LUSAKA High Court Judge Florence Lengalenga has upheld the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ)’s decision to suspend Lusaka lawyer Kelvin Bwalya’s practicing certificate.

Ms Justice Lengalenga dismissed Mr Bwalya’s application for judicial review seeking the Court’s indulgence to quash LAZ’s legal practitioner’s committee decision to suspend him for misusing his client’s money.

Ms Justice Lengalenga said she was of the considered view that Mr Bwalya’s application for judicial review was prematurely brought to her court as he did not exhaust all administrative channels available to him as a legal practitioner.

” From the foregoing, I find that there was no procedural impropriety in the manner in which the LAZ committee dealt with this matter, this court finds that the committee complied with the rules of justice as the applicant was accorded time to be heard and admitted on his own,” she said.

Ms Justice Lengalenga said the applicant should have appealed against the decision of the legal practitioner’s committee before going to court.

Mr Kelvin Bwalya of KBF and Partners was suspended from practicing law as a result of failing to pay US $126,000 which he received on behalf of a client.

This action is contrary to Part VIII of the legal practitioner’s Act Cap 30 of the Laws of Zambia.

According to a ruling from the legal practitioners Committee of the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ), in terms of Section 52 of the legal practitioners Act, it is an offence for a practitioner to fail to account for monies received and held on his client’s behalf.

Section 53 of the said legal practitioners Act states that any practitioner who contravenes any of the provisions of Section 52 shall be deemed to be guilty of professional misconduct.

“In view of the foregoing, we find that the practitioner has breached the provisions of Part VIII of the legal practitioners Act Cap 30 of the Laws of Zambia as he has failed to account for funds received on his client’s behalf,” stated the legal committee.

The committee stated that on October 19, 2009, they received a complaint of misconduct against Bwalya to the effect that he Bwalya had failed to remit to the said complainant a sum of US $126,000.

The committee explained that the money was in form of a US dollar cheque which according to Bwalya was deposited in his kwacha account instead of the US dollar account and that owing to the exchange rate differences, the practitioner lost over K51 million.

The committee stated that Bwalya requested the complainant to be a bit more patient as he was arranging to pay the full amount within 10 to 12 days from September 2009.

The statement also indicated that after failing to pay the complainant his money, Bwalya promised to pay the complainant the money in two equal installments of US $63,000 but the complainant insisted that he wanted be paid the full amount by September 25, 2009 with interest.

“What is not clear however, is whether the account to which the money was deposited is a client’s account as required by the legal practitioners Act. From the viva voce evidence of the practitioner Bwalya, he intimated that he deposited the money in the practitioner’s kwacha account without specifying which account this is,” stated the ruling. “Further, there was no documentary evidence of the deposit transaction.”

The committee stated that the explanation by Bwalya that the cheque was deposited in wrong accounts was in bad taste and rather cavalier.

“It is our view that the practitioner has clearly failed to account to his clients, monies received on his client’s behalf as required by Part VIII of the legal practitioners Act Cap 30 of the Laws of Zambia,” it stated.

LAZ suspended Bwalya from practicing law and also ordered the immediate closure of his law firm.
Bwalya’s matter has been referred to the disciplinary committee for further action.

THE Zambia Wildlife Authority (ZAWA) has arrested and charged a truck driver for illegal possession of sixteen pieces of Ivory, weighing 221 kilogrammes.

ZAWA Communications & Public Relations Officer, Mwila Readith Muliyunda has told Mwebantu New Media in a statement that the truck was impounded on tuesday, 6th May,2014 at Kazungula border post.

She identified the driver of the truck as Matekenya Matekenya, 31 of Kachacha compound in Choma, Southern province who was driving a truck registration No. AKB 1039 and trailler number AKB 1045T belonging to Cheapline General Dealers, was arrested after the Zambia revenue Authority detected the ivory pieces he was carrying on the truck.

“Matekenya was entering Zambia from Botswana heading to Lusaka at the weekend. He will appear in court soon.” She added
“ZAWA is grateful for the effort and help rendered by ZRA in detecting illegal contrabands and alerting the Authority” she said

(Pictures by Mwila Readith Muliyunda/ZAWA)

THE Zambia Wildlife Authority (ZAWA) has successfully removed and treated a pregnant rhino that was recently caught up in a snare in Livingstone’s Mosi-OA-Tunya National Park.

This is according to a press statement issued by ZAWA Communications & Public Relations Officer, Mwila Readith Muliyunda and made available to Mwebantu New Media

She said the Rhino, known as Inonge was caught in a snare set up by some unknown poachers last week. She is eight months pregnant. This Rhino species needs to be guarded jealously as it is among the listed endangered species globally.

“Since Inonge is pregnant, ZAWA Head of vet Dr David Squarre had to only partially anaesthetise it to avoid any complications that the use of drugs could cause to the pregnancy.” She said.

“ZAWA is warning members of the public to desist from setting up snares in National Parks because if caught they will be arrested and prosecuted by law.” Ms Muliyunda said

(Picture by Mwila Readith Muliyunda/ZAWA)

AIRTEL Networks Plc. are proud Gold sponsors of The Zambia Open Golf tournament 2014. Airtel Networks, Managing Director Ms. Charity Chanda Lumpa officially announced the partnership between Airtel Networks Plc. and Mopani Copper Mines yesterday morning at breakfast meeting at Airtel House, Lusaka. Mopani Copper Mines are the main sponsors of this year’s Zambia Open which will be held in Kitwe.

