The Cost of Corruption: How Procurement Failures Are Slowing Zambia’s Development

By Alain Kabinda

LUSAKA – Procurement may appear to be a technical administrative process conducted behind office doors, but government officials say it has become one of the most important battlegrounds in Zambia’s fight against corruption, wasteful expenditure, and stalled development.

At the centre of this battle is a growing determination by government to reform public procurement systems, strengthen accountability, and ensure that every kwacha spent delivers value to citizens.

Speaking at a high-level Procurement Transformation Workshop, Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa issued a strong warning against corruption and inefficiency in public procurement, describing the sector as both a critical driver of development and a major source of financial losses when poorly managed.

“The days of delayed projects and substandard work must end. Procurement is not an avenue for self-enrichment—it is a tool for national development,” Kangwa said.

His remarks reflect growing concern within government that procurement inefficiencies continue to consume public resources while delaying critical infrastructure, healthcare, education, and agricultural programmes.

Government procurement accounts for approximately 75 percent of public spending, making it one of the most influential functions in the management of national resources.

When procurement systems work effectively, roads are built, medicines are delivered, schools are equipped, and public services reach communities. When they fail, projects stall, costs escalate, and citizens bear the consequences.

And according to Mr. Kangwa, Zambia continues to lose substantial resources through inflated contracts, poor contract management, delayed project implementation, and outright corruption.

He cited cases in the health sector where procurement manipulation has resulted in inflated prices for essential medical supplies.

“Those who manipulate procurement processes to inflate the cost of essential medicines are not just corrupt—they are killers,” he said.

The statement underscored the human cost of procurement malpractice, particularly in sectors where delays and inflated prices can directly affect lives.

As part of broader public sector reforms, government has introduced the Zambia Public Sector Change Management Framework, an initiative aimed at improving accountability, efficiency, and public confidence in state institutions.

Mr. Kangwa said that public servants must continuously examine whether their actions are serving the interests of citizens.

“We must ask ourselves: Are we truly serving the public? Are we upholding integrity? If we fail to reflect on these questions, we will continue facing audit queries year after year,” he said.

He stressed that accountability must move beyond policy statements and become a daily practice within public institutions.

Under the reform agenda, law enforcement agencies are expected to play a greater role in monitoring procurement activities and enforcing regulations designed to curb corruption.

One of the strongest messages from the workshop was government's intention to strengthen consequence management.

For years, public institutions have faced criticism for transferring officials implicated in misconduct rather than holding them accountable.

Mr. Kangwa indicated that this culture would no longer be tolerated.

Corrupt officials, he said, will face dismissal and prosecution rather than reassignment to other positions.

The warning signals a tougher approach to procurement oversight as government seeks to demonstrate its commitment to combating corruption and improving public sector performance.

Procurement inefficiencies are not only linked to corruption but also to poor planning and weak contract management.

Mr. Kangwa further revealed that government currently owes the private sector nearly K5 billion due to procurement-related disputes, contract management failures, and delayed payments.

These challenges have contributed to strained relationships between government and suppliers while increasing the cost of doing business.

Infrastructure projects provide some of the most visible examples of procurement failures.

According to Kangwa, roads designed to last between 15 and 20 years often require reconstruction much earlier because of poor workmanship, inadequate oversight, and weak enforcement of contractual obligations.

“We have spent billions reconstructing the same roads multiple times. Why? Because we fail to enforce accountability and proper contract management,” he lamented.

The result is a cycle of repeated expenditure that diverts resources away from other development priorities.

Beyond fighting corruption, government sees procurement reform as a pathway to economic transformation.

Mr. Kangwa pointed to recent reforms in agricultural procurement as evidence that improved procurement practices can generate substantial savings.

He cited fertilizer procurement negotiations that reduced the cost per bag from K1,100 to K850.

“By reducing the price per bag from K1,100 to K850, we saved K250 per bag. If every ministry prioritized cost-efficiency, we could transform Zambia’s economy without increasing spending,” he said.

