The Black Diamond

In a major breakthrough against smuggling and tax evasion, the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has intercepted two trucks in Kapiri Mposhi carrying concealed alcoholic beverages disguised as rice, kapenta, and shoes. One of the trucks, with a horsepower of 380, had just 185 kilometers left to complete its 1,100 kilometer journey from Nakonde to Lusaka when alert ZRA officers at the Kapiri checkpoint uncovered the hidden cargo. What had been declared at the Nakonde border as a consignment of rice and kapenta turned out to be boxes of undeclared alcohol. In a separate but similar case, another truck claiming to be transporting shoes was also found to be carrying concealed alcohol. ZRA estimates the total revenue loss from the two smuggling attempts at approximately K750,000 . “These cases underscore the serious challenges we continue to face with smuggling and tax evasion,” said a ZRA official. “We are grateful to our officers for their vigilance and commitment to protecting the count...

Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Mutati, has applauded the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) for its strides in embracing digital transformation to enhance tax compliance and streamline trade facilitation. Speaking at the ongoing Invest Zambia International Conference (IZIC) in Lusaka, Mr. Mutati said ZRA’s adoption of digital platforms is not only improving operational efficiency but also strengthening citizen engagement and public service delivery. “Digital transformation is key to unlocking efficiency and transparency. ZRA’s commitment to innovation is commendable and sets the tone for a more responsive public service,” said Mr. Mutati. Meanwhile, ZRA Commissioner General Dingani Banda reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and investor-friendly tax environment. He said ZRA is collaborating closely with the Ministry of Finance and National Planning and the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) to implement tax incentives for both local and fore...

  A joint delegation from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Ministry of Finance today paid a courtesy call on Nsama Town Council Chairperson Mr. David Siame and Council Secretary Mr. Raphael Kamanga. The visit aimed to assess the district’s ongoing development projects and explore opportunities for enhanced collaboration. Leading the delegation was Principal Planner from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Mrs. Brenda Daura, accompanied by Planner Mr. Aaron Phiri, and Senior Budget Analyst from the Ministry of Finance, Mrs. Dorcas Phiri. The team was warmly received at the council offices before proceeding on a guided tour of township roads and key infrastructure sites within the district. In his remarks, Mr. David Siame thanked the delegation for their visit, describing it as timely and encouraging. He reaffirmed the council’s vision to transform Nsama into a thriving, modern district through effective planning, stakeholder engagement, and responsible...

The 2025 Northern Province Agricultural, Tourism, and Investment Show , hosted in Kasama under the theme “Adapting to Climate Change,” gathered stakeholders from across sectors to highlight innovative and sustainable responses to climate challenges. The event served as a platform for businesses, government agencies, and entrepreneurs to present solutions that support resilience in agriculture, tourism, and investment. One of the exhibitors at the show was Alpha Commodities , a leading agribusiness company specializing in crop marketing, input supply, and grain storage solutions. Warehouse Manager, Mr. Maxwell Tembo , welcomed the Northern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Beauty Undi-Phiri , and provided insight into how Alpha Commodities is aligning its operations with the show’s climate focused theme. Mr. Tembo explained that Alpha Commodities is investing in modern storage infrastructure that minimizes post-harvest losses a critical step in enhancing food security in the ...

The 2025 Northern Province Agricultural, Tourism, and Investment Show , held in Kasama under the theme “ Adapting to Climate Change ,” drew a wide array of exhibitors and visitors committed to sustainable development and innovation. The event spotlighted practical approaches to enhancing climate resilience in agriculture, tourism, and business. Among the key players in the agricultural sector was Shastri Seeds , a company renowned for supplying high quality seed varieties tailored to Zambia’s growing climate challenges. Representing the company was Kasama based Agronomist, Ms. Rachel Mwila , who welcomed the Northern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Beauty Undi-Phiri , to the Shastri Seeds stand. Ms. Mwila explained how Shastri Seeds is helping farmers adapt to climate change by offering improved seed varieties that are drought-tolerant, early-maturing, and disease resistant. “We are focused on ensuring that farmers have access to seeds that not only grow under difficult co...