Ms. Lumpa handed over a sponsorship cheque of K145, 000 to the Zambia Open Organizing Committee Chairman Mr. Emmanuel Mutati, as well as expressed her most sincere congratulations for the hard work his committee has put into this prestigious tournament.

‘We believe that this prestigious tournament has attracted a number of decision makers, businessmen and women, and captains of industry from both government and private sectors. Airtel has been an all season friend in supporting this tournament each year.’- Ms. Lumpa
In Airtel Managing Director’s speech, she expanded on our consistent commitment to the development of sports in Zambia.

‘In addition to galvanising the biggest turnout during the championship stages, the program has also broken new ground by introducing girls to a pan African tournament. Indeed, the Zambian girls’ team distinguished themselves so well that Zambia appeared for the first time at the World
Cup under 17 girls tournament in Latin America in 2013.’- Ms Lumpa

In closing, Ms Lumpa wished the committee and participates a huge success in the golf tournament.

(Pictures by Jean Mandela)

A DRUG Enforcement Commission (DEC) raid in Lusaka’s Chibolya Compound has led to the arrest of a 17 year-old boy of Mutendere Compound for trafficking in cannabis.

This is according to a press statement issued by DEC Public Relations Officer, Theresa Katongo and made available to Mwebantu New Media.

Ms Katongo revealed that the suspect who was found with 89 balls of cannabis weighing 627.3g was apprehended from Lusaka’s Chibolya Compound when the DEC conducted two operations in the area.

“Others arrested during the operation in Chibolya Compound are Patrick Kalunji, 32, of Kamwala South for trafficking in 95 balls of cannabis, Samuel Kasongo, 29, of Kanyama Compound for trafficking in 65 balls of cannabis and Brian Kasanda, 31, of Matero Compound for trafficking in 55 balls of cannabis. Also arrested is Kelly Chishimba Mulumba, 28, of John Laing Compound for trafficking in 74 balls of cannabis and 100 tablets of diazepam.” she said

The Commission would like to thank the residents of Chibolya Compound for their cooperation during the two operations conducted in the area.

Meanwhile, the Commission has in other parts of the country arrested Ronald Kapya, 24, a peasant farmer of Sakeni village in Mansa District for unlawful cultivation of fresh cannabis plants weighing 410kg, Joseph Kasalwinji, 32 a Charcoal burner of Kasale area in Mufulira for trafficking in 3.2kg of cannabis and Kelvin Kachimba, 26, of Reserve area in Kabompo District for trafficking in 2.6kg of cannabis.

And in Eastern Province, the Commission has seized ten (10) carton boxes containing loose cannabis weighing 279.5kg which was found on an abandoned Nissan Atlas light truck.

The driver and a passenger of the light truck ran into the bush upon seeing a joint team of the DEC and Zambia Police officers. This happened along the Chipata- Lusaka road at the junction of Musekera Research Settlement. A manhunt for the two suspects has since been launched.

“However, all suspects who are currently in custody will appear in court soon.” She said

ZAMBIA is a key market for Samsung in Africa which is demonstrated by the company’s investment in skills and technology transfer for operations in the country and Zambian staff. Zambia recently had staff participating in the African Young Leaders program at Samsung headquarters in South Korea where participants were equipped with business leadership skills and training.

This is according to a press statement issued by KPR Consulting on behalf of: Samsung Electronics and made available to Mwebantu New Media.

Speaking in Lusaka Samsung Country Manager James Chona said the electronics company continues to show its dedication to the continent in various ways such as the training of staff at its headquarters in South Korea.

“Through a six month knowledge and skills program at the Samsung HQ in South Korea, the company is investing in its people and training staff from across Africa, including Zambia. Having had Zambian staff in South Korea highlights Samsung’s recognition of the importance of the Zambian market and symbolizes its desire to grow the business in Zambia,” says Chona.

He adds that Zambia’s Sakalima Yoyo was based and attached to the IM Division in South Korea which is based in the Digital City, Suwon. The program entailed business leadership skills that helped Yoyo understand what it takes to make a global multinational such as Samsung tick.

“The skills acquired by our staff are indispensible and transferable between other subsidiaries and branches of the Samsung brand to a large extent. Samsung has deliberately moved to develop products that are tailored to the African market and its ‘Built for Africa’ slogan is an example of how it’s not only growing its market but introducing products that provide solutions to consumers across the continent.”

And Yoyo says that his experience in South Korea was about knowledge transfer on two fronts. He says the program has exposed him to the scale of the brand not only in South Korea but on a global scale.

“Samsung Electronics is ranked the 8th biggest brand in the world and having the experience of working first hand at the headquarters with the decision makers and understanding how and why certain decisions are made and being part of that entire process adds value to me as an individual and to the Zambian human resource base,” he says.

Yoyo notes that Samsung’s growth in Zambia will come from an understanding of how and why the company works the way it does. It will also come from adapting the company to Zambian consumer trends.

“In order for Samsung in Zambia to grow, we need to be part of the global Samsung family,” says Yoyo.

Chona adds that skills and knowledge transfer are a large part of Samsung’s growth strategy.

“Sales growth may play an important role in Samsung’s strategy but growth in its human capital is just as important. Initiatives such as this training program show that the company is investing in Africa and Zambia not only for today, but for the long run.”