Such savings, officials argue, demonstrate how better procurement decisions can free up resources for additional investments in health, education, infrastructure, and agriculture.

Meanwhile Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply (ZIPS) President Mr. Daniel Kabamba urged procurement professionals to embrace transparency, efficiency, and accountability.

Kabamba warned that procurement mismanagement affects not only government finances but also broader economic and social development.

“Procurement decisions directly impact public service delivery. When citizens raise concerns about mismanagement and inefficiencies, they are addressing procurement professionals,” he said.

He stressed that increased public investment must be accompanied by stronger oversight and better contract management.

“It is unacceptable that suppliers are fully paid while projects remain abandoned,” Kabamba stated.

According to Mr. Kabamba, procurement should not end with the signing of contracts but must include rigorous monitoring, performance evaluation, and accountability throughout implementation.

The workshop also focused on strengthening procurement regulations, improving contract execution, and promoting sustainable procurement practices.

Mr. Kabamba advocated for innovation, strategic thinking, and the adoption of global best practices to reduce delays and improve outcomes.

He also noted that many procurement challenges stem from poor planning, weak monitoring systems, and inadequate evaluation mechanisms.

“Procurement does not end at contract signing. It extends to contract execution and monitoring,” he said.

Participants were encouraged to develop stronger leadership skills, improve negotiation capabilities, and uphold ethical standards in every procurement transaction.

As Zambia continues to pursue economic recovery and development, procurement reform is increasingly being viewed as a critical pillar of national progress.

The discussions at the Procurement Transformation Workshop highlighted a shared understanding that development is not only about allocating resources but also about ensuring those resources are used effectively, transparently, and responsibly.

With billions of kwacha passing through procurement systems each year, the stakes could hardly be higher.

For government, the message is clear: procurement must deliver value, not waste; results, not delays; and development, not corruption.

Whether Zambia succeeds in achieving its ambitious development goals may depend largely on how effectively that message is translated into action.

 A Nation Mourns: Zambia Pays Tribute to Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV

By Staff Reporter

Zambia is mourning the loss of one of its most respected traditional leaders, His Royal Highness Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV, whose death has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the country.

Among those paying homage is the Bishop's Council of Zambia (BCZ), which described the late Ngoni leader as a dedicated custodian of culture, a champion of peace, and a faithful servant of both his people and God.

In a statement issued to Daily News today, the council said it had received news of the chief’s passing with “profound shock and deep sorrow,” joining the nation and the Ngoni Royal Establishment in mourning a leader whose influence stretched far beyond traditional governance.

At the age of 75, Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV leaves behind a remarkable legacy forged during a reign that spanned 44 years. For many Zambians, he was not only the leader of the Ngoni people but also a symbol of cultural pride, national unity, and continuity in a rapidly changing world.

For generations, the Ngoni Kingdom has remained one of Zambia’s most prominent traditional institutions, and under the stewardship of Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV, it continued to play a significant role in preserving the customs, values, and identity of the Ngoni people.

The BCZ noted that the late chief was a “great tree whose roots were deeply embedded in the history, culture, and identity of our nation.”

His leadership ensured that traditional ceremonies, cultural teachings, and historical narratives remained relevant to younger generations while promoting coexistence within Zambia’s diverse society.

In a country where traditional leaders remain influential in community governance and social cohesion, Chief Mpezeni IV was widely regarded as a bridge between heritage and modern development.

Beyond his traditional role, the late chief was known for his strong Christian faith and commitment to service.

The Bishop’s Council highlighted that he understood leadership as a sacred vocation, one grounded in responsibility, humility, and care for others.

Throughout his reign, he worked closely with churches, civic organizations, and government institutions in advancing social harmony and community development.

His support for initiatives promoting human dignity, morality, peace, and education earned him respect across religious and political divides.

And according to the council, his relationship with the Church reflected a broader understanding that national development requires collaboration among traditional leaders, faith institutions, and civil society.

