<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> <rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" ><channel><title>The best of Zambia &#187; Blog</title> <atom:link href="http://thebestofzambia.com/blog/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /><link>http://thebestofzambia.com</link> <description>a rich resource of everything you need for a great Zambian experience</description> <lastBuildDate>Tue, 22 May 2012 11:25:49 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en</language> <sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency> <generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1</generator> <xhtml:meta xmlns:xhtml="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" name="robots" content="noindex" /> <item><title>The 2012 Puma Energy Zambia International Rally</title><link>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/05/2012-puma-energy-zambia-international-rally/</link> <comments>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/05/2012-puma-energy-zambia-international-rally/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Mon, 21 May 2012 15:24:03 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Nambeye</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Events]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://thebestofzambia.com/?p=16957</guid> <description><![CDATA[Two weeks ago some of the Best of Zambia team went along to the Lusaka Motor Club to support the Fortune Foods sponsored rally team Poncho Racing. They took part in the 2012 Puma Energy Zambia International Rally. Fortune Foods Nando’s &#8230; <a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/05/2012-puma-energy-zambia-international-rally/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/05/2012-puma-energy-zambia-international-rally/poncho-racing-team/" rel="attachment wp-att-16958"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16958" title="poncho-racing-team" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/poncho-racing-team.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="200" /></a></p><p>Two weeks ago some of the Best of Zambia team went along to the Lusaka Motor Club to support the <a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/leisure/food-and-drink/take-away-restaurants/fortune-foods/" target="_blank">Fortune Foods</a> sponsored rally team Poncho Racing. They took part in the 2012 Puma Energy Zambia International Rally.</p><p>Fortune Foods Nando’s teamed up with Pepsi to get Poncho Racing in the game. The Poncho Racing team included one of Zambia&#8217;s most popular racing drivers, Dani Beani, who made an early debut in Zambian motorsport, competing in his first event in 2001. Dani was supported by Adrian Southerland who comes from a family of motor racing enthusiasts and who has been Dani’s navigator for five years.</p><p><span id="more-16957"></span></p><p>The Poncho Racing car was an impressive Toyota Land Cruiser 4.5 VFI and the team put up an impressive show at three venues, the Lusaka Motor Club, Chisamba and <a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/leisure/accommodation/motels/barn-motel/" target="_blank">The Barn Motel.</a> The team took fifth position, 03:40:22 seconds behind fellow Zambia driver Azim Ticklay who grabbed fourth position in 03:31:27 seconds.</p><p>22 year old Mohammed Essa was the winner of the day finishing ahead of seven contestants with 02:55:04 seconds. This win gives Essa a 27-point lead in the eight-legged FIA African Rally Championship (ARC).</p><p>The Puma energy Zambia International Rally is the third round of this year’s African Championship after the Toyota Zimbabwe Challenge, and the Sasol Rally, South Africa held in March and April respectively.</p><p><a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/05/2012-puma-energy-zambia-international-rally/dani-and-adrian/" rel="attachment wp-att-16959"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16959" title="dani-and-adrian" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dani-and-adrian.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="400" /></a><a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/05/2012-puma-energy-zambia-international-rally/nandos-poncho-racing/" rel="attachment wp-att-16960"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16960" title="nandos-poncho-racing" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/nandos-poncho-racing.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="400" /></a></p><p><a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/05/2012-puma-energy-zambia-international-rally/fortune-foods-team/" rel="attachment wp-att-16961"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16961" title="fortune-foods-team" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/fortune-foods-team.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="400" /></a></p><p>For more information about Fortune Foods Nando’s, visit <a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/leisure/food-and-drink/take-away-restaurants/fortune-foods/" target="_blank">here.</a>  See more pictures from the rally on The Best of Zambia <a href="http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.359860734075423.81307.141780262550139&amp;type=1" target="_blank">Facebook page.</a></p><p><em>If you like this post then &#8216;like&#8217; <a title="The Best of Zambia on Facebook" href="http://www.facebook.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">thebestofzambia.com facebook page</a> for regular updates and/or <a title="The Best of Zambia on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">follow us on Twitter</a>. You could even join our <a title="Sign up to the Best of Zambia mailing list" href="http://thebestofzambia.us1.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=58c24562cf2d336d80c5f6d51&amp;id=ffae6fca44" target="_blank">mailing list</a>.</em></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/05/2012-puma-energy-zambia-international-rally/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>May 2012 events in Lusaka, Zambia</title><link>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/05/may-2012-events-lusaka-zambia/</link> <comments>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/05/may-2012-events-lusaka-zambia/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Thu, 17 May 2012 08:22:37 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Sara</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Events]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://thebestofzambia.com/?p=16926</guid> <description><![CDATA[Every month we publish the Best of Zambia magazine which showcases all up and coming events of Best of Zambia members. Don&#8217;t miss the events that went in the May issue. It appears May is a busy month. We&#8217;ve had &#8230; <a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/05/may-2012-events-lusaka-zambia/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16933" title="ticket" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/ticket.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="200" /></p><p>Every month we publish the Best of Zambia magazine which showcases all up and coming events of Best of Zambia members. Don&#8217;t miss the events that went in the <a title="The Best of Zambia magazine - May events" href="http://issuu.com/somethingbeckons/docs/the-best-of-zambia-magazine-may-2012/10">May issue</a>. It appears May is a busy month. We&#8217;ve had lots of new events sent through and you deserve to know about them!</p><p>Get organised because the first event is tomorrow night, Friday, May 18th at <a title="Jackal and Hide on the Best of Zambia" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/jackal-and-hide" target="_blank">Jackal and Hide&#8217;s</a> Design House. <a title="Revolucion on the Best of Zambia" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/revolucion-mexican-restaurant" target="_blank">Revolución Mexican Bar and Grill</a> have sent in a whole range of exciting events starting with their &#8216;beer pong&#8217; event on Saturday, May 19th.  They&#8217;ve also got couple&#8217;s day on May 20th, Nuthin&#8217; but a Party! on May 26th and ladies Mojito nights.