Samsung Electronics is a global leader in technology, opening new possibilities for people everywhere. Through relentless innovation and discovery, the company continues to transform the worlds of televisions, smart phones, personal computers, printers, cameras, home appliances, LTE systems, medical devices, semiconductors and LED solutions. The company employ 270,000 people across 79 countries with annual sales of US$187.8 billion.

THE CHAIRPERSON of the Board of Directors of Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) Partson Mbiriri has said works on the public tender process for the construction of the Batoka hydro-electricity project are progressing well.

Mr. Mbiriri said the results of the fresh visibility studies are expected to be submitted at the end of 2014.
“Those are important documents going forward in terms of now engaging potential contractors,” he stated.

ZANIS reports from France that the Mr. Mbiriri was speaking in an interview yesterday with the journalists from Zambia and Zimbabwe.

He added that the authority has already done the tendering process in terms of writing for expression of interest.
According to Mr. Mbiriri, 25 companies applied for the tender process and only about nine (9) were shortlisted.

Mr. Mbiriri observed that the Batoka hydro-electricity scheme is expected to supply cheap power such as that of the Kariba dam project.

‘’It is like recycling cubic metres of water,” Mr. Mbiriri said.

The ZRA Board of Directors Chairperson has also disclosed that the construction of access roads in the Batoka project site from both sides which is facilitating the visibility studies has been developed.

“All the processes towards developing Batoka hydro-electricity scheme are underway,’’ he said.

The two governments of Zambia and Zimbabwe are in contact with their ministries of Energy and Finance in ensuring that the project of the Batoka hydro-electricity scheme is successfully implemented.

The construction of the Batoka hydro-electricity Scheme came about because of the high demand in the supply of power from within the region.

The Batoka hydro-electricity project is a three phased project, which includes the construction of the dam, construction of the power station and construction of the transmission lines.

Apart from operating and maintaining the Kariba dam, the Zambezi River Authority also has a mandate of developing new hydro-electricity schemes on the Zambezi river, a development which is carried out on behalf of the governments of Zambia and Zimbabwe.

And according to its strategic objectives of 2010-2014, the Zambezi River Authority will undertake dam maintenance and develop the Batoka hydro-electricity scheme.

Meanwhile, Zambia’s Mines, Energy and Water Development permanent secretary Charity Mwansa, who is also the Zambezi River Authority Board of Directors co-chairperson, describes the Kariba dam as a strategic asset between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

The Kariba dam supplies about 40 per cent of electricity to the region.

And the ZRA Board of Directors delegation has left France for Venice in Italy.

While in France, the delegation attended presentations on the study tour of the Bimont dam and the Malpasset ruins dam and visited the dams and the Verdon gorges.

ABOUT 104 employees of contractor companies, J. Sapwe and Legosonda, working at the Nkana Refinery in Kitwe today protested against their employers following a wage dispute, consequently disrupting some operations at the Refinery during the morning shift.

Konkola Copper Mines (KCM), Public Relations & Communications Manager, Shapi Shachinda has told Mwebantu New Media in a press statement.

“Konkola Copper Mines informs that 104 employees of contractor companies, J. Sapwe and Legosonda, working at the Nkana Refinery in Kitwe today protested against their employers following a wage dispute, consequently disrupting some operations at the Refinery during the morning shift. The wage dispute involving 60 employees of J Sapwe and 54 from Legosonda arose from misunderstandings over the biometric system, which records employees’ attendance and absence.” Mr Shachinda said

Mr. Shachinda said that the employees were addressed by the managements of J. Sapwe and Lengosonda and assured that their concerns would be addressed, but they refused to go back to work. KCM management worked out measures to ensure operations resumed in the afternoon shift.

He added that KCM Management had held meetings with managements of the two contractor companies to help them to resolve their challenges with the employees.

THE Zambia Police Service has no immediate plans to lift the suspension of Police Reserve wing in Lusaka it suspended two years ago.

ZANIS reports that the Zambia Police Service Deputy Spokesperson said this in an interview yesterday.

Zambia Police Service Deputy Spokesperson Rae Hamoonga says the Service currently has no plans to recruit Reserve Police officers in Lusaka.

Mr Hamoonga however said the Police Reserve wing in other provinces in the country are operating normally as only Lusaka was affected by the move.

“I have not yet started the recruit of Police reserves in Lusaka because the suspension only affected Lusaka but elsewhere activities have continued normally,” he said.

He said the suspension of the Police reserve wing in Lusaka has not had an adverse effect on the operations of the Police in the capital city.

“I wouldn’t say the suspension has affected our operations no, we are not affected, the operation are going on well,” he said.

Mr Hamoonga said the Lusaka Province Commissioner will decide at an opportune time to engage the services of the Reserve wing but currently the wing stands suspended.

The Police Reserve wing was suspended in 2012 due to involvement in criminal activities.

LEADING communications solutions provider MTN Zambia has donated K30, 000 towards the hosting of this year’s Kazanga Traditional ceremony of the Nkoya people in North-western Province.

In a statement issued today, MTN Zambia Chief Executive Officer Abdul Ismail said the company is a proud sponsor of the ceremony as part of its corporate social investment programme to preserve the country’s cultural heritage.

This is the second time that MTN Zambia is sponsoring the Kazanga ceremony. You may be pleased to note that our sponsorship this year has increased to include publicity of the ceremony. We believe that publicising the ceremony will help create awareness and excitement among members of the public,” he told a media briefing at the company headquarters in Lusaka yesterday.

