SPICE FM 91.1 Kabwe

25/03/2026

POWER BOOST FOR CENTRAL PROVINCE AS ZESCO UNVEILS KABWE-MPONGWE TRANSMISSION PLAN

Zesco Limited has presented findings from the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for the proposed 132 kilovolt Kabwe Step Down–Mpongwe transmission line project, signaling a major step toward improved electricity supply and economic growth in Central Province.

The presentation was made during a special District Development Coordinating Committee (DDCC) meeting held at the Kabwe District Commissioner’s office.

Speaking at the meeting, Kabwe District Commissioner Lenox Shimwambwa Jr. described the project as a transformative initiative that will enhance power reliability and stimulate economic activities in Mpongwe and surrounding districts.

Mr. Shimwambwa noted that the engagement builds on earlier consultations held in June 2025, when ZESCO first outlined plans for the 112-kilometre double circuit transmission line stretching from Kabwe Step Down substation to the proposed Mpongwe substation.

According to details presented, the Government, through ZESCO, intends to construct the transmission line from the existing Kabwe Step Down 330/88/66 kilovolt substation to the proposed Mpongwe turn-off 132/33 kilovolt substation. The project will span approximately 112 kilometres and include a 41-metre wayleave corridor to ensure safe and efficient electricity transmission.

The initiative will also involve the expansion of the Kabwe Step Down substation, alongside the construction of a new substation about 1.9 kilometres from the junction of the T3 Great North Road and the D486 Mpongwe Road.

Mr. Shimwambwa emphasized that the project goes beyond infrastructure development, highlighting its potential to improve livelihoods and drive economic growth in Mpongwe, Kapiri Mposhi, Masaiti and nearby areas.

He further stressed the need for sustainable implementation, ensuring that communities benefit while minimizing environmental and social impacts.

Reflecting on the 2023–2024 drought, which affected hydropower generation and contributed to energy shortages, the District Commissioner underscored the urgency of investing in resilient energy infrastructure and diversifying Zambia’s energy mix.

Meanwhile, ZESCO Principal Environmental Scientist Milika Claude assured stakeholders that measures have been put in place to safeguard communities and the environment throughout the project lifecycle.

Ms. Claude said community engagement structures will be established to allow residents to raise concerns during construction, adding that stakeholder consultations will remain ongoing.

She also disclosed that a resettlement and compensation plan has been developed for project-affected persons, covering land, trees, and other impacted assets, with affected households already engaged through relevant government departments.

Ms. Claude added that the ESIA report outlines mitigation measures for both minor and major impacts and will be made accessible to stakeholders to ensure transparency.

The Kabwe–Mpongwe transmission line project is expected to significantly strengthen power supply in the region, supporting Zambia’s broader efforts to enhance energy security and accelerate economic development.

BY: Sunford Mulenga SPICE FM 91.1 Kabwe NEWS

25/03/2026

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JOIN THE LIVE NATWIPUSHE (Ishiwi) RADIO PROGRAM ON SPICE FM 91.1 Kabwe-TOPIC: IS ZAMBIA READY FOR A 24-HOUR ECONOMY? WILL THE 24 HOUR ECONOMY HELP BOOST ZAMBIA’S DEVELOPMENT?

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25/03/2026

The Natwipushe (Ishiwi) radio program. On March 17, 2026, The Minister of Information and Media, Chief Government Spokesperson Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa announced that Cabinet had approved the move towards a 24-hour economy—where businesses, markets, and services can operate day and night.

The goal? 📈 More jobs, increased productivity, and economic growth.

But here’s the question… 🤔
Do we have what it takes to make it work?
⚡ Reliable power
🔐 Strong security
🚧 Good infrastructure

Remember, this shift is not mandatory—it depends on demand.

💬 So tell us…
Is Zambia ready for a 24-hour economy?

