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Check FAQAbout Alfonso
Alfonso Kasongo is an award-winning journalist based in Lusaka, Zambia, with over six years of experience in print, online, and television media. With a keen interest in environmental issues, climate change, science (particularly biotechnology), and agroecology, Kasongo has become a respected voice in journalism, especially within the realms of public health, environmental conservation, and agricultural policy in Africa. His passion for these subjects is matched by his skills in news gathering, writing, dissemination, and analysis, as well as his proficiency in public relations. Kasongo's reporting often explores the intersection of traditional practices, modern technology, and regulatory frameworks, particularly in Zambia and the broader Central and Southern African regions. He has covered a diverse array of topics, including the cholera outbreak in Zambia, the impact of climate change on local agriculture and biodiversity, and the country's involvement in clinical trials for tuberculosis and shigellosis vaccines. His work not only emphasizes the importance of agricultural research and environmental conservation but also delves into the economic and nutritional challenges faced by local communities. Through his journalism, Kasongo has provided critical analysis of government responses to public health crises and has highlighted the role of traditional leaders in advocating for the use of indigenous maize seed to ensure food security. He has also investigated the National Biosafety Authority's regulation of GMO-containing commodities, addressing public concerns and myths related to GMOs, and the need for effective climate financing. His articles feature insights from experts, traditional leaders, and local residents, offering a comprehensive view of the challenges and initiatives in the regions he covers. Kasongo's commitment to reporting on gender, public health, and governance further enriches his contributions to the media landscape in Zambia and beyond.
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My Thoughts on the New, Validated Draft Gene Policy for Zambia
Alfonso Kasongo, an award-winning journalist based in Lusaka, Zambia, shares his concerns about the new, validated draft gene policy for Zambia. He emphasizes the need for public discourse on gene technology and criticizes the draft policy for being pro-industry and potentially leaving farmers liable for negative outcomes such as contamination and crop failures. He also highlights the lack of public access to the policy document. Kasongo draws attention to the broader issues of climate financing transparency and accountability in Zambia, as well as the launch of a US$200,000 Cassava technical cooperation project to combat Cassava diseases. The government has shown willingness to engage with the Zambia Alliance for Agroecology and Biodiversity (ZAAB) to address concerns about the policy's validation process and content.
GOVERNMENT HAS COMPROMISED ZAMBIA'S FOOD SECURITY
The article reports on concerns raised by former Foreign Affairs Minister and opposition leader Harry Kalaba regarding Zambia's food security. Kalaba criticizes the government's decision to import genetically modified (GMO) maize from South Africa, suggesting it compromises the health of Zambians. He references South Africa's preference for non-GMO maize from Zambia due to health concerns and criticizes the Zambian government for selling strategic food reserves and relying on GMO imports. Kalaba also points out the World Food Agency's choice to purchase non-GMO maize from Zambia for refugees. The article includes statements from Vice President Mutale Nalumango asserting the safety of GMO mealie meal and details a recent theft of GMO mealie meal intended for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Kalaba accuses the government of President Hakainde Hichilema of neglecting the country's biosafety policies and compromising the health of its citizens.
DRINKING OF KACHASU TO AVOID,TREAT CHOLERA WAS A MENTAL ISSUE, SAYS PSYCHIATRIC EXPERT
Dr. Dalal, a globally recognized mental health specialist, discussed the impact of the cholera outbreak on mental health in Zambia with the Editorial News. He highlighted that the epidemic, which has claimed over 300 lives since October 2023, has caused significant anxiety and fear among residents in affected areas, negatively affecting their mental health. Dr. Dalal also addressed the dangerous practice of consuming high-alcohol beverages like Kachasu as a misguided attempt to prevent cholera, which has led the government to shut down such businesses. He warned that alcohol abuse complicates the management of cholera cases and increases the risk of death. To address this, the Ministry of Health has set up a detoxing treatment section at the cholera treatment center in Heroes Stadium.