Perhaps one of Chief Mpezeni IV’s most enduring contributions was his role as a unifying figure.

At a time when many nations face ethnic and cultural tensions, Zambia has remained largely peaceful, thanks in part to leaders who have consistently championed dialogue and coexistence.

The BCZ described the late chief as a leader whose influence extended beyond his chiefdom and helped strengthen Zambia’s identity as a peaceful and diverse nation.

His voice carried weight not only among the Ngoni people but also in national discussions on culture, development, and social cohesion.

Community leaders often looked to him for wisdom and guidance, while younger traditional leaders viewed him as a model of stability and responsible governance.

The passing of Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV marks the end of an era, but many believe his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

For the Ngoni people, he leaves behind a kingdom strengthened by decades of stewardship. For the Church, he remains an example of faith-inspired leadership. For Zambia, he is remembered as a statesman of tradition whose commitment to unity and development transcended regional and cultural boundaries.

In extending condolences to the Royal Family, the Ngoni Royal Establishment, and the nation at large, the Bishop’s Council urged Zambians to draw comfort from faith while celebrating a life dedicated to service.

As tributes continue to pour in from across the country, one message remains clear: the legacy of Inkosi yaMakhosi Mpezeni IV will endure long after his passing.

His life stands as a reminder that true leadership is measured not by power, but by service; not by titles, but by the impact left on people and communities.

And for many Zambians, Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV will be remembered as a leader who embodied both.

 

 Zambia Urged to Speed Up Procurement Without Compromising Accountability

By Alain Kabinda

LUSAKA – In boardrooms and council chambers across Zambia, critical decisions are often made that determine whether a community receives a new health facility, whether a road is rehabilitated, or whether clean water reaches households in need. Yet despite budgets being approved and projects planned, many development initiatives continue to face delays due to slow procurement processes.

It is this challenge that brought together procurement professionals, local authority leaders, and government officials at the 2026 Annual Procurement Committee Training Workshop, where calls were made for faster, more accountable procurement decisions to accelerate service delivery and national development.

Organized by the Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply (ZIPS), the workshop focused on improving procurement efficiency while maintaining compliance, transparency, and accountability.

Representing Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa, Permanent Secretary for Special Duties at Cabinet Office, Mr. Wisdom Bwalya, said procurement delays remain one of the major obstacles preventing institutions from translating plans into tangible benefits for citizens.

“Projects are approved in principle but stall in process. Budgets are allocated but not converted into impact. Opportunities are identified but not executed on time,” Mr. Bwalya told participants.

His remarks highlighted a challenge that affects numerous sectors of the economy. Across government institutions, state-owned enterprises, local authorities, and donor-funded programmes, delayed procurement often results in stalled projects, rising costs, and frustrated communities waiting for essential services.

And Procurement may not always attract public attention, but it sits at the centre of government service delivery.

Every classroom built, every hospital supplied with equipment, every water project implemented, and every public road rehabilitated begins with a procurement decision.

However, according to government officials, lengthy approval processes and administrative bottlenecks continue to slow implementation.

Mr. Bwalya noted that while Zambia’s decentralization agenda has devolved authority to local councils, many local authorities still struggle to make timely procurement decisions.

“Approval bottlenecks and limited capacity continue to slow service delivery at community level,” he said.

He warned that while compliance and accountability are essential principles of public procurement, institutions must avoid allowing these safeguards to become barriers to progress.

“In some cases, the cost of indecision is greater than the risk of making a well-considered, accountable decision,” he said.

According to Mr. Bwalya, delays increase contractor costs, postpone delivery of public services, and weaken public confidence in institutions tasked with driving development.

One of the key messages emerging from the workshop was the need to change perceptions about procurement.

Rather than viewing it as a purely administrative process, speakers argued that procurement should be treated as a strategic tool for achieving development outcomes.

And ZIPS President Mr. Daniel Kabamba said procurement systems exist to facilitate service delivery and economic growth.

