Fresh Paint, Fresh Hope: How ZIM and G. Rutherford Are Brightening UTH

 By Alain Kabinda

The walls at the University Teaching Hospitals (UTH) have absorbed decades of human emotion. They have listened to the cries of newborn babies, the anxious whispers of families waiting for test results, the footsteps of nurses rushing through midnight corridors, and the silent prayers of patients hoping for recovery.

For many Zambians, UTH is not just a hospital; it is a place where life changes. It is where fear meets hope. Where exhaustion meets resilience. Where healing begins.

This week, those familiar walls received an unexpected gift: the promise of renewal.

The Zambia Institute of Marketing (ZIM), in partnership with Rutherford, handed over paint and painting accessories worth K43,000 to Zambia’s largest referral hospital. On paper, the donation is a modest contribution of paint, brushes, rollers, and related materials. In reality, it is something far more meaningful—a gesture of dignity, care, and solidarity.

Hospitals are often judged by the quality of their doctors, nurses, medicines, and equipment. Yet the physical environment also speaks powerfully to those who enter it.

A clean ward can calm anxiety. A bright corridor can lift a weary spirit. A well-maintained room can remind a patient that they are valued. Health professionals around the world increasingly recognize that healing is influenced not only by treatment but also by the spaces in which treatment is delivered.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, G. Rutherford Outdoor Advertising Head Sales and Marketing Ms. Nyari Muchakaneyi captured this idea simply and clearly.

                             (Ms. Nyari Muchakaneyi)

“We believe that a clean and well-maintained environment contributes to healing and the overall wellbeing of patients,” she said.

Her words resonated beyond the ceremony. Anyone who has spent time in a hospital understands that surroundings matter. For a mother sitting beside a sick child, for a patient recovering after surgery, or for a healthcare worker completing a twelve-hour shift, a fresh wall can feel like a fresh beginning.

UTH serves thousands of patients every month from across Zambia. Its wards, clinics, and emergency departments carry an enormous burden. Buildings age quickly under constant use, and maintaining such a large institution is a continuous challenge.

Receiving the donation, UTH Senior Superintendent Dr. Charles Mbewe emphasized that seemingly small contributions can have a significant impact.

                                 (Dr. Charles Mbewe)

“Paint and accessories may seem small, but they play a big role in maintaining a clean, dignified and healing environment for our patients,” he said.

His statement reflected a reality familiar to many public health institutions: every improvement counts. A brighter ward does not solve every challenge facing the health sector, but it improves the experience of those who pass through it.

For ZIM, the initiative was not simply an act of charity. It was an expression of corporate citizenship and professional responsibility.

Zambia Institute of Marketing (ZIM) Registrar and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Danny Chanda said the donation formed part of the institution’s corporate social responsibility activities.

                                      (Dr. Danny Chanda)

“As an institution that trains marketers, we understand the importance of branding, environment, and corporate citizenship,” he said.

His comments offered an interesting perspective on the role of marketing in society. Marketers are often associated with advertising campaigns, brand visibility, and consumer engagement. Yet at its core, marketing is also about shaping experiences and creating positive perceptions. In this case, the skills and values associated with marketing are being applied to a public hospital, helping to improve how patients and staff experience their environment.

The partnership with G.Rutherford demonstrates how private organizations can combine resources and expertise to support public institutions in practical ways.

What makes this story compelling is not the monetary value of the contribution but the message behind it. The donation tells patients that their comfort matters. It tells nurses, doctors, cleaners, and support staff that their workplace deserves care and attention. It tells the public that businesses can contribute meaningfully to national wellbeing.

Dr. Mbewe used the occasion to challenge other organizations to follow the example.

“We call on other corporate institutions to emulate this example,” he said.

His appeal speaks to a broader truth: government cannot meet every need alone. Sustainable development often emerges from partnerships between public institutions, private companies, professional bodies, and communities.

In the coming weeks, workers will begin applying fresh coats of paint to selected areas like laundry section of UTH . Patients may notice brighter walls. Visitors may notice cleaner corridors. Staff may notice a renewed atmosphere in the spaces where they work every day.

But beneath the new paint lies something less visible and perhaps more important—a renewed sense of hope.

Zambia’s health sector is increasingly being strengthened through partnerships involving infrastructure, equipment, training, technology, and community support. This donation adds another dimension to that effort by reminding us that compassion can also be expressed through the environment we create for one another.

Sometimes development is measured in buildings and machines. Sometimes it is measured in the quiet dignity of a patient room that feels cared for.

