In a Digital World, Zambia's Young Writers Are Rediscovering the Power of the Pen

By Alain Kabinda

For a generation that has grown up with smartphones, instant messaging and social media, receiving a handwritten letter is becoming an increasingly rare experience.

Communication today is measured in seconds. Conversations disappear after a few taps on a screen, while emojis and abbreviations have become the language of everyday interaction.

Yet, amid this digital revolution, a simple competition organised by the Zambia Postal Services Corporation (Zampost) is proving that the written letter still has the power to inspire, connect and transform lives.

At the 2026 Zampost Letter Writing Competition Prize-Giving Ceremony held at the Ministry of Education in Lusaka, the spotlight was not on technology but on imagination, creativity and the timeless art of writing.

The event celebrated three exceptional learners whose letters stood out among hundreds of entries submitted by pupils from across Zambia under the theme: "Write a Letter to a Friend About Why Human Connection Matters in a Digital World."

For educators, the competition represents far more than an annual contest.

It has become an important platform for nurturing literacy, encouraging critical thinking and reminding young people that meaningful communication is built not only on speed but also on sincerity.

Speaking during the ceremony,Permanent Secretary DR. KELVIN MAMBWE commended Zampost for taking the competition into schools across the country, describing the initiative as a valuable contribution to Zambia's education sector.

He said the competition had created an opportunity for learners to discover the enduring power of the written word at a time when digital communication dominates daily life.

"This year's theme could not be more timely," he said.

"Our children are growing up in a world of instant messages, social media and digital communication. These technologies have transformed the way we connect, but they should never replace the thoughtfulness, empathy and reflection that come with writing a letter."

He observed that unlike digital messages, which are often written in haste, a letter encourages reflection.

"It invites us to pause, choose our words carefully and connect with others in a deeply personal way," he said.

The enthusiastic participation of schools from across Zambia underscored the importance of literacy as one of the Ministry of Education's strategic priorities.

Officials noted that literacy extends beyond reading and writing.

It also equips learners with the ability to think critically, communicate effectively and express ideas confidently—skills that remain essential regardless of technological advances.

Every letter submitted, they said, represented a learner strengthening abilities that would serve them throughout their education and professional lives.

Education experts have long argued that creative writing competitions complement classroom learning by giving pupils an opportunity to apply language skills in meaningful and practical ways.

While the competition celebrated writing, it also reintroduced many learners to Zambia's postal service.

For many young participants, posting a handwritten letter was a completely new experience.

Although communication technologies have evolved rapidly, the postal service continues to play a vital role in connecting communities, particularly in areas where digital infrastructure remains limited.

He added that such initiatives as the Letter Writing Competition help preserve appreciation for postal services while demonstrating that traditional and digital communication can complement one another.

The ceremony honoured three learners whose entries impressed judges with their originality, clarity and emotional depth.

Milika Miti of Dominican Convent School in Ndola received the third prize.

Lavina Chindombe Mukunga of Kikombe Secondary School in Solwezi was awarded second prize.

The top honour went to Temwani Kanyimbi of Libala Secondary School in Lusaka, whose winning letter will now represent Zambia at the international level under the Universal Postal Union (UPU) International Letter-Writing Competition.

Congratulating the winners, he encouraged them to continue writing and using their voices to educate, inspire and unite communities.

He also praised every learner who participated, noting that the courage to express one's thoughts through writing is an achievement in itself.

The celebrations also marked the official launch of Phase Two of the Zampost Letter Writing Competition.

Following the success of the inaugural phase, the competition will now expand nationwide, giving schools across all ten provinces the opportunity to participate.

Provincial and District Education Offices have been encouraged to work closely with Zampost to ensure that no learner is left behind.

Organisers also announced that entries from the expanded competition will feature in a television programme to be aired on Thrive Television, giving young writers an even broader platform to showcase their talent.

And speaking on behalf of Postmaster General Lydia Simakando Lubobya, Mr. Chris Shimunika Nyirongo Zampost reaffirmed its commitment to supporting education, literacy and youth development.

Mr Nyirongo described the competition as one of the Universal Postal Union's flagship global initiatives, aimed at encouraging young people to develop writing skills while reflecting on issues affecting society.

He also acknowledged the vital role played by teachers, parents and guardians in mentoring learners and encouraging them to participate.

The corporation expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Education for its continued partnership in promoting literacy and creative learning.

