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Monday 07:00 - 17:00 Tuesday 07:00 - 17:00 Wednesday 07:00 - 17:00 Thursday 07:00 - 17:00 Friday 07:00 - 17:00 Sunday 09:00 - 17:00

Centre for African Network, PROVIDENT HOUSE, Floor Number 08. Room 03, Along Cairo Road, Lusaka (2026)

05/06/2026

The Centre for African Network, as one of the active Civil Society Organisations in Zambia, was privileged to participate in the Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting on the Electoral Process (Amendment) Act, held at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre the 5th June of 2026.

We regard this engagement as a significant milestone for our organisation. From the very inception of the review process, the Centre for African Network has consistently attended every stakeholder consultation convened by the Electoral Commission of Zambia. This sustained participation underscores our deep commitment to strengthening Zambia’s democratic institutions through inclusive dialogue.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the Electoral Commission of Zambia for its exemplary leadership throughout the process. The Commission demonstrated remarkable transparency and inclusivity by extending invitations to a wide array of key stakeholders, including Civil Society Organisations, Church-Based Organisations, Political Parties, and the Media. This broad-based approach has not only enriched the quality of discussions but has also reinforced public confidence in the integrity and credibility of the electoral reform process.

20/05/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
20 May 2026
CENTER FOR AFRICAN NETWORK DEMANDS URGENT ACTION OVER INHUMANE TREATMENT OF CRITICALLY ILL PATIENT AT TUUWA RURAL HEALTH CENTRE
The Center for African Network strongly condemns the shocking and inhumane conduct exhibited by health personnel at Tuuwa Rural Health Centre during the evacuation of a critically ill patient today around 17:00 hours.
The incident was directly witnessed by the Chief Operating Officer of the Center for African Network, who was visiting the health facility as part of ongoing efforts to appreciate and monitor service delivery improvements arising from the progressive healthcare policies being implemented under the New Dawn Government.
During the visit, the Chief Operating Officer observed a CDF Ambulance arriving to evacuate a patient in critical condition from the health facility. After the patient and relatives had already boarded the ambulance, the accompanying nurse reportedly abandoned the patient inside the vehicle and proceeded together with the Medical Officer In-Charge to the officer’s residence for unspecified personal business.
The patient and distressed family members remained unattended in the ambulance for approximately fifteen minutes while the officers attended to matters unrelated to the medical emergency. The situation became even more disturbing when the two officers later emerged with a third individual, a woman who boarded the front seat of the ambulance alongside the nurse. Thereafter, the Medical Officer In-Charge allegedly proceeded to another house where he collected a gas cylinder and loaded it into the ambulance before the journey commenced.
The Center for African Network considers this conduct grossly unethical, deeply insensitive and completely inconsistent with the standards expected of healthcare professionals entrusted with the preservation of human life. A critically ill patient should never be subjected to unnecessary delays, neglect or indignity while waiting in an emergency vehicle.
This incident reflects a disturbing abuse of authority and disregard for the suffering of vulnerable rural citizens who already endure severe challenges in accessing timely and quality healthcare services. Rural patients are not second-class citizens. Their lives carry equal value and deserve equal urgency, compassion and professionalism.
The actions witnessed appear contrary to the principles of human dignity and accountable public service protected under the Constitution of Zambia, as well as the ethical obligations imposed under the Health Professions Act No. 24 of 2009, which demands professionalism, integrity and prioritisation of patient welfare by medical personnel.
The Center for African Network is therefore calling upon the following authorities to immediately institute investigations and take decisive action:
The Ministry of Health
The Provincial Health Office
The District Health Office in Sikongo
The Health Professions Council of Zambia
We demand:
An immediate formal investigation into the conduct of the officers involved.
Administrative and disciplinary action against any officers found guilty of misconduct or negligence.
Clear safeguards to prevent ambulances from being used for personal errands during emergency patient transfers.
Protection of patient dignity and enforcement of ethical emergency response standards in all rural health facilities.
A public statement from district health authorities assuring citizens that such conduct will not be tolerated.
The Center for African Network believes that decisive action in this matter will serve as a strong deterrent against similar conduct in public health institutions and help reinforce professionalism, accountability and public trust within Zambia’s healthcare system.
While we acknowledge and appreciate the sacrifices made daily by many healthcare workers serving under difficult conditions, incidents of this nature undermine public confidence in the healthcare system and cannot be ignored.
The lives of rural citizens matter. Emergency healthcare is a sacred duty, not a convenience.
Issued by:
Likando Mukanwa Esq
Chief Operating Officer
Center for African Network
Lusaka, Zambia
0974047840
Email [email protected]
“Advancing Accountability, Human Dignity and Social Justice.”

