Pupils Use Debate Platforms to Raise Awareness on Menstrual Hygiene Management

By Alain Kabinda,

School pupils are increasingly using debate platforms to raise awareness on the importance of Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM), helping to break long-standing silence and stigma surrounding menstruation in schools and communities.

Through inter-school debates between Chakunkula Secondary School and Chestone Secondary School in Lusaka, spoke openly about challenges girls face during menstruation, including limited access to sanitary products, inadequate sanitation facilities, teasing, and lack of proper menstrual health education.

                                       (Chakukula Secondary School Debating)

One of the recent debate motions that attracted attention among learners stated: “Menstrual Hygiene Management should be integrated into the general school health curriculum for all learners rather than taught to girls only.”

                                   (Chestone Secondary School Debating)

The motion sparked meaningful discussions among pupils, with many arguing that educating both boys and girls about menstruation would help reduce stigma, discrimination, and misinformation in schools.

Participants noted that many girls continue missing classes during their menstrual periods due to fear of embarrassment or lack of support from peers. Learners emphasized that involving boys in menstrual health education could help create understanding, empathy, and respect among pupils.

During the debates, pupils highlighted that menstruation is a natural biological process and should not be treated as a taboo subject. They argued that schools have a responsibility to provide accurate information and create safe environments where girls can manage menstruation with dignity and confidence.

Also, pupils called for improved water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in schools, stressing that access to clean toilets, water, and proper disposal systems remains critical in promoting menstrual hygiene.

Teachers and education stakeholders have praised debate platforms for empowering young people to discuss sensitive health issues confidently while developing leadership and communication skills. Educators say debates are helping learners become advocates for positive social change within their schools and communities.

Health advocates believe youth-led conversations are essential in addressing harmful myths and cultural misconceptions surrounding menstruation. They say allowing pupils to engage openly in discussions promotes awareness and helps normalize menstrual health conversations among young people.

The Competition between Chakunkula Secondary and Chestone Secondary Schools through the debate was a draw.

As menstrual hygiene awareness continues gaining attention nationally and globally, pupils are proving that debate platforms can serve as powerful tools for advocacy, education, and empowerment.

For many learners, these discussions are not simply classroom activities but opportunities to champion dignity, equality, and better health outcomes for girls in schools.

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 Scholarship Students Urged to Embrace Personal and Professional Development

By Daily News Reporter

Students under the Justina Mutale Foundation Scholarship Programme have been encouraged to work hard, believe in themselves, and invest in personal and professional development as they prepare for future careers and leadership roles.

Speaking during the Scholarship Student Academic and Professional Development Workshop, r Justina Mutale Foundation Board member Dr. David Mwambazi urged students to dream big and remain focused on their goals despite challenges.

Dr. Mwambazi said success begins with belief, discipline, and determination rather than financial background or current circumstances.

“The truth is this: you can become anything you choose to become,” he said.

He encouraged students not to underestimate small beginnings, noting that many successful businesses and entrepreneurs started with simple ideas and limited resources.

Dr. Mwambazi also reminded participants that failure is part of growth and should motivate them to keep trying rather than give up.

He further advised students to develop important life skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, creativity, confidence, problem-solving, and financial discipline.

Meanwhile, Press Officer for Justina Mutale Foundation Mr. Moses Walubita emphasized the importance of continuous personal and professional development.

Mr. Walubita said academic qualifications alone are not enough for long-term success, stressing that employers also value attitude, adaptability, discipline, and communication skills.

He encouraged students to build confidence, seek mentorship, improve digital skills, and participate in networking opportunities while still pursuing their studies.

Mr. Walubita further urged the students to remain resilient during difficult moments, saying setbacks should be viewed as opportunities for growth and learning.

The workshop brought together scholarship beneficiaries and facilitators to discuss leadership, career preparation, and the importance of lifelong learning.

Organisers said the programme is aimed at equipping students with practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed both academically and professionally.

 Zambia Pushes to Turn Critical Minerals Wealth into Jobs and Industrial Growth

By Alain Kabinda

Zambia is intensifying efforts to ensure that the country’s growing critical minerals sector delivers meaningful benefits to local communities, businesses, and the wider economy as global demand for minerals used in clean energy technologies continues to rise.

This emerged during the Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Zambia’s National Critical Minerals Strategy (2024–2028), where government officials, civil society organisations, industry players, academics, and development partners gathered to discuss how the country can transform mineral wealth into long-term economic growth and industrial development.

The Stakeholders meeting focused on strengthening implementation of Zambia’s Critical Minerals Strategy and ensuring that the country moves beyond simply exporting raw minerals.

Global demand for minerals such as copper, cobalt, lithium, manganese, and nickel has increased significantly due to the transition toward renewable energy, electric vehicles, and digital technologies. Zambia, one of Africa’s major copper producers, is now being viewed as strategically important in the global energy transition.

