Living with Sickle Cell Disease: A Story of Resilience and Hope

As she sits in her small apartment, surrounded by the vibrant colors of her artwork, 25-year-old Chikondi Mwamba exudes a sense of calm and determination. But behind her bright smile and infectious laugh lies a story of struggle and resilience.

Mukoka was diagnosed with sickle cell disease (SCD) at the age of six. Since then, she has faced countless hospitalizations, painful crises, and the stigma that often accompanies this genetic disorder.

"I remember feeling so alone and scared," Mukoka recalls. "People would say, 'Oh, you're sick, you can't do this or that.' But my parents were always there to encourage me, to tell me that I was capable of achieving anything I set my mind to."

Despite the challenges, Mukoka refused to let SCD define her. She pursued her passion for art, using her creativity as a way to cope with the pain and frustration. Today, her artwork is a testament to her strength and resilience.

"My art is my escape," Mukoka explains. "When I'm painting, I forget about the pain and the struggles. I'm free."

Mukoka's story is not unique. Thousands of people in Zambia live with SCD, facing similar challenges and stigma. 

But Mukoka s determination and refusal to give up have inspired countless others to do the same.

"She's a true warrior," says Dr. Bwalya ( name withheld), a hematologist at the University Teaching Hospital.

 "Mukoka's story is a reminder that SCD is not a death sentence. With proper care and management, people with SCD can lead active and fulfilling lives."

As Mukoka looks to the future, she remains committed to raising awareness about SCD and promoting education and understanding. She knows that by sharing her story, she can help break the stigma surrounding this disease and inspire others to do the same.

"I want people to know that SCD is not something to be ashamed of," Mukoka said 

"It's a part of who I am, but it doesn't define me. I am strong, I am resilient, and I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to."

Facts About Sickle Cell Disease:

1. SCD is a genetic disorder that affects the production of hemoglobin.

2. the proper management and care, people with SCD can lead active and fulfilling lives.

1. Sickle Cell Disease Association of Zambia

2. Ministry of Health, Zambia

3. World Health Organization (WHO)

Photo caption: Given Mukoka a 25-year-old artist living with sickle cell disease, sits in her apartment surrounded by her vibrant artwork.

 BESTLIFE INSURANCE AND YANGO TO IMPROVE DRIVER'S SAFETY 

By Daily News Reporter 

Bestlife insurance and Yango has partnered to support and protect the drivers through their transportation yango clients.

Recently yango's drivers have passed set backs interms of drivers being kidnapped, accidents or killed during their transportation operation.

This lack of support has been closed through Bestlife insurance limited in partnership with Yango Zambia.

Speaking during the Memorandum of Understanding signing with YANGO, Bestlife insurance limited Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Christabel Michel stated that this is the shared commitment with Yango to protect safety of Yango drivers during operation as long as they are insured with bestlife insurance limited.

Michel also said that this to bridge the gaps which drivers face so that they can have a peace of mind in their operation activities.

And Yango Zambia Chief Executive Officer Kabanda Chewe added that this will ensure that all Yango drivers to be protected and safe so that Yango clients can fee safe as they are enjoying their ride.

She further urged Yango drivers to come and being covered by bestlife insurance limited through Yango initiative of insurance.

 Did you know that…

⚠️ Over 200 diseases are caused by eating contaminated food.

🥘 1 in 10 people worldwide fall ill from contaminated food each year.

👶🏽 40% of the foodborne disease burden is carried by children under 5.

💵 US$ 110 billion is lost each year in productivity and medical expenses resulting from unsafe food in low- and middle-income countries.

Foodborne illnesses are usually infectious or toxic in nature and caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemical substances entering the body through contaminated food.

💡 Access to sufficient amounts of safe and nutritious food is key to sustaining life and good health.

 

🍎 Safe food supplies also contribute to food and nutrition security, support national economies, trade and tourism, and underpin sustainable development.