In an age where messages can be sent across continents in seconds, the Zampost Letter Writing Competition reminds society that communication is about more than convenience.

A handwritten letter carries emotion, thought and intention in ways that technology sometimes struggles to replicate.

As Zambia embraces digital transformation, initiatives such as this demonstrate that traditional skills remain relevant.

For the young writers honoured this year, the competition was not simply about winning awards.

It was about discovering the power of words to comfort, inspire and connect people across distances.

And perhaps that is the greatest lesson of all—that while technology will continue to evolve, the human need to communicate with sincerity, empathy and purpose will never go out of style.

 Beyond the Ballot: How Morgan Munda Is Turning Political Setback into Community Service

By Alain Kabinda

In politics, defeat often signals retreat.

For many aspiring leaders, failing to secure adoption as a party candidate is followed by silence. Campaign teams disband, community visits become infrequent and development pledges are quietly shelved as attention shifts to the next election cycle.

But in Monze District, one politician appears determined to chart a different course.

Despite missing out on adoption during the United Party for National Development (UPND) adoption process ahead of the 2026 General Election, businessman and philanthropist Morgan Munda has continued investing in community development, insisting that public service should not be defined by political office.

His latest gesture—a donation of  more than K20,000 to complete church construction, clothing and blankets to Nteme Seventh-day Adventist Church—has reignited debate about what leadership should look like beyond electoral politics.

Standing before congregants at Nteme SDA Church, Mr. Munda's message was simple: being left out of the adoption process does not mean abandoning the people.

Instead of viewing political disappointment as the end of his public role, he has chosen to continue supporting community initiatives using his personal resources.

The donation is expected to accelerate the construction of the church while also providing clothing and blankets to vulnerable members of the community.

For many residents, however, the significance of the gesture extends far beyond the monetary value of the donation.

It reflects a leadership philosophy that places service above political position.

In Zambia's political landscape, community donations are often associated with election campaigns.

Yet Mr. Munda's contribution comes after, rather than before, the party's adoption process.

Political observers say such actions inevitably attract attention because they challenge the perception that community engagement is driven solely by electoral ambition.

While political office offers opportunities to influence policy and mobilise public resources, acts of philanthropy financed through personal means suggest another dimension of leadership—one rooted in voluntary community service.

Residents who gathered during the handover described the donation as evidence that leadership should be measured not only by electoral success but also by a sustained commitment to improving people's lives.

Political setbacks often reveal how leaders respond when ambition collides with disappointment.

For some, exclusion from party structures results in disengagement or even political migration.

Others remain active within their communities, waiting for another opportunity while continuing to build public trust.

Mr. Munda appears to have chosen the latter path.

Rather than allowing the outcome of the adoption process to define his public identity, he continues to support churches, vulnerable households and community initiatives.

Whether this approach strengthens his long-term political prospects remains to be seen.

What is clear, however, is that it has earned him recognition among sections of the local community.

The donation also highlights the growing role that individual philanthropy plays in local development.

Faith-based institutions remain important centres of worship, education, youth mentorship and humanitarian support.

By contributing towards the construction of Nteme SDA Church, Mr. Munda is supporting infrastructure that will serve the wider community long after the building is completed.

The clothing and blankets donated alongside the construction materials will provide immediate relief to vulnerable families, particularly during the cold season.

Such interventions demonstrate how community development can continue outside formal government programmes.

As Zambia prepares for another electoral cycle, voters are increasingly scrutinising not only campaign promises but also the consistency of leaders' engagement with their communities.

Political analysts have often argued that sustainable leadership is built over years of service rather than during election periods alone.

For residents of Monze, Mr. Munda's continued community work presents an example of a politician seeking to remain relevant through action rather than rhetoric.

Whether viewed as philanthropy, civic responsibility or long-term political investment, the impact of the donation is already visible in a community whose church project has received a significant boost.

For Morgan Munda, missing out on adoption may have closed one political door, but it has not ended his engagement with the people he sought to represent.

His latest donation sends a message that leadership does not necessarily begin with election victory or end with political disappointment.

Instead, it can be demonstrated through consistent acts of service, personal sacrifice and investment in community wellbeing.

As the walls of Nteme Seventh-day Adventist Church continue to rise, so too does a broader conversation about the nature of political leadership in Zambia.

For many in Monze, the question is no longer simply who wins political office, but who continues to serve when the campaign is over.