However, stakeholders at the dialogue stressed that mineral wealth alone does not guarantee national development.

Speaking during the meeting, Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) Executive Director Mr. Isaac Mwaipopo called for stronger mechanisms to ensure ordinary Zambians directly benefit from the critical minerals boom.

Mr. Mwaipopo emphasized the need for increased transparency in mining contracts, stronger community participation, and clear targets for local procurement and skills transfer.

“This is about ensuring Zambians benefit directly from the critical minerals boom, not just multinational companies,” Mr. Mwaipopo said.

He further noted that momentum is building around the need for faster implementation of policies that promote local content and value addition within Zambia’s mining sector.

The discussions centered on four major pillars under the National Critical Minerals Strategy (NCMS):

* Geological Mapping and Resource Development;

* Value Addition;

* Public-Private Partnerships; and

* Research and Innovation.

And speaking during the meeting Ms. Nafi Quarshie, Africa Director for the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI), described the dialogue as taking place at a critical moment in global economic transformation.

                                                      (Ms. Nafi Quarshie, Africa Director for NRGI) 

She said minerals that were once treated simply as export commodities are now strategic resources driving industrial competitiveness and geopolitical priorities worldwide.

“Copper, cobalt, manganese, nickel and lithium are no longer simply commodities. They are now strategic assets shaping economic futures,” Said Quarshie.

Ms. Quarshie warned that Africa has historically exported raw materials while other regions captured most of the economic value through manufacturing and industrialization.

She further stressed that Zambia now has an opportunity to avoid repeating that pattern by using its mineral resources to support industrialisation, job creation, innovation, and economic diversification.

According to NRGI, the dialogue was designed not merely as a discussion forum but as a working platform to strengthen implementation of the Critical Minerals Strategy.

Participants explored ways of improving coordination among institutions, strengthening transparency and accountability, and ensuring communities and citizens play a greater role in mineral governance.

The dialogue also highlighted the importance of monitoring progress and ensuring that implementation remains measurable and accountable.

Opening the session on behalf of the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Minister Mr. Paul Kabuswe, Permanent Secretary Dr. Hapenga Kabeta said Zambia’s success would depend on whether mineral resources are transformed into tangible benefits for citizens.

                                                (Permanent Secretary Dr. Hapenga Kabeta)

“Zambia holds some of the world’s most sought-after minerals for the energy transition. The challenge now is to ensure those resources translate into jobs, value addition, and stronger communities,” Dr. Kabeta said.

The Ministry also presented updates on progress made under the strategy, including work on geological mapping and investor engagement, while acknowledging areas where implementation still requires acceleration.

Stakeholders agreed that collaboration between government, civil society, the private sector, and development partners will be essential if Zambia is to build a mining sector that promotes transparency, industrial growth, and inclusive development.

As global competition for critical minerals intensifies, many participants said Zambia has an opportunity not only to supply the world with minerals, but also to shape a mineral future that creates jobs, strengthens industries, and delivers lasting benefits for local communities.

NRGI Decision being made today about critical minerals will shape the global economy for generations to come. Demand for copper lithium, Nickel, Cobalt and rare earths is projected to nearly triple by 2030m requiring close to $600 billion in new mining investment by 2040.

And the countries holding the largest reserved are often among the world’s most resource department and many have historically struggled to fully leverage resources.

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 Dr. Rasha Kelej Champions Feminine Leadership and Impact Across Africa

By Alain Kabinda

An inspiring feature in Vogue India has spotlighted Dr. Rasha Kelej, Chief Executive Officer of the Merck Foundation, highlighting her leadership philosophy that women do not need to abandon their individuality or femininity in order to lead effectively.

Instead, Dr. Kelej emphasizes that both leadership and femininity can coexist seamlessly — a message that continues to shape conversations around women’s empowerment, confidence, and representation in leadership spaces across Africa and beyond.

The feature presents her as a leader who embodies discipline and balance, maintaining a structured approach to both her professional responsibilities and personal life. It also reflects on how this balance has contributed to her effectiveness in driving large-scale health and social development programmes.

Under her leadership, the Merck Foundation has expanded its footprint across Africa and other regions, focusing on critical issues such as women’s empowerment, health capacity building, infertility stigma reduction, and support for underserved communities.

The foundation’s programmes have also supported scholarships for doctors, media training on health awareness, and initiatives aimed at breaking social stigma around infertility and other health challenges that disproportionately affect women and families.

Dr. Kelej’s message in the feature reinforces a growing global narrative: that modern leadership does not require women to suppress identity, culture, or femininity, but rather to embrace them as strengths.

Her philosophy has resonated with many young women in leadership and development sectors who are seeking role models that reflect authenticity, balance, and impact.