Food safety is everyone’s business, here’s what you can do:

*Practice* safe food handling at home: keep it clean, separate raw and cooked food, cook food thoroughly, keep food at safe temperatures and use safe water and raw materials.

*Learn* how to keep food safe before, during, and after emergencies, such as floods, fires, natural disasters or the loss of power.  

*Know* how to report poor hygiene standards and misleading food labeling.

(WHO)

Harmonizing Veterinary Medicine Regulation in Southern Africa

By Daily News Reporter 

In a significant step towards harmonizing the regulation of veterinary medicinal products in Southern Africa, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) recently conducted its first physical joint assessment. 

This groundbreaking initiative, held in collaboration with the UK's Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), aims to enhance the availability and accessibility of quality veterinary medicinal products across the region.

The joint assessment, as part of the Zambia , Zimbabwe, Botswana, Nambia, South Africa , Malawi and Tanzania ( ZAZIBONA) project, brought together regulatory experts from SADC Member States and the UK-VMD. Over  five (5) days, the team evaluated the regulatory framework, procedures, and capacity of participating countries in regulating veterinary medicinal products.

Speaking during the meeting Zambia Medicine Regulatory Authority ( ZAMRA) representing Director General, Director Finance Mr Mathews Banda stated that this initiative of collaboration among SADC counties will improve the access quality of veterinary medicine products in the region.

"This joint assessment marks a crucial milestone in our efforts to harmonize veterinary medicine regulation in Southern Africa," said Mr Banda said.

"By working together, we can ensure that our region has access to safe, effective, and quality veterinary medicinal products." Mr. Banda said.

The assessment team also evaluating compliance with regional and international standards. The team further shared best practices and experiences from the UK-VMD and other regions, discussing how to adapt and implement these in the SADC region.

"This collaboration with the UK-VMD has been invaluable," said mr Banda 

 "We have gained valuable insights into international best practices and are committed to implementing these in our own regulatory frameworks." He added.

And the joint assessment culminated in the development of an action plan and recommendations for improving the regulation of veterinary medicinal products in SADC Member States. 

This plan will guide future efforts to enhance regional cooperation, capacity building, and the sharing of best practices.

As the SADC region continues to work towards harmonizing veterinary medicine regulation, this joint assessment marks a significant step forward. 

By collaborating with international partners and sharing expertise, Southern Africa can ensure the availability of quality veterinary medicinal products, ultimately enhancing animal health, public health, and regional economic development.

The ZAZIBONA project aims to harmonize the registration of veterinary medicinal products across the SADC region. By streamlining regulatory processes and enhancing cooperation, ZAZIBONA seeks to improve the availability and accessibility of quality veterinary medicinal products.

 

ZATEX TO BOOST REVENUE FOR LOCAL TOURISM AND GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS 

By Daily News Reporter 

The Zambia Travel EXPO ( ZATEX ) which is set to become the leading tourism event in Zambia, it's aim is to evolve into a globally recognized platform over the next five years.

This year's ZATEX is under the theme " Sustainable Tourism: Driving Inclusive Growth".

Speaking during the launch of ZATEX in Lusaka Ministry of Tourism Permanent Secretary Mr. Evans Muhanga stated that this will give opportunity to local tourism sector especially Small Business in the tourism sector and engaging the Ministry of Tourism.

He also stated that private sectors and public to start working together and ensure that the industry improve and grow.

He further added this Will boost revenue for local operators and enabling global partnerships.

And Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba said, this is a call to action and ensure that the sector explore to international and local tourists.

He add that it will attract to key buyers from international markets by improving the country's position in the global tourism industry and strengthen domestic tourism also by promoting sustainable growth in the sector.

Mr Rodney urged the private sectors in the sector to bring out those tourism attention such as lodges, Hotels and other facilities to attract investors.