20/05/2026

PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE.

The Centre for African Network, strongly bemoan and condemn the barbaric and undemocratic actions that unfolded today at the Mazabuka Municipal Council. Former Local Government Minister and long-serving Mazabuka Central MP Gary Nkombo MP, faced shameful harassment and physical intimidation while attempting to exercise his constitutional right to file nomination papers as an independent candidate. Videos circulating on social media show individuals aggressively pulling and manhandling him, even tearing at his shirt, in a desperate bid to prevent him from participating in the electoral process.

This incident is not only a direct assault on one individual but a blatant attack on Zambia’s democratic values. We commend the resilience shown by Hon. Nkombo and his supporters in ensuring he successfully filed his papers despite the chaos. However, it is deeply disheartening and saddening to witness his wife having to step in and defend him in full view of the police. In a mature democracy, no citizen let alone a seasoned public servant should be subjected to such thuggery, and law enforcement must act decisively to protect citizens’ rights rather than appear passive.

Strong Warning to All Politicians:

Let this serve as a strong and unequivocal warning to all politicians across the political divide: Zambia will not tolerate political violence, thuggery, or the suppression of citizens’ rights to participate in the democratic process. Democracy thrives on choice, competition, and respect for the will of the people not on intimidation, gatekeeping, or strong-arm tactics. Any individual or group that resorts to harassment, physical assault, or attempts to block legitimate nominations is an enemy of progress and an affront to the Constitution of Zambia.

We remind all leaders and aspiring candidates that:
- Political rights are enshrined in our laws. Citizens have the freedom to belong to any party, to seek re-nomination within their party, or to run as independents when they feel sidelined or undervalued.
- Elections must be won through ideas, service delivery, and Persuasion not through violence or suppression.
- Those who perpetrate or sponsor such acts will be exposed and must face the full wrath of the law. Impunity has no place in our democracy.

The Centre for African Network will follow this matter with keen interest. We call upon the Zambia Police Service and relevant electoral authorities to conduct a swift, thorough, and transparent investigation into this incident. All perpetrators, regardless of their political affiliation or connections, must be arrested, prosecuted, and held accountable to deter future occurrences.

We urge all Zambians politicians, supporters, and citizens alike to conduct themselves with sobriety, maturity, and respect throughout the nomination period, the campaign, and beyond. Let us build a political culture that honours human dignity and upholds democratic principles. True leadership is demonstrated not by how fiercely one clings to power, but by how gracefully one allows others to compete for it.

Zambia deserves better. Let peace, tolerance, and the rule of law prevail as we head towards the 2026 general elections.

Advocate Kelly Macha MS
CEO/President
Centre for African Network-CEFANET
Defenders of Democracy and Good Governance
Lusaka, Zambia
20.05.2026

18/05/2026

The Centre for African Network is actively on the ground across Zambia to ensure that the forthcoming elections are credible, fair, transparent, and inclusive of all citizens.

We are currently in Eastern Province , Nyimba District for the nominations process, standing shoulder to shoulder with political parties, candidates, election officials, civil society organisations, traditional leaders, youth, women, and all community stakeholders. Our presence reflects our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and giving every Zambian voice an equal opportunity to be heard.

We believe that credible elections are the foundation of a strong democracy. Together, through collective vigilance, transparency, and active participation, we can build trust in the process and deliver an outcome that reflects the true will of the people.

