By ZBT Reporter Football Analyst Moses Mpundu called
At 26, Miselo Matipa from Ndola, Zambia, is confidently stepping into a new chapter of her creative journey as she joins the MultiChoice Talent Factory Academy. With quiet determination and a deep love for storytelling, she sees this opportunity as a defining moment—and her first true step into the heart of an industry she has long admired.
Her inspiration to apply was born from both ambition and nostalgia. Growing up with MultiChoice content shaping shared experiences across the continent, Miselo wanted to be part of the legacy of storytellers who connect people through film and television. “I really wanted to get my foot in the door of the entertainment industry. The scope of what we learn here, along with the nostalgic affection I feel for MultiChoice, inspired me to apply and get the chance to join a long line of people who have enriched lives all over the continent with the stories they have brought to the screen,” she shares.
Before joining the Academy, Miselo spent her days writing in solitude—building worlds through words with only her thoughts for company. Now, stepping into a collaborative creative environment has brought an energising shift. “I was writing all by my lonesome before I joined the MTF Academy. It’s been great to write and work with more people since joining the programme. The network we are gaining from participating in this programme is invaluable,” she reflects.
Scriptwriting is where her passion burns brightest. For Miselo, storytelling is not just a craft but a way of thinking and feeling through life. “I love making stories up to deal with and possibly even figure out a problem or an issue I’m having. Screenwriting allows me to challenge my understanding and point of view,” she explains. This thoughtful and introspective approach reveals a storyteller who writes not only to entertain but to explore meaning.
As the Academy prepares students for practical industry experience, Miselo is most excited to bring words to life on set. “I am most excited to be on set and shooting our group project in the coming months,” she says with anticipation. She hopes to graduate equipped with practical production skills that will allow her to execute her creative vision with confidence. “The production units so far have been a welcome insight into how to get the job done, and I am keen to start applying the knowledge to my work,” she adds.
Her biggest creative influences are not distant figures but the people around her. “My biggest creative inspirations are my friends. They always give me a lot to think, talk, and write about.” For Miselo, inspiration lives in conversation, shared laughter, and everyday human connection.
Looking ahead, her vision goes beyond personal growth. She dreams of contributing to a vibrant creative industry that offers meaningful opportunities. “Next to the creative fulfilment of getting to make film and television, a tangential goal I have is creating jobs for people that they are excited to come to every day,” she says with heartfelt conviction.
Away from scripts and storyboards, there is a charming detail that many may not expect—she loves playing solitaire. It’s a quiet reminder of her reflective nature and her appreciation for small, deliberate moments of thought.
In one word, she describes what this opportunity means to her: “special.”
For Miselo Matipa, the MultiChoice Talent Factory is more than an academy. It is an open door, a platform for growth, and a launchpad for a storyteller determined to help shape the future of Zambian and African cinema.
At 26, Miselo Matipa from Ndola, Zambia,
By Samuel Mutale Following the dramatic halt of
Wins Best Dividend Yield & Highest Dividend Per Share Awards
Airtel Networks Zambia Plc has been recognised for its outstanding shareholder value performance, winning two prestigious awards — Best Dividend Yield and Highest Dividend Per Share — at the recently held Zambia Capital Market Conference and Awards in Livingstone.
The awards celebrate companies listed on the Lusaka Securities Exchange (LuSE) that have demonstrated consistent excellence in corporate governance, financial management, and shareholder returns.
Receiving the awards on behalf of Airtel Zambia was Samir Waman, Finance Director, who expressed gratitude on behalf of the company and its shareholders.
“This recognition is a testament to Airtel’s solid financial performance and disciplined approach to delivering value to our shareholders,” said Mr. Waman. Adding: “We are committed to sustaining strong returns while continuing to invest in expanding network coverage, enhancing customer experience, and supporting Zambia’s digital transformation agenda.”
Airtel Zambia’s commitment to responsible growth, innovation, and financial transparency continues to position the company as a leading contributor to Zambia’s capital market development.
Speaking on the achievement, Airtel Zambia Managing Director, Mr. Hussam Baday, said the double win reflects the strength of Airtel’s strategy and its confidence in the Zambian economy.
