer world-over.” Prof. Mumba says.

Cancer is a fatal condition that causes cells to divide uncontrollably forming tumors, impairing the immune system and/or causing other changes that prevent the body from functioning properly.

This is according to press statement issued by Brenda Bukowa (Ms.), .Spokesperson, University of Zambia (UNZA)

PRESIDENT EDGAR CHAGWA LUNGU WRITES;

I Had a wonderful time meeting with fellow believers today.

Thank you Apostle Dr. Edgar N'gambi, Overseer and Presiding Bishop, Praise Christian Centre, your dearest wife Prophetess Isabel N'gambi and the Church at large for the warm welcome.

Psalm 122:1 "I rejoiced with those who said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD."

Pictures by: Elijah Mutambo

RISE AND SHINE🙏🏿

"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)

IN PICTURES

11:01:2020.

Today, PF leaders and supporters from across Zambia come to witness the official unveiling of the Foundation Stone of the Patriotic Front Party Secretariate by the President of the republic of Zambia, His Excellency DR Edgar Chagwa Lungu. It was a very successful procession.

MCC HONORABLE KELVIN SAMPA EMPOWERS A START UP COMPANY WITH 6 BRAND NEW LAPTOPS AND FULFILLS HIS PLEDGE TO A YOUNG UNIVERSITY WRITER.

10:01:2020

Today, MCC Honourable Kelvin Mutale Sampa has donated 6 laptops to a youth led start up Computer programming Company in Lusaka. This Youth led start up company had visited Honourable Kelvin Sampa 2 days ago at his office, after listening to his recent interview on Live FM. The National Youth Chairman has reemphasized that his office runs an open door policy and that it will empower Youth according to what they need as opposed to imposing on them.

Honourable Kelvin Sampa has also empowered some of his Executive members with Brand new Laptops for them to execute their Duties well.

He also paid a K5,000 to a young student Writer who launched his book a few months ago. Honorable Kelvin Sampa has pledged to support all innovative Youths across the Country.

Issued By: The National Youth League Information and Publicity Desk.

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MCC HONORABLE KELVIN MUTALE SAMPA FORGIVES A COPPERBELT BASED YOUTH.

On Monday, a Chingola based youth popularity known as Tablet went to meet Honorable Kelvin Mutale Sampa to ask for forgiveness for his previous misconduct. In his apology, he asked Honorable Kelvin Sampa to extend his apology to His Excellency the Republican President of Zambia DR Edgar Chagwa Lungu and all the Youths across Zambia. He told the National Youth Chairman that he regrets the actions he had exhibited and has pledged to change for the better.

This youth was last seen in a video which made rounds on Social Media were he was brandishing a fire arm. He was later arrested for this act.

During their meeting, Honorable Kelvin Mutale Sampa accepted his apology which he has pledged to announce publicly in Chingola.

Honorable Sampa said “we must learn to forgive one another when someone admits his mistakes unreservedly”.

Issued by; The National Youth League Information and Publicity Desk.

Youth Lead

USAID Youth Lead Activity is Accepting Applications!

FHI 360 and the National Youth Development Council are accepting online applications from young Zambian women and men to participate in a six-month civic engagement and leadership skills training and mentoring program.

Applications are due by 1700 hours on January 13, 2020.

For complete information and to submit your application online, visit the National Youth Development Center website: https://www.nydc.gov.zm/

For those experiencing problems applying, please use the following link: http://178.62.60.56/applications/applications/manage-applications

178.62.60.56 Youth Lead Activity is made possible by the American people through the United States Agency of International Development (USAID). Youth Lead Activity is implemented by Fhi360 in cooperation with local partners; Zambia National Youth Development Council. The content of this platform are the sole res...

CONGRATULATIONS SYDNEY MUNGALA.

We would like to Congratulate Sydney Mungala on his appointment as Acting Communications Manager at Football Association of Zambia.

We are certain without doubt that you will excel in your new position considering your passion for media, football and sports for many years.

FORMER PRESIDENT RB SALUTES PRESIDENT EDGAR CHAGWA LUNGU FOR GIVING YOUNG PEOPLE CHANCE AT LEADERSHIP.

By: Binwell Mpundu, Kitwe DC.

Former Republican President Rupiah Bwezani Banda saluted president Edgar Changwa Lungu for recognising and giving chance to young people by appointing them into leadership positions.When I introduced myself as the District commissioner for kitwe to him,he interrupted me and delightfully remarked," are you aware that I was equally a young man when I was governor Lusaka?"So you must prove yourself like I proved myself and eventually i became president.

His praise for young leadership went on to include his illustration of how significant the contribution of a young leader in Ethiopia has proved to be he said,as he remarked that It had to take a 44 year old leader who was recently elected in Ethiopia to end a 20 year old war between Ethiopia and Eritrea which war was was over a port that apparently belonged to Eritrea.
So young men prove yourselves for the recognition that his excellency the president has given you by appointing you in those positions.
I could see the former head of state exited to listen to what I had to say every other time I had to comment on any issue at hand during the dinner hosted in his honor last night .

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHRISTINE CHAMA

We would like to wish Christine Chama a Happy and blessed birthday. May the almighty God Continue Blessing you 🙏🏿

ZRA SURPASSED ITS 2019 REVENUE TARGET BY K1.1BN

The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has announced that it surpassed its revenue target of K51.8 billion for the fiscal year 1st January 2019 to 31st December 2019 by K1.1 billion.

Speaking during the end of year review for 2019 in Lusaka, ZRA Commissioner General Kingsley Chanda said during the year, the Authority collected K63.8 billion in gross revenue while the refunds stood at K10.9 billion resulting in a net collection of K52.9 billion.

He said the net collection of K52.9 billion translates to 17.6% of the projected GDP estimate for 2019 compared to the targeted 17.3%.

The ZRA boss stated that this outstanding performance is despite the unfavourable economic environment especially during the second half of the year.

“This outturn is attributable to higher than programmed revenue collections under indirect and trade taxes which posted surpluses of K264.8 million and K906.3 million, respectively. However, we had significant poor yields in mineral royalty and excise taxes largely due to prolonged shut downs at major smelting facilities leading to lower production for the former and the delayed implementation of the telecommunications transaction monitoring system and the digital tax stamps for the latter. Further, the draught that resulted in serious load shedding negatively affected industrial production and consequently tax revenue collections,” he added.

“The growth in revenue for the year to date period compared to the same period in 2018 stands at 9.3% compared to the targeted growth rate of 7.0% revenue projected for the same period. Please note that this performance relates to revenues collected by ZRA only and does not include the performance of non-tax revenues collected by other government agencies.”

Mr. Chanda further stated that during the year, ZRA paid out K10.5 billion in VAT refunds while a further K400 million was refunded towards direct taxes and duty drawback.

He indicated that the bulk of the vat refunds 78%, was paid to the mining sector.

“You may recall that in 2018 ZRA refunded K9.4 billion. The current refunds therefore representing 16.1% growth. Going forward, the government through ZRA will allocate more resources to dismantle outstanding vat refunds and minimise accumulation of refunds,” he further added.

“ZRA will ensure that current refunds in 2020 are honoured while a plan will be agreed with the ministry of finance on dealing with refund arrears without distorting the input/output performance of vat in 2020. Paying refund arrears using current collections distorts the actual performance of the tax. For example, of the k10.5 billion refunded in 2019 only k2.8 billion related to transactions in 2019. The balance were 2013-2018 refund claims.”