Every Heartbeat Counts: The Partnership Transforming Children’s Heart Surgery in Zambia

By Alain kabinda

LUSAKA– For parents of children born with serious heart conditions, every passing day can bring uncertainty, fear and the hope of finding treatment before it is too late.

For years, many Zambian families faced the difficult reality of limited access to specialised heart surgery, with some children requiring treatment outside the country. But a growing partnership between Zambia and international medical organisations is changing that story—one heartbeat at a time.

At the National Heart Hospital in Lusaka, a decade-long collaboration with Save a Child’s Heart (SACH)has become a symbol of what is possible when expertise, technology and compassion come together.

The partnership recently reached another milestone with the commissioning of a new Liva Nova S5 heart-lung machine, strengthening Zambia’s ability to perform complex paediatric cardiac surgeries locally.

The unveiling took place during a bilateral paediatric cardiac surgery mission, where children living with rheumatic heart disease received life-saving operations. Five children had already undergone successful procedures and were recovering in the Intensive Care Unit.

For these children and their families, the new equipment represents more than medical advancement—it represents renewed hope.

Over the past ten years, the partnership between the Ministry of Health, through the National Heart Hospital, and Save a Child’s Heart has evolved from providing treatment support to developing Zambia’s own specialised cardiac expertise.

Speaking during the launch at National Heart Hospital, Senior Medical Superintendent of the National Heart Hospital Dr. Chabwela Shumba described the collaboration as a model of strategic, compassionate and sustainable healthcare.

He said the partnership has focused on four key areas: training medical specialists, supporting children requiring treatment, transferring knowledge through surgical missions, and strengthening regional cooperation.

One of the greatest achievements has been the development of Zambia’s first generation of paediatric cardiac specialists.

Through the programme, Zambia has produced its first paediatric cardiac surgeon, paediatric cardiac intensivist, perfusionist and cardiac anaesthesiologist, all trained in Israel at no cost to the Zambian government.

Training of a second generation of specialists is already underway, ensuring that knowledge and expertise continue to grow within the country.

"This is not only about treating children today; it is about ensuring Zambia has the professionals and systems to continue providing this care tomorrow," Dr. Shumba said.

                                      (Heart-lung machine)

The new heart-lung machine, purchased at a cost of nearly US$200,000, was jointly financed by the National Heart Hospital, Save a Child’s Heart and the American Jewish Committee.

The hospital contributed half of the cost, while SACH and AJC provided the remaining support.

The machine is expected to significantly improve surgical capacity at the facility by allowing more complex procedures to be performed locally.

With the equipment now operational, the National Heart Hospital has a fully functional paediatric cardiac theatre and has already performed surgery on about 60 patients, including 30 children.

The hospital can now conduct two procedures simultaneously, helping reduce waiting times for patients in need of urgent care.

And Save a Child’s Heart has also donated additional medical equipment, including a GE Echo machine, ScaLan cardiac instrument set and cardiac consumables, bringing its total investment in Zambia to approximately US$3 million.

Meanwhile Israel Ambassador to Zambia Ofra Farhi said the partnership demonstrates the importance of long-term cooperation focused on sustainability.

She said the value of the programme goes beyond individual surgeries because it creates local expertise and ensures Zambian healthcare workers can continue using advanced technology independently.

"This is a long-term programme, it is a sustainable programme. It creates technology and learning how to use the machine here, and the long-term impact on the local team," Ambassador Farhi said.

She praised the cooperation between Zambia and Israel, as well as the support from Save a Child’s Heart and the American Jewish Committee.

"In Israel we say, whoever saves one life, it is as if he saved an entire world," she said.

For Save a Child’s Heart Executive Director Simon Fisher, the impact of the programme is being felt across the country.

He said children from different regions, including Zambezi, Nakonde, Eastern Province and Southern Province, have benefited from the partnership.

The programme, he explained, is helping identify children who need surgery while reducing the number of patients waiting for specialised treatment.

"It really fits the real name of our hospital, the National Heart Hospital. It is really helpful to reduce the load of patients waiting for surgery," Mr. Fisher said.