  

Building Faith, Restoring Hope: Morgan Munda's Gift Breathes New Life into Nteme SDA Church

By Alain Kabinda

In the quiet community of Nteme Constituency in Monze District, Southern Province, a generous act of giving is doing more than raising the walls of a church—it is strengthening hope, inspiring unity and reminding residents that compassion remains a powerful force for community development.

Businessman and UPND member Mr.. Morgan Munda has donated more than K20,000 to complete the construction of SDA church, together with clothing and blankets, to the Nteme Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church in a gesture that has been warmly received by congregants and community members alike.

While the cost will help accelerate the construction of the church, the clothing and blankets will provide much-needed comfort to vulnerable families, demonstrating that the donation extends beyond infrastructure to touching lives.

For many residents, the contribution comes at a time when communities continue to face economic challenges, making acts of generosity even more meaningful.

Church leaders described the donation as timely, noting that the congregation has been working tirelessly to complete the construction of its worship centre despite limited financial resources.

They said that this will significantly reduce construction costs and enable the church to continue building a place that will serve not only as a centre of worship but also as a venue for community meetings, youth programmes and social outreach activities.

Beyond the physical structure, the church plays an important role in promoting moral values, supporting vulnerable households and fostering social cohesion within the community.

The donation of clothing and blankets is expected to benefit families in need, particularly during the cold season, when many struggle to keep warm.

And one of the Community members Moses Hamwiimbu added that such acts of kindness demonstrate the importance of giving back to society and supporting initiatives that improve people's lives.

Across Zambia, faith-based organisations continue to complement government efforts by providing spiritual guidance, humanitarian assistance and community development programmes. Many churches also serve as centres for education, counselling, disaster response and youth empowerment.

Support from individuals and the private sector has become increasingly important in enabling these institutions to expand their outreach and respond to the needs of vulnerable communities.

Mr. Munda's contribution reflects the growing role of philanthropy in supporting grassroots development, where relatively modest investments can have a lasting impact on communities.

By helping complete the church building while also meeting the immediate needs of disadvantaged families, the donation illustrates how giving can strengthen both physical infrastructure and human dignity.

For the members of Nteme SDA Church, the donation of the Cost for the construction that will help complete a long-held dream.

For the families receiving clothing and blankets, they represent warmth, comfort and renewed hope.

And for the wider community, the gesture stands as a reminder that lasting development is built not only through public investment but also through the generosity of individuals who choose to make a difference.

As construction continues and the church moves closer to completion, the impact of Morgan Munda's donation will be measured not simply in the value of the materials provided, but in the strengthened faith, unity and resilience of a community determined to build a brighter future together.

 How Zambia's Cosmetology Industry Could Transform Jobs and Entrepreneurship

By Alain Kabinda

On any given Saturday morning in Lusaka, the chairs in neighbourhood salons are rarely empty.

Young women patiently wait to have their hair braided. Men queue for fresh haircuts before weekend events. Nail technicians perfect manicures while makeup artists prepare brides for their special day. Shelves are stocked with locally made shampoos, lotions and hair products as beauty entrepreneurs work tirelessly to meet the growing demand for personal care.

Yet behind the mirrors, hair dryers and styling chairs lies an industry with enormous untapped potential—one that experts believe could become a powerful engine for job creation, entrepreneurship and economic growth if supported by the right policies.

That message took centre stage during the recent Cosmetology Expo organised by the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development at ZCAS University in Lusaka. While the event celebrated innovation, creativity and talent in the beauty industry, it also sparked an important national conversation: Is Zambia overlooking one of its most promising sectors for economic transformation?

Cosmetology is often associated with glamour and fashion, but industry players argue that it is, above all, a business built on skills, entrepreneurship and livelihoods.

Speaking in an interview with the Daily News, Business Development and Marketing Expert and Co-Founder of CNC360 Consulting, Mr. James Chiwala, said cosmetology encompasses a broad spectrum of professional services, including hairdressing, barbering, skincare, makeup artistry, nail technology, spa treatments and other beauty and wellness services.

"Every hairstyle, manicure or facial represents more than a beauty service," Mr. Chiwala said. "It represents income for a small business owner, wages for an employee and spending that ripples through the wider economy."

One of the industry's greatest strengths, he explained, is its ability to generate repeat business.

Unlike many enterprises that struggle to retain customers, salons and barbershops enjoy consistent demand, with many clients returning every two or three weeks for hair care, grooming and beauty treatments. This provides business owners with a dependable source of income, enabling many salons to remain viable even during difficult economic periods.