Mr. Ismail said MTN’s sponsorship of this year’s traditional ceremonies is even more special as Zambia celebrates its 50th Anniversary.

“As the country celebrates its golden jubilee, there is need to showcase all elements that have made Zambia what it is today. In our view we feel Zambia’s cultural heritage is a very important element in giving the country its identity. The country is blessed with a rich and diverse cultural heritage which must be protected and preserved.

“We are pleased to note that over the years, ceremonies and rich cultural practices that were seemingly forgotten are being resuscitated. This is very important as it helps the younger and future generations to appreciate their roots. MTN Zambia will continue to support the preservation of culture more so that we are an indigenous African brand and we appreciate the importance of conserving history,” said Mr. Ismail.

And MTN Zambia has implored the organisers of the Kazanga Kabombo ceremony to take advantage of government’s commitment to promoting tourism.

“MTN Zambia is delighted in government’s policy on tourism. Organisers of the Kazanga ceremony must embrace this government position and exploit it to the benefit of not only the ceremony but Zambia as a whole. Stakeholders such as yourselves must therefore support government’s position on tourism. Traditional ceremonies make up a big component of Zambia’s tourism package and therefore they must be well-managed if we are to make the desired impact on the global tourism landscape,” he said.

He added that: “The successful hosting of the World Tourism Conference last year is a challenge to the country to show the world what Zambia has. He said there is no country in the world that can boast of richer traditional ceremonies and the onus is on tourism stakeholders to show that Zambia has exciting and unique tourism events throughout the year.”

And receiving the donation, Kazanga Kabombo Ceremony Organising Committee Chairman Yamfwa Mukanga said this year’s ceremony is going to be special as the country celebrates its golden jubilee.

“The ceremony is all about praising God for the good harvest. The fact that Zambia is commemorating its fifth anniversary makes it special for us because we will not only be praising God for this year’s harvest but the guidance He has continued to provide us throughout the years,” he said.

Mr. Mukanga who is also Transport, Works, Supply and Communications also emphasised the need to preserve Zambia’s cultural heritage.

The Kazanga Kabompo ceremony of the Nkoya people in North-western province will run from 15th to 18th May 2014. It is hosted in Kabompo, home for Africa’s deepest river the Kabompo river.

PRESIDENT Michael Chilufya Sata has revealed that Opposition UPND president Hakainde Hichilema and his supports planned to hijack him and his entourage while he was in Livingstone for the commissioning of Zambia Air Force (ZAF) Cadets.

This is according to Radio Phoenix 13:00 news monitored by Mwebantu New Media in Lusaka today.

The President said this was according to intelligence reports he received from the security wings. The President has since thanked members of the security wings for protecting him and the first lady.

President Michael Sata who is also Commander In-Chief of the Armed forces for the Republic of Zambia, would not disclose the exact details of the plan by the opposition party.

Speaking at the same event Zambia Air Force Commander Lt. Gen. Erick Chimese urged the new Officers to avoid being partisan and be committed to their work. Lt. Gen Chimese also revealed that the problem of accommodation had been addressed in the Zambia Air Force.

REPUBLICAN President Michael Sata has called for the preservation of Zambia’s peace. Speaking during the commissioning of Zambia Air Force (ZAF) officer cadets at Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingston this morning, President Sata says Zambia has continued to enjoy peace and stability and that it is important that this status quo is maintained.

President Sata says there is also need to ensure that men and women in uniform are comfortable as they continue to do their duties of preserving peace.

The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed forces, who touched down at Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula international airport at 10:10hours aboard the presidential jet says military personnel are there to promote peace and stability in the country.

President Sata also jokingly cautioned military personnel against using guns for criminal acts or beating their spouses but rather use them for intended purposes.

Speaking at the same event, ZAF Commander Lieutenant General Erick Chimese noted that government has shown interest in ensuring that the military wings are well equipped as they have been able to buy enough equipment since 2011.
Lieutenant General Chimese is hopeful that the one hundred officer cadets who have been commissioned today will provide the necessary security in the country.

He also disclosed that the one thousand and one houses that were built at ZAF Twin Palm have already been occupied by some officers and that those who are not accommodated within the camp are paid well to rent accommodation elsewhere.

(Picture by Thomas Nsama/State House)

Source: QFM NEWS

OPPOSITION United Party for National Development (UPND) president Hakainde Hichilema has responded to President Michael Sata’s statement , that the opposition leader and his supporters planned to hijack him and his entourage while he was in Livingstone for the commissioning of Zambia Air Force (ZAF) Cadets.

Below is Mr. Hakainde Hichilema’s statement in full:

The statement attributed to president Michael Sata that UPND were planning to hijack him in Livingstone has no basis and is just another attempt to justify his failure to attend to national duties as the Republican president.

Instead of competently attending to national duties such as the one he went to officiate, lower the cost of living for the Zambians, addressing the depreciating currency, Mr. Sata is now resorting to alarming statements dragging the UPND as a justification for his failures.

We all know that Mr. Sata, as the Head of State, is the most protected person in this country who cannot be hindered from any part of the country.

In fact, it is a well know fact that it is actually the UPND and many other innocent citizens who have repeatedly been brutalised by Mr. Sata and PF thuggery across the country.

As UPND and other citizens, we have been attacked in churches, attacked in Eastern province, almost assassinated in Ndola, and for him to issue such wild-outbursts is another futile attempt to divert the nation from serious national issues such as constitution making process, high mealie meal prices, and serious matters in the nation.