</p><p>May 31st is the movie premier fundraiser of The Lucky One at at Fresh View Cinema, Manda Hill. It&#8217;s in aid of the <a title="LAWS on the Best of Zambia" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/lusaka-animal-welfare-society" target="_blank">Lusaka Animal Welfare Society</a> and the Wildlife and Environmental Conservation Society of Zambia. The event includes wine and snacks for just K100,000.</p><p>Finally, don&#8217;t forget about the Flair bartender of the year competition at <a title="Rhapsody's on the Best of Zambia" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/rhapsodys-lusaka" target="_blank">Rhapsody&#8217;s</a> from May 28th to June 2nd!</p><p><strong>Read more to get all the details and be there!</strong></p><p><span id="more-16926"></span></p><p><strong>Mellow Sundowner at <a title="Jackal and Hide on the Best of Zambia" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/jackal-and-hide" target="_blank">Jackal and Hide&#8217;s</a> Design House Sugarbush Farm</strong></p><p><a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/jackal-and-hide"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16936" title="jackal-and-hide-lusaka" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/jackal-and-hide-lusaka.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="200" /></a></p><p>You&#8217;ve got one day to buy and collect your tickets for this exclusive event in aid of Old MacDonald&#8217;s Farm Lusaka Street Kids Project.</p><ul><li>Date: May 18th</li><li>Time: from 17:00 hours</li><li>Ticket price: K100,000</li><li>Drinks: cash bar</li></ul><p>Your ticket includes live music entertainment, delicious Thai chicken curry and wine tasting. Swiss Heart Potions, Lotions and Soaps and Cilla&#8217;s Nutty Confections will be on display. You can also browse the Design House which full of interior, household and gift wares and most importantly the new Jackal and Hyde bag ranges. Find out more about the Jackal and Hyde range and venue <a title="Jackal and Hyde on the Best of Zambia" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/jackal-and-hide" target="_blank">here</a>. Call +260 (0) 211 213 841 or email shop@jackalandhide.net to book.</p><p><strong>Up and coming events and offers from <a title="Revolucion on the Best of Zambia" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/revolucion-mexican-restaurant" target="_blank">Revolución Mexican Bar and Grill</a></strong></p><p><strong><a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/revolucion-mexican-restaurant"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16940" title="revolucion-lusaka" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/revolucion-lusaka.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="200" /></a><br /> </strong>Revolución is on 18/254 Zambezi road in Roma. <a title="Revolucion on the Best of Zambia" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/revolucion-mexican-restaurant" target="_blank">Enquire and book here</a> or call<br /> +260 (0) 955 987 979.</p><p><strong>Beer pong</strong><br /> Using ping pong balls, and a table tennis table, contestants have to compete to get ping pong balls into full beer glasses.</p><ul><li>Date: May 19th</li><li>Time: 19:00 hours</li><li>Price: K50,000 per person</li><li>Prizes: Cash and consolation prizes</li></ul><p><strong>Couple&#8217;s day<br /> </strong>Bring a loved one or close friend and enjoy 10% off your meals!</p><ul><li>Date: May 20th</li><li>Time: All day long!</li><li>Happy hour: 18:00 to 20:00 hours</li><li>Specials: Margarita jug K110,000 and Mojito jug K125,000</li></ul><p><strong>&#8220;Nuthin&#8217; But a Party!</strong></p><ul><li>Date: May 26th</li><li>Time: 19:00 to 02:00 hours</li><li>Price: Free entry</li><li>Happy hour: 19:00 to 20:00 hours</li><li>Specials on Jungle Juice shots: K20,000</li></ul><p><strong>Ladies mojito night</strong><br /> Ladies visit Revolución and enjoy half price Mojito&#8217;s all night!</p><ul><li>Time: All night, any night</li><li>Price: Mojitos just K15,000 all night</li><li>Happy hour: 18:00 to 20:00 hours</li><li>Ladies Mojito hour: 20:00 to 21:00 hours</li><li>Ladies must be accompanied by a gentleman or have had a minimum of two drinks prior to 20:00 hours for free Mojitos</li></ul><div><p><strong>Movie premier fundraiser &#8211; The Lucky One<br /> </strong></p><p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16934" title="gala-night" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/gala-nightjpg.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="372" /></p><p>This film will be showing at Fresh View Cinema, Manda Hill on May 31st. This movie event is in aid of the <a title="LAWS on the Best of Zambia" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/lusaka-animal-welfare-society" target="_blank">Lusaka Animal Welfare Society</a> and the Wildlife and Environmental Conservation Society of Zambia.</p><ul><li>Date: May 31st</li><li>Time: 19:00 hours for wine and snacks and the film starts at 20:20</li><li>Ticket price: K100,000</li></ul><div><p>Based on Nicholas Sparks&#8217; bestseller The Lucky One, Zac Efron (&#8220;17 Again,&#8221; &#8220;Charlie St. Cloud&#8221;) stars alongside Taylor Schilling (TV&#8217;s &#8220;Mercy&#8221;) and Blythe Danner (&#8220;Meet the Parents&#8221; franchise) in this romantic drama directed by Academy Award®-nominated writer/director Scott Hicks (&#8220;Shine,&#8221; &#8220;No Reservations&#8221;).</p><p>U.S. Marine Sergeant Logan Thibault (Efron) returns from his third tour of duty in Iraq, with the one thing he credits with keeping him alive—a photograph he found of a woman he doesn&#8217;t even know. Learning her name is Beth (Schilling) and where she lives, he shows up at her door, and ends up taking a job at her family-run local kennel. Despite her initial mistrust and the complications in her life, a romance develops between them, giving Logan hope that Beth could be much more than his good luck charm. For enquiries and tickets call: Claudia on<br /> +260 (0) 966 005 297 or Siri on +260 (0) 977 856 040.</p><p><strong>Finally, the Flair Bartender of the Year competition is at <a title="Rhapsody's on the Best of Zambia" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/rhapsodys-lusaka" target="_blank">Rhapsody&#8217;s</a>!</strong></p><p><a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/rhapsodys-lusaka"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16938" title="bartender-competition" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/bartender-competition.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="200" /></a></p><p>Rhpasody&#8217;s are putting on this exciting bartender competition and invite you to support you favourites as they hone the skills they will be learning. There&#8217;ll be lots of drama to take in and you can enjoy the fabulous Rhapsody&#8217;s food while you&#8217;re there.</p><p><strong>Bartender information</strong></p><ul><li>K500,000 entrance per bartender</li><li>Includes training, meal and soft drink</li><li>Limited positions available</li><li>Prizes up for grabs: First place K1.5 million, second place K1 million and third place K500,000.</li></ul><div><p><strong>Spectator information</strong></p><ul><li>Free entrance</li><li>Complementary concktails</li><li>Quarter finals: May 31st</li><li>Semi finals: June 1st</li><li>Finals: June 2nd</li></ul><div><p>Call +260 (0) 211 256 705 or +260 (0) 211 256 706 or +260 (0) 966 754 475 or +260 (0) 977 675 000 or <a title="Rhapsody's on the Best of Zambia" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/rhapsodys-lusaka" target="_blank">enquire here</a>.</p><p><strong>So there you have it &#8211; entertainment for the rest of May!</strong> Terms and conditions apply to all events.</p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 24px;"><br /> </span></span></p></div></div><p><em>If you like this post then &#8216;like&#8217; <a title="The Best of Zambia on Facebook" href="http://www.facebook.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">thebestofzambia.com facebook page</a> for regular updates and/or <a title="The Best of Zambia on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">follow us on Twitter</a>. You could even join our <a title="Sign up to the Best of Zambia mailing list" href="http://thebestofzambia.us1.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=58c24562cf2d336d80c5f6d51&amp;id=ffae6fca44" target="_blank">mailing list</a>.