12/05/2026

HOPE WE REMEMBER WE HAD A HOT ISSUE HERE FOR PUBLIC INTEREST. WE ARE GLAD TO INFORM YOU THAT THE ZAQA OFFICIALLY RESPONDED ON THEIR MANDATE.

Analysis of ZAQA's Response to CEFANET's Complaint (via Advocate Kelly M.S. Macha)

Our letter from the Centre for African Network (CEFANET) raised legitimate, well-structured concerns about duplication of roles, mandate overreach, erosion of credibility of bodies like ECZ/HPCZ/ZIALE, financial burden on citizens (especially students and young professionals), and system inefficiency. ZAQA's reply (Ref: ZAQA/VE/26/144, 20 Feb 2026) is a professional, defensive clarification that leans heavily on legal mandate and international best practice. It addresses the issues but does not fully resolve the core citizen-impact problems we raised.

1. Mandate Overreach (Our Point vs. ZAQA's Defence)
Our Complaint: ZAQA is duplicating the certification roles of legally mandated bodies like ECZ (for Grade 12) and professional regulators (HPCZ, ZIALE).

ZAQA's Response:

- Cites the Zambia Qualifications Authority Act No. 8 of 2024, which gives ZAQA clear statutory functions: develop/implement the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), register and accredit qualifications, verify and evaluate (local & foreign), facilitate recognition for higher education/employment, and act as the national competent authority.
- Contrasts this with ECZ (under its 2023 Act): mainly setting/administering exams and awarding certificates.
- Key distinction: Certification (ECZ awards the qualification) vs. Verification (ZAQA validates authenticity, accreditation status, and that the individual actually earned it).

Assessment: ZAQA has a strong legal position here. The 2024 Act explicitly empowers (and arguably requires) them to perform independent verification. It is not "re-certifying" in the sense of re-awarding the qualification but performing a quality-assurance check. Parliament appears to have intentionally created this layered system.

However, our point about practical overreach and poor coordination remains valid especially if systems are not integrated.

2. Erosion of Institutional Credibility
Our Complaint: Requiring extra verification undermines ECZ and other bodies' authority.

ZAQA's Response:
- Strongly rejects this. Argues that independent third-party verification is international best practice to guard against fraud ("diploma mills," misrepresented qualifications).
- Evidence: In 2025, ZAQA detected 1,996 misrepresented qualifications, some involving ECZ-awarded ones.

Assessment: This is ZAQA's strongest counter. It reframes our concern as a feature (safeguard), not a bug. The fraud numbers they cite are compelling and justify an independent check. That said, it doesn't address whether routine verification of all legitimate ECZ certificates is proportionate, or if targeted risk-based verification would suffice.

3. Financial Burden on Citizens (Our Strongest Citizen-Focused Point)
Our Complaint: Multiple fees (ECZ + professional bodies + ZAQA K200 for Grade 12, up to K500 for professional quals) create an unjust barrier, especially for students/young professionals.

ZAQA's Response: Largely silent or indirect on this. They acknowledge the complaint but do not defend or justify the level of fees, nor propose waivers/reductions/integration. They focus on the necessity of verification rather than its cost.

Assessment: ZAQA weakly addresses this. Public discourse shows widespread frustration with these fees (K50 for Grade 12, higher for others), and many view it as double-dipping since citizens already pay ECZ for certificates. This remains an open vulnerability in their position it burdens the very people the system should serve.

4. System Inefficiency & Lack of Coordination
Our Complaint: Double verification adds no value; direct confirmation from ECZ/others should suffice. Call for data sharing and integration.

ZAQA's Response:
- Claims verification is not duplication it checks dynamic factors (e.g., current accreditation status of the institution, proper enrolment/completion).
- Notes collaboration is envisaged (ECZ Act mentions working with ZAQA), but does not commit to full system integration or fee removal.