Through screening, surgical camps and mentorship, the partnership continues to expand access to care for children who may otherwise have limited options.

While heart surgery often highlights the work of surgeons, specialists say successful outcomes depend on a much larger team.

And speaking at the same event Consultant Paediatric Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr. Hagi explained that cardiac surgery requires cooperation among doctors, nurses, anaesthetists, intensive care specialists, perfusionists and technical teams.

"It’s not just one doctor working," he said. "Heart surgery is a team game."

He said the growing confidence among Zambia’s medical teams shows the importance of continued training and collaboration.

The Ministry of Health says partnerships such as this are critical in building a stronger and more resilient health system where children can receive quality treatment closer to home.

For families who once faced uncertainty and long journeys in search of specialised care, the progress at the National Heart Hospital offers a new sense of possibility.

The new heart-lung machine is not simply a piece of medical equipment—it is a symbol of investment in Zambia’s future, a tool that empowers local doctors and a reminder that every child deserves the chance to live a healthy life.

As Zambia continues to strengthen its paediatric cardiac services, each successful operation represents more than a medical achievement.

 Hope Begins Next Door: Campaign Urges Zambians to Check on Their Neighbours

By Alain Kabinda

LUSAKA– Behind the smiles people wear every day, many are carrying burdens that no one sees.

Some are struggling to cope with unemployment. Others are weighed down by financial hardship, broken relationships, addiction or grief. For many, these challenges develop into depression and other mental health conditions, yet they continue to suffer in silence, afraid of being judged or misunderstood.

It is against this backdrop that Zmai Social Care Foundation, in partnership with Support A Woman of Valor (SAWOV), launched the "Check Your Neighbour Campaign"—a community-driven initiative encouraging Zambians to look out for one another and help restore hope to those battling mental health challenges.

The campaign, launched in Lusaka, seeks to promote compassion, reduce stigma and encourage communities to become the first line of support for individuals experiencing emotional and psychological distress.

Speaking during the launch, SAWOV President Mirriam Mumba said depression has become a growing concern that cuts across all segments of society, affecting people regardless of their age, social standing or economic background.

She observed that many people silently battle emotional and psychological challenges caused by poverty, unemployment, marital disputes, addiction and other life pressures.

According to Ms. Mumba, one of the greatest challenges is that many individuals do not seek help because they fear being judged, rejected or misunderstood.

"Many people are silently carrying emotional pain," she said. "Some have reached a point where they lose hope and even contemplate taking their own lives because they feel they have no one to talk to."

She explained that the "Check Your Neighbour Campaign"encourages ordinary citizens to regularly reach out to those around them, listen with empathy and connect individuals in distress with the help they need.

"It costs nothing to ask someone how they are doing," she said. "Sometimes, that simple conversation can make the difference between hope and despair."

Ms. Mumba called on churches, traditional leaders, youth groups and community organisations to actively participate in the campaign, saying mental health is a shared responsibility that requires collective action.

And meanwhile Zmai Social Care Foundation President Charity Chongo, addressing mental health begins with eliminating the stigma that prevents people from seeking support.

She said many people continue to hide their struggles because they fear discrimination or being labelled as weak.

"Mental health challenges should be treated with the same seriousness as physical illnesses," Ms. Chongo said. "People should feel safe to ask for help without fear of ridicule."

She also appealed to mobile network operators to support the initiative by introducing toll-free counselling lines that would enable people experiencing emotional distress to access professional assistance regardless of their financial circumstances.

She added that this initiative could become a lifeline support for individuals who may otherwise suffer in silence.

And Philanthropist Sanjeev Sharda added that society often underestimates the healing power of kindness and human connection.

He urged families, churches and communities to become safe spaces where people can openly discuss their struggles without fear of judgment.

"Many people are carrying invisible burdens," he said. "Listening with compassion and showing genuine care can transform someone's life."

Cybersecurity analyst Beatrice Mwansa described the campaign as timely, noting that mental health challenges continue to affect people across every profession and community.

She said increased public awareness would encourage more people to seek help before their conditions become severe.

