Zambia's president appoints new Education Ministry permanent secretary

By James Kunda

LUSAKA, Zambia (AA) - Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema appointed Kelvin Mambwe on Wednesday as the new permanent secretary for technical services at the Ministry of Education.

"The president congratulates Dr. Mambwe, implores him to serve with integrity and wishes him God's blessings in his new role," State House Principal Private Secretary Bradford Machila announced in a brief statement in the capital, Lusaka.

Mambwe replaced Joel Kamoko, who was fired in early February. While no reasons were given for his dismissal, public speculation pointed to disciplinary action after local media reported he had appeared "intoxicated" on a state broadcaster's news bulletin giving details about the adoption of a new curriculum in public schools.