As fresh color spreads across the walls of UTH, it will carry more than pigment. It will carry a message from ZIM and G. Rutherford Outdoor Advertising to every patient, family member, and healthcare worker who passes through those corridors of UTH.

 Government, Amref Strengthen Health Training with ZMW3.3 Million Equipment Donation

 By Alain kabinda 

LUSAKA, July 29, 2026 — Zambia's efforts to build a stronger and more resilient health workforce received a significant boost on Wednesday as the Ministry of Health and Amref Health Africa in Zambia officially handed over medical and information communication technology (ICT) equipment worth more than ZMW3.3 million to 12 health training institutions across the country. 

The handover ceremony, held at the InterContinental Hotel in Lusaka, underscored the growing partnership between Government and development partners in strengthening health education and advancing Zambia's goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030. 

And Higher Education Authority (HEA) Director General Prof Kazhila Chinsembu said that modern teaching equipment is essential if institutions are to produce graduates capable of meeting today's healthcare challenges.

                                  (Prof Kazhila Chinsembu)

"These pieces of equipment are critical in improving the hands-on competencies of our students so that the graduates who come out of these institutions will be fully prepared," said Prof Chinsembu. 

He also acknowledged that concerns have often been raised about graduate readiness but expressed confidence that practical learning supported by modern technology would improve the quality of healthcare professionals entering the workforce. 

Prof Chinsembu also highlighted the growing importance of digital medicine and artificial intelligence in healthcare. 

He added that ICT equipment would enable institutions to embrace technological innovation while ensuring graduates continue exercising sound clinical judgment. 

"Human intelligence must always guide the responsible use of artificial intelligence," he said. 

Speaking during the handing over ceremony, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi, described the investment as a practical demonstration of what can be achieved when Government and its partners work together to strengthen the country's health system. 

"The equipment we are handing over today represents much more than computers and medical devices. It is an investment in the future of our health workforce and ultimately in the health of the Zambian people," Dr. Lishimpi said. 

He noted that the New Dawn Administration continues to prioritize collaboration with cooperating partners to develop a competent, resilient and fit-for-purpose health workforce capable of responding to the country's evolving healthcare needs. 

Dr. Lishimpi commended Amref Health Africa in Zambia for its continued support to the health sector, particularly in human resources for health, maternal and child health, HIV, malaria, cholera response and other critical public health interventions. 

He said the donated equipment—including desktop computers, projectors, heavy-duty printers, hospital beds, incubators, oxygen concentrators, birthing simulation models and a state-of-the-art 4D diagnostic ultrasound machine—would significantly improve practical training for nurses, midwives and other healthcare professionals. 

The beneficiaries  of this donation equipment are Apex Medical University (AMU), Copperbelt University, Evelyn Hone College (EHC), Kafue College of Health Science and Research ( KCHSR), Kafue School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kitwe College of Nursing and Midwifery, Lusaka Institute of applied Sciences (LIAS),Lusaka College of Nursing and Midwifery (LUCON), Ndola College of Nursing and Midwifery,National Institute of Public administration (NIPA), and Nkana College of Applied Sciences and Education , University of Zambia (UNZA). 

Dr. Lishimpi urged the beneficiary institutions to safeguard the equipment and ensure that it is properly maintained and utilized for its intended purpose. 

"These assets must be managed responsibly for the benefit of current and future generations of learners," he said, warning that the Ministry would not hesitate to take action in cases of misuse or neglect. 

And Amref Health Africa in Zambia Board Chairperson Priscilla Banda described the handover as an investment not only in equipment but in people, institutions and the future of Zambia's healthcare system.

                                       (Ms. Priscilla Banda)
 "Today is about much more than equipment. It is about investing in people, strengthening institutions and building a stronger, more resilient health system that is fit for purpose," she said. 

Ms. Banda explained that the donation was made possible through the Africa Health Collaborative, a flagship programme implemented by Amref Health Africa in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. 

She said the initiative seeks to strengthen health training institutions, promote innovation and entrepreneurship, and prepare the next generation of health professionals with the competencies required to meet Africa's evolving healthcare needs. 

According to Ms. Banda, modern training equipment is essential for producing competent and confident healthcare professionals who can provide quality services to communities. 

"These are not simply assets to be placed in laboratories or classrooms. They are tools that will shape the competence of future nurses, midwives, biomedical scientists, clinical officers and other health professionals," she said. 

She added that the ultimate beneficiaries of the investment would be ordinary Zambians who stand to receive better healthcare from a well-trained workforce. 