Meanwhile, Zmai Vice President Emmanuel Kafula said the initiative seeks to strengthen community support networks capable of identifying vulnerable individuals early and ensuring they receive appropriate assistance.

He noted that neighbours are often the first to notice changes in behaviour and are therefore well placed to offer encouragement or refer someone to professional services.

Mental health experts increasingly agree that addressing depression requires more than clinical services. It also demands communities that are willing to listen, understand and support those who are struggling.

Campaign organisers hope the initiative will inspire Zambians to move beyond casual greetings and begin meaningful conversations with neighbours, friends and relatives who may be experiencing emotional distress.

As the campaign gains momentum, its success may ultimately be measured not by the number of events held, but by the lives touched, the stigma reduced and the people who find the courage to seek help because someone took the time to ask, "How are you?"

 Beyond the Operating Theatre: Israeli Doctors Help Build Zambia's Surgical Future

Alain Kabinda

Lusaka-For many patients waiting for specialised surgery, access to expert medical care can mean the difference between hope and despair. This week, that hope arrived at Choma General Hospital in Southern Province, where a team of Israeli medical specialists is working alongside Zambian doctors to perform complex operations while transferring critical skills that could strengthen the country's healthcare system for years to come.

The five-member multidisciplinary team from the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Centre arrived in Zambia to undertake a three-day surgical mission focused on delivering specialised care in paediatrics, general surgery, gynaecology and ophthalmology.

But beyond treating patients, the mission is centred on a broader goal—building Zambia's capacity to provide advanced surgical services through hands-on training and mentorship of local medical professionals.

The visiting specialists are working side by side with Zambian doctors in operating theatres, sharing modern surgical techniques and clinical expertise that health officials say will help improve specialised healthcare long after the mission ends.

The delegation also donated specialised medical equipment to Choma General Hospital, providing local surgeons with additional tools to perform more advanced procedures in the future.

Speaking about the initiative, Israel's Ambassador to Zambia, Ofra Farhi, described the mission as a significant milestone in the growing partnership between the two countries in the health sector.

"This is a huge operation," Ambassador Farhi said, adding that she hopes "Zambia could become a regional hub for heart surgeries for children."

Her remarks reflect a vision that extends beyond the current mission—one where Zambia develops the expertise and infrastructure needed to offer specialised paediatric cardiac care, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad.

Healthcare experts increasingly recognise that visiting medical teams can have the greatest impact when they combine patient care with skills transfer.

For Zambia, where demand for specialised surgical services continues to outpace the availability of highly trained specialists, partnerships that strengthen local expertise are becoming increasingly important.

Rather than working in isolation, the Israeli doctors are mentoring Zambian clinicians through practical demonstrations, collaborative surgeries and professional exchanges designed to improve clinical outcomes and build confidence in handling complex cases.

Such collaborations are expected to enhance the country's ability to deliver specialised care independently while improving access for patients who might otherwise face long waiting periods or expensive referrals.

The latest mission also highlights the expanding health cooperation between Zambia and Israel.

In addition to surgical collaboration, Israeli-supported programmes are already contributing to healthcare initiatives in Zambia, including epilepsy research in Eastern Province aimed at improving understanding, diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders.

These partnerships demonstrate how international cooperation can support local health systems through research, innovation, technology transfer and professional development.

While the visiting specialists will spend only three days at Choma General Hospital, the knowledge they leave behind could have a far longer impact.

Every operation performed together, every technique demonstrated and every piece of donated equipment strengthens Zambia's capacity to provide specialised care closer to home.

For the patients receiving treatment this week, the mission offers immediate relief. For the doctors gaining new skills, it represents an opportunity to expand their expertise. And for Zambia's healthcare system, it marks another step toward delivering more advanced surgical services within its own borders.

As the operating theatres at Choma General Hospital continue to save lives over the coming days, the mission serves as a reminder that the most enduring medical interventions are not only those performed on patients, but also those that empower healthcare professionals to continue saving lives long into the future.