“We will continue to pursue sustainable growth that supports the government’s digital agenda while ensuring that our investors see the benefits of their trust in Airtel Zambia,” said Mr. Baday.
The Zambia Capital Market Conference and Awards bring together key stakeholders from the financial, investment, and corporate sectors to recognise companies that demonstrate leadership, transparency, and excellence in driving economic growth through the capital markets.
Wins Best Dividend Yield & Highest Dividend
After the debacle and failure to send a Zambian netball team that had qualified for the first time to the world cup, the ministry of sport has yet again failed the hockey fraternity.
One would have thought the netball debacle was a grave mistake; it now seems confirmed that there are serious cases of incompetence.
Details of the debacle are that the team was scheduled to travel to the African Cup before 11th October, but they only managed to secure their tickets on the actual day, Saturday.
This led to the forfeiture of two key fixtures against South Africa (11th October) and Ghana (12th October), losing 5-0 for each and dimming the chances of the country grabbing accolades at the continental showpiece taking place in Egypt.
This is not the first time the hockey team has undergone such a frustrating episode; in 2017, the team forfeited its participation at the Africa Cup due to lack of finances.
Similarly, the Under 21 netball team failed to travel to the world cup in Gibraltar due to finances, after months of planning and preparations by the athletes.
Interestingly, in a letter accessed by the Zambian Business Times through a source whose details have been withheld, the Zambia Hockey Association has written to the Ministry of Sports demanding urgent answers to the matter.
“It has come to our attention that the team was instructed to be at the airport on Wednesday, 8th of October; despite their prompt compliance, they had not received their plane tickets. This pattern of bureaucratic pattern continued from the 9th to the 11th, when they finally received air tickets, though these were issued on four different airlines, thereby complicating travel arrangements,” the letter indicated.
ZHA has further expressed major concern with the setback, highlighting that this is likely to prick at the country’s reputation and culminate in the team being excluded from the overall tournament.
Furthermore, the federation highlighted that the precedent set in handling logistical matters for both the netball and hockey undermines athletes, who endure so much to impress and represent the country with honour.
“Considering these events, we kindly request a detailed explanation of the circumstances that led to these delays and the steps the ministry is taking to address and prevent such issues in the future,” the letter concluded.
The issues surrounding the hockey team are a reflection of the many hurdles facing the sports fraternity, and perhaps the letter is a voice to the many federations that are stunted due to gross incompetency.
Although the Ministry of Art, Youth and Sports was allocated K355 million in the 2026 budget, many federations have complained that they do not receive a fair share of the cake, and some have not even received a penny in the last several years.
Why should a country with a proven track record of sport success fail to sponsor its own?
The onus is on the ministry to seek long-term solutions for the sake of slashing off
“annual complaints” in the name of lack of resources whenever a major tournament surfaces.
After the debacle and failure to send
By Tyndale Muchiya
The Agricultural & Commercial Cooperative Society of Zambia Limited (ACCSZ) successfully hosted the 2nd Agro-Input and Machinery Expo from October 3rd to 4th 2025, at the Lusaka Showgrounds. The event, held under the theme “smart farming for a sustainable future,” doubled its exhibitor numbers from the previous year, underscoring its growing significance as a key platform for agricultural advancement in Zambia.
In his address, Society President Dr. Bernard H. Moonga reported that the number of exhibitors had increased to over 40, a twofold rise from the previous year. He said the expanded exhibitor mix included financial companies, insurance providers, seed and fertilizer companies, agro-chemical suppliers, and organizations representing livestock and energy sectors, making the Expo a crucial “one-stop shop” for the agro-sector. The two-day event hosted over 500 farmers and showgoers from districts including Chilanga, Chongwe, and Shibuyunji.
Dr. Moonga emphasized that the agricultural sector is a mass employer, and increasing productivity is vital to attracting youth adsing that the Society is aligning its efforts with the government’s ambitious target of 10 million tonnes of maize, 1 million tonnes of soya, and 1 million tonnes of wheat, along with boosting overall farm profitability.
