US Vice President Kamala Harris will travel to three African countries this month. The trip to Ghana, Tanzania and Zambia comes after a December summit hosted by President Joe Biden in Washington with US leaders and counterparts from Africa.

US VP Kamala Harris to visit Ghana, Tanzania, Zambia to boost Africa links

Zambian police on Sunday found the bodies of 27 men, believed to be migrants from Ethiopia, dumped in a farming area on the outskirts of the capital after they died from suspected hunger and exhaustion, authorities said.

A sole survivor was found alive in the early hours of Sunday morning and rushed to a Lusaka hospital for treatment, while the dead were transported to the mortuary for identification and post mortems to determine the exact cause of death, police said.

Preliminary police investigations showed the victims were all males aged between 20 and 38 and had been dumped along a road by unknown people.

"Police and other security wings have since instituted investigations into the matter," Danny Mwale, police spokesman, said in a statement after police were alerted to the gruesome scene by members of the public.

Ethiopian migrants often use&nbsp;Zambia&nbsp;when travelling to countries such as South Africa, though reports of deaths in transit there are rare.

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Zambian police on Sunday found the bodies of 27 men, believed to be migrants from Ethiopia, dumped in a farming area on the outskirts of the capital after they died from suspected hunger and exhaustion, authorities said.

Zambian police on Sunday found the bodies of 27 men, believed to be migrants from Ethiopia, dumped in a farming area on the outskirts of the capital after they died from suspected hunger and exhaustion, authorities said. A sole survivor was found alive in the early hours of Sunday morning and rushed to a Lusaka hospital for treatment, while the dead were transported to the mortuary for identification and post mortems to determine the exact cause of death, police said. Preliminary police investigations showed the victims were all males aged between 20 and 38 and had been dumped along a road by unknown people. "Police and other security wings have since instituted investigations into the matter," Danny Mwale, police spokesman, said in a statement after police were alerted to the gruesome scene by members of the public. Ethiopian migrants often use Zambia when travelling to countries such as South Africa, though reports of deaths in transit there are rare. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Twenty-seven men believed to be Ethiopian migrants found dead along road in Zambia

Zambia's former president Rupiah&nbsp;Banda&nbsp;died on Friday at the age of&nbsp;85&nbsp;after a long battle with colon cancer, his son Andrew told AFP.

"He is gone", Andrew&nbsp;Banda&nbsp;told an AFP correspondent in Lusaka.

The southern African country's fourth leader since independence from Britain served for three years from 2008 -- a term remembered for economic growth and corruption allegations.&nbsp;

Banda&nbsp;was vice-president when his predecessor Levy Mwanawasa unexpectedly succumbed to a stroke, propelling him into the top job.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-vaccines-trickle-into-africa-zambias-challenges-highlight-other-obstacles-436166">&nbsp;As vaccines trickle into Africa, Zambia’s challenges highlight other obstacles</a>

But the veteran diplomat was defeated in 2011 elections, despite overseeing major economic growth during his tenure.

Zambia's economy expanded during&nbsp;Banda's brief presidency, mainly on the back of rising copper prices and a surge in Chinese investment.

He pursued a construction spree started under Mwanawasa, building much-needed roads, hospitals and schools.

Zambia&nbsp;recorded a 7.6 percent increase in growth for 2011, up from 6.4 percent the previous year, for which&nbsp;Banda&nbsp;took credit.

He had hoped the economic uptick would convince voters to keep him in power.

Most of&nbsp;Zambia's 17.9 million inhabitants, however, did not reap the benefits of mining and constructions booms.

Wealth accumulated in the hands of a few as corruption allegations surfaced, marring his reputation.

In September 2011, he was heavily defeated by opposition leader Michael Sata.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zambia-challenger-wins-presidency-in-landslide-406023">Zambia challenger wins presidency in landslide</a>

Man of the land

Banda&nbsp;was born on February 19, 1937 in the small town of Gwanda in neighbouring Zimbabwe, then the British colony of Southern Rhodesia.

His parents had moved from neighbouring&nbsp;Zambia, formerly&nbsp;Northern Rhodesia, to seek work.

Banda&nbsp;returned to his country of origin and later pursued his studies in Ethiopia and Sweden, earning a degree in economics.

In the early 1960s,&nbsp;Banda&nbsp;started a diplomatic career in Europe. He was subsequently appointed &nbsp;ambassador to Egypt, the United States and the United Nations.&nbsp;

Domestic politics caught up with&nbsp;Banda&nbsp;in 1975, when he briefly served as foreign minister and then mines minister for&nbsp;Zambia's first president Kenneth Kaunda.

A long-time member of Kaunda's United National Independence Party (UNIP),&nbsp;Banda&nbsp;was also a prominent businessman and an ardent football fan.&nbsp;

He led several state-run companies under Kaunda and was the owner of KB Davis, a company that supplied mining equipment in&nbsp;Zambia's north-central copper-belt region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zambia-president-deploys-army-to-quell-violence-ahead-of-vote-402269">Zambia president deploys army to quell violence ahead of vote</a>

He also dabbled in sports and at one time served as vice-president to the Football Association of&nbsp;Zambia.

Despite his achievements,&nbsp;Banda&nbsp;still cast himself as a man of the people.

"In addition to my political experience I am also a farmer, I am a man of the land," he told AFP in a 2008 interview.

"I know what it is like when the rains are late and when a crop fails."

Friend of thieves

Banda&nbsp;had planned to retire from politics and end years of active engagement with UNIP to settle on a farm in eastern&nbsp;Zambia's Chipata district.

But Mwanawasa dragged him back, naming&nbsp;Banda&nbsp;vice-president shortly after his 2006 election victory against Sata. &nbsp;&nbsp;

When Mwanawasa died two years later,&nbsp;Banda&nbsp;out-manoeuvered a dozen other candidates from the now ruling Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD) party to fill in for the late head of state.&nbsp;

He was soon accused of awarding government contracts to his children and slacking on Mwanawasa's anti-graft&nbsp;crusade.

In 2009,&nbsp;Banda&nbsp;refused to appeal the acquittal of former president Frederick Chiluba, tried for alleged embezzlement under his predecessor.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colonial-era-attitude-uk-minister-confuses-zambia-with-zimbabwe-396049">'Colonial-era attitude': UK minister confuses Zambia with Zimbabwe</a>

He then disbanded Mwanawasa's corruption task force, prompting Sata to blast him as a "friend of thieves".

Banda&nbsp;announced he had been diagnosed with colon cancer in &nbsp;2020.

Long before, he had re-married with Thandiwe&nbsp;Banda, a political science teacher almost 40 years his junior.