 More Than 26,000 Lives Lost Every Day: Why Preventing Cancer Starts Long Before the Hospital

By Alain Kabinda

Every day, more than 26,000 families around the world lose a loved one to cancer. Behind every number is a story—a parent whose dreams are cut short, a child growing up without a mother or father, a young professional forced to abandon a promising career, or a grandparent who becomes another empty chair at the family table.

Cancer has become one of the world's greatest public health challenges. It is no longer a disease affecting only older people or those living in wealthy countries. Today, it touches communities across every continent, leaving behind emotional, social and economic scars that often last for generations.

According to global estimates, approximately 20.6 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year, while nearly 10 million people die from the disease. Unless governments, health systems and communities strengthen prevention and early detection efforts, annual cancer cases could climb to almost 35 million by 2050.

Health experts estimate that nearly four out of every 10 cancer cases are linked to preventable risk factors. This means millions of future diagnoses—and countless deaths—could be avoided through healthier lifestyles, stronger public health policies and timely medical care.

Speaking to Daily News in lusaka, a 28-year-old Mapalo Chongo (not her real name) first noticed a persistent lump, she dismissed it as something minor. Like many people, she believed it would disappear on its own.

"I kept telling myself it was nothing," Mapalo said. "I was busy taking care of my family and working. Going to the hospital wasn't my priority."

Weeks turned into months, and the lump grew larger. Concerned relatives urged her to seek medical attention. After a series of tests, the diagnosis came—breast cancer.

"I felt my whole world collapse," she said. "The first thing that came to my mind was that I was going to die and losing hope. I couldn't stop thinking about my child and what would happen to her."

The diagnosis brought not only emotional pain but also financial strain. Hospital visits, diagnostic tests and treatment meant travelling long distances and spending money the family had not planned for.

"There were days when I wanted to give up," said Mapalo. "Treatment was exhausting, and the financial pressure was overwhelming. But my family, my doctors and my faith kept me going."

After months of surgery, treatment and follow-up care, Mapalo received the news she had been praying for—her cancer was in remission.

"That day felt like I had been given a second chance at life, I also realised that cancer is not always a death sentence. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can save lives."

Today, she has become an advocate for cancer awareness, encouraging women and men alike not to ignore unusual changes in their bodies through the support from Cancer Society of Zambia (CSZ).

Mapalo also urged fellow men and women, "If you notice something that doesn't feel right, don't wait like I did, but go for screening. See a doctor. The earlier cancer is found, the better your chances of surviving."

"I value every day now," she said. "Cancer taught me to appreciate my family, my health and the people who stood by me. I survived, and now I want others to know that there is hope."

And speaking to Daily News Also in an interview Cancer Society of Zambia (CSZ) Communications and Administration Manager Idah Phiri said that the organisation is committed to supporting children and adults living with cancer by providing practical assistance, psychosocial support and public education aimed at improving the quality of life for patients and their families.

                                           (Ms. Idah Phiri)

According to Ms. Phiri, many patients, particularly children, require more than medical treatment. They need emotional encouragement, counselling and support to help them cope with the physical and psychological effects of the disease.

She further explained that the Society works closely with patients and caregivers to ensure they are not alone during treatment, while also raising awareness about the importance of early detection and timely access to healthcare services.

Ms. Phiri noted that families caring for children with cancer often face enormous financial and emotional challenges, making community support and partnerships essential in ensuring that young patients receive the care they need.

She added that the Cancer Society of Zambia continues to advocate for increased public awareness, regular cancer screening and improved access to diagnosis and treatment, stressing that many cancers can be successfully treated if detected early.

Ms. Phiri has called on the general public, the private sector and development partners to support cancer programmes, saying collective action is critical in reducing the burden of cancer and ensuring that every patient—regardless of age or income—has an opportunity to receive quality care.

"We want every person diagnosed with cancer to know that they are not alone," Ms. Phiri said. "Together, we can give patients hope, improve their quality of life and increase awareness that early detection saves lives."

Many cancers develop over time, influenced by behaviours and environmental exposures that people encounter throughout their lives.