</em></p><p>Image credits: <a href="www.regalstowmarket.co.uk" target="_blank">www.regalstowmarket.co.uk</a> and <a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/bartender-competition-announcement">www.examiner.com/article/bartender-competition-announcement</a></p></div></div> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/05/may-2012-events-lusaka-zambia/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Nambeye Katebe meets&#8230; interviews with people making an impact in Zambia</title><link>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/04/nambeye-katebe-interviews-people-making-an-impact-in-zambia/</link> <comments>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/04/nambeye-katebe-interviews-people-making-an-impact-in-zambia/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Wed, 18 Apr 2012 15:23:50 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Sara</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://thebestofzambia.com/?p=16606</guid> <description><![CDATA[In the January issue of the Best of Zambia online magazine we launched the &#8220;Nambeye meets&#8230;&#8221; interviews.  Nambeye Katebe is the Best of Zambia Multi Media Journalist and every month she interviews people making an impact in Zambia. We&#8217;ve been inspired by the &#8230; <a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/04/nambeye-katebe-interviews-people-making-an-impact-in-zambia/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_16623" class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 560px"><a href="http://issuu.com/somethingbeckons/docs/the-best-of-zambia-magazine-march-2012/4"><img class="size-full wp-image-16623" title="zonefam-the-best-of-zambia" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/zonefam-the-best-of-zambia.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="200" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Nambeye meets Dope G, Thugga and J Rox of Zonefam</p></div><p>In the January issue of the Best of Zambia online magazine we launched the &#8220;Nambeye meets&#8230;&#8221; interviews.  Nambeye Katebe is the Best of Zambia Multi Media Journalist and every month she interviews people making an impact in Zambia. We&#8217;ve been inspired by the progress that is quietly going on — progress that is the result of individuals striving to make a difference through their skills and businesses. So, here&#8217;s an insight into the lives, activities and goals of these people.</p><p><span id="more-16606"></span></p><p><a title="Interview with Lee-Anne Singh" href="http://issuu.com/somethingbeckons/docs/the-best-of-zambia-magazine-april-2012/4" target="_blank">Lee-Anne Singh</a> of Image Promotions tells us about the company behind the new Best of Zambia book.</p><p><a title="Zonefam interview" href="http://issuu.com/somethingbeckons/docs/the-best-of-zambia-magazine-march-2012/4" target="_blank">Zonefam</a> — Jay Rox, Thugga, Dope G and Yung Verbal share all about Zambia&#8217;s popular hip-hop band.</p><p><a title="Interview with Abel Ng'andu" href="http://issuu.com/somethingbeckons/docs/the-best-of-zambia-magazine-feb-2012/4" target="_blank">Abel Ng&#8217;andu</a>, Managing Director of Ng&#8217;andu Consulting discusses engineering, awards and investment.</p><p><a title="Interview with Ika Hindson" href="http://issuu.com/somethingbeckons/docs/the-best-of-zambia-magazine-jan-2012/4" target="_blank">Ika Hindson</a>, co-owner of Senses@Sensorium talks all things beauty.</p><p>Enjoy! Remember, there is a new interview in every issue of the monthly magazine.</p><p><em>If you like this post then &#8216;like&#8217; <a title="The Best of Zambia on Facebook" href="http://www.facebook.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">thebestofzambia.com facebook page</a> for regular updates and/or <a title="The Best of Zambia on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">follow us on Twitter</a>. You could even join our <a title="Sign up to the Best of Zambia mailing list" href="http://thebestofzambia.us1.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=58c24562cf2d336d80c5f6d51&amp;id=ffae6fca44" target="_blank">mailing list</a>.</em></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/04/nambeye-katebe-interviews-people-making-an-impact-in-zambia/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Trees For Zambia – the start of a &#8216;Treevolution&#8217;</title><link>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/04/trees-for-zambia-the-start-of-a-treevolution/</link> <comments>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/04/trees-for-zambia-the-start-of-a-treevolution/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:40:59 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Nambeye</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Events]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://thebestofzambia.com/?p=16443</guid> <description><![CDATA[For many of us, the only time we appreciate or even notice trees is when we take shelter under the shade of a leafy tree on a hot sunny day. Trees however, are rather more important and play a number &#8230; <a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/04/trees-for-zambia-the-start-of-a-treevolution/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/04/trees-for-zambia-the-start-of-a-treevolution/trees-for-zambia/" rel="attachment wp-att-16446"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16446" title="trees for zambia" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/trees-for-zambia.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="200" /></a></p><p>For many of us, the only time we appreciate or even notice trees is when we take shelter under the shade of a leafy tree on a hot sunny day. Trees however, are rather more important and play a number of important roles. Forests help maintain ecological balance and biodiversity. They limit erosion in watersheds and influence variations in weather and climate. Trees also support rural communities through wood, food, fuel, feed, fibre or organic fertilizers.</p><p>Unfortunately, Zambia is one of the top ten countries in the world with the highest deforestation rates. Zambia is losing approximately 8,000 hectares of forest a year. Tipped off by the <a title="Trees for Zambia project information" href="http://www.greenpop.org/projects/trees-for-zambia/" target="_blank">Trees for Zambia</a> project, we ask what is deforestation, why is it such a serious problem and what is being done about it?</p><p><span id="more-16443"></span></p><p><strong>What is deforestation?<br /> </strong>Deforestation refers to the loss or destruction of naturally occurring forests, primarily due to human activity such as logging, the cutting of trees for fuel, slash-and-burn agriculture, land clearing for livestock grazing, mining operations, oil extraction, dam building, and urban sprawl or other types of development and population expansion.</p><p>Despite the important role of trees, deforestation is a growing global problem with far-reaching environmental and economic consequences. Forests still cover about 30% of the earth&#8217;s surface, but each year about 13 million hectares of forest (approximately 78,000 square miles) are converted to agricultural land or cleared for other purposes. At the current rate of deforestation the world’s rain forests could completely vanish in a hundred years.</p><p><strong>The effects of deforestation</strong><br /> Deforestation has many negative effects on the environment. The most dramatic impact is a loss of habitat for millions of species. 70% of the earth’s land animals and plants live in forests, and many cannot survive the deforestation that destroys their homes. Deforestation also drives climate change. Forest soils are moist, but without the protection from sun-blocking tree cover, they quickly dry out. Trees also help perpetuate the water cycle by returning water vapour back into the atmosphere. Without trees to fill these roles, many forest areas can quickly become barren deserts.</p><p><strong>Stopping local deforestation with the help of Greenpop</strong><br /> Zambia is recognised as one of the top ten countries with the highest deforestation rates in the world. With this in mind, planting trees to replace the trees lost is an excellent responses to this crisis. For three weeks in July 2012, an organisation known as Greenpop is hosting a reforestation project in Livingstone, Zambia. The project has been dubbed as “Trees for Zambia” and up to 5,000 to 10,000 indigenous and fruit trees will be planted. The projects mission is to make tangible change and get everybody excited about trees.