He said the Expo’s theme highlighted the necessity of adapting to climate change through appropriate technologies such as improved seed varieties, tillage practices, plant health diagnostics, water harvesting, and irrigation. These innovations were showcased for both small-scale and large-scale farmers. To further enhance knowledge transfer, the event featured added seminar and knowledge sharing sessions presented by various experts.
The platform plays a critical role in equipping farmers not only with high-quality inputs but also with cutting-edge agricultural practices and technologies that can increase their yields. It also facilitates access to “holistic agro services” in line with government programs such as the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) and the Sustainable Agricultural Financing Facility (SAFF).
Dr Moonga reiterated the Society’s commitment to continue pushing the frontiers of agricultural productivity and profitability for a “more food secure, healthy and prosperous Zambia.”
Speaking at the same event, Vice President and Show Convener for the Agricultural & Commercial Show Society (ACCSZ) W.A.R. Lourens, highlighted the timely nature of the event, with October marking the immediate lead-up to the rainy season. “The rains are just around the corner, and in some areas, they have already started. Everyone is getting ready, and this Expo is therefore the ideal location to market your essential products.”
Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Reuben Mtolo represented by Dr. Ken Msiska Director – Department of plant Quarantine & Phytosanitary services at Mount Makulu Central Research Station, emphasized that the Expo transcended a mere display of products, stating, “This event is not just an exhibition; it is a critical platform for us to share and advance solutions to the challenges that impede progress along our various agricultural value chains.”
Dr. Msiska underscored the immediate necessity of collective action to build agricultural resilience. He noted that challenges stemming from climate change and economic pressure which limits farmers’ access to essential inputs and machinery demand a comprehensive response.
“We are reminded of our duty to mobilize not only financial resources but also human capital to navigate through these obstacles,” the Director asserted. He called upon the assembled representatives governments, innovators, exhibitors, financiers, producers, and development partners to collaborate in transforming these challenges into opportunities.
The 2nd Agro-Input and Machinery Expo served as a powerful testament to the collaborative effort driving agricultural innovation, setting a promising trajectory for Zambia’s food security and economic growth.
By Tyndale Muchiya The Agricultural & Commercial Cooperative
By Clinton Masumba, Solwezi.
For most people, a graduation ceremony is the end of a long journey. But for the nine teacher interns who walked across the stage at the Educore Academy’s Class of 2024 graduation, it marked a powerful beginning, a launch into a future defined by passion, purpose, and the ability to shape young minds.
Held at the Philip Pascall Chapel and Hall at Trident College, the ceremony was both a celebration and a reminder of what dedicated, immersive training can do, not just for the education system, but also for the individuals who commit to teaching as a calling.
Kansanshi Foundation Manager Simon Keevil (Center) alongside Kansanshi Head of Education Dr. Sylvia Mwanza-Kabaghe (Right) follows proceedings during the Graduation of Students at Educore Services.
Among the graduates was Izukanji Nambela, a 27-year-old with a major in Educational Administration and Management and a minor in Geography teaching.
“I never imagined myself as a teacher; my goal was to pursue Business Administration,” Izukanji shared. “But when I heard about the teaching apprenticeship, it felt different from the usual path. It was not the typical classroom routine; it was a real opportunity to learn and grow. What started as curiosity quickly became a journey of discovery about my passion for education and the impact I could have.”
“The training was an advantage for me; it wasn’t just about sitting in a classroom. It was active, practical, and it made me better every day.”
And it paid off. Today, Izukanji is a teacher at Lusaka International School, confident in her craft and grounded in her purpose.
“When I applied, the Cambridge training gave me an advantage. Now, I am teaching. In addition, I love it. I never thought I would be a teacher. But now I know I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.”
Educore Academy, founded in 2014, offers something rare in the Zambian education system: fully practice-based teacher training. Interns are placed in real classrooms from day one, simultaneously learning theory while applying it in context. Seasoned educators mentor them, attend weekly learning workshops, and conduct independent research, all while earning a Cambridge International Diploma.
At 28, Margaret Siabulo stands tall, not just as a graduate of the Educore Apprenticeship Programme, but as someone who found clarity, courage, and a calling through education.