When&nbsp;Banda&nbsp;took office, she became the youngest first lady in&nbsp;Zambia's history.&nbsp;

Zambia's former president Rupiah Banda died on Friday at the age of 85 after a long battle with colon cancer, his son Andrew told AFP. "He is gone", Andrew Banda told an AFP correspondent in Lusaka.

Zambia's former president Rupiah Banda died on Friday at the age of 85 after a long battle with colon cancer, his son Andrew told AFP. "He is gone", Andrew Banda told an AFP correspondent in Lusaka. The southern African country's fourth leader since independence from Britain served for three years from 2008 -- a term remembered for economic growth and corruption allegations. Banda was vice-president when his predecessor Levy Mwanawasa unexpectedly succumbed to a stroke, propelling him into the top job. Also read | As vaccines trickle into Africa, Zambia’s challenges highlight other obstacles But the veteran diplomat was defeated in 2011 elections, despite overseeing major economic growth during his tenure. Zambia's economy expanded during Banda's brief presidency, mainly on the back of rising copper prices and a surge in Chinese investment. He pursued a construction spree started under Mwanawasa, building much-needed roads, hospitals and schools. Zambia recorded a 7.6 percent increase in growth for 2011, up from 6.4 percent the previous year, for which Banda took credit. He had hoped the economic uptick would convince voters to keep him in power. Most of Zambia's 17.9 million inhabitants, however, did not reap the benefits of mining and constructions booms. Wealth accumulated in the hands of a few as corruption allegations surfaced, marring his reputation. In September 2011, he was heavily defeated by opposition leader Michael Sata. Also read | Zambia challenger wins presidency in landslide Man of the land Banda was born on February 19, 1937 in the small town of Gwanda in neighbouring Zimbabwe, then the British colony of Southern Rhodesia. His parents had moved from neighbouring Zambia, formerly Northern Rhodesia, to seek work. Banda returned to his country of origin and later pursued his studies in Ethiopia and Sweden, earning a degree in economics. In the early 1960s, Banda started a diplomatic career in Europe. He was subsequently appointed ambassador to Egypt, the United States and the United Nations. Domestic politics caught up with Banda in 1975, when he briefly served as foreign minister and then mines minister for Zambia's first president Kenneth Kaunda. A long-time member of Kaunda's United National Independence Party (UNIP), Banda was also a prominent businessman and an ardent football fan. He led several state-run companies under Kaunda and was the owner of KB Davis, a company that supplied mining equipment in Zambia's north-central copper-belt region. Also read | Zambia president deploys army to quell violence ahead of vote He also dabbled in sports and at one time served as vice-president to the Football Association of Zambia. Despite his achievements, Banda still cast himself as a man of the people. "In addition to my political experience I am also a farmer, I am a man of the land," he told AFP in a 2008 interview. "I know what it is like when the rains are late and when a crop fails." Friend of thieves Banda had planned to retire from politics and end years of active engagement with UNIP to settle on a farm in eastern Zambia's Chipata district. But Mwanawasa dragged him back, naming Banda vice-president shortly after his 2006 election victory against Sata. When Mwanawasa died two years later, Banda out-manoeuvered a dozen other candidates from the now ruling Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD) party to fill in for the late head of state. He was soon accused of awarding government contracts to his children and slacking on Mwanawasa's anti-graft crusade. In 2009, Banda refused to appeal the acquittal of former president Frederick Chiluba, tried for alleged embezzlement under his predecessor. Also read | 'Colonial-era attitude': UK minister confuses Zambia with Zimbabwe He then disbanded Mwanawasa's corruption task force, prompting Sata to blast him as a "friend of thieves". Banda announced he had been diagnosed with colon cancer in 2020. Long before, he had re-married with Thandiwe Banda, a political science teacher almost 40 years his junior. When Banda took office, she became the youngest first lady in Zambia's history.

Zambia's Banda dies at 85, presided over boom and graft

Zambian business tycoon and veteran&nbsp;opposition&nbsp;leader&nbsp;Hakainde&nbsp;Hichilema&nbsp;scored a landslide victory on Monday in bitterly-contested&nbsp;presidential&nbsp;elections.

After a campaign dominated by the country's economic woes and marked by sporadic violence,&nbsp;Hichilema&nbsp;garnered 2,810,757 votes against 1,814,201 for President Edgar Lungu, according to nearly final results.

Lungu conceded defeat, saying he congratulated "my brother...&nbsp;Hichilema&nbsp;for becoming the seventh republican president."

In a nationally televised address, he added: "I want to thank you Zambian people for giving me a great opportunity to be your president. I will forever cherish and appreciate the authority you invested in me."&nbsp;

The electoral commission proclaimed&nbsp;Hichilema&nbsp;president-elect in the early hours of Monday, bringing the curtain down on Lungu's nearly six-year reign.

As his victory became clear,&nbsp;Hichilema&nbsp;on Sunday called for peace.

"Let us be the change we voted for and embrace the spirit of Ubuntu (humanity) to love and live together harmoniously," he tweeted.&nbsp;

It was the 59-year-old's&nbsp;sixth&nbsp;bid&nbsp;for the top job and his third challenge to his bitter rival Lungu, 64.

After losing against Lungu by a wafer-thin 100,000-vote&nbsp;margin in 2016,&nbsp;Hichilema&nbsp;won Thursday's&nbsp;vote&nbsp;by nearly a million ballots.

'Finally, he has done it!'

Thousands of&nbsp;Hichilema&nbsp;supporters flocked onto the streets of Lusaka, erupting into song and dance, cheering and waving party flags.

The celebrations continued into dawn, as hundreds of people congregated outside&nbsp;Hichilema's&nbsp;house in a leafy suburb of the capital.

"I am so excited, finally he has done it! Tonight we are celebrating Bally’s victory," said 21-year-old Rosemary Malunga, referring to&nbsp;Hichilema&nbsp;by his nickname, which is slang for "father".

Hundreds also took their victory lap to the entrance of the&nbsp;presidential&nbsp;residence, where soldiers and police kept guard.

On Saturday, as ballots were being counted, Lungu claimed the&nbsp;vote&nbsp;was neither free nor fair, but his objections gained little traction.

International&nbsp;election&nbsp;observers have commended the polls' transparent and peaceful organisation, which saw a turnout of around 70.9 percent -- a huge jump from 57.7 posted in the 2016 polls.

But they also criticised restrictions on freedom of assembly and movement during campaigning.

Security forces blocked&nbsp;Hichilema&nbsp;from campaigning in several areas, including the strategic Copperbelt Province, citing breaches of coronavirus measures and a public order act.