 PMC TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH MEDIA REVOLUTION 

By Daily News Reporter 

Misinformation and sensationalism have dominated the media landscape through digital age,  and Population Media Center ( PMC ) has harnessed the power of storytelling using the media platforms such as radio, Social media, and entertainment education to challenge deep rooted cultural norms and tackle some of the country's most pressing health and social issues such as Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (  SGBV ) Family Planning and HIV/AIDS Treatment.

Speaking during at the stakeholders meeting under the theme "Innovative Communication For Impact" Population Media Center Country Director Charles Kalonga stated that PMC is empowering individuals to make decisions that improve their lives through creative and engaging storytelling programs under Population Media Center which has taken advantage of social media platforms to educate the communities.

Mr. Kalonga also added that this initiative has helped reduce teenage pregnancies, early marriages, increase update of long-term reversible contraceptive methods, and improve adherence to HIV treatment and prevention strategies.

He further stated that they is need to engage all stakeholders to fight this challenge affecting the communities among women and girls.

And Minister of Health Permanent Secretary Technical Services Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi stated that this initiative need to be used to demonstrate the power of mass media to shape public health outcomes.

Dr. Lishimpi added that health services are essential in the communities to reduce teenage pregnancies and health challenges by the community.

Meanwhile Population Media Center (PMC) President and CEO Margot Fahnestock added that PMC it's mission is to have a media which can inspire people to make choices that lead to healthier families and communities to be stronger through entertainment education content and addressing critical issues like population growth, gender equality and sustainable development and ensuring survivors receive the support they need.

She further urged all organisations to support the movement for social change through media driven advocacy and action.

And one of the beneficiaries of PMC's programs by the name of Kathrine Phiri a Grade 12 of Zamba Day School in Chadiza district of Zambia thanked the PMC program for supporting interms of education skills and knowledge.

Phiri who got pregnant when she was in grade 10 highlighted how PMC helped achieve her goal to equare quality education.

Through PMC Katherine released that education is key life despite financial status free education uplifted her life.

"People started laughing at me coz of my childhood pregnancy and stopped going to school but PMC program helped me to go back to school and acquire quality education so that I can support my child." Kathrine said.

Kathrine also urged other girls who have left out school to use these programs by PMC so that it can empower them.

And according to Ministry of Health's report shows that approximately 11% of adults aged 15 - 49 are living with HIV, with women affected at 14% compared to 7.5% of men. This prevalence is significantly higher in the urban areas at 15.9% than rural areas at 7.1% .

Meanwhile nearly 18% of women and 27% of men have been exposed to family planning messages through PMC media platforms demonstrating the power of mass media to shape public health outcomes.

 I NEED JUSTICE TO PRIVAIL......

HANGWEMU 

By Daily News Reporter 

Ruling United Party for National Development- UPND National Youth Chairperson for Finance and Mobilization Jonathan Hangwemu has urged Police in Monze District to  bring to book people that attacked him for immediately effect.

In December 2024 while parked at Choppies Shop in Monze around 19:00 to 20:00 hours, Mr. Hangwemu was brutally attacked by unknown criminals in Monze District  who made off with an undisclosed amount of money.

Mr. Hangwemu suffered severe injuries on the right eye and have been undergoing medical treatment in South Africa for the past one month now.

Speaking to Daily News Reporter after presenting  his medical report to Monze Police Station, Mr. Hangwemu stated that he wants justice to prevail in his case and that suspected attackers should be brought to book.

Mr. Hangwemu is hopeful that police officers handling his case will exercise high level of professionaliziam and diligently investigate the matter.

Mr. Hangwemu who is also a businessman explained that his business has suffered as he has been spending a lot of time traveling to South Africa for medical treatment adding that upto now he is not able to see following the same attack.

 Smart Zambia Institute and ZAMREN to Transform education sector into digital innovation 

By Daily News Reporter 

SMART Zambia and the Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at revolutionizing the education sector through digital innovation.