“I was volunteering at one of the Educore schools. I did not even study teaching in my first degree, but something about being around students sparked something in me. I studied Library and Information Science and Development Studies at the University of Zambia,” she stated.
While juggling short-term contracts and volunteering, Margaret felt the urge to shift her path. When she learned about the Educore Apprenticeship Programme, it felt like a window had opened. However, it was not without doubt.
“I wasn’t even sure if I would get in. But I did. I was scared, nervous. Everything felt new.”
Despite the nerves, Margaret immediately noticed something powerful in the Educore model: learning and practice happened together, not years apart.
“It wasn’t like my other studies, where you only start practicing in your third or fourth year. Here, we were learning and practicing at the same time. That changed everything for me.”
Today, Margaret is not just a graduate; she is a leader. At Trident Preparatory School in Kalumbila, she now oversees the ICT department and the school library, building the very environment that once helped shape her future.
“I still go back to the materials. I still reflect. The tools Educore gave me are not just for now; they are for every stage of my career.”
Margaret’s story is one of quiet determination and deep transformation. From volunteer to full-time educator, from uncertainty to impact.
A dual model, known as “earn while you learn,” not only builds technical capacity but also instills a deep sense of purpose. Every lesson, every student, and every moment in the classroom becomes part of the intern’s transformation.
One of the programme’s most unique features is its mentorship model. Each intern is paired with an experienced teacher who volunteers their time to guide, coach, and challenge them.
These mentor-mentee relationships extend beyond the programme. Many alumni stay in touch with their mentors for years, forming a community of educators committed to growth and impact.
Educore’s results speak volumes. Over 90% of its graduates remain in the teaching profession, with many advancing into leadership positions. These are not just teachers, they’re innovators, advocates, and role models who bring STEM, literacy, and creativity into classrooms across Zambia.
One-third of the 2024 cohort graduated with Distinctions from Cambridge, reinforcing the Academy’s high standards and transformative outcomes. However, the true measure of success lies in the stories of lives changed, both the teachers’ and their students’.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Provincial Education Officer Mr. Mukinyi hailed Educore’s model as a national asset.
North Western Province Education Officer Frederick Munkinyi hands over a Certificate to one of the graduating students.
“The future of our nation lies in our educators. What Educore is doing, training, mentoring, empowering, should not be limited to private institutions. This is the kind of programme we want to see in government and community schools.”
With support from the Beit Trust and Educore Foundation, the Academy has already begun expanding its reach. The goal: to make high-quality teacher training accessible to all, especially in underserved regions.
Dr. Sylvia Mwanza-Kabaghe, Head of Education at the Kansanshi Foundation, echoed this during her keynote address:
Educore Services Trainer Sarah Jane-Keevil (Center) greets one of the Graduants as Kansanshi’s Head of Education Dr. Sylvia Mwanza-Kabaghe (Right) looks on.
“These graduates are more than teachers. They are builders of dreams. Every child they touch is a ripple that moves us closer to a more educated, more equitable Zambia.”
As the ceremony concluded, there was laughter, hugs, and quiet reflection. Each graduate left the hall not just with a certificate, but with a mission to teach, to inspire, and to lead. – Article compiled by First Quantum Minerals Zambia.
By Clinton Masumba, Solwezi. For most people, a
Mastercard in collaboration with Airtel Money and powered by Network International, have announced the launch of Airtel Money Global Pay, a secure and seamless virtual payment card designed for today’s borderless lifestyle.
Now available through the MyAirtel App, Airtel Money Global Pay will enable customers in Zambia to make international and domestic payments with ease directly from their mobile phones. This innovation eliminates the need for a traditional bank account, making it possible for anyone with an Airtel Money wallet to transact globally with confidence from the comfort of their homes.
Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises and Development, Elias Mubanga who officiated at the launch last night said, “This initiative is aligned with My Government’s vision under the 8th National Development Plan and the National Financial Inclusion Strategy. It complements our push for digital transformation, women and youth empowerment, and inclusive growth.”