The 2025 Northern Province Agricultural, Tourism, and Investment Show , held in Kasama under the theme “ Adapting to Climate Change ,” attracted businesses, institutions, and innovators showcasing sustainable products and services designed to respond to the pressing realities of climate change. Among the featured participants was global agricultural leader Bayer , represented by Distribution Relationship Manager, Mr. Mfune Ezra , who welcomed the Northern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Beauty Undi-Phiri , to the company’s exhibition stand. Mr. Ezra shared how Bayer is responding to the challenges posed by climate change through the development and distribution of crop solutions that are both high yielding and resilient. “Our priority is to equip farmers with seed varieties and crop protection products that can thrive under harsh weather conditions,” he said. “From drought tolerant maize to disease resistant vegetables, Bayer is committed to ensuring food security in the f...

The 2025 Northern Province Agricultural, Tourism, and Investment Show , held in Kasama under the timely theme “ Adapting to Climate Change, ” brought together key players from the agriculture, tourism, and business sectors to showcase innovations that support resilience in the face of climate related challenges. Among the exhibitors was Synergy Seeds Zambia , a company dedicated to providing high quality, climate smart seed varieties. Customer Service Expert, Mr. Arthur Simuchile , welcomed the Northern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Beauty Undi-Phiri , to the company’s exhibition booth and shared how Synergy Seeds is contributing to climate adaptation efforts across the province. Mr. Simuchile highlighted that the company is focusing on supplying early maturing, drought tolerant seed varieties that are suitable for Zambia’s changing weather conditions. “Farmers across Northern Province are already experiencing the impacts of erratic rainfall and shorter growing seasons,”...

  The 2025 Northern Province Agricultural, Tourism, and Investment Show , held in Kasama under the theme “ Adapting to Climate Change ,” brought together industry leaders, innovators, and community stakeholders committed to building a more resilient and sustainable future for Zambia. Among the notable participants was Mumocha Enterprise Limited , a fast-growing company known for its commitment to rural development and climate smart solutions. General Manager, Mr. Israel Sikaona , welcomed the Northern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Beauty Undi-Phiri , to the company’s stand and shared how Mumocha is aligning its operations with this year’s theme. Mr. Sikaona explained that Mumocha Enterprise is actively involved in promoting sustainable agriculture, small-scale agribusiness development, and the use of environmentally friendly technologies. “As climate change continues to affect the way we grow, process, and distribute food, we are committed to helping farmers and entr...

The 2025 Northern Province Agricultural, Tourism, and Investment Show held in Kasama brought together a diverse group of stakeholders under the theme “ Adapting to Climate Change .” From innovative agribusinesses to sustainable tourism ventures, the event served as a platform for showcasing climate-smart solutions aimed at strengthening the region’s resilience to environmental challenges. Among the active exhibitors was Export Trading Group (ETG) , a well established agro based company supporting farmers across Zambia. Representing the company, Kasama Sales and Marketing Officer Mr. Ernest Lungulungu welcomed the Northern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Beauty Undi-Phiri , and shared how ETG is aligning its operations with this year’s theme. Mr. Lungulungu emphasized that ETG is committed to empowering farmers with the knowledge, tools, and inputs they need to thrive in an increasingly unpredictable climate. “We provide access to drought tolerant seeds, improved fertiliz...

Under the banner “ Adapting to Climate Change ,” the Northern Province Agricultural, Tourism, and Investment Show held in Kasama gathered exhibitors and stakeholders committed to driving sustainable development in the region. The event, which attracted local and national participants, was a platform for businesses, government departments, and organizations to showcase innovations and services that align with Zambia’s broader climate adaptation goals. One of the key highlights at this year’s show was the active participation of the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) . The ERB Northern Region Consumer Affairs Officer, Mr. Kasonde Nkole , officially welcomed the Deputy Permanent Secretary for Northern Province, Ms. Beauty Undi-Phiri , to their exhibition stand and briefed her on how the Board is aligning its regulatory role with climate adaptation efforts. Mr. Nkole explained that the ERB’s mandate extends beyond regulation as it takes part in promoting energy efficiency and sustainability...