It is actually the ordinary citizens from UPND, churches, civil society organisations, that are currently crying-out for protection from Mr. Sata and his PF thugs who have so far remained mute despite these abuses.

We know Mr. Sata is just a joker, but such jokes are now out of order and a serious threat to national security.

In fact, such statements from the Head of State justifies what we have always been saying that the PF wants to create an environment to for effecting a state of emergency.

I am therefore appealing to all well meaning citizens to dismiss this careless outburst from our Head of State with the contempt it deserves.

Hakainde Hichilema
UPND president

THE Emirates Group has announced its 26th consecutive year of profit and company-wide growth, ending the year in a strong position despite competitive pressure and a global economic environment that is only slowly recovering. The financial year ending 31 March 2014 also marked an unprecedented level of investment across the Group, continued expansion of its global footprint, and the achievement of new capacity milestones.

In its 2013-14 Annual Report, the Emirates Group posted an AED 4.1 billion (US$ 1.1 billion) profit, up 32% from last year. The Group’s revenue reached AED 87.8 billion (US$ 23.9 billion), an increase of 13% over last year’s results, and the Group’s cash balance remained strong at AED 19.0 billion (US$ 5.2 billion).

“Achieving our 26th consecutive year of profit in a financial year marked by record increases in capacity and significant business investments across the Group, is testimony to the strength of our brands and our business fundamentals,” said His Highness (H.H.) Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group.

“Throughout 2013-14 the Group has collectively invested over AED 22.0 billion (US$ 6.0 billion), the highest amount ever in one financial year. We know that to be a sustainable and profitable business we have to keep adding value to our stakeholders, our customers, partners and employees. To do this, we need efficient new aircraft, quality products and services, and cutting-edge facilities. Every dirham invested has been carefully considered against short and long-term goals – be it enhancing our capabilities, improving our product, or expanding our business footprint.”

The Group also continued to invest in and expand on its employee base, increasing its overall staff count by 11% to over 75,000-strong representing over 160 different nationalities, across its more than 80 subsidiaries and companies. Revenue per airline employee increased by 4% to AED 1.9 million (US$ 0.5 million).

“We are moving into the new financial year with confidence, and a strong foundation for continued profitability with our strong balance sheet, solid track record, diverse global portfolio and international talent pool,” said Sheikh Ahmed. “Operating in a dynamic and highly-competitive environment means we have to stay agile, and work even harder to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations. With the help of our 75,000 strong multicultural workforce, we have no doubt that we will be able to capitalise on the opportunities in the year ahead.”

Similar to the last financial year, the Group declared a dividend of AED1 billion (US$ 280 million) to the Investment Corporation of Dubai.

Emirates performance
In 2013-14, Emirates increased capacity by 5.9 billion Available Tonne Kilometres (ATKMs), the largest capacity increase in the airline’s history in a single year. This brings Emirates’ total passenger and cargo capacity to 46.8 billion ATKMs at the end of the financial year. The airline also marked a new record of over 1 million block hours in terms of fleet production.
Emirates received 24 new aircraft during the year, including 16 A380s, six Boeing 777-300ERs and two Boeing 777Fs, bringing its total fleet count to 217. The airline remains the world’s largest operator of the Boeing 777 and A380 – both aircraft being amongst the most modern and efficient wide-bodied jets in the sky today.

With the delivery of new aircraft, Emirates launched nine new destinations: Boston, Clark, Conakry, Haneda, Kabul, Kiev, Sialkot, Stockholm and Taipei, as well as a new service between Milan and New York.

Emirates revenue for the first time surpassed AED 80 billion, at a new record of AED 82.6 billion (US$ 22.5 billion). While the average price of jet fuel remained high, it was slightly lower compared to last year and has supported Emirates’ bottom line improvement. Emirates’ fuel bill increased by 10% over last year to reach AED 30.7 billion (US$ 8.4 billion). Total operating costs increased by 12%, compared to a revenue increase of 13% over the 2012-13 financial year.

The airline successfully managed increased competitive pressure across all markets to record a profit of AED 3.3 billion (US$ 887 million), an increase of 43% over last year’s results, and a healthy profit margin of 3.9%.

Carrying a record 44.5 million passengers, up 13% from last year, Emirates maintained a robust Passenger Seat Factor at 79.4%, nearly consistent with last year’s results in spite of a 15% increase in seat capacity by Available Seat Kilometres (ASKMs). This highlights the strong consumer desire to fly on Emirates’ state-of-the-art aircraft.

Passenger yield remained steady at 30.4 fils (8.3 US cents) per Revenue Passenger Kilometre (RPKM).

Emirates also improved its premium seat factor despite lingering economic uncertainty and strong competition in many markets. Premium and overall seat factor for the airline’s flagship A380 aircraft outperformed the network, underscoring the popularity of Emirates’ premium and A380 product amongst passengers.

Over 18 million passengers had flown on an Emirates A380 when the airline marked its fifth anniversary of A380 operations in August 2013. In 2013-14, Emirates introduced A380 services to Barcelona, Brisbane, London-Gatwick, Los Angeles, Mauritius and Zurich, bringing to 27 the total number of destinations served by its popular flagship aircraft. Emirates’ Los Angeles service is also the world’s longest A380 flight at 16 hours and 20 minutes.