"Beauty is not simply about appearance," Mr. Chiwala said. "It is about livelihoods. It is about giving people the opportunity to earn an income through skills they already possess."

He described cosmetology as one of the most accessible sectors for aspiring entrepreneurs because it requires relatively little start-up capital.

"Unlike manufacturing plants or large retail businesses that require millions of kwacha to establish, a salon can begin with something as simple as one chair, one wash basin and a few essential tools," he said.

From such modest beginnings, many entrepreneurs have grown their businesses into thriving enterprises employing several workers.

                                             (Mr. James Chiwala and one of the Participates)

"For thousands of young Zambians who are unable to secure formal employment, cosmetology provides a practical pathway into entrepreneurship," Mr. Chiwala said.

Instead of waiting for scarce salaried jobs, many young people are creating their own opportunities by cutting hair, braiding, applying makeup, offering nail services or operating mobile beauty businesses. The flexibility of the industry also allows entrepreneurs to expand gradually by reinvesting profits into their businesses.

Across urban centres and rural communities, women own and manage thousands of salons, beauty parlours and cosmetic businesses. For many, cosmetology has become a pathway to financial independence, enabling them to support their families, educate their children and create employment within their communities.

"As Zambia pursues inclusive economic growth, supporting women-owned beauty businesses could deliver significant social and economic returns," Mr. Chiwala said.

Every bottle of shampoo sold has been manufactured, packaged, labelled and transported. Beauty products pass through manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, retailers and marketers before reaching consumers. Printing companies produce promotional materials, packaging firms manufacture bottles and containers, while photographers, fashion designers and bridal service providers all benefit from the industry's value chain.

Mr. Chiwala noted that an increasing number of Zambian entrepreneurs are now producing shampoos, lotions, soaps, hair oils and skincare products locally, reducing dependence on imports while creating new employment opportunities.

"Each link strengthens a growing value chain that supports multiple sectors of the economy," he said.

Despite its growing contribution, however, the industry remains largely informal.

Thousands of salons and beauty businesses operate successfully across the country, yet there is no comprehensive national policy framework governing professional standards, business development or regulation.

As a result, policymakers are unable to accurately measure the sector's size or its contribution to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

"Reliable data on industry revenues, employment levels and contribution to GDP remains limited because the sector is fragmented," Mr. Chiwala said.

He said the lack of reliable data also makes it difficult for the industry to attract investment, influence public policy or access specialised financing.

According to Mr. Chiwala, formalising the industry would improve standards while unlocking significant opportunities for growth.

He believes Zambia has the potential to transform cosmetology into one of its strongest small and medium enterprise sectors, provided coordinated interventions are implemented.

These include developing a comprehensive national policy framework, introducing professional standards and certification, expanding skills training programmes, improving access to affordable financing and supporting local manufacturers of cosmetics and personal care products.

Mr. Chiwala also said, would complement government efforts to promote industrialisation, entrepreneurship and youth employment.

Perhaps the greatest misconception surrounding cosmetology, Mr. Chiwala observed, is that it is simply about beauty.

"In reality, it is about confidence, dignity and economic empowerment," he said.

"It is about the young barber supporting a family through his craft. It is about the salon owner who started with one chair and now employs several stylists. It is about the woman manufacturing locally made hair products that compete with imported brands. Above all, it is about thousands of small businesses quietly contributing to Zambia's economy every day." Mr. Chiwala said.

The recent Cosmetology Expo demonstrated that Zambia possesses the creativity, talent and entrepreneurial spirit needed to build a globally competitive beauty industry.

The challenge now is to provide the policy support, investment and recognition required to unlock its full potential.

If that happens, cosmetology will no longer be viewed merely as an industry that helps people look good. It will be recognised as a strategic sector capable of creating jobs, empowering communities and contributing meaningfully to Zambia's economic transformation.

 Youth Drive Zambia's Push for Sustainable Water Governance

By Alain Kabinda

At a time when Zambia is facing increasing pressure on its water resources due to climate change, population growth and competing demands for water, one message resonated strongly at the Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) Second Quarter Technical Forum in Lusaka: young people are no longer waiting on the sidelines—they are helping shape the future of water governance.

During the forum Youth WASH Ambassadors Club (YWAC), presented the presentation which demonstrated how university students are emerging as valuable partners in promoting sustainable water resources management through research, advocacy and stakeholder collaboration.