Avoiding tobacco remains one of the most effective ways to reduce cancer risk. Tobacco use is responsible for millions of deaths each year and is linked to cancers of the lungs, mouth, throat, bladder and several other organs.

Vaccination also plays a critical role. Immunisation against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV)can prevent most cervical cancers and several other HPV-related cancers, while vaccination against hepatitis B significantly reduces the risk of liver cancer.

Experts further encourage people to remain physically active, maintain a healthy body weight, eat balanced diets, limit alcohol consumption and attend routine cancer screening services. Detecting cancer in its early stages dramatically improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.

Health professionals also advise people not to ignore persistent symptoms or unusual changes in their bodies. Seeking medical attention early can make the difference between successful treatment and advanced disease.

For many families, it brings anxiety, depression, uncertainty and financial hardship. Patients often face long journeys for treatment, repeated hospital visits and the emotional strain of living with an uncertain future.

Studies show that more than half of people affected by cancer experience mental health challenges, while at least 45 percent suffer financial difficulties linked to treatment expenses, transport costs and lost household income.

In some families may be forced to sell property, borrow money or withdraw children from school to meet medical expenses.

The ripple effects extend beyond individual households, reducing productivity, increasing healthcare costs and placing additional pressure on already stretched health systems.

People living in rural communities often face long distances to specialised health facilities. Others encounter shortages of screening services, diagnostic equipment, medicines or trained health professionals. Financial barriers continue to prevent many patients from seeking care until the disease has reached an advanced stage.

Public health advocates argue that no one's chances of surviving cancer should depend on where they live or how much they earn. Expanding equitable access to screening, diagnosis, treatment and palliative care is essential if countries are to reduce preventable deaths.

Reducing the global burden of cancer requires more than hospitals and doctors. Governments, employers, schools, civil society organisations and communities all have a role to play.

Strong tobacco control measures, vaccination programmes, public awareness campaigns, healthy school environments and investments in accessible healthcare can save lives before cancer develops.

Individuals, too, can make choices that protect their health—avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, attending recommended screenings and seeking medical advice when something does not feel right.

Cancer remains one of humanity's greatest health challenges, but it is not an inevitable one. With prevention, early detection and equitable access to quality care, millions of lives can be saved.

Every statistic represents a person with hopes, dreams and loved ones. Every life saved is a reminder that the fight against cancer begins long before a diagnosis—and that together, societies can build a future where fewer families experience the devastating words: "You have cancer."

Diplomatic Neutrality Under Scrutiny: AIPAC Warns Against Partisan Conduct by Ambassadors"

 Diplomatic Neutrality Under Scrutiny: AIPAC Warns Against Partisan Conduct by Ambassadors"

By Alain Kabinda

LUSAKA, 15 July 2026 — Diplomacy is often described as the quiet art of representing a nation's interests with professionalism, discretion, and impartiality. For career diplomats, every public statement and official action reflects not only on the individual but also on the Republic they serve. That is why the question of political neutrality among ambassadors and civil servants has once again become the subject of national debate.

The discussion has intensified following public concerns over partisan political remarks attributed to Ambassador Andrew Banda. The comments have prompted the Acton Institute for Policy Analysis Centre (AIPAC) to call for stricter adherence to constitutional principles governing the conduct of public officers.

AIPAC Executive Director Solomon Ngoma issued a statement to Daily News that at the heart of the debate is a fundamental constitutional principle: civil servants are expected to serve the government of the day with professionalism while remaining politically neutral in the performance of their official duties. This principle exists to protect the integrity of public institutions, ensure continuity of government, and maintain public confidence regardless of which political party is in power.

Mr. Ngoma said that Diplomatic appointments carry an even greater responsibility. Ambassadors represent Zambia before foreign governments, international organizations, investors, and development partners. Their words and actions are often interpreted as reflecting the official position of the Zambian State rather than personal political preferences. For this reason, many governance experts argue that diplomats must exercise particular caution when commenting on domestic political matters.

Mr. Ngoma further expressed concern that public participation in partisan politics by serving ambassadors risks blurring the distinction between the State and political parties.