Highlighting its sound financials and investor confidence, Emirates raised a total of AED 12.0 billion (US$ 3.3 billion) through a variety of financing structures, mainly to secure its ongoing fleet expansion. Further, eight of the aircraft delivered in the financial year were funded through two corporate bonds issued in early 2013 which raised AED 6.4 billion (US$ 1.8 billion) in funding.

Significant financing milestones achieved during the year include the issue of a second Enhanced Equipment trust Certificate through a lessor, which tapped into the US capital market to fund four A380s. Another major landmark was achieved through the refinancing of two A380s through the first ever floating rate capital market bond backed by a COFACE (the French Export Credit Agency) guarantee. Emirates closed the financial year with a healthy AED 12.7 billion (US$ 3.4 billion) cash flow generated from operating activities.

Revenue generated from across Emirates’ six regions continues to be well balanced, with no region contributing more than 30% of overall revenues. East Asia and Australasia remained the highest revenue contributing region with AED 23.8 billion (US$ 6.5 billion), up 14% from 2012-13. Gulf and Middle East revenue increased 17% to AED 8.3 billion (US$ 2.3 billion), and Europe revenue increased 16% to AED 23.4 billion (US$ 6.4 billion), reflecting new destinations as well as increased frequency and capacity to these regions.

Across the rest of the globe Emirates saw strong revenue increases from Africa up 15% to AED 7.7 billion (US$ 2.1 billion), The Americas up 11% to AED 9.2 billion (US$ 2.5 billion) and West Asia and Indian Ocean with AED 8.3 billion (US$ 2.3 billion) in revenue, up 3%.

Focusing on customer touch points, Emirates opened a new dedicated airport lounge in Rome, and upgraded its lounges in Paris Charles De Gaulle, London Gatwick and Bangkok. Emirates also announced plans for a new 300-seat contact centre in Budapest to support future growth and supplement its language and response capability, and continued to invest in its onboard product including the installation of Wi-Fi and “live” TV.

In its first full year of operations, the newly commissioned Concourse A at Dubai airport for Emirates’ growing A380 fleet witnessed a significant passenger throughput with 37% or 8.2 million Emirates passengers departing Dubai enjoying the new state-of-the art facilities, spacious lounge areas to board 27,000 flights.

Looking forward to 2014-15, Emirates has to date announced five new passenger routes including Abuja, Brussels, Chicago, Kano and Oslo.

Defying the industry trend, the 2013-14 financial year has been a strong one for Emirates SkyCargo who for the first time reported a revenue over US$ 3 billion to reach AED 11.3 billion (US$ 3.1 billion) mark, a 9% increase over last year.

Contributing 15% of the airline’s total transport revenue Emirates SkyCargo continues to play an integral role in the company’s expanding operations.

Emirates SkyCargo’s tonnage strongly increased by 8% to reach a remarkable 2.3 million tonnes in a flat and challenging airfreight market, highlighting its ability to grow revenues against the industry norm. This year, freight yield per Freight Tonne Kilometre (FTKM) decreased by 1%.

At the end of the financial year, the Emirates SkyCargo freighter fleet had grown to 12 aircraft – ten on operating lease and two on wet lease.

Emirates’ Destination and Leisure Management including hotels recorded revenue of AED 623 million (US$ 170 million), an impressive increase of 35% over last year. This positive development was supported by the first full year of operation of the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel in Dubai, the world’s tallest hotel. The second tower of the hotel will be fully operational later this year.

dnata performance
In its 55 years of operation, 2013-14 has been dnata’s most successful yet, building on its very strong results in the previous year. dnata grew its revenue to AED 7.6 billion (US$ 2.1 billion), an increase of 14%, through organic growth and as well as strategic international acquisitions. For the first time in the company’s history, dnata’s international business accounted for 50% of its revenue.
dnata also outperformed last year’s record profit to reach AED 829 million (US$ 226 million).

In 2013-14, dnata invested a record AED 850 million (US$ 232 million) into its business, laying the foundations for future growth.

Its key investments included: the development of dnata City – a 20-acre cargo logistics centre at London Heathrow Airport, additional warehousing capacity at seven airports across the UK, and capacity expansion of Freight Gate 3 at Dubai airport.

dnata’s international growth continued with the addition of several new companies in its portfolio including the acquisition of Broadlex, an aircraft cleaning service provider in Australia, and Gold Medal Travel Group, one of the leading distributors of long-haul travel products in the UK. dnata also acquired Air Chefs in Italy, by taking over the remaining 50% stake from Servair.

Revenue from dnata’s airport operations increased strongly by 15% to reach AED 2.8 billion (US$ 774 million). It remains dnata’s largest revenue stream. The year’s performance was primarily driven by strong volume growth in the UK and Dubai, including first time handling operations at Dubai World Central where commercial passenger flights began in October, and also in a number of dnata’s other global operations including new services from Broadlex. dnata today handles 250 airlines at 27 airports in nine countries and is the world’s largest ground handler of the A380.

dnata’s cargo handling division grew revenue by 8% to AED 1.2 billion (US$ 318 million), on account of increasing business volumes in the UK and additional road feeder services between both airports in Dubai. Dubai World Central now accounts for 30% of dnata’s cargo handling activities in Dubai.

dnata’s catering business accounted for AED 1.8 billion (US$ 478 million) of its total revenue, up 25%. The inflight catering business uplifted more than 41 million meals during the year, a sharp rise of 44% on account of dnata’s consolidated operation in Italy as well as its growth in the UK and Australia.