OVER 5 METRIC TONS OF GMO MEALIE MEAL GOES MISSING AT A MILITARY WAREHOUSE AT KASUMBALESA BOARDER
In Chililabombwe district at the Kasumbalesa border, a significant theft of 5.3 metric tonnes of genetically modified (GM) mealie meal has occurred at a military warehouse managed by Eagles Holding Milling, part of the Zambia National Service (ZNS). The stolen mealie meal, which was in transit for export to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) from South Africa, is valued at K68,000. There are concerns that the GM mealie meal, considered unsafe by some stakeholders, might illegally enter the Zambian market, violating biotechnology laws. Colonel Mulenga Nyone, ZNS Chief of Marketing and Public Relations, has confirmed the incident and emphasized the illegality of distributing the stolen mealie meal in Zambia.
PROLONGED DRY SPELLS AFFECT MAIZE, SOYA BEANS FIELDS IN MAMBWE DISTRICT
Zambia's Meteorological Department has forecasted continued dry spells, with poor rainfall expected from February 7th to 14th, 2023. The prolonged dry conditions have already impacted maize and soybean fields in Chief Mnkanya's area of Mambwe District in the Eastern Province. Small-holder farmers report that these crops are suffering, raising concerns about food security in the region. The latest weather update indicates that most parts of Zambia will experience a dry spell with below-average rainfall, except for the northern and eastern parts, which may see slightly better conditions. Peggy Thole, a weather specialist at the department, has confirmed the deficit in rainfall for the country.
CHOLERA CONTINUES
Journalist Alfonso Kasongo reports on the ongoing cholera outbreak in Zambia, which has resulted in 17,930 cases since its onset in October of the previous year. The outbreak has led to the postponement of school and college reopenings and the shutdown of local businesses, including those brewing Kachasu, a traditional alcoholic beverage believed by some to prevent cholera. The closure of these businesses has significantly impacted the livelihoods of the local community. Kasongo highlights the plight of the affected brewers, such as Loveness Phiri, who criticizes the government's actions as harsh, especially given the economic challenges faced by families in Lusaka.
GMO MEALIE MEAL SAFE FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION, GOVERNMENT, MAZ SAY
Zambia's Minister of Information and Media, Cornelius Mweetwa, has declared GMO mealie meal safe for consumption, emphasizing compliance with Zambia's biosafety laws. The Millers Association of Zambia (MAZ) president, Andrew Chintala, confirmed its safety but advised against importing GMO mealie meal to maintain Zambia's 'Non GMO country' status. During a press briefing in Chililabombwe district, Mweetwa addressed rumors about the local distribution of GMO mealie meal imported for transit to the DRC, clarifying that there is no evidence of such products entering the Zambian market. He also highlighted the distinct packaging for local and DRC-bound mealie meal to avoid confusion.
TRADITIONAL LEADER ENDORSES USE OF TRADITIONAL MAIZE SEED
Chief Mpezeni, a traditional leader in Zambia, has advocated for the use of traditional maize seed over hybrid varieties, emphasizing its importance for food security and its role in the country's agricultural practices. His comments were made during a documentary for Zambezi Seed Company, aired on ZNBC Television. The chief highlighted the benefits of local seeds, such as their affordability, ease of sharing, and historical role in ensuring food security. The article also touches on concerns from various organizations about the increasing presence of multinational seed companies in Zambia, which they believe threatens the country's food sovereignty and resilience to climate change. These concerns are linked to the rise in hybrid seed usage, partly attributed to the farmer Input Support Programme (FISP), a poverty alleviation policy.