Assessment: Partial defence. Independent verification has merit for quality assurance, but our call for streamlined digital integration(e.g., real-time data sharing so ZAQA verification is near-automatic/low-cost for ECZ outputs) is reasonable and unaddressed in depth. ZAQA's own website promotes an online QMIS system for this purpose, but implementation pain points clearly persist.

Overall Evaluation of ZAQA's Reply
- Strengths: Legally robust, well-referenced to the 2024 Act, distinguishes certification vs. verification effectively, and uses fraud data to justify existence. Professional tone.
- Weaknesses: Defensive on process/mandate; thin on citizen impact (fees, convenience, proportionality). Does not offer concrete concessions (e.g., fee review, waivers for vulnerable groups, tighter integration timelines).
- Tone: Polite and appreciative of the complaint, but firm they see their role as essential and non-negotiable under current law.

Our original complaint is strong on public interest grounds. ZAQA's reply defends the "why" effectively but leaves room on the "how" (efficiency and affordability). This is a solid basis for continued advocacy rather than a closed matter.

Advocate Kelly Macha MS
CEO/President
Centre for African Network
12.05.2026.

12/05/2026

SIMPLE EXPLANATION OF THE PUBLIC GATHERING BILL , 2026 (for Ordinary Citizens)

Dear Fellow Zambians,

The Public Gathering Bill, 2026 is a proposed law that seeks to replace the old Public Order Act of 1955. Its stated purpose is to promote the freedom of assembly and association while regulating public gatherings to maintain public order and safety.

In simple terms, this is what the Bill says:

- Citizens have the right to hold meetings, rallies, processions, and demonstrations.
- However, any public gathering of 3 or more people in a public place must be notified to the police (authorised officer) at least 5 days in advance.
- The notice must include the date, time, venue, purpose, expected number of participants, organiser’s details, and safety arrangements.
- Police must acknowledge the notice within 24 hours and can approve, attach conditions, restrict, or stop the gathering if they believe it may threaten public order, safety, traffic, or property.
- It is an offence to hold a gathering without notice or against police restrictions.
- Carrying weapons (including knives, spears, axes, sticks, stones, etc.) at gatherings is prohibited.
- Wearing military or security force uniforms/attire at gatherings is banned (with limited exceptions).

Important Exemptions (these face fewer restrictions):
- Events organised by the President, Vice-President, Speaker, Ministers, MPs in their constituencies, mayors, and councillors.
- Religious meetings, funerals, weddings, traditional ceremonies, and certain indoor political party meetings.

Penalties for violations range from fines to imprisonment of up to 3 months (or longer for weapons-related offences).

For the ordinary citizen: While the Bill talks about protecting your right to assemble, in practice it gives the police significant control over when, where, and how you can exercise that right.

Critical Analysis: Impact on Political Parties

Although the Bill contains some modern language on rights, a careful reading reveals that it creates an uneven playing field in our democracy.

Advantages to the Party in Power:
- The ruling party and government officials enjoy broad exemptions for their activities.
- Police (whose leadership is appointed by the Executive) are given wide discretionary powers based on subjective terms such as “likely to cause disorder” or “unsuitable venue.”
- This structure makes it easier for the party in government to organise events while creating bureaucratic and administrative hurdles for others.

Disadvantages to Opposition Parties:
- Opposition parties, which rely heavily on public rallies and direct engagement with citizens to mobilise support, will face higher risks of restrictions, delays, or outright denials.
- The 5-day notice requirement and approval process can be used to frustrate campaign efforts, especially in key areas.
- This tilts the balance of power heavily in favour of the incumbent, making it more difficult for alternative voices to be heard freely.

Conclusion and Appeal

As the Centre for African Network, we urge the Party in Government not to use this Bill as a tool to suppress the opposition. Zambia deserves a mature and competitive democracy where political differences are contested on ideas, not through administrative or security obstacles.

We strongly appeal to the authorities to ensure that the upcoming campaign period is issue-based. Every political party and candidate, regardless of their position, must be allowed to campaign freely across the country, sell their manifestos, and present their visions to the people without intimidation, coercion, or selective application of this law.