The quarterly technical forum brought together policymakers, water sector professionals, researchers, academics, civil society organisations and development partners to discuss practical solutions for strengthening water governance in Zambia.

Representing YWAC, the Club's Head of Media and Communications, John Chipango, presented an accepted case study titled, "Youth as Catalysts for Sustainable Water Resources Management: Strengthening Stakeholder Coordination through University-Based WASH Clubs in Zambia."

                                                          (John Chipango Jr)

The presentation challenged the long-held perception that young people are merely beneficiaries of water and sanitation programmes. Instead, it showcased how youth are becoming active contributors to policy dialogue, scientific research and community engagement.

Drawing from YWAC's experiences across higher learning institutions, Mr. Chipango explained how university-based WASH clubs are creating platforms that connect students with government institutions, researchers, development partners and communities to address water-related challenges.

The case study highlighted several initiatives undertaken by the Club, including youth-led research, evidence-based advocacy, inter-university collaboration and multi-stakeholder partnerships aimed at improving sustainable water resources management.

According Mr. Chipango, these initiatives have enabled young people to move beyond awareness campaigns and become participants in generating knowledge, influencing policy discussions and supporting practical interventions that strengthen water governance.

He also underscored the importance of investing in young people's leadership, arguing that university WASH clubs provide an ideal environment for nurturing future professionals and decision-makers in the water sector.

By engaging students early, the clubs equip them with technical knowledge, leadership skills and practical experience while encouraging innovation in addressing water, sanitation and environmental challenges.

The forum provided an opportunity for YWAC to share lessons learned from its work with stakeholders and demonstrate how youth-led initiatives can complement government efforts to promote integrated water resources management.

Participants heard how stronger coordination among universities, public institutions, civil society organisations and development partners can create a more inclusive and effective approach to managing Zambia's water resources.

Mr. Chipango further emphasised that meaningful youth participation is critical if the country is to achieve long-term water security and meet its commitments under Sustainable Development Goal Six, which seeks to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

For many delegates, the case study illustrated that the country's universities are becoming important centres of innovation, producing young leaders capable of developing evidence-based solutions to some of Zambia's most pressing environmental challenges.

He further expressed appreciation to the Water Resources Management Authority for providing a platform that recognised the contribution of young people to national discussions on sustainable water resources management.

Mr. Chipango added that such engagements not only strengthen collaboration between youth and institutions but also encourage greater participation by students in addressing national development priorities.

He reaffirmed YWAC its commitment to amplifying youth voices, fostering strategic partnerships and empowering young people to contribute meaningfully to a water-secure and climate-resilient Zambia.

As the country continues to confront growing environmental pressures, the participation of organisations such as the Youth WASH Ambassadors Club signals a shift towards more inclusive water governance—one that recognises young people not simply as future leaders, but as partners already making a difference today.

Their contribution at the WARMA Technical Forum served as a reminder that sustainable water management depends not only on sound policies and technical expertise, but also on the innovation, energy and commitment of the next generation.

 Every Heartbeat Counts: The Partnership Transforming Children’s Heart Surgery in Zambia

By Alain kabinda

LUSAKA– For parents of children born with serious heart conditions, every passing day can bring uncertainty, fear and the hope of finding treatment before it is too late.

For years, many Zambian families faced the difficult reality of limited access to specialised heart surgery, with some children requiring treatment outside the country. But a growing partnership between Zambia and international medical organisations is changing that story—one heartbeat at a time.

At the National Heart Hospital in Lusaka, a decade-long collaboration with Save a Child’s Heart (SACH)has become a symbol of what is possible when expertise, technology and compassion come together.

The partnership recently reached another milestone with the commissioning of a new Liva Nova S5 heart-lung machine, strengthening Zambia’s ability to perform complex paediatric cardiac surgeries locally.

The unveiling took place during a bilateral paediatric cardiac surgery mission, where children living with rheumatic heart disease received life-saving operations. Five children had already undergone successful procedures and were recovering in the Intensive Care Unit.

For these children and their families, the new equipment represents more than medical advancement—it represents renewed hope.

Over the past ten years, the partnership between the Ministry of Health, through the National Heart Hospital, and Save a Child’s Heart has evolved from providing treatment support to developing Zambia’s own specialised cardiac expertise.

