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." 

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 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.

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 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.

 Leaving No Voter Behind: Strengthening Inclusive Electoral Participation Ahead of Zambia's 2026 Elections

By Alain Kabinda

"Every human being alive today is a potential person with a disability. My answer to the question, 'Do you have a disability?' is: not yet."

Those powerful words from Zambia Federation of Disability Organisations (ZAFOD) Programme Manager Misheck Katongo Mutamba set the tone for the Electoral Commission of Zambia's (ECZ) Provincial Workshop under the theme:  Strengthening Inclusive Electoral Participation of Persons with Disabilities Ahead of the 2026 General Elections, held in Lusaka.

The speech challenged participants to rethink disability—not as an issue affecting a small section of society, but as a reality that could touch anyone through ageing, illness or injury. It also underscored the workshop's central message: inclusive elections are not a favour extended to persons with disabilities; they are a constitutional obligation and a measure of a healthy democracy.

                                                   (Mr. Misheck Katongo Mutamba)

With Zambia's 2026 General Elections only few weeks away, the conversation has shifted from whether persons with disabilities have the right to vote—that right is already guaranteed by law—to whether they will be able to participate fully, independently and with dignity.

The 2026 elections will be the first conducted under the Constitution Amendment Act No. 13 of 2025 and the Electoral Process Amendment Act No. 12 of 2026, which introduced a mixed-member proportional representation system and reserved seats in Parliament and local councils for women, youth and persons with disabilities.

The reforms have been hailed as a landmark in Zambia's democratic journey, promising greater political representation for groups that have historically been underrepresented.

Yet participants at the workshop agreed that legislation alone cannot dismantle the barriers many citizens with disabilities continue to encounter.

Physical access to polling stations, accessible voter education materials, independent voting, inclusive technology and public attitudes remain critical challenges that require sustained attention.

Mr. Mutamba reminded participants that many of the gains being celebrated today were won through persistent advocacy.

He recalled how ZAFOD challenged the Electoral Commission in court over inaccessible polling stations, election materials and procedures that prevented many persons with disabilities from participating equally in previous elections. The court ruled that those barriers had to be addressed, compelling institutions to begin implementing more inclusive measures.

While acknowledging the progress made, Mutamba said disability rights advocates are now looking beyond policy commitments.

"We've been knocking on closed doors. We are tired of rhetoric. Commitment is a feeling. Taking action is another," he said.

Drawing comparisons with Zambia's women's rights movement, he argued that disability inclusion is following a similar path—from recognition to respect and, ultimately, to meaningful participation.

One of ZAFOD's key recommendations is the recruitment of more persons with disabilities as Electoral Commission officials, particularly at polling stations.

"We want to see persons with disabilities working as ECZ officials. Then we'll know the commitment is real," he said.

He also urged the Commission to use voter registration data more effectively when distributing accessible election materials so that resources reach those who need them most.

"Don't audit 200 employees and celebrate having one person with a disability," he said. "Disability is everyone's business."

Speaking during the official opening of the workshop ECZ Manager for Voter Education Emma Mwiinga Simfukwe outlined several initiatives the Commission has introduced ahead of the 2026 elections.

                                                          (Ms. Emma Mwiinga Simfukwe)

These include voter education materials in Braille, sign language interpretation, tactile ballot paper jackets that enable blind and visually impaired voters to cast their ballots independently, disability-inclusive voter education strategies and nationwide training for election officials.

"Persons with disabilities are not merely beneficiaries of electoral services," Simfukwe said.

"They are equal citizens with constitutional rights to register, access information independently and in secrecy, contest elections and govern."

She added that ECZ is working closely with development partners, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), to strengthen inclusive electoral processes across the country.

Despite these efforts, she acknowledged that challenges remain. Some polling stations are still physically inaccessible, accessible information does not always reach intended audiences, digital platforms remain difficult for some users to navigate, and stigma continues to discourage participation.

One of the workshop's most memorable moments came when Simfukwe posed a simple question to participants.

"Those of us wearing glasses—can you function normally without them?"

Her point was that disability is often viewed as affecting "other people," yet impairment can result from ageing, illness, accidents or other life events.

"We do not want people to wait until they acquire a disability before responding to our call. Let us build an inclusive Zambia before any one of us becomes a person with a disability," she said.

She reminded participants that inclusion is not an event but an ongoing process.

"The journey of inclusivity is not achieved in a day. We take small steps every day. What is important is that we keep moving forward."

The message resonated throughout the workshop: building an inclusive electoral system is not about accommodating a minority. It is about creating institutions that work for everyone.

For Joel Chiwara, a participant living with albinism, the workshop was more than a policy discussion. It was a deeply personal experience.

                                                                      (Joel Chiwara)

"Growing up, I often felt different because of my albinism. People would make assumptions about what I could or could not do, and sometimes I felt invisible in discussions about national issues," he told the Daily News.

He said the workshop renewed his confidence that democracy has room for everyone.

"What encouraged me most was learning that inclusion is about ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to participate in shaping the country's future. For the first time, I felt that my experiences and opinions were valued alongside everyone else's."