As highlighted in the Vogue India feature, her journey continues to demonstrate how leadership rooted in empathy, discipline, and inclusivity can drive meaningful change across communities.

Through her work with the Merck Foundation, Dr. Kelej remains a prominent voice in advancing health equity and empowering women to lead with confidence while staying true to themselves.

 

Young Women Use Pageant to Fight Menstrual Stigma and Period Poverty

By Alain Kabinda

Lusaka…In a society where conversations about menstruation are often buried under silence and stigma, Miss Menstrual Health Zambia 2026 is redefining what a beauty pageant can represent. Beyond crowns and catwalks, it is emerging as a growing platform for advocacy, education, confidence, and empowerment for young women across Zambia.

Held in a vibrant pink-themed atmosphere, the event brought together youths, health advocates, performers, and community leaders to celebrate not only beauty, but also the urgent need for menstrual health awareness and open dialogue around women’s health.

From fashion showcases and poetry to music performances and inspirational speeches, the programme reflected a clear message: menstrual health is not a private burden to be hidden, but a public issue that affects dignity, education, and equality.

The event was officially opened with guest arrivals and remarks before Guest of Honour Catherine Kapyanga addressed participants. She called for stronger community support systems that ensure girls and women have access to sanitary products, reproductive health education, and safe spaces where they can speak freely without shame.

Ms. Kapyanga noted that for many girls in Zambia, menstruation remains a difficult experience shaped by poverty, misinformation, and cultural taboos. Some miss school due to lack of sanitary materials, while others struggle silently with stigma and low self-confidence.

She said initiatives like Miss Menstrual Health Zambia are important because they challenge these realities and help create young ambassadors who can drive menstrual health awareness in their communities.

Unlike traditional beauty contests, this pageant integrates advocacy into every stage of competition. Contestants participated in “Beauty with a Purpose,” national costume presentations, sports challenges, career showcases, and evening gown segments — all designed to highlight leadership, intelligence, creativity, and community impact.

Entertainment added colour and energy to the evening, with performances by Kay Songs, Mesty, and Chewe Superstar.

A particularly powerful moment came through spoken word poetry by Juanita Zimba, who highlighted the emotional and social struggles many girls face during menstruation, including its impact on education, mental health, and self-worth.

A fashion showcase led by Martha Kokwa also captured attention, blending creativity with messages of confidence and self-expression.

Meanwhile, special guest Naomi brought humour and encouragement, reminding young women that confidence begins with self-acceptance and the courage to use their voices.

Founder of the Donate a Pad campaign and Ku’wala Skills Academy, Sabeta Zulu, emphasized that the pageant is more than entertainment. She said it is a platform designed to break stigma and give young women space to express themselves while advocating for menstrual health awareness.

One of the strongest components of the event was the “Beauty with a Purpose” segment, where contestants presented projects aimed at addressing menstrual health challenges in schools and communities. These included awareness campaigns, mentorship initiatives, and proposals to distribute reusable sanitary products to vulnerable girls affected by period poverty.

The pageant reflects a growing shift in Zambia and across Africa, where young women are using platforms traditionally associated with entertainment to confront serious social issues. Organisers say this approach helps reach wider audiences, particularly young people who may not engage with formal health campaigns.

As the evening progressed, it became clear that Miss Menstrual Health Zambia 2026 represents more than a competition. It symbolizes leadership, responsibility, and the courage to speak openly about issues that affect millions of girls and women every month.

During the Menstrual Hygiene Day-linked discussions, Nkosha Kachusha stressed that menstrual hygiene awareness is about dignity, empowerment, and confidence — not shame.

She noted that stigma and silence have long prevented girls from accessing information and support, often leaving them to manage menstruation in isolation.

The event also recognized Sabeta Zulu for her continued work in creating platforms that empower young women to speak openly and confidently about menstrual health.

Health advocates further highlighted the persistent challenge of period poverty, which continues to limit access to sanitary products and affects school attendance and participation among girls.

Medical professionals, including Dr Natasha, also provided guidance on intimate hygiene and women’s health, emphasizing practices that support wellbeing, confidence, and dignity.

Speakers at the event called for stronger collaboration between government, schools, healthcare providers, and communities to ensure menstrual health education and sanitary products are more widely accessible across Zambia.

As the ceremony concluded with the crowning of winners, the results reflected both talent and advocacy. Doreen Kandafula was crowned overall winner, alongside Namakau Silumbu Ikachana, Jackline Kashweka, Natasha Chileshe, and Brenda Banda.

Ultimately, the event sent a powerful message: menstrual health is not merely a women’s issue, but a matter of dignity, education, equality, and human rights — and through platforms like Miss Menstrual Health Zambia 2026, silence is steadily being replaced with empowerment and hope.