</p><p>Greenpop will also host valuable educational sessions for children and subsistence farmers. This will be the start of an ongoing campaign to tackle deforestation in Zambia through the planting of trees and changing attitudes towards the value of living trees. Volunteers from all over the world will join local volunteers and school children to make this project a success.</p><p><strong>What is Greenpop?</strong><br /> Based in Cape Town, South Africa, <a title="Greenpop website" href="http://www.greenpop.org/" target="_blank">Greenpop</a> is a social enterprise that runs urban greening and reforestation projects in sub-Saharan Africa. Volunteers help to plant trees in schools, communities, and deforested areas with the aim of spreading environmental awareness, uplift under-greened communities, make greening enjoyable and combat climate change.</p><p><strong>What are the objectives of the Trees for Zambia project?</strong></p><ul><li>Educate local children on environmental issues</li><li>Promote conservation farming methods</li><li>Initiate a culture of tree planting</li><li>Develop a micro-nursery enterprise to financially support farmers</li></ul><p><strong>Why July?</strong><br /> The trees will be planted a few months before the rainy season to allow time for school children and community members to actively care for the trees and nurse them. A large part of this project is about education and making sure that local people are actively involved in the trees&#8217; life and can thus reap all the benefits. If the trees are planted in the rainy season and initially watered by the rains the initial and most vital period of care and learning is lost and the trees can potentially be forgotten. Greenpop has carried out research which has proved that with the right amount of tree care in mid dry season, the trees will be in good health by the time rainy season arrives.</p><p><strong>Where will the trees be planted?</strong><br /> The trees will be planted within the Victoria Falls World Heritage site, Dambwa Forest and subsistence farming communities. Fruit trees will also be planted at various schools around Livingstone. In addition, Greenpop will host workshops for subsistence farmers to promote conservation farming methods, since traditional farming methods contribute significantly to land degradation and deforestation.</p><p><strong>How can you help?</strong><br /> Greenpop is looking for media partners to help spread awareness about the Trees for Zambia project. You can also help by donating trees to be planted in July or by volunteering to take part in this exciting project. You can buy little tree-shaped key rings from selected lodges around Livingstone. These represent a tree and after their tree is planted, they will receive a certificate with GPS coordinates of the tree.</p><p>To find out more about this project and how to get involved, visit the Trees for Zambia <a href="http://www.greenpop.org/projects/trees-for-zambia/" target="_blank">website,</a> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Greenpop-Zambia/310725628958396" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> or the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/GreenpopTreevolution" target="_blank">Greenpop Facebook page</a>.</p><p>With that in mind, we leave you with food for thought from an anonymous writer, &#8220;It&#8217;s easy to take trees for granted. After all, it looks like they stand around and do nothing. But, in reality, they&#8217;re very busy doing many jobs that are very essential.&#8221;</p><p><em>If you like this post then &#8216;like&#8217; <a title="The Best of Zambia on Facebook" href="http://www.facebook.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">thebestofzambia.com facebook page</a> for regular updates and/or <a title="The Best of Zambia on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">follow us on Twitter</a>. You could even join our <a title="Sign up to the Best of Zambia mailing list" href="http://thebestofzambia.us1.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=58c24562cf2d336d80c5f6d51&amp;id=ffae6fca44" target="_blank">mailing list</a>.</em></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/04/trees-for-zambia-the-start-of-a-treevolution/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>2</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Zambia and World Water Day 2012</title><link>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/03/zambia-and-world-water-day-2012/</link> <comments>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/03/zambia-and-world-water-day-2012/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Mon, 26 Mar 2012 07:59:02 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Sara</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://thebestofzambia.com/?p=16342</guid> <description><![CDATA[World Water Day took place last week, on Thursday the 22nd of March, 2012. The point of world water day is to focus our attention on the importance of freshwater and the sustainable management of freshwater resources. With a gentle nudge from &#8230; <a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/03/zambia-and-world-water-day-2012/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16354" title="world-water-day" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/world-water-day.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="200" /></p><p>World Water Day took place last week, on Thursday the 22nd of March, 2012. The point of world water day is to focus our attention on the importance of freshwater and the sustainable management of freshwater resources. With a gentle nudge from the <a title="GIZ in Zambia" href="http://www.giz.de/Themen/en/6629.htm" target="_blank">GIZ team in Zambia</a> we decided to take a closer look. Each year, World Water Day highlights a specific theme to raise awareness. For example, the 2012 theme is &#8216;water and food security&#8217; whilst the 2011 theme was &#8216;water for cities&#8217; and 2010 was all about &#8216;water quality&#8217;.</p><p>GIZ in Zambia have been working with the Ministry of Energy and Water Development (MEWD) and the Ministry of Local Government and Housing (MLGH) toward reforming the legal, organisational and institutional framework conditions of the water sector in Zambia. According to GIZ, 80% of Zambia’s urban population live on the outskirts of Zambia&#8217;s towns and cities. That equates to about three million people. Nearly half of these people, that&#8217;s 1.5 million people, do not have sufficient access to clean drinking water or sanitation. But, as result of the working partnerships between GIZ and Zambia&#8217;s ministries and authorities, some four million people in Zambia have already gained access to clean drinking water.</p><p><span id="more-16342"></span></p><p>Focusing in on this years theme, &#8217;water and food security&#8217; we looked at five frequently asked questions that are relevant to Zambia.</p><p><strong>1. What is food security?</strong><br /> Food security exists when a person has physical and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs for an active and healthy life.</p><p><strong>2. Why is water a key to food security?</strong><br /> It&#8217;s a fact that people who have better access to water tend to have lower levels of undernourishment. In Zambia&#8217;s rural areas, where people depend on local agriculture for food and income, lack of water can be a major cause of famine and undernourishment. Erratic rainfall, floods, droughts and seasonal differences in water availability can and do cause temporary food shortages.</p><p><strong>3. How much water is needed to produce our food?</strong><br /> This example hit home! It takes about 1500 liters of water to produce 1kg of wheat, but it takes 10 times more to produce 1kg of beef!</p><p><strong>4. Is the competition for water increasing?</strong><br /> When the population increases and the economy grows, as is happening in Zambia, water demands for cities and industry growing much faster than for agriculture. Increased competition for water often translates into loss of access to water for poorer communities. For millions of smallholder farmers, fishers and herders, water is one of the most important factors of production. Without water, they cannot make a living. This is true for Zambia.