He also argued that such conduct could weaken institutional credibility and create uncertainty about the impartiality of Zambia's diplomatic service.

The think tank has also drawn attention to directives issued by the Secretary to the Cabinet, which emphasize that civil servants wishing to participate in active politics should first leave public service. According to AIPAC, consistent enforcement of these standards is essential for preserving discipline and public confidence within government institutions.

“The debate is not unique to Zambia. Across many democracies, civil servants and career diplomats are expected to maintain political neutrality while in office. These professional standards are designed to ensure that public officials faithfully serve the Constitution and the nation, irrespective of changes in political leadership,” Mr. Ngoma said.

Supporters of strict neutrality argue that when public officials openly support political parties, they risk undermining trust in institutions that should serve every citizen equally. They contend that impartial public administration is one of the cornerstones of constitutional democracy and effective governance.

The discussion also raises broader questions about accountability. Zambia has witnessed instances where courts have held public officials accountable for actions found to be inconsistent with the law. Such precedents reinforce the principle that constitutional obligations apply equally to all public office holders.

As public debate continues, governance advocates are urging authorities to apply the law fairly and consistently. They argue that doing so would strengthen institutional independence, reinforce respect for constitutional principles, and protect Zambia's reputation as a democratic nation governed by the rule of law.

For AIPAC, the issue extends beyond one individual or one incident. It is about safeguarding the integrity of the Civil Service and diplomatic corps by ensuring that loyalty remains firmly anchored in the Republic of Zambia and its Constitution.

Whether the current debate results in policy changes or disciplinary action remains to be seen. What is clear is that the conversation has reignited a longstanding question that every constitutional democracy must answer: how can the neutrality of the public service be preserved while protecting the democratic rights of individual citizens?

As Zambia continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, the answer may well shape the future credibility of its Civil Service and its standing on the international stage.

 Youth-Led Campaign YWAC Targets Healthier Learning Environments Across Zambia

By Alain Kabinda

Every morning, millions of children walk through school gates carrying dreams of a better future. But behind every lesson learned, every examination passed, and every ambition pursued lies a basic question: Are learners healthy enough to reach their full potential?

This July, as Zambia observes School Health and Nutrition Month, The Youth WASH Ambassador Club is a youth-led organization committed to promoting clean water access, sanitation, hygiene, and nutrition awareness in schools and communities. Through advocacy, education, and youth engagement, YWAC works to create healthier environments where children can learn and achieve their full potential.

The Youth WASH Ambassador Club (YWAC) and WASH Consultant Ms. Nkosha Kachusha is placing this question at the centre of national conversation through a digital campaign aimed at transforming schools into healthier, safer, and more supportive environments for every learner.

                                                                  (Ms. Nkosha Kachusha)

With the message “Healthy learners thrive in healthy schools,” Ms. Kachusha is championing the idea that education cannot be separated from health. Speaking to Daily News in an interview Ms. Kachusha said that the organization believes that access to clean water, proper sanitation, good hygiene practices, and nutritious food are not just basic needs—they are essential tools for improving learning outcomes and keeping children in school.

For many learners, a school is not only a place to read and write. It is also where they spend most of their day, interact with others, and develop habits that shape their future.

However, challenges such as limited access to safe water, inadequate sanitation facilities, poor hygiene practices, and lack of nutritious meals can affect a child’s ability to participate fully in education.

Ms. Kachusha said healthy learning environments create conditions where children can concentrate better, attend classes regularly, and develop confidence.

“Together, let’s build schools where every learner is healthy, nourished, and ready to learn,” the Ms. Kachusha said.

At the heart of the campaign is the promotion of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) as a foundation for learner well-being.

Ms. Kachusha also advocating for schools to have reliable access to clean and safe drinking water, functional toilets, and improved sanitation systems. The organization is also promoting handwashing with soap as one of the simplest but most effective ways of preventing the spread of diseases.

“For learners, especially young girls, access to appropriate sanitation facilities is closely linked to dignity, confidence, and continued participation in education,” Ms. Kachusha said.