“Procurement systems exist to enable service delivery, not delay development. Compliance is mandatory, but unnecessary delays are unacceptable,” he said.

Mr. Kabamba emphasized that procurement committees play a critical role in determining how quickly projects move from concept to reality.

The workshop, held under the theme “Accelerating Procurement Decisions: Unlocking National Development and Value Creation Across Public, Private, and Development Sectors,” sought to address challenges including stalled decisions, excessive approval layers, and the growing costs associated with delayed action.

For local authorities in particular, procurement efficiency can directly affect people's quality of life.

Councils are responsible for delivering roads, markets, sanitation facilities, schools, health infrastructure, and other essential community services.

“Decisions deliver development. Delayed decisions deny communities benefits they urgently need,” Mr. Kabamba said.

He urged procurement professionals to embrace what he described as “speed with compliance,” ensuring that legal requirements are respected while maintaining momentum in project implementation.

Beyond financial implications, procurement delays have social consequences.

When infrastructure projects stall, communities wait longer for access to healthcare, education, clean water, and economic opportunities.

Incomplete projects can also increase public dissatisfaction and erode trust in institutions responsible for delivering development.

Mr. Kabamba noted that procurement speed is ultimately a matter of governance and accountability.

“Unjustified delays result in incomplete infrastructure, stalled projects, and reduced citizen confidence,” he said.

The discussions reflected a broader understanding that development is not measured by plans and budgets alone but by the speed and effectiveness with which projects are implemented.

Meanwhile, ZIPS Registrar Mr. Henry Lukwesa described the workshop as an important platform for learning, reflection, and practical problem-solving.

“While processes exist, timely decision-making remains a challenge. This workshop encourages participants to share experiences and explore practical ways to improve procurement within their institutions,” he said.

Mr. Lukwesa said ZIPS remains committed to supporting procurement practitioners through training, professional guidance, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at improving standards across the sector.

The workshop attracted council secretaries, town clerks, procurement committee members, heads of procurement, and senior management teams from various institutions across the country.

Participants were encouraged to identify challenges within their organizations and propose practical reforms that could reduce procurement cycle times without compromising transparency and integrity.

As Zambia continues implementing decentralization and pursuing ambitious development goals, procurement is increasingly being recognized as one of the most important drivers of public service delivery.

The ability of institutions to make timely procurement decisions often determines whether development projects succeed or remain trapped in paperwork.

For many communities waiting for roads, schools, clinics, water systems, and other public services, faster procurement could mean faster development.

The message from the workshop was clear: procurement is not merely about buying goods and services. It is about transforming public resources into meaningful results for citizens.

And as government and procurement professionals continue pushing for reform, the challenge will be ensuring that procurement systems remain both accountable and responsive—delivering development at the speed communities deserve.

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 Lusaka Hosts 2026 Traffic Safety Course to Strengthen Road Safety Systems Across Africa

By Alain Kabinda 

*LUSAKA, Zambia*– Afro Safe Academy in partnership with the Zambia Road Safety Trust ( ZRST), is hosting the 2026 Traffic Safety Course in Lusaka under the theme, "Building Sustainable Road Safety Systems for Africa: From Data to Implementation and Ownership."

The specialized training programme has brought together traffic safety researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and road safety advocates from across Africa and beyond to explore innovative approaches to reducing road crashes and improving road safety outcomes on the continent.

The course is designed primarily for professionals who already possess some background in traffic safety but seek to enhance their knowledge through exposure to contemporary theories, emerging trends, and advanced analytical tools used in road safety management.

The programme aims to bridge the gap between research and practical implementation by equipping participants with evidence-based approaches that can be applied in their respective countries and institutions.

A key objective of the course is to provide participants with a comprehensive overview of the fundamental theories and concepts underpinning modern traffic safety systems. Discussions are expected to focus on critical issues affecting road safety practice, including data collection and analysis, policy development, infrastructure safety, behavioural interventions, enforcement strategies, and sustainable implementation frameworks.