</p><p><strong>5. How can we reduce the waste?</strong><br /> Incredibly, roughly 30% of the food produced worldwide is lost or wasted every year. In many developing countries, large amounts of what is produced is lost between the farmers’ field and the market due to poor storage and transportation facilities. Here more needs to be done to enable a smoother journey from field to market. In developed countries, food is wasted by the consumer who is unaware of the resources needed to produce it. Here a change in attitude is necessary because limiting waste reduces the water needed to produce our food.</p><p><strong>Here&#8217;s a summary of how Zambia took part in the 2012 World Water Day</strong></p><ul><li>On Monday the 19th March World Water Day activities were launched on national television at 19:30</li><li>On Tuesday the 20th March 2012 an exhibition by the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Water Development took place</li><li>On Wednesday the 21st March a football tournament took place at Olympiafrica  to promote health and hygiene through the excitement of football</li><li>On Thursday the 22nd March 2012 Zambia commemorated World Water Day with a march flagged off at ZESCO head office and right through Cairo Road to Levy Park Mall.</li><li>A workshop on business development in the field of sustainable sanitation and water management also took place.</li></ul><p><strong>Update on April the 2nd 2012</strong><br /> Here is a <a href="http://www.dtfwater.org.zm/news/devolution-trust-fund-celebrates-world-water-day-2012.html" target="_blank">news piece</a> here by the Devolution Trust Fund which is water and sanitation project for the urban poor.</p><p>This <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWEszBvTrAQ&amp;feature=channel" target="_blank">video</a> also explains the links between water, food security, nutrition and energy very nicely.</p><p>We were also sent a picture from the Youth Development Through Football tournament on 21st of March. The former National Football Team player Annie Namukanga is seen with Dep. Minister of Mines, Energy and Water Development Charles Zulu; Deputy Minister Sport and Youth, Nathaniel Mubukwanu; Information, Broadcasting and Tourism Deputy Minister, Forrie Tembo; Japanese Ambassador, Egawa; and German Ambassador Frank Meyke.</p><p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16378" title="football-zambia" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/football-zambia.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="400" /></p><p>Also fitting is this document we came across via Economist, Dambisa Moyo&#8217;s Facebook page. She says,  &#8221;People are worried about the recent spike in oil prices but among commodities, it’s not just oil. Water is also an issue for concern with a US agency forecasting the possibility of water wars.&#8221; <a title="Global Water Security document" href="http://www.dni.gov/nic/ICA_Global%20Water%20Security.pdf" target="_blank">Global Water Security</a> discussed this in depth.</p><p><strong>Find out more</strong><br /> If you want to find out more about the challenges we face with water then here is the <a title="World Water Day brochure" href="http://www.unwater.org/worldwaterday/downloads/WWD2012_BROCHURE_EN.pdf" target="_blank">2012 World Water Day brochure</a> and here&#8217;s the <a href="http://www.unwater.org/worldwaterday/" target="_blank">website</a>. You can also join the World Water Day network here:</p><ol><li><a title="World Water Day on Twitter" href="https://twitter.com/#!/UNW_WWD" target="_blank">Twitter</a></li><li><a title="World Water Day on Facebook" href="http://www.facebook.com/UNWorldWaterDay" target="_blank">Facebook</a></li><li><a title="World Water Day on YouTube" href="http://www.youtube.com/unwaterworldwaterday" target="_blank">YouTube</a></li><li><a title="World Water Day on Flikr" href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/worldwaterday2012" target="_blank">Flickr</a></li></ol><p>We leave you with this fact: Each of us needs to drink two to four litres of water every day, but it takes 2000 to 5000 litres of water to produce one person’s daily food.</p><p><em>If you like this post then &#8216;like&#8217; <a title="The Best of Zambia on Facebook" href="http://www.facebook.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">thebestofzambia.com facebook page</a> for regular updates and/or <a title="The Best of Zambia on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">follow us on Twitter</a>. You could even join our <a title="Sign up to the Best of Zambia mailing list" href="http://thebestofzambia.us1.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=58c24562cf2d336d80c5f6d51&amp;id=ffae6fca44" target="_blank">mailing list</a>.</em></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/03/zambia-and-world-water-day-2012/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Thoughts on UN Secretary General, Ban-Ki-Moon’s recent visit to Zambia</title><link>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/03/thoughts-on-un-secretary-general-ban-ki-moons-recent-visit-to-zambia/</link> <comments>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/03/thoughts-on-un-secretary-general-ban-ki-moons-recent-visit-to-zambia/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Mon, 12 Mar 2012 16:13:24 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Sara</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://thebestofzambia.com/?p=16055</guid> <description><![CDATA[The UN Secretary General Ban-Ki-Moon’s recent three day state visit to Zambia marks a historic event — he is the first UN Secretary General to visit Zambia since its independence from Britain in 1964. The trip raised several discussion points but what really caught &#8230; <a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/03/thoughts-on-un-secretary-general-ban-ki-moons-recent-visit-to-zambia/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16057" title="sata-and-un-secretary-ban-ki-moon" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/sata-and-un-secretary-ban-ki-moon.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="200" /></p><p>The UN Secretary General Ban-Ki-Moon’s recent three day state visit to Zambia marks a historic event — he is the first UN Secretary General to visit Zambia since its independence from Britain in 1964. The trip raised several discussion points but what really caught people’s attention was his call on the Zambian government to respect the rights of every individual including those that want to practice homosexuality.</p><p><span id="more-16055"></span></p><p>The call ties with General Ban-Ki-Moon recent statement saying that discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is one form of discrimination that has either been ignored or sanctioned by many states for far too long. He encouraged countries to live up to the ideals of the <a href="http://www.un.org/en/documents/udhr/" target="_blank">Universal Declaration of Human Rights</a>.</p><p><strong>Africa&#8217;s view</strong><br /> The debate over the recognition of gay rights is a touchy subject in Africa. So far South Africa is the first and only country in Africa to officially grant same-sex marriage. Countries like Ghana and Zimbabwe have recently made it clear that such rights will by no means be tolerated and are in fact criminal and punishable by the law of the land.</p><p><strong>The Christian view</strong><br /> The general argument against homosexuality in Zambia has been based on the county’s declaration as a Christian nation in 1991 by Zambia’s second Republican President Dr Fredrick Chiluba. Christianity makes it very clear that homosexuality is unacceptable and this view is consistent throughout the Bible in both the Old and New Testaments. (Refer to Genesis 2:24, Leviticus 18:22, Leviticus 20:13, Romans 1:26-27, 1 Cor. 6:9-10)</p><p><strong>Current Zambian law</strong><br /> Homosexuality is considered a felony in Zambia, punishable by up to 14 years in prison. However, the country’s constitution does include a general non-discrimination clause and few people have been prosecuted for homosexuality. It may be interesting to note that as a former colony of the British Empire, Zambia inherited the laws and legal system of its colonial master upon independence in 1964. Laws concerning homosexuality have largely remained unchanged since then, and homosexuality is covered by original sodomy laws.