The campaign highlights menstrual health and hygiene as a critical issue requiring attention, calling for schools and communities to provide supportive environments where girls can manage menstruation safely without missing lessons or feeling excluded.

Alongside WASH, YWAC is highlighting nutrition as a key driver of educational success.

The organization is encouraging investment in nutritious school meals and stronger food safety practices to ensure that learners receive the nourishment they need to grow, focus, and participate actively in school activities.

A hungry child struggles to concentrate. A well-nourished learner has the energy to engage, explore, and succeed.

YWAC believes that school feeding programmes and nutrition education can play an important role in improving attendance, reducing vulnerability, and supporting better academic performance.

Through its digital campaign, YWAC is demonstrating the power of youth leadership in addressing national health and education challenges.

Throughout July, the organization will share educational content, advocacy tools, and awareness messages across digital platforms to encourage dialogue among learners, teachers, parents, policymakers, and communities.

The campaign reflects a growing recognition that young people are not only beneficiaries of health programmes but also important partners in creating solutions.

By using technology and social platforms, the Youth WASH Ambassador Club is amplifying the voices of young people who want schools to become places where health and education work together.

The vision promoted by YWAC is simple but powerful: every child should have the opportunity to learn in an environment that protects their health, respects their dignity, and supports their dreams.

As School Health Initiative programmes and Nutrition Month continues, the organization is calling for stronger partnerships among government institutions, educators, parents, communities, and young people to ensure that no learner is left behind because of preventable health challenges.

 

 
Healthy Learners, Brighter Futures: How School Health Initiatives Are Transforming Lives in Zambia

                       

 

By Alain Kabinda 

LUSAKA– Education is about far more than reading, writing, and passing examinations. For a child to learn effectively, they must first be healthy, well-nourished, safe, and emotionally supported. Recognizing this, Zambia has increasingly embraced the School Health Initiative (SHI)—a comprehensive approach that integrates health, nutrition, sanitation, psychosocial support, and life skills into the education system. Led by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, development partners, and civil society organizations, the initiative is helping transform schools into environments where learners can thrive academically while developing the knowledge and resilience needed to lead healthy, productive lives.

From providing school meals and clean water to promoting Life Skills and Health Education (LSHE), menstrual hygiene management, mental health support, and school-based health services, the School Health Initiative is tackling many of the barriers that prevent children from reaching their full potential. While significant challenges remain, in communities such as Kanyama and Matro, educators and health experts have said that the programme is already improving school attendance, reducing absenteeism, supporting adolescent health, and giving thousands of learners a better chance at completing their education.

As Zambia continues to invest in its young people, the School Health Initiative is emerging as one of the country's most important investments—not only in education, but also in public health, gender equality, and national development. Behind the policies and programmes are real stories of children staying in school, teachers witnessing improved learning outcomes, and communities recognizing that healthy learners are the foundation of a stronger and more prosperous nation.

                    (Monitoring School health Initiative program in attendance was Daily News) 

Speaking to Daily News, every school morning begins long before the first lesson for a 14-year-old Ruth Mbewe (not her real name), a Grade Eight learner from Kanyama Secondary School in Lusaka.

Before sunrise, Ruth helps her mother clean the kitchen before preparing breakfast for her younger siblings. Only then does she begin going to school.

"There were days I stayed home because I was hungry," she recalls. "Sometimes I became sick, and when I started my monthly period, I didn't know how to manage it. I felt embarrassed and missed several days of school."

Like many girls in Zambia, Ruth also had little understanding of puberty, reproductive health, or the importance of staying in school.

"I thought getting married early was normal because many girls in my village left school before completing their education," she said.

Her school now benefits from several school health Initiative programmes introduced through the Ministry of Education in partnership with the Ministry of Health, cooperating partners, and civil society organizations.

Through the Life Skills and Health Education (LSHE) programme, Ruth has learned about puberty, menstrual hygiene, gender equality, HIV prevention, child protection, and decision-making.

"Our teachers explain things openly," she said. "I now understand my body, I know how to protect myself, and I want to finish school before thinking about marriage."