Lungu deployed the military following pre-election&nbsp;clashes and reinforced the army presence in three provinces after two deaths were reported on&nbsp;election&nbsp;day.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zambia-president-claims-vote-was-not-free-and-fair-405680">Also read |&nbsp;Zambia President claims vote was not free and fair</a>

Social media access was restricted in the capital Lusaka just as&nbsp;Hichilema&nbsp;cast his&nbsp;vote&nbsp;but was restored on Saturday following a court order.

Democracy boost?

Observers saw the&nbsp;election&nbsp;as a referendum on Lungu's rule, which saw plummeting living standards and deepening repression in the country of more than 17 million.

Hichilema&nbsp;enjoyed the backing of 10&nbsp;opposition&nbsp;parties, which threw their weight behind his United Party for National Development (UPND).

Legislative and local&nbsp;elections&nbsp;were held alongside the&nbsp;presidential&nbsp;ballot on Thursday.

Kenya's former prime minister Raila Odinga congratulated&nbsp;Hichilema&nbsp;for a "decisive victory".&nbsp;

"Amidst an unprecedented public health challenge, the Zambian people have made Africa proud for conducting a successful&nbsp;election," Odinga tweeted.

The&nbsp;election, he hoped, strengthens&nbsp;Zambia's &nbsp;democracy "and reminds fellow Africans elsewhere that nothing is impossible".

Despite occasional episodes of political violence,&nbsp;Zambia&nbsp;has earned a reputation for stability. Every transition of power has been peaceful since the former British colony adopted its multi-party system in 1990.

"Zambians have lived up to be true democrats. It's a different African story," Ringisai Chikohomero, researcher at the Pretoria-based Institute for Security Studies, told AFP.&nbsp;

Hichilema's prime task on taking office will be to tackle an economy wracked by high debt, inflation and unemployment.&nbsp;

Last year, the copper-rich southern African nation became the first country on the continent to default on its debt in the coronavirus era.

Zambian business tycoon and veteran opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema scored a landslide victory on Monday in bitterly-contested presidential elections. After a campaign dominated by the country's economic woes and marked by sporadic violence, Hichilema garnered 2,810,757 votes against 1,814,201 for President Edgar Lungu, according to nearly final results.

Zambian business tycoon and veteran opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema scored a landslide victory on Monday in bitterly-contested presidential elections. After a campaign dominated by the country's economic woes and marked by sporadic violence, Hichilema garnered 2,810,757 votes against 1,814,201 for President Edgar Lungu, according to nearly final results. Lungu conceded defeat, saying he congratulated "my brother... Hichilema for becoming the seventh republican president." In a nationally televised address, he added: "I want to thank you Zambian people for giving me a great opportunity to be your president. I will forever cherish and appreciate the authority you invested in me." The electoral commission proclaimed Hichilema president-elect in the early hours of Monday, bringing the curtain down on Lungu's nearly six-year reign. As his victory became clear, Hichilema on Sunday called for peace. "Let us be the change we voted for and embrace the spirit of Ubuntu (humanity) to love and live together harmoniously," he tweeted. It was the 59-year-old's sixth bid for the top job and his third challenge to his bitter rival Lungu, 64. After losing against Lungu by a wafer-thin 100,000-vote margin in 2016, Hichilema won Thursday's vote by nearly a million ballots. 'Finally, he has done it!' Thousands of Hichilema supporters flocked onto the streets of Lusaka, erupting into song and dance, cheering and waving party flags. The celebrations continued into dawn, as hundreds of people congregated outside Hichilema's house in a leafy suburb of the capital. "I am so excited, finally he has done it! Tonight we are celebrating Bally’s victory," said 21-year-old Rosemary Malunga, referring to Hichilema by his nickname, which is slang for "father". Hundreds also took their victory lap to the entrance of the presidential residence, where soldiers and police kept guard. On Saturday, as ballots were being counted, Lungu claimed the vote was neither free nor fair, but his objections gained little traction. International election observers have commended the polls' transparent and peaceful organisation, which saw a turnout of around 70.9 percent -- a huge jump from 57.7 posted in the 2016 polls. But they also criticised restrictions on freedom of assembly and movement during campaigning. Security forces blocked Hichilema from campaigning in several areas, including the strategic Copperbelt Province, citing breaches of coronavirus measures and a public order act. Lungu deployed the military following pre-election clashes and reinforced the army presence in three provinces after two deaths were reported on election day. Also read | Zambia President claims vote was not free and fair Social media access was restricted in the capital Lusaka just as Hichilema cast his vote but was restored on Saturday following a court order. Democracy boost? Observers saw the election as a referendum on Lungu's rule, which saw plummeting living standards and deepening repression in the country of more than 17 million. Hichilema enjoyed the backing of 10 opposition parties, which threw their weight behind his United Party for National Development (UPND). Legislative and local elections were held alongside the presidential ballot on Thursday. Kenya's former prime minister Raila Odinga congratulated Hichilema for a "decisive victory". "Amidst an unprecedented public health challenge, the Zambian people have made Africa proud for conducting a successful election," Odinga tweeted. The election, he hoped, strengthens Zambia's democracy "and reminds fellow Africans elsewhere that nothing is impossible". Despite occasional episodes of political violence, Zambia has earned a reputation for stability. Every transition of power has been peaceful since the former British colony adopted its multi-party system in 1990. "Zambians have lived up to be true democrats. It's a different African story," Ringisai Chikohomero, researcher at the Pretoria-based Institute for Security Studies, told AFP. Hichilema's prime task on taking office will be to tackle an economy wracked by high debt, inflation and unemployment. Last year, the copper-rich southern African nation became the first country on the continent to default on its debt in the coronavirus era.

Zambia challenger wins presidency in landslide

Zambia's incumbent president has described Thursday's elections as "not free and fair".

The president said election officials from his party Patriotic Front had been chased from polling stations. This left the votes unprotected.

Early results show President Edgar Lungu trailing his main opponent, businessman Hakainde "HH" Hichilema.

In response, Mr Hichilema said the statement was the "desperate final act of an outgoing administration".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-furious-as-polands-president-signs-bill-to-limit-property-claims-405639">Also read |&nbsp;Israel furious as Poland's president signs bill to limit property claims</a>

Mr Lungu also said that violence in provinces where he lost votes had led to "the whole exercise a nullity".

As per the president's statement, violence had broken out in Southern province, North-Western province and Western Province.

European Union election observers said in a preliminary report that the vote was "marred by unequal campaign restrictions, restrictions on freedoms of assembly and movement, and abuse of incumbency".

Zambia's incumbent president has described Thursday's elections as "not free and fair". The president said election officials from his party Patriotic Front had been chased from polling stations.