Revenue from dnata’s travel services division also saw strong growth of 22% to reach AED 662 million (US$ 180 million). This is mainly attributed to business growth in the UK through Travel Republic and the newly integrated business of the Gold Medal Travel Group as of March. The underlying travel services related turnover, measured by net sales value, increased 10% to AED 5.9 billion (US$ 1.6 billion).

In 2013-14, dnata’s operating costs increased by 15% to AED 6.7 billion (US$ 1.8 billion), reflecting the first months of integrating the newly acquired companies across its airport, catering and travel businesses.

Similar to last year, dnata’s cash balance of AED 2.4 billion (US$ 663 million) remains strong and the business delivered a solid AED 1.1 billion (US$ 307 million) operating cash flow in 2013-14.

dnata’s employee strength increased to 23,000, a 14% growth which includes employees from its newly acquired companies. The majority of dnata’s staff, 60%, are based in UAE.

The full 2013-14 Annual Report of the Emirates Group – comprising Emirates, dnata and their subsidiaries – is available at: www.theemiratesgroup.com/annualreport

A NAMED 22 Year old school girl in Shiwang’andu District of Muchinga Province has been arrested for alleged illegal abortion.

It is believed that the grade 10 pupil at Mulanga Day Secondary School did terminate a three months pregnancy on 29 April, 2014 between 10: 00 and 11 : 00 hours in Matumbo village.

ZANIS reports that Muchinga Deputy Police Commissioner, Bonny Kapeso confirmed the arrest in an interview, yesterday.

Mr Kapeso said the suspect was apprehended yesterday and taken to Chinsali District Community Hospital for examination.

He said the suspect is still in police custody and that more examinations will be conducted later today.

Mr Kapeso has warned of stain action against perpetrators of such acts and advised schooling going children not to indulge themselves in illicit behavior.

ZNBC Director General Chibamba Kanyama resigns to take up job as communication advisor at IMF
ZAMBIA National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) Director General Chibamba Kanyama has resigned.

Mr Kanyama will be taking up a new job at the International Monetary Fund-IMF as Communication Advisor.

ZNBC Board Chairman John Mulwila has announced Mr Kanyama’s resignation in Lusaka on Saturday.

Dr Mulwila says while it is sad that ZNBC is bidding farewell to Mr Kanyama, it is a happy occasion because he will raise the country’s flag higher while carrying the Public service Broadcaster’s flag to the rest of the world.

He says the ZNBC board is grateful to Mr Kanyama for his outstanding service while at the helm of ZNBC since March 6, 2012.

Dr Mulwila says Mr Kanyama will remain in office until June 15, to manage the transition after which the board will make announcement about the process of identifying the successor.

He has urged all ZNBC stakeholders to continue supporting the Public Service broadcaster during this transition period.

Dr Mulwila says the board takes this as an opportunity to drive ZNBC’s business forward and accelerate the corporation’s transformational efforts.

THE Drug Enforcement Commission in Eastern Province has arrested two peasant farmers of Petauke District for unlawful cultivation of fresh cannabis plants weighing over 2 tonnes.

This is according to a press statement issued by DEC Public Relations Officer, Ms Theresa Katongo and made available to Mwebantu New Media.

Ms Katongo stated that Junda Njobvu, 41, a peasant farmer of Sati village in Petauke District has been arrested for unlawful cultivation of fresh cannabis plants weighing 1.3 tonnes and trafficking in loose cannabis weighing 21kg.

She added that in a related but separate incidence, the Commission in Eastern Province has arrested Ernerst Jali Banda, 38, of Ndeleya Village in Petauke District for unlawful cultivation of fresh cannabis plants in a maize field weighing 1.2 tonnes and trafficking in loose cannabis weighing 12.6kg.

“The two suspects are currently detained at Petauke Police Station and will appear in court on Monday 12th May, 2014.” She said

Meanwhile, Ms Katongo said the Commission in Luapula Province has arrested Albert Manda, 39, a peasant farmer of Chipanta village in Nchelenge District for unlawful cultivation of fresh cannabis plants intercropped with maize and cassava weighing 26.4kg.

“Others arrested in the last two (02) days include Loveness Cheso, 48, a housewife of Chilupula village in Kabwe for unlawful cultivation of fresh cannabis plants weighing 10.6kg, Joe Mwanakayumba, 32, a peasant farmer of Sichili area in Mulobezi District for trafficking in 1.32kg of cannabis and Freezer Muvumi a peasant farmer of Nsuki area in Kasempa District for trafficking in 1.1kg of cannabis. All suspects will appear in court soon.” She said

FINANCE MINISTER Alexander Chikwanda has congratulated outgoing Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation [ZNBC] Director General Chibamba Kanyama on his appointment as Communications Advisor at the International Monetary Fund in Washington, United States of America.

“As governor of Zambia at the IMF, I was extremely pleased to learn of your appointment to a very significant position at the Fund. I warmly congratulate you”, said Mr. Chikwanda in a letter addressed to Mr. Kanyama.

Mr. Chikwanda has said the appointment of Mr. Kanyama was on the basis of the latter’s sound credentials.

“In your assignments, you have always served with passion and remarkable distinction which will stand you in good stead in your job at the IMF. I am persuaded beyond all doubt that you will be a big plus for our country. I wish you well in all your endeavours,” wrote the Minister.