Let the people of Zambia listen to all voices, compare programmes, and choose their leaders on merit rather than through fear or suppression. A truly democratic election is one where every citizen feels free to participate, assemble, and express their will.

We shall continue to monitor the implementation of this law and stand with all Zambians in defence of constitutional rights and democratic principles.

Issued and Signed:
Advocate Kelly Macha MS
CEO/President
Centre for African Network (CEFANET)
12.05.2026

10/05/2026

CENTRE FOR AFRICAN NETWORK (CEFANET) - OFFICIAL STATEMENT ON FAST-TRACKING OF 77 BILLS IN THE ZAMBIAN PARLIAMENT.

The Centre for African Network (CEFANET), an international civil society organization dedicated to promoting peace, unity, good governance, transparency, and accountable leadership across Africa, expresses deep concern over the ongoing fast-tracking of approximately 77 bills in the Zambian Parliament ahead of its dissolution on May 12, 2026.

While we recognize Parliament’s constitutional mandate to legislate and the importance of advancing key reforms before the upcoming general elections, we are alarmed by reports of the suspension of normal Standing Orders to expedite the processing of this large volume of legislation in a very short time. This rushed approach risks undermining public participation, thorough scrutiny, and the quality of our laws principles that are fundamental to democratic governance and the rule of law.

Key Concerns:

- Limited Public Consultation: Many of these bills have far-reaching implications for citizens’ rights, the economy, elections, media, security, and public resources. Adequate time for stakeholder engagement, public hearings, and expert input appears insufficient.
- Transparency and Accountability: Fast-tracking without broad consensus raises questions about whether these laws truly serve the public interest or entrench specific political advantages.
- Democratic Precedent: In a young democracy like Zambia, bypassing established parliamentary procedures sets a dangerous precedent that could erode public trust in institutions, especially at such a politically sensitive time.

CEFANET commends the Lusaka High Court’s recent decision to refer the dispute to the Constitutional Court, affirming the need for judicial oversight on matters of such constitutional significance.

We call on:
- Honourable Members of Parliament to prioritize national interest above partisan expediency, ensure meaningful debate, and allow adequate scrutiny of each bill.
- The Executive and Clerk of the National Assembly to uphold transparency by making draft bills publicly available and facilitating broader consultations where possible.
- Civil Society, Media, and Citizens to remain vigilant, engage constructively, and hold leaders accountable.
- All Political Players, including opposition leaders, to channel their concerns through lawful and peaceful channels while putting Zambia first.

As an organization committed to “I Am Because We Are” and building a better Africa, CEFANET believes that good laws are not made in haste. They require patience, inclusivity, and a genuine commitment to the welfare of the Zambian people. We urge all stakeholders to work towards legislative processes that strengthen rather than weaken our democracy.

Zambia deserves better. Let us build institutions that outlast individuals and serve generations to come.

Advocate Macha Kelly MS
Chief Executive Officer / President
Centre for African Network (CEFANET)
Lusaka, Zambia
10.05.2026

10/05/2026

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY FROM THE CENTRE FOR AFRICAN NETWORK (CEFANET).

To every mother across our beloved continent and beyond the heartbeat of Africa, the pillar of our families, and the quiet force shaping our future:

Today, we celebrate you.
You are the first teacher who instills values of unity and peace. The resilient nurturer who turns challenges into strength. The wise guardian who holds our communities together through love, sacrifice, and unwavering hope.

In a continent rich with diversity yet united by shared dreams, you embody the true spirit of Ubuntu — "I am because we are". You raise not just children, but leaders, peacemakers, and changemakers who will build a better Africa. Your hands rock the cradle, but your vision moves nations. Your prayers light the path through darkness, and your strength inspires generations.

To the mothers in bustling cities and remote villages, to those working tirelessly in markets and fields, to the single mothers carrying double loads, to the grandmothers standing in the gap, and to every woman pouring love into the next generation: Thank you.

May your day be filled with the same boundless joy, respect, and appreciation you give so freely. May your sacrifices bear fruit in peaceful, united, and prosperous African communities. You are our greatest treasure strong, graceful, and irreplaceable.