📻 Join the conversation on SPICE FM 91.1 Kabwe

25/03/2026

WEATHER UPDATE: 🌧️🌩️⛈️

*ZAMBIA LUNCHTIME WEATHER REPORT: WEDNESDAY (25/03/2026)*
*FORECAST FOR THE AFTERNOON AND EVENING WEDNESDAY (25/03/2026)*

*Northwestern, Copperbelt, Eastern, Muchinga, Northern and Luapula Provinces including the eastern parts of Central province:*
Mainly cloudy, slightly windy and warm with rain and thunderstorms. Maximum temperature will range between 24°C and 30°C. The evening will be mainly cloudy, slightly windy and mild with isolated rain and occasional thunder.
Western, Southern and Lusaka Provinces including the western parts of Central province:
Partly cloudy, slightly windy and warm to hot with a chance of isolated showers. Maximum temperature will range between 26°C and 33°C. The evening will be partly cloudy, windy at times and warm to mild with a chance of isolated rain.
*HIGHEST TEMPERATURE RECORDED YESTERDAY: TUESDAY (24/03/2026)*
Senanga and Mongu 33°C, Livingstone and Kalabo 32°C, Kaoma 31°C, Mpulungu, Kawambwa, Chinsali, Kafironda, SMKIA, Msekera, Mfuwe, Sesheke and Chipepo 30°C, Mansa met, Zambezi, Mumbwa and KKIA 29°C.

*_Produced by the Zambia Meteorological Department,_*
*_Ministry of Green Economy and Environment._*

25/03/2026

25/03/2026

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25/03/2026

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25/03/2026

PROGRAM ALERT: 🔈🔈🔈🔈

JOIN THE NATWIPUSHE (Ishiwi) RADIO PROGRAM TODAY AT 15:00HRS ON SPICE FM 91.1 Kabwe-TOPIC: IS ZAMBIA READY FOR A 24-HOUR ECONOMY? WILL THE 24 HOUR ECONOMY HELP BOOST ZAMBIA’S DEVELOPMENT? GUEST: Kabwe Chamber Of Commerce And Industry (KCCI) President Kapai Banda and Ackson Mulenga, Kabwe Businessman. PRESENTERS Derrick Pende and Arnold Tiki.

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25/03/2026

GOVERNMENT CALLS FOR MINDSET SHIFT AS YOUTH URGED TO EMBRACE AGRICULTURE

Central Province Permanent Secretary, Dr. Milner Mwanakampwe, has called for a shift in mindset among young people, urging them to view agriculture as a viable and profitable business rather than an activity reserved for the elderly.

Speaking when a delegation from the Ministry of Agriculture paid a courtesy call on his office, Dr. Mwanakampwe emphasized that farming should be taken seriously by all, especially the youth.

“Agriculture has been taken as a venture only for retirees. This requires a mindset change. Agriculture should never be seen at any time as a business for retirees; it must be taken seriously by everyone,” he said.

Dr. Mwanakampwe stressed the need for a paradigm shift in how agriculture is perceived, noting that it should be approached strictly as a business venture with significant economic potential.

“There is need for a paradigm shift so that we look at farming as strictly being business. It is not a venture for those that are tired and retired; that has to change, and it will start with Central Province,” he added.

He further highlighted the importance of integrating different aspects of agriculture, including both crop production and livestock, to ensure no sector is left behind.

“We are not only talking about crops; we are also talking about livestock, and there must be collaboration because if we leave anyone behind, then we would have missed the mark,” he said.

Dr. Mwanakampwe reiterated that agriculture remains a backbone of the economy and encouraged young people to take advantage of opportunities within the sector to drive growth and innovation.

SPICE FM 91.1 Kabwe NEWS

25/03/2026

CENTRAL PROVINCE EXPECTS BUMPER HARVEST, WARNS AGAINST EXPLOITATIVE MAIZE BUYING

Central Province is poised to record another bumper harvest following favorable rainfall and enhanced government support to the agriculture sector, but authorities have raised concern over early maize purchases by traders at what they describe as exploitative prices.

According to a statement issued by Central Province Principal Public Relations Officer, Tobias Phiri, the province has recorded a successful farming season attributed to good rains, timely delivery of farming inputs, and the resilience of local farmers.

