Luanshya UNIP

Luanshya Records Localized Viral Haemorrhagic Fever Alert

By Doreen Chembe

Zambia has detected a localized Viral Haemorrhagic Fever alert in Luanshya District, on the Copperbelt.

Viral Haemorrhagic Fever is a group of severe, often life-threatening illnesses caused by several distinct families of viruses.

These diseases are characterized by a high fever, damage to the body's vascular system, and an impaired ability for the blood to clot, which can result in internal bleeding

In a statement to ZNBC News, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi, said the alert involves a 46-year-old woman from Kafubu Block Farms in Luanshya.

Dr. Lishimpi said the woman presented with symptoms consistent with a Viral Haemorrhagic Fever illness, including severe nosebleeds, vomiting of blood, and extreme weakness.

He said the patient was isolated at Roan Antelope Referral Hospital and remains clinically stable.

Dr. Lishimpi adds that Rapid Response Teams have identified and placed 70 contacts in Luanshya and Ndola under daily 21-day symptom and temperature monitoring, with no secondary symptoms reported so far.

The Ministry further disclosed that preliminary Rapid Diagnostic Test results on the patient's blood sample returned negative for both Ebola and Marburg virus diseases.

Dr. Lishimpi has however noted that Rapid Diagnostic Tests may have reduced sensitivity during the early stages of infection.

He said confirmatory Polymerase Chain Reaction -PCR- and antigen testing is currently underway at the University Teaching Hospital Biosafety Level 3 Laboratory in Lusaka, with final results expected within 24 hours.

Meanwhile, Dr. Lishimpi says following the outbreak of Viral Haemorrhagic Fever and Ebola in DRC, the Government has intensified national preparedness measures.

He said the Copperbelt Provincial Public Health Emergency Operations Centre has also been activated in Active Response Mode.

He said the Copperbelt Provi

Parliamentary nominations have been pushed to May 20, 2026 from May 18, 2026, ECZ Chairperson Zaloumis Mwangala has revealed.

LUANSHYA KICKS OFF USD240 MILLION SOLAR POWER PROJECT IN MOVA HILL

By Constance Shilengwe

LUANSHYA District has officially begun construction on a USD240 million solar power plant in Mova Hill, Roan Constituency, a development expected to transform the local economy and energy landscape. The project will generate 200 megawatts of solar power alongside 180 megawatts of battery storage, making it one of the largest renewable energy initiatives in the Copperbelt.

The project, led by Metrogold Limited in partnership with Renergy of Hungary, is projected to create 500 jobs during the construction phase and 200 permanent positions, providing meaningful employment opportunities for local families and boosting the district’s socio-economic growth.

Speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony yesterday, Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo emphasised the project’s potential to power homes, support local businesses, attract new mining ventures, and strengthen the district’s economy. He urged the company to engage the local community, source materials locally, and ensure the project benefits future generations.

Metrogold CEO Professor Matamyo Simwanda highlighted the milestone, noting that the plant will not only generate renewable energy but also help ease the national energy burden and diversify Zambia’s power supply.

Luanshya District Commissioner Paul Malele described the event as historic, noting that this marks the fourth major project, being established in the district. Meanwhile, the District Mayor pointed out that the project presents an opportunity for critics to acknowledge the development taking place under the New Dawn administration.

The Mova Hill solar plant promises to be a game-changer for the Copperbelt, showcasing Zambia’s commitment to sustainable energy, job creation, and long-term economic growth.

RoanFM Newsroom