“The innovation will allow our young innovators, tech start-ups, and creative industries to subscribe to digital platforms, software tools, and e-learning resources that were previously out of reach. This is how we nurture a new generation of globally competitive businesses.” Mubanga added.
“Our partnership with Airtel Money is a strategic step in expanding international secure digital payments across emerging markets like Zambia enabling customers to participate fully in the digital economy. With Airtel Money Global Pay, we are empowering consumers to pay, and get paid globally with confidence, security, and ease,” said Muhammad Nana, Senior Vice President Digital Partnerships and Enablers, EEMEA, Mastercard.
Airtel Mobile Commerce Country Director, Andrew Chuma said “At Airtel Money, we are committed to delivering innovative services that make everyday transactions simpler and more accessible. Through our partnership with Mastercard, Airtel Money Global Pay will enable customers in Zambia to shop, pay, and subscribe to services on global platforms directly from their mobile phones – with security, speed, and convenience built in. It’s about giving our customers more choice and greater access to the opportunities of a connected world.”
Access Bank Deputy Managing Director, Bobbline Cheembela said his bank was excited to be a partner with Airtel Money and Mastercard to bring to customers a product that supports Government’s vision of the digital transformation agenda.
By embedding a Mastercard-powered virtual card into the widely used MyAirtel App, Airtel Money Global Pay offers instant issuance, in-app top-ups, live foreign exchange rates, real-time spend controls, and global acceptance. The collaboration will also introduce enhanced features, including customizable card designs, instant activation, and real-time transaction monitoring for greater ease and security.
The initiative will help drive financial inclusion by widening access to the digital economy for both banked and unbanked consumers. Airtel Money Global Pay launched in Uganda and Tanzania earlier this year and now launches in Zambia with further rollouts in Gabon, Kenya, and Nigeria planned for the near future. Airtel Money customers will be able to register via the MyAirtel App and link their Airtel Money wallet to the Mastercard-powered Global Pay Card to enable online transactions.
This launch marks a significant step in Mastercard and Airtel Money’s shared ambition to empower more Africans with secure, convenient, and globally accepted digital payment solutions – unlocking new opportunities for connection and participation in the global economy.
Mastercard in collaboration with Airtel Money and
By Clinton Masumba, Solwezi
Kansanshi Mining PLC has stepped in to support the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) in North-Western Province by donating a brand-new card printer and printing materials worth K168,000, ending an eight-month service disruption that left over 2,000 persons with disabilities without official identification cards.
The donation, made through the Kansanshi Foundation as part of the mining company’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) programme, comes in response to an appeal made by ZAPD Executive Director Frank Musukwa during a stakeholder engagement meeting with Kansanshi Foundation Manager Simon Keevil.
The equipment, handed over in Solwezi, will enable ZAPD to resume the issuance of disability identity cards, which are essential for persons with disabilities to access various government services and benefits, including Social Cash Transfer, Constituency Development Fund (CDF) empowerment schemes, and tax exemptions.
Speaking during the handover of the equipment at Kansanshi Foundation in Solwezi, Keevil said Kansanshi Mining was compelled to act after learning of the operational challenges ZAPD had been facing.
“The challenge was brought to our attention, and we realised how it was affecting service delivery,” said Keevil. “We had to step in to buy the printer and the necessary materials so that our colleagues can begin printing the cards again. We are pleased to help and hope this support makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives. The need was urgent, and we responded promptly.” ZAPD’s services had come to a standstill after its previous card printer broke down nearly eight months ago.
Without it, the agency accumulated a backlog of over 2,000 card applications, leaving thousands of people without the legal documentation needed to access critical support programmes.
Osco Moondoma, ZAPD’s North-Western Provincial Coordinator, said the agency had been under immense pressure and praised Kansanshi Mining for providing a timely and practical solution.
“By law, every person with a disability in Zambia must have a disability ID card issued by ZAPD,” Moondoma said. “For the past eight months, we’ve been unable to fulfil that mandate due to a lack of equipment. Kansanshi’s intervention has come at the right time. This machine is costly, and we didn’t have the budget. We are incredibly grateful for their gesture and for mainstreaming disability inclusion in their support programmes.” Beneficiaries themselves have welcomed the donation.