The partnership which seeks to bridge the digital divide in Zambia's education system, by ensuring that students across the country have equal access to quality educational content and resources. 

Through this partnership SMART Zambia and ZAMREN aim to create a vibrant ecosystem that fosters the growth of digital technologies, promotes e-government, and enhances the overall quality of life for students.

Speaking at the signing ceremony,  Smart Zambia Institute National Coordinator Mr. Percy Chinyama stated that this MoU agreement has come at a very correct and critical moment when when the institute is about to catapult in terms of digitization of the schools, generally the education sector.

Mr Chinyama also said that the areas of collaboration, including research and development, digital infrastructure development, capacity building and training, education sector support, and digital literacy and awareness.

He further stated that the partnership is critical and intentional, and that SMART Zambia sees it as part of the transformation of academia into practical industrial functionality. 

He noted that the agreement is significant, as it is in line with the dream of President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA to bring equality in the education sector adding that children in urban and rural areas can now be able to access similar lessons via digital means adding that this will enable the digitization of the education sector, starting from primary to university level, and promote equality in education.

And through working together and harnessing the power of technology,  this partnership will create a more equitable and quality education system for all Zambians.

Meanwhile Chairperson of the ZAMREN Board, Professor Mundia Muya, added that, the significant partnership between the Zambia Research and Education Network and SMART Zambia, through the signing of this MoU, marks a significant milestone in it's collective pursuit of harnessing the power of technology to drive socio-economic development and prosperity in Zambia.

Professor Muya also stressed that the partnership aims to create a vibrant ecosystem that fosters the growth of digital technologies, promotes e-government, and enhances the overall quality of life for students. 

He noted that the MoU outlines key areas of collaboration, including research and development, digital infrastructure development, capacity building and training, innovation and entrepreneurship, and digital literacy and awareness.

The signing of the MoU is a significant step towards achieving the Zambian government's vision of a digitally empowered education sector. 

With this partnership, SMART Zambia and ZAMREN are poised to drive meaningful impact and transform the lives of Zambian students.

 ZAMBIA'S DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION PROJECT GETS UNDERWAY

The Government of the Republic of Zambia and the World Bank have commenced the technical review of components under the Digital Zambia Acceleration Project (DZAP) which marks a significant step towards the country's digital transformation.

The four-day meeting, which kicked off today, the 3rd of February 2025, aims to utilise the multiphase programmatic approach under the Inclusive Digitalisation for Eastern and Southern Africa Program (IDEA). 

This approach is designed to support Zambia's efforts to accelerate its digital transformation and improve the lives of its citizens.

Speaking during his opening remarks, SMART Zambia National Coordinator Mr PERCY CHINYAMA emphasised the need for truthfulness and unity of purpose in implementing the project. 

"We have a task at hand, and every single one of us plays a critical role in achieving our goals," Mr CHINYAMA said.

Mr CHINYAMA highlighted the importance of the project, stating that it will enable Zambia to implement a digital ID system, making it easier for citizens to access essential services.

"We aim to ensure every Zambian has a digital ID and access to the internet, driving our country's digital transformation," he said.

Mr CHINYAMA urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure the project's success.

"We must collaborate and support each other to achieve our goals. This project is not just about technology; it's about transforming our country and improving the lives of our citizens," he said.

Representatives from various government institutions, the World Bank, and other stakeholders are attending the technical review meeting, which is expected to conclude on Thursday, February 6th, 2025, with a clear roadmap for the project's implementation.

The project's focus on digital infrastructure development will also help to bridge the digital divide in Zambia, ensuring that all citizens have access to the benefits of digital technology. This, in turn, will help drive economic growth, improve governance, and enhance Zambians' overall quality of life.

The DZAP project is a key component of Zambia's National Development Plan, which aims to transform the country into a prosperous middle-income nation by 2030. The project's success will be critical to achieving this goal and ensuring a brighter future for all Zambians.