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 PSI Backs Registration of Community Health Workers Association in Zambia

By Alain Kabinda

LUSAKA — Nearly 1,000 community health workers across Zambia have mobilised in support of the registration of the Community Health Workers Association of Zambia, in what stakeholders describe as a significant step toward strengthening the country’s health system and improving working conditions for frontline health workers.

The initiative is being spearheaded by the National Coordinating Committee (NCC) of PSI affiliates in Zambia with support from Public Services International (PSI), a global federation representing public service workers worldwide.

Community health workers play a vital role in Zambia’s primary healthcare system, particularly in maternal and child health, disease prevention, and community-based care services.

Despite their contribution, many continue to work under informal or semi-formal arrangements with low or irregular stipends, limited job security, and restricted access to training and resources.

Stakeholders say the formation and registration of the Community Health Workers Association of Zambia would help strengthen representation, improve dialogue within the health sector, and promote better working conditions.

Speaking on the development, Interim President Ndimba Cyprian Moonga said the association reflects the commitment of community health workers to contribute more effectively to the country’s healthcare system.

Mr. Moonga said official registration would allow community health workers to engage constructively with stakeholders while supporting national health priorities.

Meanwhile, National Coordination Committee (NCC) Mr. Charles Malema, who chairs the NCC and is also a leader of the Zambia National Union of Health and Allied Workers, said recognising the association presents an opportunity to strengthen social dialogue and workforce governance in the health sector.

Mr. Malema added that supporting community health workers is key to building a stronger and more resilient healthcare system.

PSI and its affiliates are also planning a multi-stakeholder dialogue expected to bring together government officials, unions, community health workers, and development partners to discuss pathways toward formalisation and improved support for CHWs.

Stakeholders have said that the dialogue could also serve as a platform for the official launch of the Community Health Workers Association of Zambia.

PSI has reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and stakeholders to advance the recognition, organisation, and formalisation of community health workers in Zambia.

And CHWAZ has also called for strengthened collaboration between government, health sector actors, and development partners in advancing the recognition and formalisation of community health workers in Zambia.

The appeal comes as discussions intensify around improving the working conditions, organisation, and professional recognition of community health workers who play a critical role in delivering primary healthcare services across the country.

CHWAZ urged the Ministry of Health and other relevant stakeholders to actively participate in the engagement process, which is expected to focus on practical and visible steps to strengthen both the health workforce and service delivery.

They emphasised that when community health workers are properly recognised and supported, they are better able to serve their communities effectively. They further noted that organised and empowered health workers can contribute meaningfully to shaping solutions within the health system.

Stakeholders have described the recognition of community health workers as a shared priority and a strategic opportunity to improve healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved communities.

Public Services International (PSI) has reaffirmed its commitment to working in partnership with government institutions and other stakeholders to advance the recognition, organisation, and formalisation of community health workers in Zambia.

The organisation says sustained collaboration is key to building a stronger, more resilient health workforce capable of meeting the country’s growing healthcare needs.

 

 

 

 DigiTREE Project Builds New Generation of Responsible Digital Leaders

By Daily News Reporter

 Graduates under the DigiTREE Project have been encouraged to use their newly acquired digital media literacy skills responsibly and help promote positive change within their communities.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Machela Mumba said digital media literacy goes beyond simply learning how to use technology, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking, ethical communication, and responsible online engagement.

                                                                    (Machela Mumba) 

“Digital media literacy is more than learning how to use technology; it is learning how to use it with wisdom, responsibility, and purpose,” she said.

Ms. Mumba noted that through the DigiTREE Project, participants have gained the skills needed to identify misinformation, engage responsibly on digital platforms, and contribute meaningfully to society.

She said the certificates awarded to graduates should not only be viewed as academic achievements, but also as a commitment to becoming informed digital citizens capable of inspiring positive change both online and offline.

Ms. Mumba further encouraged the graduates to uphold values of integrity, innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning while using digital platforms to educate and uplift others.

The DigiTREE Project focuses on strengthening digital resilience and equipping participants with practical tools to critically engage with online information while promoting ethical use of technology.

Meanwhile, speaking during the certificate handover ceremony, online facilitator Mushima Muke described the training as an important milestone in preparing young people for an increasingly digital world.

Mr. Muke said the programme had equipped participants with practical skills in media literacy, collaboration, critical thinking, and responsible online participation.

The ceremony brought together facilitators, lecturers, partners, and students to celebrate the successful completion of the training programme.

Organizers commended the graduates for their commitment and resilience throughout the programme, noting that the skills acquired would continue benefiting them academically, professionally, and personally.

They also thanked mentors, trainers, and partner institutions for supporting efforts aimed at empowering young people with essential digital and life skills.

The DigiTREE Project forms part of broader initiatives promoting safe, informed, and constructive engagement in digital spaces as technology continues to play an increasingly central role in education, employment, and communication.