Speaking during the opening of the course, Zambia Road Safety Trust Secretary General, Paul Mwanza, said the gathering reflects a growing commitment among stakeholders to build safer roads and improve mobility for all road users.

Mr. Mwanza noted that since 2014, the Zambia Road Safety Trust has collaborated with government institutions, development partners, academia, and communities to implement evidence-based interventions that have contributed to road safety improvements in Zambia.

He said the course provides a unique platform for participants to learn from leading international experts, exchange experiences, and explore practical solutions to the road safety challenges affecting African countries.

"Your presence demonstrates our shared commitment to building safer roads and safer mobility for all," Mr. Mwanza said. 

"Over the next two days, participants will have the opportunity to learn from experts, share experiences, and develop practical approaches to addressing road safety challenges." He added.

He encouraged delegates to actively engage in discussions, ask questions, and build professional networks that will help advance road safety initiatives across the continent.

Mr. Mwanza also expressed gratitude to Afro Safe Academy, the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA), sponsors, and cooperating partners for supporting the training programme and making the capacity-building initiative possible.

Mr. Mwanza further emphasized that road safety remains a collective responsibility requiring the involvement of governments, institutions, communities, and individual road users.

The training also serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, enabling researchers and practitioners from different disciplines and regions of the world to share experiences, lessons learned, and best practices in addressing road safety challenges.

By emphasizing the journey "from data to implementation and ownership," the course highlights the importance of transforming road safety evidence into practical actions while fostering local ownership of interventions to ensure long-term sustainability.

Mr. Aliaksei Laureshyn is Associate Professor in traffic Safety Lund University in his presentation stated that Africa continues to bear a disproportionate burden of road traffic injuries and fatalities, making capacity building and cross-border collaboration critical components in efforts to achieve safer roads and sustainable development goals.

Road safety expert and facilitator Mr. Aliaksei Laureshyn has called for increased investment in capacity building and stronger cross-border collaboration to address the growing burden of road traffic injuries and fatalities across Africa.

Speaking during a road safety presentation, Mr. Laureshyn noted that Africa continues to carry a disproportionate share of global road traffic deaths despite having a relatively smaller proportion of the world's vehicles.

He said the alarming trend underscores the urgent need for countries to strengthen road safety systems, improve data collection, and enhance the skills and knowledge of professionals responsible for road safety management.

Mr. Laureshyn emphasized that achieving safer roads requires coordinated efforts among governments, researchers, law enforcement agencies, transport authorities, and development partners.

He explained that capacity building remains a critical component in addressing road crashes, as it equips practitioners with the tools and expertise needed to design, implement, and evaluate effective road safety interventions.

He further stressed the importance of cross-border collaboration, noting that many road safety challenges transcend national boundaries and require regional cooperation to develop sustainable solutions.

He said sharing experiences, research findings, and best practices among African countries can help accelerate progress in reducing road traffic injuries and fatalities.

According to Mr. Laureshyn, strengthening road safety systems is also essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly targets aimed at reducing road traffic deaths and improving public health outcomes.

He urged governments and stakeholders to prioritize evidence-based interventions and invest in long-term strategies that promote safer mobility for all road users.

His remarks come as road safety experts, policymakers, and advocates continue to push for stronger action to reduce the human and economic costs associated with road traffic crashes across the African continent.

The Lusaka gathering is expected to strengthen professional networks among participants and contribute to the development of more effective, data-driven road safety systems capable of saving lives and reducing the social and economic costs associated with road traffic crashes across the continent.

 Communities Turn Waste into Opportunity as PPHPZ Showcases Green Innovations on World Environment Day

  By Alain Kabinda 

LUSAKA – The sounds of hammers shaping recycled materials, the sight of thriving vegetable gardens growing in sacks, and the enthusiasm of community members sharing ideas for a greener future marked this year's commemoration of World Environment Day as the People's Process on Housing and Poverty in Zambia (PPHPZ) showcased a range of environmentally friendly initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods while protecting the environment.