"The mothers who experience safer deliveries, the newborns who receive quality care, and the communities that access better diagnosis and treatment are the true beneficiaries of today's investment," she said. 

The donation aligns with Zambia's national development priorities of strengthening human resources for health and improving the quality of healthcare services across the country. 

As the ceremony concluded, both Government and Amref reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration to strengthen health systems, expand access to quality healthcare and ensure that Zambia develops the skilled health workforce needed to meet present and future health challenges. 

The handover marks another milestone in the longstanding partnership between the Ministry of Health and Amref Health Africa, reflecting a shared vision of building stronger institutions, empowering future health professionals and delivering better health outcomes for every Zambian.

(c) All Copyrights Reserved.

 Airtel Africa Records Strong Growth as Customer Base Climbs to 189 Million

By Alain Kabinda

Airtel Africa has reported strong financial and operational growth for the quarter ended 30 June 2026, driven by continued investment in network infrastructure, digital capabilities, and customer experience.

The telecommunications company Airtel has shown its customer base grew by 11.6 percent to 189 million, reflecting increased demand for connectivity and digital services across its markets.

Airtel Africa attributed the performance to sustained investments aimed at expanding network coverage, improving service quality, and increasing access to digital solutions.

The company recorded significant growth in data usage, with data customers increasing by 15.5 percent to 87.3 million during the quarter. Smartphone penetration also rose by 5.2 percentage points to 51.0 percent, indicating growing adoption of internet-enabled devices among customers.

Financially, Airtel Africa reported a 21.1 percent increase in revenue in constant currency, while earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) grew by 24.4 percent in constant currency.

The company’s result demonstrate the impact of its strategy of investing ahead of demand to support Africa’s rapidly growing digital economy.

During the quarter, Airtel Africa added more than 920 network sites, strengthening its ability to provide reliable connectivity to customers. The company also expanded its fibre network to 82,100 kilometres, enhancing the backbone supporting its digital services.

This Airtel Africa progress reflects the commitment of its employees and partners across the continent.

The company has continued investment in technology and infrastructure remains central to its mission of improving digital access and supporting economic opportunities.

It has also continue to invest ahead of demand, by transforming lives and helping to unlock Africa’s full potential.

The latest performance comes amid increasing demand for mobile internet services, digital financial solutions, and reliable communication networks as African economies accelerate their digital transformation.

 

 Beyond the Exhibition Stand: How Businesses Can Turn Trade Shows into Growth Engines

By Alain Kabinda

For many businesses, exhibitions and trade fairs are often viewed as opportunities to display products, distribute brochures, and attract immediate customers. But Business Development and Marketing Expert and Co-Founder of CNC360 Consulting Mr. James Chiwala believes the true value of these platforms goes far beyond the exhibition stand.

According to Mr. Chiwala, trade shows are strategic marketing spaces where businesses can build relationships, understand markets, create partnerships, and position themselves for long-term growth.

Speaking during a recent radio interview, Mr. Chiwala, a marketing professional and former Vice President of the Zambia Institute of Marketing, challenged businesses to move away from the traditional perception that marketing is simply about selling products.

“Marketing is about getting the right product or service to the right person at the right time with the right message,” he explained.

He said successful marketing begins with understanding customer needs and creating solutions that provide real value. Businesses must not only produce quality products and services but also communicate their benefits effectively to the people they want to reach.

“Marketing is about creating value and building relationships with customers. Selling is only one part of the process,” Mr. Chiwala said.

Mr. Chiwala said exhibitions provide businesses with a unique opportunity to engage directly with potential customers, investors, partners, and other industry players.

“Exhibitions are platforms where buyers and sellers meet, exchange ideas, and build relationships,” he said.

He further explained that while showcasing products remains important, businesses should use exhibitions to gather market intelligence, understand customer expectations, identify new opportunities, and strengthen their brand visibility.

                (right: Mr. James Chiwala and left: Mr. Maxwell Mumba)

For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Mr. Chiwala believes trade fairs and shows can provide a valuable opportunity to compete, network, and gain exposure in markets that may otherwise be difficult to access.

However, he warned that success at exhibitions requires preparation and a clear strategy.

Drawing from his experience as a judge at the Zambia International Trade Fair (ZTIF), Mr. Chiwala revealed that successful exhibitors are those who demonstrate creativity, preparation, and a strong understanding of the exhibition objectives.

One of the key areas considered by judges, he said, is how well exhibitors interpret the official theme of an event.