The school's health club has also become one of her favourite places.

"There we talk about mental health, hygiene, nutrition, and how to support one another. I have become more confident and I even help younger girls."

The school feeding programme which was also introduced now provides meals that help learners stay focused during lessons.

"I don't feel hungry during class anymore," Ruth says with a smile. "I can concentrate better."

"Our school has clean toilets and handwashing stations. Girls feel more comfortable coming to school every day."

Daily News took an advantage to interview Ruth's mother, Agnes Mbewe, the transformation has been remarkable.

"I left school when I was very young," she stated. "I became pregnant as a teenager because nobody ever talked to us about these issues."

Initially, Agnes was uncertain about the Life Skills School Health Initiatives and Health Education programme like school feeding.

"I heard people saying children were being taught things they shouldn't know," she recalls.

However, after attending community meetings organized by the school, her perception changed.

"The teachers explained that the programme is about protecting children, helping them make good decisions, preventing teenage pregnancies, teaching respect, and keeping them in school."

"My daughter now talks openly with me about growing up. Before, we were both too shy."

She believes School Health Initiative programme is giving girls opportunities her generation never had.

"I want my daughter to become a teacher or a nurse. Education will give her choices that I never had."

Across Zambia, school health programmes have become an important part of improving both education and child wellbeing.

Meanwhile Head teacher shared the experience, Mr. Joseph Phiri, Head Teacher of Secondary School improving education has never been only about classrooms and textbooks.

"It is very difficult for a child to learn when they are hungry, sick or worried," Mr. Phiri said. "Before some of these school health programmes were introduced, absenteeism was one of our biggest challenges."

Mr. Phiri recalled that many learners, particularly girls, regularly missed classes because of poor menstrual hygiene management and other illness.

"There were times when girls would stay home for several days every month because they lacked sanitary materials or felt embarrassed. We also had learners who came to school without eating breakfast. By mid-morning they could no longer concentrate."

He stated that school Health Initiative and  the introduction of Life Skills and Health Education (LSHE), school feeding have improved water and sanitation facilities has transformed both attendance and learner participation.

"Today we see more confidence among our learners. They ask questions about their health, understand the importance of hygiene and know where to seek help when they face challenges. The school has become a safer place for them."

Mr. Phiri noted that School health Initiative has also strengthened communication between teachers, learners and parents.

"We are no longer just teaching Mathematics and English. We are helping children build life skills that will protect them long after they leave school." Mr. Phiri said.

He also noted that teachers have observed a noticeable reduction in school absenteeism and improved learner engagement following school health interventions.

"Children who receive meals at school are more attentive in class. Those who understand personal hygiene fall sick less often, and girls are remaining in school longer because they feel supported."

"We still need more trained teachers to deliver Life Skills and Health Education effectively. Some schools lack adequate teaching materials, counselling services and proper sanitation facilities. Rural schools especially require greater investment."

"Every child deserves the opportunity to learn in a healthy environment. When we invest in school health, we are not simply improving education—we are investing in Zambia's future. Healthy learners become productive citizens, and productive citizens build a stronger nation." Added Mr. Phiri.

The Ministry of Education, working closely with the Ministry of Health and development partners, has introduced initiatives aimed at ensuring children remain healthy, safe, and able to learn.

Among the flagship programmes is Life Skills and Health Education, which equips learners from Grade 4 to Grade 12 with knowledge on sexual and reproductive health, HIV prevention, mental health, gender equality, child protection, decision-making, and substance abuse prevention.

Schools are also implementing School Health and Nutrition Programmes, including school feeding, deworming campaigns, Vitamin A supplementation, nutrition education, growth monitoring, and health screening.

And one of the private sectors is WaterAid which has improved Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities are reducing absenteeism by providing safe drinking water, handwashing facilities, clean toilets, and menstrual hygiene facilities for girls.

Other interventions include school-based vaccination campaigns, mental health and psychosocial support, school health clubs, menstrual hygiene education, and comprehensive school safety programmes that prepare learners for emergencies and climate-related disasters.