Mr. Phiri noted that Central Province emerged as the best-performing region under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP), achieving a 100 percent input redemption rate during the current farming season.

However, he expressed concern that some traders have already begun purchasing maize from farmers at significantly low prices, averaging around K200 per 50-kilogram bag.

“This is exploitative and we urge our farmers not to rush into selling their produce, as they stand to lose out on better prices,” Mr. Phiri said.

He further cautioned that the maize currently being harvested has high moisture content, making it unsuitable for storage or milling at this stage. He advised both farmers and buyers to wait until the crop is adequately dried to ensure quality and prevent losses.

Mr. Phiri also referenced the previous marketing season, where the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) offered K360 per 50-kilogram bag of maize, noting that farmers who sold prematurely to private buyers ended up incurring losses.

Meanwhile, District Agriculture Coordinators (DACOs) have been directed to intensify sensitization efforts to discourage early sales and promote better market timing among farmers.

Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that farmers receive fair value for their produce, as part of broader efforts to sustain agriculture as a viable and profitable sector.

SPICE FM 91.1 Kabwe NEWS

25/03/2026

GOVERNMENT MOURNS WIFE OF CHIEF LITETA

Central Province Permanent Secretary, Dr. Milner Mwanakampwe, says government is deeply saddened by the death of the wife to Chief Liteta of Central Province.

Dr. Mwanakampwe stated that Hakainde Hichilema and his administration stand in solidarity with the bereaved family during this difficult period.

In a statement issued, Dr. Mwanakampwe conveyed heartfelt condolences to the Liteta family, the children, and members of the extended family, including traditional leaders in the area. He acknowledged the pain associated with losing a spouse at an advanced age and assured the family of government’s support.

He further indicated that government will ensure all funeral arrangements are handled with dignity and respect.

According to family sources, the deceased had been unwell after suffering a stroke in 2024. She passed away on March 23, 2026, around 20:00 hours at Victoria Hospital.

Dr. Mwanakampwe reiterated government’s commitment to standing with the family and the traditional leadership during the mourning period.

SPICE FM 91.1 Kabwe NEWS

25/03/2026

ZAMBIA POLICE, RTSA STRENGTHEN COLLABORATION TO CURB ROAD ACCIDENTS

The Zambia Police Service and the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) have reaffirmed their continued partnership aimed at reducing road traffic accidents through enhanced safety initiatives.

This follows a high-level engagement between the Police Public Relations Unit and RTSA Chief Executive Officer, Amon Mweemba, focused on strengthening collaboration in road safety efforts.

The meeting, held at the RTSA Headquarters in Lusaka, forms part of ongoing efforts by the Police Service to enhance public safety and security through strategic partnerships with key stakeholders.

Speaking during the engagement, Zambia Police Service Head of Public Relations Unit, Godfrey Chilabi, emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts in promoting safer communities. He noted that RTSA remains a critical partner in advancing road safety awareness across the country.

Mr. Chilabi, who serves as Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police, described the meeting as timely, highlighting the need for intensified collaboration on public education programmes aimed at reducing road accidents and promoting responsible driving behavior.

“We are committed to working together to minimize road traffic accidents through sustained awareness campaigns and community engagement initiatives,” he said.

Earlier, Eng. Mweemba welcomed the initiative and underscored the longstanding relationship between RTSA and the Police, describing the two institutions as complementary in their shared mandate of ensuring road safety.

“RTSA and the Police are inseparable in the ex*****on of our duties. Ensuring safety on our roads is a shared responsibility that requires continuous collaboration,” he said.

Eng. Mweemba further expressed appreciation for the partnership, revealing plans to extend road safety education to schools in a bid to instill responsible road usage habits among young learners.

The two institutions also discussed the rollout of joint media campaigns and coordinated press engagements aimed at increasing nationwide awareness on road safety issues.

With strengthened collaboration and enhanced public education, both the Zambia Police Service and RTSA are optimistic about achieving a significant reduction in road traffic accidents across the country.

SPICE FM 91.1 Kabwe NEWS
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