The 2025 Northern Province Agricultural, Tourism, and Investment Show , held in Kasama under the theme “ Adapting to Climate Change ,” drew hundreds of exhibitors and stakeholders committed to building resilience across Zambia’s key economic sectors. The event served as a platform for businesses and institutions to present their efforts in responding to the climate crisis through innovation and sustainable development. Zambia National Commercial Bank (ZANACO) was among the financial institutions exhibiting at the show. Kasama Branch Manager, Mr. Ligio Tembo , welcomed the Northern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Beauty Undi-Phiri , and shared the bank’s initiatives aimed at supporting climate-conscious development. Mr. Tembo explained that ZANACO is committed to providing financial services that empower individuals, farmers, and entrepreneurs to invest in climate-resilient projects. “We are actively tailoring our products to support sustainable agriculture, clean technology ...

The 2025 Northern Province Agricultural, Tourism, and Investment Show held in Kasama under the theme “ Adapting to Climate Change ” brought together key players from various sectors showcasing innovative, sustainable, and climate conscious solutions. The event emphasized the importance of resilience, local investment, and green growth in response to the global climate crisis. Among the prominent financial institutions exhibiting at the event was the National Savings and Credit Bank (NATSAVE) . Northern Region Manager, Mr. John Kunda , welcomed the Northern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Beauty Undi-Phiri , to the NATSAVE stand and shared how the institution is playing a critical role in supporting climate adaptation efforts through inclusive financial services. Mr. Kunda highlighted NATSAVE’s mission to empower communities especially in rural and peri urban areas with accessible financial products designed to encourage investment in sustainable agriculture, eco-friendly e...

The 2025 Northern Province Agricultural, Tourism, and Investment Show held in Kasama under the theme “ Adapting to Climate Change ” drew a wide range of stakeholders from across the region. The event provided a platform for companies and institutions to showcase innovative products, services, and strategies aimed at promoting sustainability in the face of environmental challenges. Among the key participants was Absa Bank Zambia , represented by Kasama Branch Manager, Mr. Bwalya Dennis , who proudly welcomed the Northern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Beauty Undi-Phiri , to the Absa exhibition stand. Mr. Dennis highlighted Absa’s commitment to supporting communities and businesses as they navigate the impacts of climate change. “At Absa, we understand that climate resilience requires inclusive access to financial solutions,” he said. “We are empowering farmers, small businesses, and cooperatives with financial tools that promote sustainable practices such as solar powered ...

This year’s Northern Province Agricultural, Tourism, and Investment Show , held in Kasama under the theme “ Adapting to Climate Change, ” brought together innovators and stakeholders from across sectors to showcase how they are responding to the pressing climate challenges facing Zambia. The event focused on practical solutions to support resilient agriculture, tourism development, and sustainable investment. One of the agro exhibitors was Saro Agro Industrial Ltd , a provider of agricultural equipment and mechanization services. Representing the company at the event, Sales and Administration Officer, Ms. Martha Ngoma , welcomed the Northern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Beauty Undi-Phiri , to the Saro Agro stand. Ms. Ngoma highlighted the company’s role in equipping farmers with modern, climate resilient tools that reduce labor, conserve soil, and improve productivity. “At Saro Agro, we believe mechanization is key to helping farmers adapt to the effects of climate chan...

The 2025 Northern Province Agricultural, Tourism, and Investment Show , held in Kasama under the theme “ Adapting to Climate Change ,” brought together stakeholders from across sectors to showcase sustainable innovations, services, and products aimed at building climate resilience in Zambia. From agriculture and tourism to energy and governance, the event demonstrated a collective commitment to adapting to the challenges posed by climate change. Among the participating institutions was the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) , which used the opportunity to highlight its role in promoting transparency and accountability in climate-related projects and public service delivery. ACC Public Education Officer, Mr. Friday Chima , welcomed the Northern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Beauty Undi-Phiri , to the ACC stand and shared insights into how the Commission is aligning its work with this year’s show theme. “Climate change adaptation requires significant investment, policy implemen...