</p><p><strong>Political views</strong><br /> The debate over homosexual rights is not new in Zambia. During the run up to the elections that brought the ruling Patriotic Front (PF) to power, gay rights became a thorny issue. Famous journalist, Chanda Chimba, accused the PF of  supporting the legalisation of gay rights because they were being sponsored by gay sympathisers. The PF denied these accusations and the journalist was sued.</p><p>The issue became a subject of discussion once more after British Prime Minister, David Cameron, said in November 2011 that British international aid will be tied to respect for gay rights. Zambia’s Foreign Affairs Minister at the time, Given Lubinda, reacted sharply and assured the Zambian electorate that the country’s leaders would not bow to outside pressure to respect and tolerate homosexuality in the nation.</p><p>General Ban-Ki-Moon’s call for the recognition of gay rights has resulted in a strong call from the Zambian people for the Government to make their position on the issue of gay rights clear. Generally opposition parties in Zambia have categorically stated that they will not support any bill recommending the recognition of gay rights. Opposition leader Felix Mutati stated, “Our position is very clear, we will go by what is currently in the Constitution. Anything below that will be abrogating values. Zambia is a Christian nation and Christianity is against homosexuality, so any position to change the status quo will be a tough one.”</p><p>The Zambian Government has finally given its official position on the ongoing debate on gay rights. Chief Government Spokesperson, Fackson Shamenda, recently told a media briefing in Lusaka that the laws of the land are very clear and homosexuality is not allowed in Zambia. He added that Government would not entertain the amendment of the law to allow for the recognition of gay rights.</p><p><strong>Conclusion</strong><br /> Individuals and organisations would do well to respect each others laws, culture and freedom of conscience. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights should not be used as a tool to push a particular ‘right’ at the expense of another. Surely a nation and its people have a ‘right’ to follow their collective conscience? Developing countries should not allow themselves to be bullied into compromising their principles in exchange for aid.</p><p>We welcome your thoughts on this controversial issue.</p><p><em>If you like this post then &#8216;like&#8217; <a title="The Best of Zambia on Facebook" href="http://www.facebook.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">thebestofzambia.com facebook page</a> for regular updates and/or <a title="The Best of Zambia on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">follow us on Twitter</a>. You could even join our <a title="Sign up to the Best of Zambia mailing list" href="http://thebestofzambia.us1.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=58c24562cf2d336d80c5f6d51&amp;id=ffae6fca44" target="_blank">mailing list</a>.</em></p><p>Image credit: The London Evening Post</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/03/thoughts-on-un-secretary-general-ban-ki-moons-recent-visit-to-zambia/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>4</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Zambia beat Ivory Coast and become the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations Champions</title><link>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/zambia-beat-ivory-coast-and-become-the-2012-africa-cup-of-nations/</link> <comments>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/zambia-beat-ivory-coast-and-become-the-2012-africa-cup-of-nations/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Mon, 13 Feb 2012 10:01:27 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Sara</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://thebestofzambia.com/?p=15342</guid> <description><![CDATA[Chipolopolo! Here is the story of Zambia&#8217;s win over Ivory Coast in pictures. The battles and the celebrations are captured for you to cherish this amazing feeling. We are exceptionally proud of the Zambian national football team that is bringing &#8230; <a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/zambia-beat-ivory-coast-and-become-the-2012-africa-cup-of-nations/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.297828916945272.68989.141780262550139&amp;type=1"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15344" title="zambia-afcon2012-champions" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/zambia-afcon2012-champions.jpg" alt="Zambia wins AFCON 2012" width="550" height="400" /></a></p><p><a title="Zambia AFCON 2012 win in pictures" href="https://www.facebook.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">Chipolopolo! Here is the story of Zambia&#8217;s win over Ivory Coast in pictures.</a> The battles and the celebrations are captured for you to cherish this amazing feeling.</p><p>We are exceptionally proud of the Zambian national football team that is bringing the trophy home to Zambia at last! Zambia were underdogs in this battle. But this was a very important return to Gabon and Zambia needed to do this for their fallen heroes. <a title="Zambia's journey to the finals" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/zambias-journey-to-the-2012-africa-cup-of-nations-finals/">Find out why here.</a></p><p><em>If you like this post then &#8216;like&#8217; <a title="The Best of Zambia on Facebook" href="http://www.facebook.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">thebestofzambia.com facebook page</a>  for regular updates and/or <a title="The Best of Zambia on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">follow us on Twitter</a>. You could even join our <a title="Sign up to the Best of Zambia mailing list" href="http://thebestofzambia.us1.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=58c24562cf2d336d80c5f6d51&amp;id=ffae6fca44" target="_blank">mailing list</a>.</em></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/zambia-beat-ivory-coast-and-become-the-2012-africa-cup-of-nations/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Zambia’s journey to the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations finals</title><link>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/zambias-journey-to-the-2012-africa-cup-of-nations-finals/</link> <comments>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/zambias-journey-to-the-2012-africa-cup-of-nations-finals/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:06:45 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Sara</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Events]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://thebestofzambia.com/?p=15250</guid> <description><![CDATA[Jollyboys Zambia show their support for the Chipolopolo boys! On the heels of Zambia&#8217;s 1-0 win over Ghana, we look at Zambia&#8217;s incredible journey to the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations finals. We look back at the plane crash that &#8230; <a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/zambias-journey-to-the-2012-africa-cup-of-nations-finals/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15252" title="zambia-supports-the-2012-football-team" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/zambia-supports-the-2012-football-team.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="200" /><br /> <span style="color: #808080; font-size: 11px; margin-top: -10px; display: block;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/backpackzambia" target="_blank"><span style="color: #808080;">Jollyboys Zambia</span></a> show their support for the Chipolopolo boys!</span><br /> On the heels of Zambia&#8217;s 1-0 win over Ghana, we look at Zambia&#8217;s incredible journey to the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations finals. We look back at the plane crash that rocked Zambian football in 1993, Kalusha Bwalya and his role in mentoring the team and finally, how the Zambian team compares to Ivory Coast, who they will meet in the final.