Rather than simply displaying the theme on posters, Chiwala encouraged organizations to demonstrate how their activities, achievements, and future plans connect with the theme.

“Conformity to the theme carries significant marks,” he said, urging organizations to begin preparations early by developing presentations that clearly show their contribution to the objectives of the exhibition.

He noted that many organizations lose opportunities because they treat exhibitions as one-time events instead of strategic marketing campaigns.

Mr. Chiwala said the design and presentation of exhibition stands play a critical role in attracting visitors.

He explained that a good stand should immediately communicate what an organization represents while creating an inviting environment for engagement.

“The way you speak should match what you have displayed,” he said, emphasizing the importance of consistency between visual presentations and verbal communication.

He encouraged exhibitors to carefully select information displayed at their stands, including success stories, achievements, statistics, products, and services.

While traditional marketing materials such as brochures, flyers, and posters remain useful, Chiwala observed that digital technology is increasingly transforming exhibitions.

He pointed to the growing use of screens, videos, and digital presentations by some organizations, including government institutions, as an effective way of communicating information while reducing dependence on printed materials.

Although many exhibitors focus on winning awards at trade fairs, Chiwala believes the greatest reward is the business opportunities created through meaningful engagement.

He said exhibitions should be viewed as platforms for relationship-building rather than just competitions for recognition.

“Businesses must understand who they are targeting, prepare their message, and communicate their value with confidence,” he advised.

For many businesses, participating in an exhibition is not just about putting products on display—it is about creating opportunities, meeting new customers, and telling a story about what they offer.

Speaking to Daily News at the Show in Lusaka in preparation for this year’s 98th Agricultural and Commercial Show, for entrepreneur like Alice Chuma, taking part in trade exhibitions has been a journey of learning, growth, and discovery.

“When we first decided to exhibit, our main goal was simply to showcase our products and let people know who we are,” Ms. Chuma said. “But we quickly realised that an exhibition is much more than displaying products. It is about engaging people, understanding what they need, and building relationships.”

Ms. Chuma said preparation played a major role in attracting visitors to the stand. Instead of focusing only on products, the team worked on creating a display that communicated their brand story, achievements, and the value they provide to customers.

“We learned that people are not only interested in what you sell; they want to know why your product matters and how it can solve their challenges,” Ms. Chuma explained.

One of the biggest benefits of participating in exhibitions has been the opportunity to interact directly with customers and industry players.

“Meeting customers face-to-face gave us valuable feedback. We learned what people liked about our products, what improvements they expected, and what new opportunities existed in the market,” She added.

The experience also opened doors for networking and partnerships.

“We met people we would probably never have reached through normal business operations. Some conversations led to new contacts, potential partnerships, and increased visibility for our brand.” Ms. Chuma added.

However, the exhibitors acknowledge that participating in trade fairs like this year’s show comes with challenges, including the cost of preparation, designing an attractive stand, and ensuring staff are ready to engage visitors effectively.

“You cannot just show up and expect results. You need a clear message, knowledgeable representatives, and a plan for how you will follow up with the people you meet.” Ms. Chuma said.

Further Ms. Chuma believes trade fairs have become an important part of business growth.

“An exhibition is not only about winning an award or making immediate sales. It is about creating awareness, building trust, and positioning your business for future opportunities.” she said.

The advice to other businesses, especially small and medium enterprises, is simple: take exhibitions seriously and prepare strategically.

“Your stand is the first impression people have of your business. Make it count. Tell your story, engage people, and use every opportunity to build relationships.” Ms. Chuma urged.

For this exhibitor, the journey from a small display stand to expanded market visibility demonstrates one important lesson—success at trade fairs is not measured only by what is displayed, but by the connections created beyond the exhibition floor.

As Zambia continues to promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and industrial development, Mr. Chiwala’s message is that businesses must rethink how they approach exhibitions.

For companies willing to invest in preparation, creativity, and strategic marketing, trade shows can become more than temporary displays—they can become gateways to new customers, partnerships, and sustainable growth.

For this Year’s 98th Agricultural and Commercial Show will run through from 29^th July to 3^rd August 2026 under the theme "Fostering Trade and Investment." 

(c) All Copyrights Reserved 

 Government Begins Consultations on Ninth National Development Plan for Water Sector 

By Alain kabinda   

Lusaka, Zambia – The Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation has launched stakeholder consultations to identify priority interventions for the development of the Ninth National Development Plan (9NDP) for the period 2027–2031, with a renewed focus on improving water security, sanitation, and climate resilience. 