Zambia's incumbent president has described Thursday's elections as "not free and fair". The president said election officials from his party Patriotic Front had been chased from polling stations. This left the votes unprotected. Early results show President Edgar Lungu trailing his main opponent, businessman Hakainde "HH" Hichilema. In response, Mr Hichilema said the statement was the "desperate final act of an outgoing administration". Also read | Israel furious as Poland's president signs bill to limit property claims Mr Lungu also said that violence in provinces where he lost votes had led to "the whole exercise a nullity". As per the president's statement, violence had broken out in Southern province, North-Western province and Western Province. European Union election observers said in a preliminary report that the vote was "marred by unequal campaign restrictions, restrictions on freedoms of assembly and movement, and abuse of incumbency".

Zambia President claims vote was not free and fair

Zambia will start announcing results for its presidential vote very soon. Internet services have been suspended in the country. The Zambian opposition is confident that there will be a change in leadership.

Zambia to start announcing results for presidential vote soon

Zambians were voting in a general election on Thursday after a tense campaign dominated by economic woes, a debt crisis and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Sixteen presidential candidates are vying for the top job, but the frontrunners are incumbent Edgar Lungu, 64, and his long-time nemesis Hakainde Hichilema, a business tycoon, who are facing off at the polls for the third time.

Hichilema, 59, who is running for a sixth time, is backed by an alliance of 10 parties.

Queues of hundreds of people formed before dawn in front of voting stations in Lusaka's densely-populated and working class neighbourhoods, before polls opened at 6:00 a.m. (0400 GMT).

President Lungu was among the first people to vote at a nursery school in Chawama, a poor neighbourhood of Lusaka.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/semen-terrorism-angers-women-in-south-korea-404805">Also read |&nbsp;'Semen terrorism' angers women in South Korea</a>

Upbeat, Lungu told reporters: "We are winning, otherwise I wouldn't have been in the race if we were not winning, we are a winning team".

But a flagging economy and rising living costs have eroded his support base, surveys suggest, and the election could be even tighter than 2016 polls when he narrowly scraped a victory over Hichilema.

Lungu, a lawyer by training, is accused of borrowing unsustainably, particularly from Chinese creditors, to finance a spree of infrastructure projects.

Under him,&nbsp;Zambia&nbsp;became the first African country to default on its sovereign debt since the coronavirus pandemic began, while inflation soared to 24.6 percent in June, the highest rate in more than a decade.

Africa's second biggest producer of copper after the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the eighth producer in the world, missed another debt repayment this year.

"I am voting for change. We can't continue on this path," said Andrew Daka, 20, who was voting for the first time in his life.

'Hoping for change'

Just before he cast his ballot, 35-year-old unemployed primary school teacher Ernest Chimba, said he was "hoping for change on the issue of the economy... because the cost of living in&nbsp;Zambia&nbsp;has gone really high".&nbsp;

But Lungu says that "things are moving well in the country", although his critics point to the high cost of living, poverty and joblessness.

Tensions have flared in the run-up to polling in this southern African country of 17 million people.

Supporters of Lungu's Patriotic Front (PF) party and Hichilema's United Party for National Development (UPND) have clashed violently on several occasions, prompting Lungu to deploy the army.

Critics denounced the unprecedented move as a tactic to intimidate opposition voters, which the PF denies.

The president has also grown tough on dissent since he took power in 2015, raising concerns of heavyhandedness if results are contested.

UPND supporters have meanwhile been keeping a low profile in the capital Lusaka, a Lungu stronghold, for fear of being attacked by PF counterparts.

Around seven million citizens are registered to vote for a president, legislators and local government representatives.

The winning candidate must acquire more than 50 percent of votes to avoid a run-off, which analysts deem unlikely. If no one makes it past the threshold, a second round will be held in 37 days &nbsp;

Lungu is confident of bagging half-a-million votes more than Hichilema.

Hichilema is pinning his hopes on disenchantment with Lungu's administration of the economy to clinch the presidency.

"Zambia&nbsp;is at a crossroads," Hichilema said Wednesday, pledging to fix the economy.

The opposition has accused the government of seeking to rig the ballot -- allegations the PF has rejected.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres is "closely" following the vote and called on all candidates "to do their part&nbsp;to create an environment conducive to credible, inclusive and peaceful elections", his spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.

Local and international observers will be monitoring polling stations, some of which will be using a biometric voter identification system for the first time.

Polls close at 6:00 pm&nbsp;at more than 12,000 voting stations dotted across the vast country. Official results are expected by Sunday.

Zambians were voting in a general election on Thursday after a tense campaign dominated by economic woes, a debt crisis and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Zambians were voting in a general election on Thursday after a tense campaign dominated by economic woes, a debt crisis and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Sixteen presidential candidates are vying for the top job, but the frontrunners are incumbent Edgar Lungu, 64, and his long-time nemesis Hakainde Hichilema, a business tycoon, who are facing off at the polls for the third time. Hichilema, 59, who is running for a sixth time, is backed by an alliance of 10 parties. Queues of hundreds of people formed before dawn in front of voting stations in Lusaka's densely-populated and working class neighbourhoods, before polls opened at 6:00 a.m. (0400 GMT). President Lungu was among the first people to vote at a nursery school in Chawama, a poor neighbourhood of Lusaka. Also read | 'Semen terrorism' angers women in South Korea Upbeat, Lungu told reporters: "We are winning, otherwise I wouldn't have been in the race if we were not winning, we are a winning team". But a flagging economy and rising living costs have eroded his support base, surveys suggest, and the election could be even tighter than 2016 polls when he narrowly scraped a victory over Hichilema. Lungu, a lawyer by training, is accused of borrowing unsustainably, particularly from Chinese creditors, to finance a spree of infrastructure projects. Under him, Zambia became the first African country to default on its sovereign debt since the coronavirus pandemic began, while inflation soared to 24.6 percent in June, the highest rate in more than a decade. Africa's second biggest producer of copper after the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the eighth producer in the world, missed another debt repayment this year. "I am voting for change. We can't continue on this path," said Andrew Daka, 20, who was voting for the first time in his life. 'Hoping for change' Just before he cast his ballot, 35-year-old unemployed primary school teacher Ernest Chimba, said he was "hoping for change on the issue of the economy... because the cost of living in Zambia has gone really high". But Lungu says that "things are moving well in the country", although his critics point to the high cost of living, poverty and joblessness. Tensions have flared in the run-up to polling in this southern African country of 17 million people. Supporters of Lungu's Patriotic Front (PF) party and Hichilema's United Party for National Development (UPND) have clashed violently on several occasions, prompting Lungu to deploy the army. Critics denounced the unprecedented move as a tactic to intimidate opposition voters, which the PF denies. The president has also grown tough on dissent since he took power in 2015, raising concerns of heavyhandedness if results are contested. UPND supporters have meanwhile been keeping a low profile in the capital Lusaka, a Lungu stronghold, for fear of being attacked by PF counterparts. Around seven million citizens are registered to vote for a president, legislators and local government representatives. The winning candidate must acquire more than 50 percent of votes to avoid a run-off, which analysts deem unlikely. If no one makes it past the threshold, a second round will be held in 37 days Lungu is confident of bagging half-a-million votes more than Hichilema. Hichilema is pinning his hopes on disenchantment with Lungu's administration of the economy to clinch the presidency. "Zambia is at a crossroads," Hichilema said Wednesday, pledging to fix the economy. The opposition has accused the government of seeking to rig the ballot -- allegations the PF has rejected. United Nations chief Antonio Guterres is "closely" following the vote and called on all candidates "to do their part to create an environment conducive to credible, inclusive and peaceful elections", his spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. Local and international observers will be monitoring polling stations, some of which will be using a biometric voter identification system for the first time. Polls close at 6:00 pm at more than 12,000 voting stations dotted across the vast country. Official results are expected by Sunday.