Held under the global call for sustainable environmental action, the event highlighted how low-income communities are embracing innovative solutions to address challenges such as waste management, food insecurity, climate change, and inadequate housing.

At the centre of the exhibition were practical, community-driven projects that demonstrated how environmental stewardship can go hand in hand with poverty reduction. Residents displayed sack gardens producing fresh vegetables in limited urban spaces, recycling initiatives that transform waste into useful products, and sustainable housing concepts designed to reduce environmental degradation while improving living conditions.

For many members, the event was more than a celebration of environmental awareness. It was an opportunity to show how ordinary citizens are becoming active agents of change in their communities.

Women involved in urban agriculture explained how sack gardening has enabled families to grow nutritious food despite limited access to land. Using recycled mealie-meal sacks filled with soil and organic compost, households are producing vegetables throughout the year while reducing pressure on scarce resources.

Zambia Homeless and Peoples Federation members also showcased waste segregation and recycling projects that convert discarded plastics, paper, and other materials into products with economic value. Ms Alice Phiri said such initiatives not only help reduce pollution but also create income-generating opportunities for vulnerable households.

PPHPZ Coordinator Ms Miriam Chirwa emphasized that environmental sustainability cannot be separated from the fight against poverty. They noted that communities living in informal settlements are often among the most affected by climate-related disasters, poor sanitation, and environmental degradation.

The organization used the occasion to encourage greater investment in community-led climate adaptation programmes, sustainable housing solutions, and environmental education. Participants called for stronger partnerships between government, civil society, and local communities to scale up successful grassroots initiatives.

Women attending the event were also urged to take a leading role in environmental protection through tree planting, responsible waste disposal, and innovative green enterprises.

As Zambia continues to face the effects of climate change, including droughts and extreme weather events, the showcase served as a reminder that solutions are often found within communities themselves. Through creativity, resilience, and collective action, residents are demonstrating that environmental conservation can improve both the health of the planet and the well-being of families.

For PPHPZ, the message of the day was clear: sustainable communities are built when people are empowered to protect their environment while creating opportunities for a better future. The environmentally friendly initiatives on display offered a glimpse of how grassroots innovation can contribute to a cleaner, greener, and more resilient Zambia.

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 How Sack Gardens Are Helping Zambian Families Beat Hunger, Poverty and Climate Change

By Alain Kabinda 

LUSAKA – In the heart of Garden House Compound in Lusaka where space is limited and seasonal floods often destroy backyard gardens, 62-year-old Agness Mwanza has found an unlikely solution to feeding her family.

Lined neatly behind modest home are 12 mealie-meal sacks bursting with green vegetables. From these sacks, Zambia Homeless and Peoples Federation harvests rape, spinach, onions and tomatoes that help feed their families and reduce household expenses.

" We used to lose our garden every rainy season when floods came," she says. 

"Now, even when water enters the compound, the vegetables survive because the sacks can be moved. It also save money because we make our own manure from kitchen waste.and dump sides waste"

For Christabel Chimba and many others across Zambia, sack gardening is proving to be more than just an innovative farming method. It is becoming a powerful tool for climate adaptation, food security and poverty reduction.

As climate change continues to affect agricultural production through prolonged droughts, erratic rainfall and devastating floods, communities are increasingly turning to simple, low-cost solutions to protect their livelihoods.

Traditionally, farming has been associated with large fields and fertile land. But for thousands of families living in urban settlements, access to land is limited or non-existent.

Using old mealie-meal sacks filled with layers of soil, compost and organic matter, households can grow dozens of vegetables in a space as small as one square metre. The vertical design allows plants to develop extensive root systems while using significantly less water than conventional gardens.

According to urban agriculture advocates, a single sack can support between 60 and 80 vegetable plants, providing a steady supply of nutritious food throughout the year.