CONTINUED DEGRADATION OF WETLANDS IN ZAMBIA, A TIME BOMB-ZCCN
The Zambia Climate Change Network (ZCCN) has expressed concern over the ongoing degradation of wetlands in Zambia, highlighting the severe threat this poses to the environment and humanity. ZCCN emphasizes the critical role wetlands play in ecological balance, biodiversity, and climate change mitigation. The organization points out the endangered state of specific wetlands such as Lukanga, Bangweulu, and Busanga. In light of World Wetlands Day, ZCCN stresses the importance of the theme 'Wetlands and Human Wellbeing,' which reflects the connection between wetland health and community prosperity. ZCCN advocates for collaborative efforts to conserve wetlands, urging citizens, communities, and leaders to commit to their preservation. The network also calls for the empowerment of local communities in wetland management, leveraging their traditional knowledge and fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
ZAAB ACCUSES NBA OF FAILING TO IMPLEMENT BASICS OF THE CARTAGENA PROTOCOL, NATIONAL BIOSAFETY ACT 2007
The Zambia Alliance for Agroecology and Biodiversity (ZAAB) has criticized the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) for not effectively implementing the Cartagena Biosafety Protocol and the National Biosafety Act of 2007. ZAAB has raised concerns over the information gap regarding genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in Zambia, particularly highlighting issues with the issuance of permits and the importation of mealie meal made from GM maize. The controversy intensified following the exposure of a letter from the Ministry of Agriculture allowing Eagles Holding Milling company to import mealie meal that may contain GMOs from South Africa. ZAAB's National Coordinator, Mutinta Nketani, pointed out the NBA's failure to meet the basic requirements of international and national biosafety regulations, including updating Zambia's profile on the international Biosafety Clearing House (BCH), which is crucial for transparency and public engagement in biosafety matters.
NBA Approves TB, Shigellosis Vaccines for Trials
Zambia has greenlighted clinical trials for tuberculosis and shigellosis vaccines, with the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) issuing research permits to the Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ). The trials will take place in Lusaka and Ndola, targeting diseases that have a significant impact on the country's population. Zambia is a key contributor to vaccine research, particularly for enteric diseases. The tuberculosis trials will be conducted at various health facilities, including Chawama Level 1 hospital and ZAMBART, while shigellosis trials will occur at Matero Clinical Research Site. The NBA has conducted risk assessments to ensure the safety of the vaccines, which involve genetically modified organisms. CIDRZ has also participated in the VASE Conference in the USA, presenting research on diarrheal diseases.
KACHASU BREWERS CASH IN ON CHOLERA OUTBREAK
Residents in a region affected by a cholera outbreak, which has resulted in over 200 deaths since last October, have turned to consuming Kachasu, a local high-alcohol content beverage, in the belief that it will protect them from the disease. This practice includes administering the beverage to children as young as two. Kachasu is made from a mixture of sugar, germinating maize seeds, and fermented finger millet, distilled to produce a potent alcohol. While some residents, like Edina, are convinced of its protective properties and are self-administering this 'treatment' to their families, others, such as Mbita, are urging the community to seek medical attention instead. Edith Phiri, another resident, criticizes the practice as abusive and ineffective. The government and the ministry of health are actively disseminating messages to educate the public about the dangers of cholera and the importance of seeking medical help promptly.
Leadership Failure, High Poverty Levels Worsening Cholera Outbreak - Dr. Canisius
Dr. Canisius Banda, a public health specialist and former Ministry of Health spokesperson, has labeled the cholera outbreak in Zambia as a national disaster. He criticizes the current UPND government for failing to effectively implement the cholera elimination program established by the previous Patriotic Front government. Dr. Banda links the spread of cholera to high poverty levels exacerbated by the rising cost of living. He emphasizes the importance of poverty reduction and proper disease management, including surveillance and case management, to combat the outbreak. Dr. Banda suggests re-engaging former health minister Dr. Chitalu Chilufya in the multi-sectoral committee to leverage his experience in early detection and diagnosis initiatives at Levy Mwanawasa General Hospital.
ITS "GREY AREA" FOR ZAMBIA'S GENOME EDITING COMMUNICATION STRATEGY
In December 2022, Zambia, with support from AUDA-NEPAD, initiated the development of a genome-editing communication strategy to inform the public about genome-editing biotechnology and dispel myths related to GMOs. A stakeholders' meeting was held in Lusaka to discuss the strategy. However, the Zambian government has acknowledged that there has been no progress in finalizing and validating the strategy, which remains a 'grey area' a year after the initial draft. Jane Chinkusu, Director of Technology Science and Innovation, stated that her ministry is focused on the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) policy, not the communication strategy. She also indicated that the National Biosafety Authority is not suitable to lead the strategy due to its regulatory role, leaving the National Science and Technology Council as a potential leader. AUDA-NEPAD's role has been to educate Zambia on the benefits of innovative technologies in agriculture.