Happy Mother's Day!
Centre for African Network (CEFANET)
Advocating for Peace, Unity, and a Better Africa.

06/05/2026

COMMENDATION TO LAW ENFORCEMENT & A CALL TO PROFESSIONAL INTEGRITY

The Center for African Network NGO (CEAFANET) commends the swift and professional work of the Zambia Police anti-robbery team and the Eastern Province Command for the successful apprehension of a suspect linked to a K600,000 robbery at the Zanaco Civic Centre Branch.
We particularly acknowledge the leadership of the Zambia Police IG and the officers involved in tracking and arresting the suspect in Chipata. This action demonstrates that accountability within law enforcement is not selective and that the rule of law applies equally to all; uniformed or not.

As an organization committed to governance, ethics, and institutional integrity across Africa, CEAFANET views this development as both commendable and instructive.

While we applaud the professionalism shown, we also take this moment to gently caution officers of the law across the country and the continent: the authority entrusted to you by the public is sacred. The badge is a symbol of trust, discipline, and service, not an opportunity for vice.
Incidents of this nature, though isolated, risk eroding public confidence in institutions that citizens depend on for safety and justice. It is therefore encouraging to see the system working to correct itself from within.

Let this serve as a reminder that:
No one is above the law.

Professional ethics must guide every officer’s conduct.
Integrity remains the strongest uniform any officer can wear.
CEAFANET stands in solidarity with law enforcement agencies that uphold transparency, accountability, and justice for all.

We commend the good work. We encourage continued vigilance. We call for unwavering integrity.

By Likando Mukanwa Esq
Chief Operating Officer
Center for African Network- NGO

05/05/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

STATEMENT ON REPORTED ATTEMPTED R**E IN MONGU

The Center for African Network (CEFA-NET) expresses deep concern over a reported case of attempted r**e, victim intimidation, and threats directed at a young mother and her family in Mongu District, Western Province.
As an organization committed to human rights, gender justice, and community protection, we have formally engaged the Zambia Police Service through the Office of the Inspector General of Police and the Commissioner of Police, Western Province, requesting urgent criminal investigation and immediate victim protection in line with the laws of Zambia.
This matter, as reported to us, raises serious issues under the Penal Code Act and the Anti-Gender-Based Violence Act, particularly regarding attempted sexual violence and the intimidation of a complainant and her family.
CEFA-NET is especially disturbed by reports that threats have allegedly been issued to the survivor, her mother, and her relatives on the basis that she is mothering a child connected to the alleged perpetrator. Even more concerning are reports that these threats are said to involve a serving police officer stationed at Mongu Central Police Station, who is the wife of the alleged perpetrator. If established, such conduct would represent a serious conflict of interest and an attempt to undermine the survivor’s confidence in seeking justice.
No woman—particularly a nursing mother—should be subjected to fear, coercion, or harassment for seeking safety and lawful protection.
We wish to emphasize that:
Gender-based violence and attempted sexual offences are grave crimes, not private family matters.
Any intimidation of a survivor or witnesses, from any quarter, undermines the course of justice.
Survivors of GBV deserve protection, dignity, and full institutional support from law enforcement agencies.
We have respectfully requested that preliminary investigative and protective measures be instituted within 72 hours and that our organization be informed of progress in the interest of accountability and survivor safety.
CEFA-NET stands in solidarity with the survivor and all women and girls who suffer in silence due to fear, stigma, and intimidation. We encourage communities to report GBV and to support survivors rather than shield perpetrators.
We trust in the professionalism, impartiality, and integrity of the Zambia Police Service to handle this matter with the seriousness it deserves and to uphold the rule of law without fear or favor.
Gender justice is not optional. Protection of women and girls is both a legal and moral duty.
Signed,
Likando Mukanwa Esq
Chief Operating Officer
Center for African Network (CEFANET) NGO
Lusaka, Zambia

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Monday	07:00 - 17:00
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