</p><p><span id="more-15250"></span></p><p><strong>The history</strong><br /> The 27th of April 1993 was a sad day for Zambian football. There was a lot of hype around the Zambian team. They were making headlines; including a &#8216;David and Goliath&#8217; win over Italy, where Kalusha Bwalya scored a famous hat-trick. The teams future was bright and a promise of success in the coming world cup was likely. On the way to Senegal for one of the qualification matches, the plane carrying the national team crashed off the coast of Gabon, killing all passengers on-board, including 18 players from the team. The nation mourned.</p><p>Incredibly, Zambian football came back strong after the tragedy. In 1994 Zambia reached the finals of the Africa Cup of Nations, losing 2 – 1 to Nigeria. But since then, the Zambian team has done little to impress football fans around the world. Until now.</p><p><strong>Kalusha Bwalya</strong><br /> Bwalya was the 1988 African Footballer of the year after he tore the Italian Olympic team apart with a hat trick in a game that saw Zambia win 4 – 0. Players in that Italian team included Ciro Ferrara, Luigi De Agostini, Andrea Carnevale and Gianluca Pagliuca.</p><p>Kalusha Bwalya was the Captain of the team that died in 1993. He missed the crash because he was playing for PSV Eindhoven. That fateful day he had made his own arrangements to travel to Senegal.</p><p>Bwalya now heads the Zambian Football Federation and is an executive of the Confederation of African Football. He has been a key member of the leadership team that has taken Zambia to this all important match. Another key leader has been the tough disciplinarian, head coach, Herve Renard.</p><p><strong>Zambian players are fueled by passion</strong><br /> Africa is known for some high profile players who appear in big teams across Europe. Lets have a peak at Ivory Coasts squad:</p><ul><li>The captain of the Ivory Coast Didier Drogba plays for Chelsea FC in the English Premier League. He significantly helped them win the 2009-2010 Premier League scoring the most goals in the Premier League that season</li><li>Salomon Kalou is a striker/midfielder for Chelsea FC and shared in Drogba&#8217;s and Chelsea&#8217;s success</li><li>The Toure brothers, both play for Manchester City, Yaya being a prolific player for the current leaders of the English Premier League</li><li>Gervinho plays of Arsenal in the English Premier League</li><li>Tiote is the rising star of Newcastle United also in the English Premier League</li><li>And that&#8217;s just the big names&#8230;</li></ul><p>Now lets compare them to Zambia&#8217;s squad. In contrast to Ivory Coast, the Zambian team is certainly not made of any big name players.</p><ul><li>Only Emmanuel Mayuka plays for a European club, the relatively unknown Swiss side Young Boys</li><li>Five play for TP Mazembe in the Democratic Republic of Congo</li><li>Jonas Sakuwah plays for Al-Merreikh in Sudan</li><li>Katongo and Chamanga play in China</li><li>Lungu plays for a second flight Russian team</li><li>Eight play in South Africa</li><li>Five are based in Zambia</li></ul><p>Looking at this, one may feel Zambia has the odds stacked against them! But, though they do not have big names they obviously have big team spirit. They enjoy each others company and certainly know how to support each other on the pitch. What exactly do big names bring to a county’s football team if they cannot successfully play together? This has been discussed throughout the tournament with many surprise exits. I know little about the technical and theoretical discussions related to football. But I know good football when I see it. I can spot grit and determination and I can feel the passion oozing from this team. Though many members of this team will be too young to remember how Zambia mourned for their team in 1993, they know the history and they know what this means for Zambians.</p><p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15251" title="zambia-football-team-memorial" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/zambia-football-team-memorial.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="400" /></p><p><span style="color: #808080; font-size: 11px; margin-top: -10px; display: block;">The current Zambian team pay their respects to the players that were lost in the crash</span></p><p><strong>So what will Sunday&#8217;s final bring</strong><br /> And so the country waits in earnest. Zambians across the world are talking about their football team. The world is talking about the Zambian football team. &#8216;Zambia&#8217; was even trending on Twitter on the 8th of February when they beat Ghana to book their place in the final. This is the stuff of dreams.</p><p>Zambia has reached the Africa Cup of Nations final three times before and has played Ivory Coast four times before. You might be surprised to know that Zambia won three of those four matches. Whether they can do this against the now star studded Ivorian power house that boasts players like Didier Drogba and Yaya Toure remains to be seen. Zambia has one potent advantage. This game is also an emotional return to Libraville, Gabon where the 1993 air crash disaster happened. And that’s enough to turn any nerves into winning determination. Would you agree?</p><p><em>If you like this post then &#8216;like&#8217; <a title="The Best of Zambia on Facebook" href="http://www.facebook.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">thebestofzambia.com facebook page</a> for regular updates and/or <a title="The Best of Zambia on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">follow us on Twitter</a>. You could even join our <a title="Sign up to the Best of Zambia mailing list" href="http://thebestofzambia.us1.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=58c24562cf2d336d80c5f6d51&amp;id=ffae6fca44" target="_blank">mailing list</a>.</em></p><p>Image credits: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/backpackzambia" target="_blank">Jollyboys Zambia</a> and the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FootballAssociationZambia" target="_blank">Football Association of Zambia</a></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/zambias-journey-to-the-2012-africa-cup-of-nations-finals/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>3</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Finance Manager and Civil Engineer vacancies in Lusaka, Zambia</title><link>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/finance-manager-and-civil-engineer-vacancies-in-lusaka-zambia/</link> <comments>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/finance-manager-and-civil-engineer-vacancies-in-lusaka-zambia/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:26:21 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Sara</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://thebestofzambia.com/?p=15192</guid> <description><![CDATA[Fair-Face Enterprises Limited is a building and civil engineering construction firm registered with the National Council for Construction (NCC) in Zambia. They undertake new building works and refurbishment of new buildings for a broad range of clients. They have one &#8230; <a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/finance-manager-and-civil-engineer-vacancies-in-lusaka-zambia/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15195" title="vacancy" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/vacancy.jpg" alt="Vacancy sign" width="550" height="200" /></p><p>Fair-Face Enterprises Limited is a building and civil engineering construction firm registered with the National Council for Construction (NCC) in Zambia. They undertake new building works and refurbishment of new buildings for a broad range of clients. They have one vacancy for a Finance Manager and two vacancies for Civil Engineers.</p><p><span id="more-15192"></span></p><p><strong>Finance Manager (one position available)</strong><br /> The successful candidate will have more than five years post qualification traceable experience in a busy non NGO office. The candidate will also preferably be a CIMA holder.