Joel noted that many people are unaware that persons with albinism often live with low vision, making ordinary election materials difficult to read.

"Simple measures such as large-print materials, clear signage and accessible polling stations can make a huge difference," he said.

Meeting participants from different disability groups also strengthened his belief that inclusion benefits society as a whole.

"Listening to the experiences of others reminded me that although our challenges may differ, we all share the same desire—to participate equally and with dignity. Inclusion should not depend on how someone looks; it should be a guarantee for every citizen."

Inspired by the discussions, Joel said he plans to encourage more persons with albinism to register as voters, seek accurate electoral information and actively participate in civic life.

"The 2026 elections should be remembered as elections where no one was left behind. Every Zambian deserves the opportunity to vote, to be heard and to contribute to the future of our nation. That is what true inclusion looks like."

As the Lusaka workshop will be concluded, participants are expected to develop recommendations to strengthen ECZ's preparations for the 2026 General Elections and take the lessons learned back to their communities.

The workshop served as a reminder that inclusive elections are not achieved through legislation alone. They require accessible infrastructure, informed institutions, political will and a society that values every citizen equally.

Perhaps the most enduring lesson came from Mutamba's opening words: "Not yet disabled."

The phrase challenges every Zambian to recognise that disability is not someone else's issue. It is part of the human experience.

Building an electoral system that is accessible today is not simply about protecting the rights of persons with disabilities. It is about safeguarding the future of a democracy that belongs to everyone.

 "Breaking Barriers Through Research: Young Scholar Champions Inclusive Health in Zambia"

By Alain Kabinda

LUSAKA — In a country where conversations around menstrual health, disability inclusion and mental well-being are often overlooked, one young researcher is helping to change the narrative through evidence, compassion and innovation.

Ms. Mutali Gift is emerging as one of Zambia's promising young public health researchers after earning national recognition with the acceptance of two research abstracts for presentation at the forthcoming Zambia Medical Association (ZMA) Scientific Conference.

The achievement places her among a growing generation of young scholars whose work is influencing policy discussions and contributing practical solutions to some of Zambia's most pressing public health and social development challenges.

For Ms. Mutali, the recognition is more than an academic milestone—it is an opportunity to amplify the voices of people who are frequently excluded from health programmes and public discourse.

Her first study, "Improving Menstrual Health Knowledge and Practical Menstrual Hygiene Management Skills Among Young Women with Disabilities in Lusaka, Zambia," examines the barriers faced by young women with disabilities in accessing menstrual health information and services.

The research calls for inclusive menstrual health education, improved access to menstrual hygiene products and disability-friendly services that allow young women to manage menstruation with dignity, confidence and independence.

While menstrual health has gained increasing attention in Zambia, women and girls living with disabilities continue to face unique challenges ranging from inaccessible information to social stigma and inadequate support systems.

By placing disability inclusion at the centre of the conversation, Ms. Mutali's work highlights an often-overlooked aspect of health equity.

Her second abstract, "Promoting Mental Wellbeing, Disability Inclusion, and Civic Participation through an Inclusive Mental Health Dialogue among Young People and Persons with Disabilities in Zambia," explores how inclusive dialogue can strengthen mental wellbeing while encouraging meaningful participation in community and national development.

The research advocates for creating safe and inclusive spaces where young people and persons with disabilities can openly discuss mental health challenges, share experiences and contribute to decision-making processes affecting their lives.

At a time when mental health is receiving growing national attention, the study underscores the importance of ensuring that no one is left behind in conversations about wellbeing and social inclusion.

The acceptance of both abstracts by the Zambia Medical Association Scientific Conference reflects not only the quality of the research but also the increasing contribution of young researchers to evidence-based policymaking.

Youth leaders and fellow advocates have described Ms. Mutali's achievement as an inspiration for young people across Zambia.

"This achievement reminds us of the power of collaboration and collective support among young people. When one of us advances, we strengthen the movement for healthier, more inclusive communities," members of the youth community said in congratulating her.

Her research aligns with Zambia's national development priorities and global commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those promoting good health and wellbeing, quality education, gender equality, reduced inequalities and strong partnerships.

Beyond academia, her work has practical implications for government institutions, civil society organisations, disability rights groups and development partners working to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Her achievement is expected to attract recognition and collaboration from institutions including the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, the GoGetter Movement, ZAPID, the Zambia Federation of Disability Organisations (ZAFOD), and other Disabled Persons' Organisations (DPOs).

As Zambia continues to encourage youth participation in research, innovation and policymaking, Ms. Mutali's journey demonstrates that young people are not merely beneficiaries of development—they are active producers of knowledge capable of driving meaningful social change.

Her success also sends a powerful message to aspiring researchers: impactful research begins with identifying real community challenges and pursuing solutions that improve lives.

When Ms. Mutali takes to the podium at the Zambia Medical Association Scientific Conference, she will do more than present research findings. She will represent a generation of young Zambians committed to ensuring that health systems become more inclusive, more equitable and more responsive to the needs of every citizen.

For many young women, persons with disabilities and advocates of social justice, her voice is a reminder that research has the power to influence policy, transform communities and inspire lasting change.