Speaking during the opening of the Stakeholder Consultative Meeting, Permanent Secretary Eng Romas Kamanga said the consultative process provides a critical opportunity to shape the future of Zambia's water sector as the implementation of the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP) comes to an end.

                                      (PS. Eng. Romas Kamanga)

 Eng. Kamanga said that this 9NDP will guide the sector's response to emerging challenges, including rapid urbanisation, climate change, population growth, increasing demand for water, environmental degradation, and financing constraints. 

"The decisions we make today will shape the direction of the sector over the next five years and contribute significantly towards the attainment of Vision 2030, the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 6, and Zambia's broader socio-economic transformation," said Eng. Kamanga. 

Eng. Kamanga further highlighted progress made under the 8NDP, including the expansion of water supply infrastructure, rehabilitation of existing systems, construction and rehabilitation of dams and boreholes, improvements in sanitation services, and strengthened water resources management. He also cited the development of the 2024 National Water Policy and the ongoing review of key sector legislation as important reforms aimed at improving governance and sustainability. 

Eng. Kamanga also acknowledged that significant challenges remain, particularly in improving access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation in rural and peri-urban communities. 

Eng. Kamanga noted, continue to face ageing infrastructure, high levels of non-revenue water, inadequate financing, rising operational costs, and increasing demand for services. Climate change, pollution, and degradation of water resources were also identified as growing threats to the country's long-term water security.

 Further Eng. Kamanga called on stakeholders to provide practical, evidence-based recommendations that will inform the priorities of the 9NDP. Key areas identified for discussion include expanding access to water supply, sanitation and hygiene services, strengthening integrated water resources management, improving climate resilience, enhancing the financial sustainability of Commercial Water Utilities, reducing non-revenue water, modernising infrastructure, promoting digital transformation, strengthening sector governance, and expanding partnerships with the private sector and cooperating partners. 

Eng. Kamanga stressed that the success of the Ninth National Development Plan would depend on collaboration among Government institutions, cooperating partners, local authorities, Commercial Water Utilities, civil society organisations, academia, the private sector, traditional leaders, and communities. 

The stakeholder consultation is expected to generate recommendations that will guide the formulation of the 2027–2031 National Development Plan for the water sector, with the overarching objective of improving service delivery, protecting water resources, and supporting Zambia's sustainable socio-economic development.

(c) All Copyrights Reserved.

 Government Revives Mandatory Public Service Training and Certification 

By Alain Kabinda 

LUSAKA, Zambia – The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to restoring mandatory public service training and certification as part of broader efforts to improve efficiency, professionalism, and accountability in the public service. 

Speaking during a breakfast meeting on public service training and certification organized by the National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA), the Government emphasized that strengthening institutional capacity remains central to improving service delivery across the country. 

Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet for Administration, Dr. Oliver Kalabo has commended NIPA for organizing the event and expressed appreciation to the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), through the Good Financial Governance Project, for supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing public sector capacity.

 Dr. Kalabo also noted that the partnership had facilitated several important activities, including the breakfast meeting and NIPA's benchmarking visit to the National Institute of Public Administration and Management (NIPAM) in Namibia. 

Dr. Kalabo added that the restoration of mandatory public service training and certification is intended to revive the high standards of discipline, competence, and professionalism that once characterized Zambia's public service. 

It observed that in the past, public officers underwent structured induction, foundation training, and mentorship before confirmation into the public service, but that the weakening of the system over the years has contributed to inefficiencies and slower service delivery. 

To address the challenge, the Government has restored NIPA's statutory mandate and is rebuilding the country's public service training architecture in collaboration with government institutions and cooperating partners. 

As part of the reforms, the Government recently launched the Zambia Public Service Change Management Framework, the Public Service Competence Development and Certification Strategy, and the Zambia Public Service Delivery Curriculum and Toolkit. 

And According to Dr. Kalabo the Change Management Framework and the Public Service Delivery Curriculum and Toolkit have been designed as self-paced learning programmes aimed at strengthening discipline while re-establishing the link between training, probation, confirmation in service, and career progression. 

He further acknowledged the technical, financial, and material support provided by stakeholders and cooperating partners, including GIZ, Delivery Associates, and Zanga Metrics. 

Dr. Kalabo further revealed that NIPA successfully inducted more than 2,000 professionals over the past year, including immediate past ministers, permanent secretaries, and non-accounting staff from the Ministry of Education. 