"This is one of the most practical climate adaptation strategies available to vulnerable communities," said Ms. Phiri. "It requires very little space, conserves water and helps households continue producing food even during extreme weather events."

The technique is gaining popularity in compounds across Lusaka, Ndola, Kitwe and other urban centres where food prices continue to rise and climate-related disasters are becoming more frequent.

The success of sack gardening is closely linked to another growing movement – household composting.

Faced with rising fertilizer costs, many families are discovering the value hidden in everyday waste.

Vegetable peelings, leftover food, dry leaves and grass cuttings are being transformed into nutrient-rich compost that nourishes crops and reduces dependence on expensive chemical fertilizers.

In Garden House of Lusaka Zambia Homeless and Peoples Federation have established community compost pits that convert household waste into organic manure.

( Ms Alice Phiri and Ms Harriet Phiri)

Zambia Homeless and Peoples Federation National Facilitator Ms. Alice Phiri said that the initiative has helped families improve nutrition while generating additional income.

"We used to throw away most of this waste," she says. "Now we turn it into compost, grow vegetables and sell the surplus. What was once rubbish is now helping us pay school fees and support our families."

The environmental benefits are equally significant. By reducing waste dumped in drainage systems, composting helps prevent blockages that often contribute to flooding and disease outbreaks during the rainy season.

Across Zambia, women and young people are emerging as the driving force behind the sack gardening movement.

For women, particularly those living in informal settlements, sack gardens offer a practical way to secure household food supplies despite limited access to land.

Women entrepreneurs are also finding opportunities in the growing demand for urban agriculture solutions. Some women groups are producing and selling ready-made gardening sacks, while others provide training services to communities interested in adopting the technology.

She added that this grassroots approach is critical because it allows families to start small and expand gradually.

Many households begin with only a few sacks. After seeing the benefits, they reinvest profits from vegetable sales into larger gardens.

As Zambia strengthens efforts to adapt to climate change, sack gardening is increasingly being recognised as an important component of community resilience.

The practice contributes to improved nutrition, household income generation, environmental protection and disaster preparedness.

Development practitioners argue that wider access to quality seeds, training and extension services could help thousands more households benefit from the innovation.

Every harvest means fewer trips to the market, lower food expenses and greater peace of mind.

Standing beside the federation's flourishing sacks of vegetables, she reflects on how a simple idea transformed her family's circumstances and the federation.

"I never imagined a sack could feed a family," she says with a smile. "But now it does." Ms. Phiri said.

In communities facing the combined challenges of poverty, food insecurity and climate change, that simple sack is proving to be much more than a container. It is becoming a symbol of resilience, innovation and hope for a sustainable future.

 Beyond the Finish Line: Wonderful Marathon Delivers Hope, Inclusion and Lasting Community Impact

By Alain kabinda

What began as a sporting event has evolved into a powerful platform for social impact, inclusion, and community development.

The recently concluded Wonderful Marathon not only brought together runners from different backgrounds but also generated support for vulnerable groups, empowered women and youth, promoted disability inclusion, and invested in education and health initiatives across Zambia.

In a surprise gesture that captured the spirit of the event, the Wonderful Group awarded nine marathon participants K10,000 each during a special post-ceremony awards segment.

Speaking during the Cheques presentation, Wonderful Group representative Mr. Shashank Mehta said the cash awards were introduced as a supplementary recognition programme and were not part of the original prize structure.

According to Mr. Mehta, the initiative sought to acknowledge individuals who demonstrated exceptional commitment by participating in the marathon despite personal and logistical challenges. It also recognized those who played supportive roles during the event, including caregivers who assisted differently abled participants and volunteers who contributed to participant safety and wellbeing.

"The marathon is about more than competition," Mr. Mehta said. "It is about recognizing determination, inclusion, and community spirit."

The awards reflected the broader vision behind the Wonderful Marathon, which organizers say is designed as a platform for community engagement and social transformation.