Emmanuel Samu, said the card is more than just a document; it is a lifeline.“ This card is what enables us to access government support,” Samu said. “Without it, we can’t benefit from social welfare, education schemes, or even some health services. Many of our colleagues were being left out simply because we didn’t have the cards. Kansanshi has made it possible for us to be recognised again.”
The donation is part of Kansanshi Mining PLC’s broader CSI strategy, which includes support for education, sports, health, infrastructure, and social inclusion across Solwezi and surrounding areas.With the new printer now operational, ZAPD is expected to immediately begin clearing the backlog of pending applications and resume normal service delivery. For thousands of individuals and families across the province, this development marks the restoration of not just a service, but access to rights, support, and dignity.
By Clinton Masumba, Solwezi Kansanshi Mining PLC has
Prudential Zambia unveils K600,000 sponsorship for its 6th PRURide Lusaka cycle race
Prudential Zambia has unveiled a K600, 000 (over half a million Kwacha) sponsorship for its 6th edition of the PRURide Lusaka 2025 Cycle Race scheduled to take place on Saturday, 1st November 2025.
PRURide Lusaka is an urban cycle race that attracts a diverse wide range of elite, recreational and development riders.
Speaking at the official hand of of the Dammy check held at the Prudential offices in Lusaka and attended by the Zambian Business Times-ZBT, Prudential Life Assurance Zambia -PLAZ Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Kachiza Kwenda, said Prudential is proud to be at the helm of a sporting initiative that has grown significantly since its inception in 2019.
“Since we launched PRURide Lusaka, we have hosted over 3,000 cyclists. It is a proud moment for Team Prudential to keep this event alive and continue to bring people together around health, wellness, and sustainability,” he said.
He noted that this year’s race will be staged in the State Lodge area, accommodating elite, recreational, and developmental riders, including participants from Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Ghana.
“This large-scale race is about more than cycling. It is about raising awareness of road safety, promoting fitness, and strengthening community engagement,” Kwenda added.
The K600, 000 cheque handover ceremony was held at Prudential’s Nambala office in Lusaka, where Prudential Life Assurance Zambia -PLAZ Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Kachiza Kwenda , and Prudential Pensions Management Zambia – PPMZ CEO, Kanyifwa Nyirongo, presented it yo th3 Cycling Association of Zambia (CAZ) President, Andrew Chibuye. The package includes K250,000 for cycling kits and K350,000 to ensure the successful staging of the event.
Prudential Pensions Management Zambia – PPMZ CEO, Kanyifwa Nyirongo, represented by Nkosinathi Lungu, PPMZ Chief Technician officer, said the race remains free of charge, a move aimed at encouraging wider participation in the sport.
“We are reinforcing our dedication to advancing both recreational and professional cycling in Zambia. Through this initiative, we aim to inspire more Zambians to embrace cycling as a lifestyle and support safer roads for all,” she said.
Meanwhile, Cycling Association of Zambia- CAZ President Andrew Chibuye expressed gratitude for Prudential’s continued support, describing the company as one of the longest-standing partners of the sport.
“This year’s event will be bigger than before. We anticipate over 300 participants, with inclusive categories for men, women, children, and differently-abled athletes,” he said.
Responding to a Zambian Business Times-ZBT, inquiry on the economic impact of this event, Chibuye noted that the event contributes to the economy in a micro way.
“For us to cater for about 300 participants, we will require close to 400 people to support logistics such as traffic control and volunteer work. Many of them will in turn receive some form of remuneration, which contributes positively to the local economy,” Chibuye said.
He added that participation in the event is open to everyone, stressing that the only requirements are the “willingness and ability to ride”.
To build momentum, he also revealed that an activation race will be staged on Lusaka’s Cairo Road, with the date to be announced.
Since its inception, PRURide Lusaka has established itself as the capital’s largest urban cycle race, passing through well-known suburban areas. It has become a highlight on the sporting calendar, with Prudential and the Prudence Foundation using the platform to promote road safety, wellness, and healthy lifestyles.
Prudential Zambia unveils K600,000 sponsorship for its