NEW EMERGING SCIENTIFIC TECHNOLOGIES, INNOVATIONS KEY FOR AFRICA’S SELF-SUFFICIENT- HERBALIST
The article discusses the support provided by the African Union Development Agency of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD) to promote awareness of new agricultural technologies like genome-editing in Africa. The Traditional Healers Association of Zambia (THAPAZ) and its president, Rodwell Vongo, have expressed support for these initiatives, highlighting the importance of such technologies in addressing food security and health challenges exacerbated by climate change and population growth. A recent consultative meeting in Zambia aimed to develop a communication strategy for genome editing, as part of the broader
CLIMATE CHANGE TRIGGERS SIGNIFICANT DROP IN EDIBLE INSECTS IN ZAMBIA
The article reports on a study by the University of Zambia (UNZA) which has found a significant decline in the population of edible insects in Zambia, such as mopane worms and flying termites, due to climate change. Dr. Dennis Wachinga, president of the Entomology Society of Zambia, highlights the importance of insects in the ecosystem and their role in nutrient recycling, soil aeration, and as a food source for other animals. The decrease in insect populations is causing concern for both the ecological balance and the nutrition and economic well-being of rural and urban communities. The article also mentions the impact of climate variability on the availability and pricing of these insects in local markets, as explained by a trader named Richard Zimba.
CLIMATE CHANGE TO TRIGGER HUNGER, OVER 28 MILLION AFRICANS IN CENTRAL, SOUTHERN REGIONS TO BE AFFECTED
The article discusses the impact of climate change on global food production and the risk of hunger, particularly in Central and Southern Africa. Research from the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) using the IMPACT model suggests that by 2050, climate change could reduce global food production by 8% and put an additional 70 million people at risk of hunger worldwide. In Central and Southern Africa alone, over 28 million people could be at risk. The article also highlights that an annual investment gap of $15.2 billion in agricultural research and innovation could help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and support a 2°C climate trajectory, potentially offsetting the negative impacts of climate change on agriculture.
ZAMBIA'S CLIMATE FINANCING UTILISATION LACKS TRANSPARENCY, ACCOUNTABILITY
The article discusses the challenges Zambia faces in managing climate financing with transparency and accountability. Transparency International Zambia's 2021 assessment report highlights serious gaps in the sourcing and utilization of climate funds, pointing to high corruption risks and weak regulatory frameworks. Sandie Sikazwe from TIZ emphasizes the need for clear decision-making processes and stronger governance to prevent the misappropriation of funds. The report recommends greater transparency, oversight, and the enactment of a climate change bill. Solomon Mwampikita from the Centre for Trade Policy and Development notes the lack of transparency in carbon credit business and calls for robust regulations. Chief Chisunka from the House of Chiefs underscores the importance of involving traditional leaders in climate change initiatives, especially as carbon trading becomes prevalent in rural areas.
750,000 METRIC TONS OF GMO MEALIE MEAL CROSSED ZAMBIA INTO DRC
The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) of Zambia has reported an increase in transit applications for commodities containing GMOs in 2023. The NBA granted 64 certificates for mealie meal transit from South Africa to the Democratic Republic of Congo, totaling over 750,000 metric tons. NBA CEO Lackson Tonga highlighted the rise in applications and the issuance of 120 Non-GMO certificates for exports. The NBA conducted GMO tests on 191 samples, with only three samples testing positive. The Authority also recorded two cases of non-compliance with the Biosafety Act, resulting in cautions and advice for the companies involved. Additionally, 300 bags of unauthorized GMO mealie meal were seized and disposed of after a trader was fined for not obtaining prior authorization.
NO PERMIT TO PLACE GMO MEALIE MEAL ON THE MARKET WAS APPROVED-NBA
The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) of Zambia has clarified that it has not approved any permits for the importation and sale of mealie meal containing GMOs. However, Eagles Holding Milling, along with 63 other companies, received authorization to transit such mealie meal through Zambia to the Democratic Republic of Congo. This statement comes amidst confusion following a letter from the Ministry of Agriculture's Permanent Secretary, Yvonne Mpundu, suggesting that Eagles Holding Milling was granted an import permit for GMO mealie meal from South Africa. The move is controversial and seen as potentially conflicting with Zambia's biosafety laws. Despite this, the NBA had previously declared GMO mealie meal safe and the government had announced plans to import it to address food shortages.
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