</p><p><strong>Civil Engineers (two positions available)</strong><br /> The successful candidates will have 7-10 years post qualification traceable experience in a busy construction company. Fair-Face is looking for two individuals who:</p><ul><li>Are able to handle complicated projects</li><li>Can deliver on multi-storey construction and road work projects</li><li>Are able to program and implement programs</li><li>Are members of the EIZ</li></ul><p><strong>About Fair-Face Enterprises Ltd</strong><br /> You can read more about Fair-Face enterprises <a title="Fair-faceon thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/fair-face" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p><strong>To apply</strong><br /> Send your CV and certificates to fairface@zamtel.zm for the attention of the Managing Director.</p><p><em>If you like this post then &#8216;like&#8217; <a title="The Best of Zambia on Facebook" href="http://www.facebook.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">thebestofzambia.com facebook page</a> for regular updates and/or <a title="The Best of Zambia on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">follow us on Twitter</a>. You could even join our <a title="Sign up to the Best of Zambia mailing list" href="http://thebestofzambia.us1.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=58c24562cf2d336d80c5f6d51&amp;id=ffae6fca44" target="_blank">mailing list</a>.</em></p><p>Image credit: <a href="http://ra-management.co.uk/">http://ra-management.co.uk</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/finance-manager-and-civil-engineer-vacancies-in-lusaka-zambia/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Valentine&#8217;s Sweetheart Dinner at the Lusaka International Community School, 11/02/2012</title><link>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/valentines-sweetheart-dinner-at-the-lusaka-international-community-school/</link> <comments>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/valentines-sweetheart-dinner-at-the-lusaka-international-community-school/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:34:56 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Sara</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Events]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Travel and Leisure]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://thebestofzambia.com/?p=15114</guid> <description><![CDATA[The International School of Lusaka’s Sweetheart Dinner is a sponsored event and all money raised will be going to charity. For just K90,000 per person (K150,000 per couple) enjoy a fantastic romantic evening with entertainment that includes a &#8216;how well &#8230; <a href="http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/valentines-sweetheart-dinner-at-the-lusaka-international-community-school/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15169" title="sweetheart-dinner-image-lusaka-valentines" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/sweetheart-dinner-image-lusaka-valentines.jpg" alt="Valentine's image" width="550" height="200" /></p><p>The International School of Lusaka’s Sweetheart Dinner is a sponsored event and all money raised will be going to charity. For just K90,000 per person (K150,000 per couple) enjoy a fantastic romantic evening with entertainment that includes a &#8216;how well do you know your partner game&#8217; and raffle prizes. A heavy weight list of sponsors have offered their services to make this a special night that will also make a difference to the needy.</p><p><span id="more-15114"></span></p><p><strong>Information</strong></p><ul><li>Venue: Portico Restaurant</li><li>Date and time: Saturday 11th of February, 18:00 to 22:00</li><li>Menu: Plates Restaurant, Mint Café</li><li>Tickets: K90,000 per person and K150,000 per couple (includes entrance and a three course meal)</li><li>Cash bar</li><li>Enjoy a fun &#8216;how well do you know your partner&#8217; game</li></ul><p><strong>Raffle tickets just K50,000. You could win:</strong></p><ul><li>Chocolates from Grandeur</li><li>Dinner and gift vouchers</li><li>A stacked hamper</li><li>Full body massage</li><li>Tickets for two for the movies</li><li>Wine, and many more!</li></ul><p><strong>Photography by Inzy</strong><br /> Take away a memory of the evening with discounted professional photos.</p><p><strong>Funds raised will be donated to:</strong></p><ul><li>Kalingalinga Community School</li><li>Ng&#8217;ombe Community School</li><li>Cheshire Homes</li></ul><p><strong>Get your ticket!</strong><br /> This is an evening not to be missed! Tickets available from the International School of Lusaka admin team on +260 (0) 211 292 447, or call Savannah on +260 (0) 974 003 597.</p><p><strong>Sponsors</strong></p><ul><li><a title="Portico on the Best of Zambia" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/portico-restaurant" target="_blank">Portico Restaurant</a></li><li><a title="Plates on thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/plates-restaurant" target="_blank">Plates Restaurant</a></li><li>Mint Lounge</li><li><a title="Glitter and Sparkle on thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/glitter-and-sparkle" target="_blank">Glitter and Sparkle</a></li><li><a title="Rooney's on thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/rooneys" target="_blank">Rooneys Hire Zambia</a></li><li><a title="The House of Couture on thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/couture" target="_blank">The House of Couture</a></li><li><a title="House of Cakes on thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/house-of-cakes" target="_blank">House of Cakes</a></li><li><a title="Rhapsodys on thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/rhapsodys-lusaka" target="_blank">Rhapsodys</a></li><li><a title="Eviva Restaurant on thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/eviva-restaurant" target="_blank">Eviva Restaurant</a></li><li><a title="Senses at Sensorium on thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/senses-at-sensorium" target="_blank">Senses at Sensorium</a></li><li><a title="Kazuma on thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/kazuma-wine" target="_blank">Kazuma Enterprises Ltd</a></li><li><a title="The Best of Zambia on thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/the-best-of-zambia" target="_blank">thebestofzambia.com</a></li><li>Inzy</li><li>Shakas Grill</li><li>Grandeur Chocolate</li><li>WsM Jewelers</li><li>Rose Beck Farms (Dalyrose Ltd)</li><li>Spar</li><li>Fresh View Cinemas</li><li>Ad Addicts</li><li>Pro print</li><li>Deli Zambia</li><li>La Mimosa</li><li>De Vere</li><li>Dash Couriers</li><li>Simz Cafe</li></ul><div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 24px;"><strong>Thanks</strong><br /> Special thanks go to Linda Wilkinson of <a title="Chikumbuso on thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/chikumbuso" target="_blank">Chikumbuso Women and Orphans Project,</a> Marlene Okech from De Vere&#8217;s, Jessica Brown from <a title="The House of Couture on thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/couture" target="_blank">The House of Couture</a> and Julia Brown from <a title="The Best of Zambia on thebestofzambia.com" href="http://thebestofzambia.com/the-best-of-zambia" target="_blank">the Best of Zambia</a>. </span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 24px;"><br /> </span></span></span></div><div></div><div><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15171" title="sweetheart-dinner-image-lusaka-valentines-poster" src="http://thebestofzambia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/sweetheart-dinner-image-lusaka-valentines-poster.jpg" alt="Sweetheart dinner poster" width="550" height="778" /></div><div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 24px;"><br /> </span></span></div><p><em>If you like this post then &#8216;like&#8217; <a title="The Best of Zambia on Facebook" href="http://www.facebook.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">thebestofzambia.com facebook page</a> for regular updates and/or <a title="The Best of Zambia on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/thebestofzambia" target="_blank">follow us on Twitter</a>. You could even join our <a title="Sign up to the Best of Zambia mailing list" href="http://thebestofzambia.us1.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=58c24562cf2d336d80c5f6d51&amp;id=ffae6fca44" target="_blank">mailing list</a>.</em></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://thebestofzambia.com/2012/02/valentines-sweetheart-dinner-at-the-lusaka-international-community-school/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>
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