Debt-ridden Zambia votes in closely contested polls

Zambian President Edgar Lungu has ordered the deployment of the military to quell electoral violence ahead of August 12 elections, the head of state said on Sunday.

Pockets of violence have been reported in the Zambian capital Lusaka as well as northern, southern and Muchinga provinces where supporters of the ruling Patriotic Front (PF) and the United Party for National Development (UPND) opposition have clashed using machetes, axes, slashers, catapults and other objects.

"In order to curb the political violence we have witnessed in the past two days, I have allowed the Zambia army, Zambia air force and Zambia national service to help the Zambia police in dealing with the security situation," Lungu said.

Even though the Electoral Commission has banned rallies because of the coronavirus, clashes between opposing political parties have overwhelmed the police.&nbsp;

"Maintaining law and order is a daily chore of the police but sometimes they need help from other security wings," Lungu said.

The government of the southern African nation has grown increasingly intolerant of dissent since Lungu replaced Michael Sata after his death in 2014, rights watchdog Amnesty International said in a report.&nbsp;

Lungu, 64, is running for a second term in the August 12 election as the copper-rich country battles economic woes.

Lungu's main rival Hakainde Hichilema has been detained several times since he started contesting the top job.

Zambian President Edgar Lungu has ordered the deployment of the military to quell electoral violence ahead of August 12 elections, the head of state said on Sunday.

Zambian President Edgar Lungu has ordered the deployment of the military to quell electoral violence ahead of August 12 elections, the head of state said on Sunday. Pockets of violence have been reported in the Zambian capital Lusaka as well as northern, southern and Muchinga provinces where supporters of the ruling Patriotic Front (PF) and the United Party for National Development (UPND) opposition have clashed using machetes, axes, slashers, catapults and other objects. "In order to curb the political violence we have witnessed in the past two days, I have allowed the Zambia army, Zambia air force and Zambia national service to help the Zambia police in dealing with the security situation," Lungu said. Even though the Electoral Commission has banned rallies because of the coronavirus, clashes between opposing political parties have overwhelmed the police. "Maintaining law and order is a daily chore of the police but sometimes they need help from other security wings," Lungu said. The government of the southern African nation has grown increasingly intolerant of dissent since Lungu replaced Michael Sata after his death in 2014, rights watchdog Amnesty International said in a report. Lungu, 64, is running for a second term in the August 12 election as the copper-rich country battles economic woes. Lungu's main rival Hakainde Hichilema has been detained several times since he started contesting the top job.

Zambia president deploys army to quell violence ahead of vote

What was supposed to be a heartfelt speech at the funeral of Zambia’s founding president, turned out to be a nightmare for UK's minister.<o:p></o:p>

James Duddridge, the UK's minister for Africa, confused Zambia and Zimbabwe while giving a speech at the funeral of Kenneth Kaunda, Zambia’s founding president.<o:p></o:p>

Kaunda served as the country’s president from 1964 after the British rule ended in 1991. Respected throughout the country for his fight against colonial rule, Kaunda was one of Africa’s last surviving liberation leaders.

<o:p>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-i-havent-been-paid-news-anchor-demands-his-salary-on-live-tv-in-zambia-393611">'I haven't been paid': News anchor demands his salary on live TV in Zambia</a></o:p>

Talking about Kaunda, Duddridge said he was a "great man, an African hero, and a highly respected friend of the United Kingdom who helped end apartheid in South Africa and was firmly committed to the Commonwealth."<o:p></o:p>

"Today the United Kingdom mourns Dr Kaunda’s passing alongside his family, the people of Zimbabwe and indeed the wider world," he added without realising his mistake.

<o:p></o:p>

Not just this, he also struggled to pronounce the name of Zambia’s present leader, Edgar Lungu. <o:p></o:p>

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A Minister for Africa who doesn't know which country is mourning between Zambia and Zimbabwe and yet he's on Zambian soil delivering a speech citing Zimbabwe 💀🥴
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His confusion has led to massive criticism as some social media users highlighted this as proof of colonial-era attitude in British government officials towards African countries.<o:p></o:p>

What was supposed to be a heartfelt speech at the funeral of Zambia’s founding president, turned out to be a nightmare for UK's minister. James Duddridge, the UK's minister for Africa, confused Zambia and Zimbabwe while giving a speech at the funeral of Kenneth Kaunda, Zambia’s founding president.

What was supposed to be a heartfelt speech at the funeral of Zambia’s founding president, turned out to be a nightmare for UK's minister. James Duddridge, the UK's minister for Africa, confused Zambia and Zimbabwe while giving a speech at the funeral of Kenneth Kaunda, Zambia’s founding president. Kaunda served as the country’s president from 1964 after the British rule ended in 1991. Respected throughout the country for his fight against colonial rule, Kaunda was one of Africa’s last surviving liberation leaders. Also read | 'I haven't been paid': News anchor demands his salary on live TV in Zambia Talking about Kaunda, Duddridge said he was a "great man, an African hero, and a highly respected friend of the United Kingdom who helped end apartheid in South Africa and was firmly committed to the Commonwealth." "Today the United Kingdom mourns Dr Kaunda’s passing alongside his family, the people of Zimbabwe and indeed the wider world," he added without realising his mistake. Not just this, he also struggled to pronounce the name of Zambia’s present leader, Edgar Lungu. A Minister for Africa who doesn't know which country is mourning between Zambia and Zimbabwe and yet he's on Zambian soil delivering a speech citing Zimbabwe 💀🥴 — Martha (@AfricasMartha) July 2, 2021 × His confusion has led to massive criticism as some social media users highlighted this as proof of colonial-era attitude in British government officials towards African countries.