The event's impact extended far beyond the race route.

International Hospital Zambia Chief Medical Officer Dr. Robert Zulu said the hospital's partnership with the Wonderful Group focuses on supporting vulnerable populations, particularly women, girls, and persons living with disabilities.

He noted that the collaboration includes initiatives aimed at improving access to prosthetic limbs and mobility support services, helping beneficiaries achieve greater independence and improved quality of life.

"We want to ensure that the benefits of this marathon translate into tangible social impact within communities," Dr. Zulu said.

One of the most significant beneficiaries of the initiative was World Vision, which received K30,000 to support menstrual health programmes for school-going girls.

The organization announced that the funds will be used to procure reusable sanitary pads for 300 girls, helping to reduce absenteeism and improve educational outcomes.

"This contribution enables 300 girls to stay in school with confidence and dignity. No girl should miss school because of her period," a World Vision representative said.

The marathon also addressed issues of child nutrition and wellbeing.

Musitu 360 revealed that the initiative facilitated the provision of 2,000 meals to learners at China Community School, helping support vulnerable children through improved nutrition.

The intervention was designed not only to provide food but also to restore hope and dignity among children facing socioeconomic challenges.

Women's empowerment emerged as another key focus area during the event.

Speaking on behalf of ZANACO, Chief Financial Officer Mr. Kalaluka Itwi emphasized the importance of investing in women and young people as a pathway to building stronger and more resilient communities.

He noted that empowered women often reinvest resources into their families, creating positive outcomes in education, health, and household welfare.

However, Mr. Itwi acknowledged that significant barriers remain, particularly limited access to financial services for women across Africa.

"It is important to recognize that significant gaps still remain," he said.

To help address these challenges, ZANACO announced that K97,000 generated through marathon proceeds would support programmes benefiting women and girls.

Additionally, the bank committed K50,000 towards women empowerment initiatives and K100,000 in support of youth athletics.

The youth athletics awards recognized exceptional young talent, with outstanding athletes Amalaya Lubinga and Silas Kaluba each receiving K50,000.

For organizers, these investments represent a commitment to nurturing future leaders and champions both on and off the track.

Also Wonderful Group representative Rachel Tanga highlighted the organization's wider contribution to Zambia's economy through investments in manufacturing, agriculture, construction, and fertilizer production.

She outlined the group's operations through five companies, including Wonderful Industry, Marco Polo, Wonderful Farm Machinery and Construction Group, Impetus Agriculture in Mpika, and United Capital Fertilizer Limited.

According to Tanga, these businesses contribute to industrial growth, job creation, infrastructure development, agricultural productivity, and food security.

"Our investments reflect our commitment to creating opportunities and supporting sustainable development," she said.

The marathon's emphasis on inclusion was particularly evident in the participation of persons living with disabilities.

And Lusaka Fitness Squad President Chola Katai described the event as a celebration of health, fitness, and equal opportunity.

He commended the Wonderful Group for creating a platform where everyone, regardless of physical ability, could participate and contribute.

Representing Hope in Motion, Kateba Sichangwa echoed the same message.

His organization supports individuals adjusting to life after disability or serious accidents and encourages active participation in society.

"Disability is not inability. If we can do it, then others can do it," Sichangwa said, drawing applause from participants and supporters.

His words captured the essence of the Wonderful Marathon — a belief that everyone deserves an opportunity to thrive, contribute, and be recognized.

As the final medals were awarded and celebrations came to an end, it became clear that the Wonderful Marathon was about much more than crossing a finish line.

It was about building stronger communities, empowering women and youth, supporting vulnerable groups, promoting health and inclusion, and demonstrating how sport can be used as a force for positive social change.

For the hundreds of people whose lives were touched through scholarships, meals, menstrual health support, disability inclusion initiatives, and financial empowerment programmes, the marathon's greatest victory may not have been measured in kilometres completed, but in lives transformed.