Zambia Reaffirms Commitment to Ending Child Marriages

By Daily News Reporter 

Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to ending all forms of child marriages through effective legal and policy frameworks. Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Permanent Secretary, Ms. Angela Kawandami, emphasized the need for renewed stakeholder commitment to end child, early, and forced marriages by 2030.

While acknowledging Zambia's progress in implementing community-based initiatives, legal reforms, and educational campaigns, Ms. Kawandami expressed concern that millions of girls are still married before the age of 18. The country has made significant strides, including passing the Marriage (Amendment) Act of 2023, which sets the minimum age of marriage at 18 years old.

Ms. Kawandami assured that Zambia stands ready to collaborate with global partners to mobilize the political will, financial resources, and community engagement needed to secure every girl's right to a safe, healthy, and empowered life. Canada and the United Kingdom have also pledged their support, with Canada championing the global campaign against child, early, and forced marriages and the UK urging member states to formulate policies that ensure education, health, and the future of girls are secured.

Implementing effective community-based initiatives and awareness-raising campaigns.

 Working with global partners, civil society organizations, and community leaders to mobilize resources and support.

Strengthening legal frameworks, including the Marriage (Amendment) Act of 2023, to prevent child marriage.

This is by ensuring girls have access to education, reproductive health services, and social protection to empower them and prevent child marriage.

MISH Hails Government, Partners for a Life-Changing School Health Program

By Bilke Mulenga 

The Media Initiative on School Health (MISH) has hailed the Government of Zambia and a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) called Health Learners for their commitments to funding and implementing School Health Programmes (SHP) which are rendering health services to learners in some schools.

The Media Initiative on School Health observes that the school health programmes are enabling learners to access health services when they are unwell while at school and continue learning.

( MISH CHAIRPERSON JACKSON SITENGU)

In a statement issued in Lusaka on 11th March 2025, Media Initiative on School Health (MISH) Chairperson Jackson Sitengu stated that his organization has extends its gratitude to the Government for what the Ministries of Health and Education, as well as key stakeholders such as Healthy Learners, for their commitment to funding and implementing the School Health Program (SHP).

Mr Sitengu stated that transformative initiative has already benefited over 1.5 million learners in approximately 700 schools in 10 provinces across the country.

“MISH firmly believes that the school health programme is a progressive initiative poised to positively impact Zambia’s education system.

“With education being a critical tool for poverty eradication and national development, investing in the health of learners is a strategic step toward a brighter future,’’ he said.

Mr Sitengu further pointed out that so far, the school health programme has successfully trained and empowered over 5,000 teachers to manage minor health cases and promote wellness of learners in those schools where this service is being conducted.

He said the program has expanded nationwide, currently operating in all 10 provinces and 30 districts, significantly enhancing school-based health services.

“As part of its first phase, 595 health rooms have been established, with plans to construct 2,500 health rooms across 70 districts and recruiting and training 15,000 school health teachers in the basics of delivering health services by the year 2028,’’ he said.

He said that expansion is expected to benefit over three million learners, which will also contribute to both infrastructure development and improved school health services.

Mr Sitengu has since encouraged Zambians from all walks of life to support this initiative, which provides schools with comprehensive health services.

He highlighted that the initiative includes solar-powered health rooms, essential medication, digitized clinical technology, sanitary towels and furniture.

He said the initiative has strengthened linkages between schools and health facilities, ensuring fast-track referrals and technical support.

“This has led to reduced illness-related absenteeism, decongested clinics and hospitals, and improved health and academic performance among learners,’’ he said.

The health rooms which is an initiative of Healthy Learners where small rooms are being built within the premises of school and have some teachers trained in basic health programmes to enable them treat learners with minor health problems while they are in school.

 

Building Resilience in the Face of Climate Change: For A Better Zambia 

By Daily News Reporter 

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, with far-reaching consequences for individuals, communities, and systems around the world. Rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events are just a few of the impacts of climate change that are already being felt.

In Zambia, the effects of climate change are particularly pronounced, with droughts, floods, and heatwaves affecting agricultural productivity, food security, and human settlements. 

To address these challenges, the CLARExchange Zambia project conference was established to bring together stakeholders and share knowledge and experiences on climate adaptation and resilience.

And this year's CLARExchange Conference will take place on 6th to 9th May 2025 in Lusaka,

The CLARExchange Zambia project conference has the potential to make a significant impact on climate adaptation and resilience in Zambia. By bringing together stakeholders and sharing knowledge and experiences,

As the world continues to face these challenges of climate change, initiatives like the CLARExchange Zambia project conference are crucial. By working together and sharing knowledge and experiences, we can build resilience and promote sustainable development.

Climate change is projected to reduce Zambia's GDP by up to 10% by 2050.

The CLARE initiative is implemented in over 10 countries, including Zambia.

"Climate change is a ticking time bomb for Zambia. We need to take action now to reduce our vulnerability and build resiliences." Siame said.

"The CLARExchange Zambia project conference is a critical platform for sharing knowledge and experiences on climate adaptation and resilience." - Gilbert Siame, CLARExchange Zambia project lead

Zambia Seeks to Boost Trade and Investment with International Business Exchange

(ZDCC PRESIDENT FREUD MUSANU)

By Daily News Reporter  

The Zambia Diaspora Chamber of Commerce (ZDCC) hosted the International Business Exchange (IBEX) conference, bringing together business leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs from around the world.

The two-day event is under the theme: Redefining Diaspora: Connecting Businesses and Unlocking Zambia's Economic Potential", held in Lusaka is aimed to promote trade and investment between Zambia and international markets. Keynote speakers and panelists discussed topics such as business development, investment opportunities, and cultural exchange.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Internal Security Permanent Secretary International Relations and Cooperation Mrs Etambuyu  Anamela emphasized the government's commitment to creating a conducive business environment and promoting economic growth.

"We recognize the importance of international trade and investment in driving economic development," Anamela said.

 "We are committed to working with the private sector and international partners to create opportunities for growth and job creation."   Anamela Added .

The conference also featured exhibitions and business-to-business meetings, providing opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses to connect with potential investors and partners.

The ZDCC aims to boost US-Zambia investment portfolio and trade volume to $1 billion by 2030. The ZDCC president, Mr. Freud Musanu expressed optimism about the potential for growth and cooperation.

"We believe that this conference will mark the beginning of a new era of cooperation and growth between Zambia and international markets," Musanu said.

The IBEX conference is expected to attract over 200 delegates from Zambia, the United States, Europe, and other regions and within Africa.

Meanwhile Chief of Mission of International Organization for Migration (lOM) Keisha Livermore stated that International Organization for Migration Supports Zambia's Diaspora Engagement Efforts where it has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Zambia's diaspora engagement efforts, aimed at harnessing the potential of the Zambian diaspora community for national development.

Speaking at the International Business Exchange (IBEX) conference in Lusaka, IOM's Chief of Mission to Zambia, Keisha Livermore emphasized the importance of diaspora engagement for economic growth and development.

"The Zambian diaspora community has a critical role to play in the country's development," Livermore said.

 "IOM is committed to supporting the government's efforts to engage with the diaspora and leverage their skills, expertise, and resources for national development." She added.

The IBEX conference, organized by the Zambia Diaspora Chamber of Commerce, brought together business leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs from around the world to explore opportunities for trade, investment, and collaboration.

IOM's participation in the conference highlighted the organization's commitment to supporting Zambia's diaspora engagement efforts, including diaspora mapping, capacity building, and policy dialogue.

(Delegates attending the International Business Exchange (IBEX) conference at the Taj Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka, Zambia).

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)