'Colonial-era attitude': UK minister confuses Zambia with Zimbabwe

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-train-zambian-armed-forces-pm-modi-244611">Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu</a>, during his bilateral meeting with PM Modi, said that Jammu and Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan.

His is the first African country to react to the current India-Pakistan tensions.

President Lungu is on a 3-day visit to India. India has announced that it will be training Zambian forces. This was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the press statements during the 3-day visit of President Lungu

"To increase the capacity of Zambian armed forces, Indian military and airforce training team will be station in Zambia," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.&nbsp;

India will also provide 100 solar irrigation pumps, 1,000 tons of rice and 100 tons of milk powder to the southern African country.

Lauding India's role in his country's development, Edgar Chagwa Lungu said,&nbsp;"India is an important and strategic partner in Zambia's enhanced quest for socio-economic development".

Zambian President's visit is the first for any head of the state from Africa ever since PM Modi took charge of his second term this May.&nbsp;

Earlier, Edgar Chagwa Lungu was honoured with the 'Guard of Honour' at Rashtrapati Bhavan and paid homage to 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.

At the visitor's book at Rajghat Lungu said, "All said and done, only acknowledging the truth about past, present and future, can set us mankind free".

President Kovind had paid a visit to the southern African country in April 2018.&nbsp;Bilateral trade between India and&nbsp;Zambia&nbsp;stands at $830 million dollars with India importing copper from the country.&nbsp;

Zambia&nbsp;is the second-largest producer of copper in Africa with $5 billion investment. India is one of the leading investors in the country.

 
&nbsp;

Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, during his bilateral meeting with PM Modi, said that Jammu and Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. His is the first African country to react to the current India-Pakistan tensions.

Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, during his bilateral meeting with PM Modi, said that Jammu and Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. His is the first African country to react to the current India-Pakistan tensions. President Lungu is on a 3-day visit to India. India has announced that it will be training Zambian forces. This was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the press statements during the 3-day visit of President Lungu "To increase the capacity of Zambian armed forces, Indian military and airforce training team will be station in Zambia," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. India will also provide 100 solar irrigation pumps, 1,000 tons of rice and 100 tons of milk powder to the southern African country. Lauding India's role in his country's development, Edgar Chagwa Lungu said, "India is an important and strategic partner in Zambia's enhanced quest for socio-economic development". Zambian President's visit is the first for any head of the state from Africa ever since PM Modi took charge of his second term this May. Earlier, Edgar Chagwa Lungu was honoured with the 'Guard of Honour' at Rashtrapati Bhavan and paid homage to 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. At the visitor's book at Rajghat Lungu said, "All said and done, only acknowledging the truth about past, present and future, can set us mankind free". President Kovind had paid a visit to the southern African country in April 2018. Bilateral trade between India and Zambia stands at $830 million dollars with India importing copper from the country. Zambia is the second-largest producer of copper in Africa with $5 billion investment. India is one of the leading investors in the country.

Zambia becomes first African country to react on India-Pak tensions, calls Kashmir bilateral issue 

With an aim to bolster its defence engagement with African countries, India will be training Zambian forces. The development was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the time the press statement during the 3-day visit of the President&nbsp;of Zambia Edgar Chagwa Lungu

"To increase the capacity of Zambian armed forces, Indian military and airforce training team will be station in Zambia," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.&nbsp;

India will also provide 100 solar irrigation pumps, 1,000 tons of rice and 100 tons of milk powder to the southern African country.

Lauding India's role in his country's development, Edgar Chagwa Lungu said,&nbsp;"India is an important and strategic partner in Zambia's enhanced quest for socio-economic development".

Zambian President's visit is the first for any head of the state from Africa ever since PM Modi took charge of his second term this May.&nbsp;

Earlier, Edgar Chagwa Lungu was honoured with the 'Guard of Honour' at Rashtrapati Bhavan and paid homage to 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.

At the visitor's book at Rajghat Lungu said, "All said and done, only acknowledging the truth about past, present and future, can set us mankind free".

President Kovind had paid a visit to the southern African country in April 2018.&nbsp;Bilateral trade between India and&nbsp;Zambia&nbsp;stands at $830 million dollars with India importing copper from the country.&nbsp;Zambia&nbsp;is the second-largest producer of copper in Africa with $5 billion investment. India is one of the leading investors in the country. 
&nbsp;

With an aim to bolster its defence engagement with African countries, India will be training Zambian forces. The development was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the time the press statement during the 3-day visit of the President of Zambia Edgar Chagwa Lungu "To increase the capacity of Zambian armed forces, Indian military and airforce training team will be station in Zambia," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.

With an aim to bolster its defence engagement with African countries, India will be training Zambian forces. The development was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the time the press statement during the 3-day visit of the President of Zambia Edgar Chagwa Lungu "To increase the capacity of Zambian armed forces, Indian military and airforce training team will be station in Zambia," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. India will also provide 100 solar irrigation pumps, 1,000 tons of rice and 100 tons of milk powder to the southern African country. Lauding India's role in his country's development, Edgar Chagwa Lungu said, "India is an important and strategic partner in Zambia's enhanced quest for socio-economic development". Zambian President's visit is the first for any head of the state from Africa ever since PM Modi took charge of his second term this May. Earlier, Edgar Chagwa Lungu was honoured with the 'Guard of Honour' at Rashtrapati Bhavan and paid homage to 'father of the nation' Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. At the visitor's book at Rajghat Lungu said, "All said and done, only acknowledging the truth about past, present and future, can set us mankind free". President Kovind had paid a visit to the southern African country in April 2018. Bilateral trade between India and Zambia stands at $830 million dollars with India importing copper from the country. Zambia is the second-largest producer of copper in Africa with $5 billion investment. India is one of the leading investors in the country.

India to train Zambian armed forces: PM Modi

Six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged between India and Zambia on Wednesday during the visit of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu to India.

The MoUs were signed in the presence of PM Modi and President of Zambia, Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
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Speaking about the relations between the two countries, PM Modi said, "The relation of India and Zambia is older than the independence of Zambia. It is a significant friend and trustworthy partner of India. We believe in the same democratic values and the joint ambitions for development connect the two countries."

President Edgar Chagwa Lungu responded by saying, "People of Zambia are grateful for support received by India over years. My visit here has started bearing fruits, we've witnessed signing of agreements in fields of defence, education, medicine, art and culture, elections as well as between our two diplomatic training institutes."

The two leaders held wide-ranging discussions on strengthening bilateral ties, especially in trade and investment, development cooperation, capacity building, defence and renewable energy among other areas.