With the General Election scheduled for August 13, 2026, the Government said similar induction and capacity-building programmes will be rolled out to prepare the next cohort of public office bearers and senior public servants. 

The Government reiterated its expectation of greater accountability among public service workers and called for improved, efficient, and citizen-centred service delivery. It also urged NIPA, government institutions, and cooperating partners to continue implementing training and certification programmes across the public service. 

He also called on for sustained collaboration among all stakeholders to build a professional, competent, ethical, and responsive public service capable of meeting the needs of citizens and strengthening public confidence in government institutions.

Meanwhile, NIPA Executive Director Professor Jacob R. S. Malungo said the institute remained committed to supporting Government’s efforts to strengthen public service training and certification.

Professor Malungo said NIPA would continue working with government institutions and cooperating partners to build a professional, competent, and responsive public service.

He added that continued collaboration among training institutions, Government, and cooperating partners would be essential in restoring a culture of excellence and professionalism in the public service.

The meeting brought together officials from government institutions, training bodies, and cooperating partners to discuss strategies for strengthening public service capacity and improving service delivery nationwide.

 

ZAFOD Pushes for Fully Accessible Election Accreditation Ahead of August Polls

By Alain Kabinda

With less than a month before Zambia heads to the polls on August 13, 2026, the Zambia Federation of Disability Organisations (ZAFOD) is calling on the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to ensure that the election accreditation process is fully accessible and inclusive for persons with disabilities.

The federation says while the ECZ's decision to introduce a hybrid accreditation system marks significant progress, more needs to be done to eliminate barriers that could prevent persons with disabilities from participating meaningfully in election observation and other democratic processes.

In a statement issued to Daily News today by Federal Director Justine Bbakali, ZAFOD welcomed the Commission's decision to allow stakeholders to apply for accreditation either online or physically through District Electoral Offices, describing the move as a positive response to concerns previously raised by disability rights organisations.

                                                          (Mr. Justine Bbakali)

Earlier this year, when the ECZ announced an online-only accreditation process, ZAFOD cautioned that such an approach risked excluding many election observers, particularly those representing organisations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), who often encounter technological, communication and accessibility challenges.

The federation said the adoption of a hybrid system demonstrates progress towards a more inclusive electoral process but expressed disappointment that the changes were announced late and without sufficient consultation with stakeholders.

"The new approach has the potential to enhance participation and improve access for different categories of electoral stakeholders," Mr. Bbakali noted, adding that earlier communication would have allowed organisations more time to prepare for accreditation.

However, ZAFOD stressed that accessibility goes far beyond providing multiple application channels.

According to the federation, a truly inclusive accreditation process should ensure that physical facilities, communication systems, information materials and support services accommodate persons with different types of disabilities.

He has urged the ECZ to adequately prepare District Electoral Offices to handle physical accreditation through proper staffing, training and resource allocation.

Mr. Bbakali also called for accreditation centres, including the Mulungushi International Conference Centre and district offices, to be fully accessible and capable of providing reasonable accommodation to persons with disabilities.

Recognising that information remains one of the biggest barriers to participation, ZAFOD further appealed for accreditation notices and public communication to be made available in accessible formats, including sign language interpretation, audio formats, easy-to-read materials and other alternative communication methods.

The federation also encouraged the ECZ to ensure organisations of persons with disabilities receive adequate information and support to participate as accredited election observers and monitors.

Given the late changes to the accreditation process and the limited time remaining before the elections, ZAFOD proposed that the Commission consider simplifying some administrative requirements.

It suggested that applicants should not be required to submit photographs and National Registration Card (NRC) copies in advance if in-person verification is already part of the accreditation procedure.

Such a measure, the organisation argued, would reduce unnecessary administrative hurdles while maintaining the integrity of the accreditation process.

"Accessibility is not only about removing physical barriers; it is about creating conditions that enable all citizens and stakeholders to participate meaningfully, independently and with dignity in the electoral process," Mr. Bbakali stated.

The organisation also appealed to political parties, civil society organisations, media institutions and development partners to prioritise disability inclusion as a cornerstone of credible, transparent and participatory elections.

As Zambia enters the final stretch before the 2026 General Elections, ZAFOD reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with the Electoral Commission of Zambia and other stakeholders to ensure persons with disabilities can participate fully, effectively and on an equal basis with others throughout the electoral cycle.

The federation says an inclusive electoral process is essential not only for protecting the rights of persons with disabilities but also for strengthening Zambia's democratic institutions and ensuring every citizen has an equal opportunity to contribute to the country's future.