On Saturday, 10th May, 2014, Chibamba Kanyama has resigned as ZNBC Director General to take up a job at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as Communication Advisor. ZNBC Board Chairman John Mulwila has announced Mr Kanyama’s resignation in Lusaka on Saturday.

Dr Mulwila says while it is sad that ZNBC is bidding farewell to Mr Kanyama, it is a happy occasion because he will raise the country’s flag higher while carrying the Public service Broadcaster’s flag to the rest of the world.

He said ZNBC board was grateful to Mr Kanyama for his outstanding service while at the helm of ZNBC since March 6, 2012.

THE Treasury has released K418.5 Million for debt service, development programmes and government operations.

ZANIS reports that this is according to a statement signed by Ministry of Finance Public Relations Officer Chileshe Kandeta.

K14.4 Million was released for the rural roads infrastructure programme in various provinces such as Central, Copperbelt, Luapula, and North-western.

Secretary to the treasury Fredson Yamba says in the statement that most farmers who have produced the expected 3.3 million metric tons bumper harvest for the 2013/2014 season are expected to benefit from the rural roads programme.
Mr. Yamba explains that this was because the yields will efficiently be transported from their fields to relevant sheds and crop markets across the country.

The Treasury has given K 8.5 Million to the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives of which K2.5 million is targeted at programmes related to controlling the spread of the African swine fever and a further K6 Million for aerial crop spraying.
Financing of these programmes is consistent with government’s long-term objective to fully diversify the economy, with agriculture as one of the leading sectors, says Mr. Yamba.

The Drug Enforcement Commission has been given K1.6 million for operations while the Zambia Prison Service got K12 Million for purchase and operation of speed boats as part of the government’s programme for strengthening the capacity of the law enforcement fraternity.

K8 Million has gone towards Foreign Service expenses while Ministry of Youth and Sport received K5 Million for the Youth Development Fund and the Ministry of Community Development Mother and Child Health received K2.5 Million for women empowerment programmes.

Other state entities that received funds include the Cabinet Office, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Labour, and the Anti-Corruption-Commission. While K227 was released to finance the servicing of the domestic debt.

Mr Yamba said Zambia cannot afford to slip-up on debt obligations because of the credit-rating by internationally recognized agencies, Fitch, and Standards and Poor’s, respectively.

He said the successes which the economy is scoring are not a twist of luck but planned programmes complimented by the toils of citizens, who, on a daily basis, continue to grasp the opportunities for empowerment and business development created by the government, and turn these into personal wealth, jobs for the people, and profits for their businesses.

Mr Yamba said people should participate in economic transformation programmes with open minds by taking greater interest in monitoring the implementation of projects in their localities.

The Secretary to the Treasury said participation in, and ownership of development programmes, is essential to the country’s successful socio-economic adjustment adding that it is also one way in which the government could be held accountable on utilization of tax payer’s resources.

PATRIOTIC Front secretary General Winter Kabimba has directed all party District Committees in Southern Province to commence identification of candidates ahead of the 2016 elections.

ZANIS reports that the PF General Secretary said this during a meeting with villagers in Chief Mweemba’s area at Kanchindu Primary School in Sinazongwe District.

Mr. Kabimba, who is also Justice Minister , has advised all the ruling party committees in the province to start identifying eligible candidates for the national elections.

He further directed P.F District Committees to rally behind and support individual P.F party members who will be identified and selected as candidates instead of fighting them.

He expressed confidence that the P.F stood a better chance of scooping the 2016 polls going by statistics of the previous elections held in the Country.
Mr. Kabimba also called upon Kanchindu Community members in Sinazongwe District and the rest of the people of Southern Province to work with candidates that will be identified for the party ahead of national elections.

He also commended people of Kanchindu and Sinazongwe District as a whole for their support rendered to Sinazongwe Member of Parliament Richwell Siamunene who is also Western Province Minister.

Mr.Kabimba said it was very unfortunate that UPND the party that Siamunene belonged to, turned against him when accepted the appointment.

He said Mr. Siamunene accepted the appointment to the position of deputy Minister after consultations with the people of Sinazongwe Constituency because he wanted it to be easy for him to bring about development for them.

Mr.Kabimba said President Sata wanted to run an inclusive Government by appointing members of parliament from the opposition parties and reunite the Country as one Zambia One Nation.

He said if President Sata did not like the people of Southern Province as being perpetrated by the opposition UPND party, some members of parliament and ministers could not have been appointed such as Provincial Minister Daniel Munkombwe, Richwell Siamunene and he himself as Secretary General of the P.F party and Justice Minister.

Mr. Kabimba also dispelled accusations of his P.F being traitors by some opposition leaders adding that leaders in the P.F were patriotic Zambians .

He called on the community in Kanchindu and Sinazongwe District as whole to remain bold and firm by supporting their current member of parliament Siamunene for P.F in 2016 once the UPND decide to do away.
He challenged people of Sinazongwe District to be careful with some opposition leaders that were busy deceiving them about the P.F Government.

Mr.Kabimba said they were same people who were busy approaching President Michael Sata every time they needed something including business and contracts yet deceiving people that the P.F Government was not there for them.

He advised people in Sinazongwe District and the entire Southern Province never to accept leaders that were using tribalism to divide the nation at the expense of development.

Mr.Kabimba challenged the people of Southern Province to desist from entertaining such leaders that kept on identifying themselves across tribes.