The Zambian President is on a three-day visit to India and is the first African head of state to visit India in Modi 2.0.

&nbsp;

Six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged between India and Zambia on Wednesday during the visit of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu to India. The MoUs were signed in the presence of PM Modi and President of Zambia, Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

Six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged between India and Zambia on Wednesday during the visit of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu to India. The MoUs were signed in the presence of PM Modi and President of Zambia, Edgar Chagwa Lungu. Speaking about the relations between the two countries, PM Modi said, "The relation of India and Zambia is older than the independence of Zambia. It is a significant friend and trustworthy partner of India. We believe in the same democratic values and the joint ambitions for development connect the two countries." President Edgar Chagwa Lungu responded by saying, "People of Zambia are grateful for support received by India over years. My visit here has started bearing fruits, we've witnessed signing of agreements in fields of defence, education, medicine, art and culture, elections as well as between our two diplomatic training institutes." The two leaders held wide-ranging discussions on strengthening bilateral ties, especially in trade and investment, development cooperation, capacity building, defence and renewable energy among other areas. The Zambian President is on a three-day visit to India and is the first African head of state to visit India in Modi 2.0.

India and Zambia exchange six MoUs as President Edgar Chagwa Lungu visits India

Zambia President Edgar Chagwa Lungu will be on a three-day visit to India from Tuesday during which he will meet the top Indian leadership including President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

This is the first visit of any head of the state from Africa after PM Modi government took charge in May of this year.&nbsp;

"The discussion is likely to focus on cooperation in defence, security, geology and mineral resources, energy, health, education, infrastructure, culture, trade and investment-related issues. The capacity building continues to be an important aspect of our engagement with Zambia", a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs said while announcing the visit.

President Kovind had paid a visit to the southern African country in April of 2018.&nbsp;Bilateral trade between India and Zambia stands at $830 million dollars with India importing copper from the country. Zambia is the second-largest producer of copper in Africa.&nbsp;

With $5 billion investment, India is one of the leading investors in the country.

India has been providing considerable aid to the country and under the defence cooperation providing training and capacity building.&nbsp;

Currently, India is building the Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centre in capital Lusaka, which is the fastest-growing cities in southern Africa. A donation of $100,000 has also been announced for the renovation of Mahatma Gandhi School in Lusaka.

It is interesting to know that Kenneth Kaunda, who was the first president of an independent Zambia and was the forefront of the struggle for Independence from Britain was inspired by India's father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Kaunda is referred to as "Gandhi of Africa" or "African Gandhi".

Approximately 25,000 PIOs/NRIs, many of whom are from Gujarat has made Zambia there home and has been playing a significant role in the economy. In fact, during the&nbsp;Movement for Multi-Party (MMD) government from 1991 to 2002, Dipak KA Patel and Suresh Desai held cabinet-level positions.

The visit is significant in the context of India's&nbsp;Africa outreach policy. In the last five years, India had 32 outgoing visits at the level of President, Vice President and Prime Minister and nearly 100 incoming visits of an African head of states/head of government.

Zambia President Edgar Chagwa Lungu will be on a three-day visit to India from Tuesday during which he will meet the top Indian leadership including President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Zambia President Edgar Chagwa Lungu will be on a three-day visit to India from Tuesday during which he will meet the top Indian leadership including President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is the first visit of any head of the state from Africa after PM Modi government took charge in May of this year. "The discussion is likely to focus on cooperation in defence, security, geology and mineral resources, energy, health, education, infrastructure, culture, trade and investment-related issues. The capacity building continues to be an important aspect of our engagement with Zambia", a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs said while announcing the visit. President Kovind had paid a visit to the southern African country in April of 2018. Bilateral trade between India and Zambia stands at $830 million dollars with India importing copper from the country. Zambia is the second-largest producer of copper in Africa. With $5 billion investment, India is one of the leading investors in the country. India has been providing considerable aid to the country and under the defence cooperation providing training and capacity building. Currently, India is building the Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centre in capital Lusaka, which is the fastest-growing cities in southern Africa. A donation of $100,000 has also been announced for the renovation of Mahatma Gandhi School in Lusaka. It is interesting to know that Kenneth Kaunda, who was the first president of an independent Zambia and was the forefront of the struggle for Independence from Britain was inspired by India's father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Kaunda is referred to as "Gandhi of Africa" or "African Gandhi". Approximately 25,000 PIOs/NRIs, many of whom are from Gujarat has made Zambia there home and has been playing a significant role in the economy. In fact, during the Movement for Multi-Party (MMD) government from 1991 to 2002, Dipak KA Patel and Suresh Desai held cabinet-level positions. The visit is significant in the context of India's Africa outreach policy. In the last five years, India had 32 outgoing visits at the level of President, Vice President and Prime Minister and nearly 100 incoming visits of an African head of states/head of government.

Zambia President Edgar Chagwa Lungu to visit India on August 20

Zambia&#39;s newly re-elected President Edgar Lungu faces an uphill battle to revive an economy reeling from a slump in copper prices, with a free-falling currency and widening budget deficit. 
 
After winning last week&#39;s disputed vote, Lungu moved to assure supporters that a new government will work to improve the welfare of Zambians grappling with high inflation and rising food prices. 
 
A drop in copper prices of almost one-third from their peak in February 2011 has resulted in thousands of job losses in the mining industry, where most companies are owned by foreign, notably Chinese investors. 
 
The crisis saw some companies suspend production, dealing a further blow to the southern African country&#39;s top export. 
 
&quot;The new government needs to work hard to restore economic growth,&quot; said Oliver Saasa, the chief executive of business consultancy Premier Consult. 
 
Saasa believes that Lungu, who first took office in January 2015 after the death of president Michael Sata, had been restricted by policies of his late predecessor. 
 
&quot;A government policy shake-up is needed in order to turn things around and inspire confidence in the system,&quot; he told AFP. 
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<h5>A drop in copper prices of almost one-third from their peak in February 2011 has resulted in thousands of job losses in the mining industry, where most companies are owned by foreign, notably Chinese investors.</h5>
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<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=A drop in copper prices of almost one-third from their peak in February 2011 has resulted in thousands of job losses in the mining industry, where most companies are owned by foreign, notably Chinese investors." target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
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&quot;We cannot always rely on copper, the economy needs to diversify.&quot; 
 
Zambia previously enjoyed a stellar period of growth, peaking at 10.3 per cent in 2010. 
 
But the falling copper price has put the economy &quot;under intense pressure&quot;, according to the International Monetary Fund. 
 
In 2015, the country recorded gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 3.2 per cent, its lowest since 1998, and the rate is forecast to slip to around 3.0 per cent this year. 
 
&#39;No honeymoon for next five years&#39; 
 
The turbulent times saw the government in April mulling an emergency loan from the IMF, but no request has yet been finalised. 
 
Although his poll victory is being challenged in court by his main rival, Hakainde Hichilema, the Patriotic Front leader has vowed to hit the ground running. 
 
&quot;For the next five years, it will be total work, there will be no honeymoon,&quot; Lungu told supporters at a rally shortly after his re-election last week. 
 
The budget deficit is swelling, from 4.6 per cent of GDP in 2015 it is projected to hover above 8.0 per cent this year. 
 
Adding to his woes is the state of the kwacha currency, which has weakened by 80 per cent in two years against the US dollar, making it one of the worst performers in Africa in 2015 and pushing the inflation rate above 20 percent. 
 
Zambia&#39;s economic problems are compounded by poor access to basic services, with electricity cuts still lasting up to four hours a day, compared to eight hours in June. 
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<h5>Zambia&#39;s economic problems are compounded by poor access to basic services, with electricity cuts still lasting up to four hours a day, compared to eight hours in June. According to the World Bank, 60 per cent of the population lives below the poverty line.&nbsp;</h5>
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<div class="share-blockquote"><a access="" are="" basic="" by="" class="twitter popup" compounded="" economic="" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Zambia" poor="" problems="" s="" services="" to="">&nbsp;</a></div>
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The crippling power shortages, which have hindered growth and investment, were triggered by an ongoing regional drought. Low water levels in Lake Kariba hobble the hydropower that supplies much of the country&#39;s electricity. 
 
For ordinary Zambians, life has become a daily struggle. 
 
Households, even in the capital Lusaka, have turned to firewood and coal for cooking, filling the skyline with plumes of dark smoke. 
 
But for many, a lack of jobs and soaring food prices are their most serious concerns. 
 
&quot;The biggest worry I have now is the high cost of living,&quot; said Morgan Zulu, who voted for Lungu in the election. 
 
&quot;Prices for almost everything in the country have gone up... the government to be formed should help reduce the cost of living.&quot; 
 
According to the World Bank, 60 per cent of the population lives below the poverty line. 
 
(AFP)&nbsp; 
 
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Although his recent poll victory is being challenged in court by his main rival, the re-elected President vows to hit the ground running

Zambia's newly re-elected President Edgar Lungu faces an uphill battle to revive an economy reeling from a slump in copper prices, with a free-falling currency and widening budget deficit. After winning last week's disputed vote, Lungu moved to assure supporters that a new government will work to improve the welfare of Zambians grappling with high inflation and rising food prices. A drop in copper prices of almost one-third from their peak in February 2011 has resulted in thousands of job losses in the mining industry, where most companies are owned by foreign, notably Chinese investors. The crisis saw some companies suspend production, dealing a further blow to the southern African country's top export. "The new government needs to work hard to restore economic growth," said Oliver Saasa, the chief executive of business consultancy Premier Consult. Saasa believes that Lungu, who first took office in January 2015 after the death of president Michael Sata, had been restricted by policies of his late predecessor. "A government policy shake-up is needed in order to turn things around and inspire confidence in the system," he told AFP. A drop in copper prices of almost one-third from their peak in February 2011 has resulted in thousands of job losses in the mining industry, where most companies are owned by foreign, notably Chinese investors. "We cannot always rely on copper, the economy needs to diversify." Zambia previously enjoyed a stellar period of growth, peaking at 10.3 per cent in 2010. But the falling copper price has put the economy "under intense pressure", according to the International Monetary Fund. In 2015, the country recorded gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 3.2 per cent, its lowest since 1998, and the rate is forecast to slip to around 3.0 per cent this year. 'No honeymoon for next five years' The turbulent times saw the government in April mulling an emergency loan from the IMF, but no request has yet been finalised. Although his poll victory is being challenged in court by his main rival, Hakainde Hichilema, the Patriotic Front leader has vowed to hit the ground running. "For the next five years, it will be total work, there will be no honeymoon," Lungu told supporters at a rally shortly after his re-election last week. The budget deficit is swelling, from 4.6 per cent of GDP in 2015 it is projected to hover above 8.0 per cent this year. Adding to his woes is the state of the kwacha currency, which has weakened by 80 per cent in two years against the US dollar, making it one of the worst performers in Africa in 2015 and pushing the inflation rate above 20 percent. Zambia's economic problems are compounded by poor access to basic services, with electricity cuts still lasting up to four hours a day, compared to eight hours in June. Zambia's economic problems are compounded by poor access to basic services, with electricity cuts still lasting up to four hours a day, compared to eight hours in June. According to the World Bank, 60 per cent of the population lives below the poverty line. The crippling power shortages, which have hindered growth and investment, were triggered by an ongoing regional drought. Low water levels in Lake Kariba hobble the hydropower that supplies much of the country's electricity. For ordinary Zambians, life has become a daily struggle. Households, even in the capital Lusaka, have turned to firewood and coal for cooking, filling the skyline with plumes of dark smoke. But for many, a lack of jobs and soaring food prices are their most serious concerns. "The biggest worry I have now is the high cost of living," said Morgan Zulu, who voted for Lungu in the election. "Prices for almost everything in the country have gone up... the government to be formed should help reduce the cost of living." According to the World Bank, 60 per cent of the population lives below the poverty line. (AFP)

Zambia's Lungu faces battle to restore economic growth

Serbian Milovan Rajevac has been appointed the new coach of Algeria, the country&#39;s football federation has confirmed. 
 
Rajevac came close to helping Ghana, who became the first African side to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup in 2010 and takes over from Christian Gourcuff, who resigned in April ahead of a move to French Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais. 
 
Rajevac, 62, will be expected to lead Algeria to the World Cup in Russia but faces a difficult qualification group that also contains Nigeria, Cameroon and Zambia. Only the top team advances to the finals. 
 
Algeria have already qualified for the African Nations Cup finals in Gabon starting next January. 
 
(Reuters)

He takes over from Christian Gourcuff who resigned in April ahead of a move to French Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais

Serbian Milovan Rajevac has been appointed the new coach of Algeria, the country's football federation has confirmed. Rajevac came close to helping Ghana, who became the first African side to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup in 2010 and takes over from Christian Gourcuff, who resigned in April ahead of a move to French Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais. Rajevac, 62, will be expected to lead Algeria to the World Cup in Russia but faces a difficult qualification group that also contains Nigeria, Cameroon and Zambia. Only the top team advances to the finals. Algeria have already qualified for the African Nations Cup finals in Gabon starting next January. (Reuters)

Milovan Rajevac confirmed as new coach of Algeria

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