Speaking during the launch at National Heart Hospital, Senior Medical Superintendent of the National Heart Hospital Dr. Chabwela Shumba described the collaboration as a model of strategic, compassionate and sustainable healthcare.

He said the partnership has focused on four key areas: training medical specialists, supporting children requiring treatment, transferring knowledge through surgical missions, and strengthening regional cooperation.

One of the greatest achievements has been the development of Zambia’s first generation of paediatric cardiac specialists.

Through the programme, Zambia has produced its first paediatric cardiac surgeon, paediatric cardiac intensivist, perfusionist and cardiac anaesthesiologist, all trained in Israel at no cost to the Zambian government.

Training of a second generation of specialists is already underway, ensuring that knowledge and expertise continue to grow within the country.

"This is not only about treating children today; it is about ensuring Zambia has the professionals and systems to continue providing this care tomorrow," Dr. Shumba said.

                                      (Heart-lung machine)

The new heart-lung machine, purchased at a cost of nearly US$200,000, was jointly financed by the National Heart Hospital, Save a Child’s Heart and the American Jewish Committee.

The hospital contributed half of the cost, while SACH and AJC provided the remaining support.

The machine is expected to significantly improve surgical capacity at the facility by allowing more complex procedures to be performed locally.

With the equipment now operational, the National Heart Hospital has a fully functional paediatric cardiac theatre and has already performed surgery on about 60 patients, including 30 children.

The hospital can now conduct two procedures simultaneously, helping reduce waiting times for patients in need of urgent care.

And Save a Child’s Heart has also donated additional medical equipment, including a GE Echo machine, ScaLan cardiac instrument set and cardiac consumables, bringing its total investment in Zambia to approximately US$3 million.

Meanwhile Israel Ambassador to Zambia Ofra Farhi said the partnership demonstrates the importance of long-term cooperation focused on sustainability.

She said the value of the programme goes beyond individual surgeries because it creates local expertise and ensures Zambian healthcare workers can continue using advanced technology independently.

"This is a long-term programme, it is a sustainable programme. It creates technology and learning how to use the machine here, and the long-term impact on the local team," Ambassador Farhi said.

She praised the cooperation between Zambia and Israel, as well as the support from Save a Child’s Heart and the American Jewish Committee.

"In Israel we say, whoever saves one life, it is as if he saved an entire world," she said.

For Save a Child’s Heart Executive Director Simon Fisher, the impact of the programme is being felt across the country.

He said children from different regions, including Zambezi, Nakonde, Eastern Province and Southern Province, have benefited from the partnership.

The programme, he explained, is helping identify children who need surgery while reducing the number of patients waiting for specialised treatment.

"It really fits the real name of our hospital, the National Heart Hospital. It is really helpful to reduce the load of patients waiting for surgery," Mr. Fisher said.

Through screening, surgical camps and mentorship, the partnership continues to expand access to care for children who may otherwise have limited options.

While heart surgery often highlights the work of surgeons, specialists say successful outcomes depend on a much larger team.

And speaking at the same event Consultant Paediatric Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr. Hagi explained that cardiac surgery requires cooperation among doctors, nurses, anaesthetists, intensive care specialists, perfusionists and technical teams.

"It’s not just one doctor working," he said. "Heart surgery is a team game."

He said the growing confidence among Zambia’s medical teams shows the importance of continued training and collaboration.

The Ministry of Health says partnerships such as this are critical in building a stronger and more resilient health system where children can receive quality treatment closer to home.

For families who once faced uncertainty and long journeys in search of specialised care, the progress at the National Heart Hospital offers a new sense of possibility.

The new heart-lung machine is not simply a piece of medical equipment—it is a symbol of investment in Zambia’s future, a tool that empowers local doctors and a reminder that every child deserves the chance to live a healthy life.

As Zambia continues to strengthen its paediatric cardiac services, each successful operation represents more than a medical achievement.

 Hope Begins Next Door: Campaign Urges Zambians to Check on Their Neighbours

By Alain Kabinda

LUSAKA– Behind the smiles people wear every day, many are carrying burdens that no one sees.

Some are struggling to cope with unemployment. Others are weighed down by financial hardship, broken relationships, addiction or grief. For many, these challenges develop into depression and other mental health conditions, yet they continue to suffer in silence, afraid of being judged or misunderstood.

It is against this backdrop that Zmai Social Care Foundation, in partnership with Support A Woman of Valor (SAWOV), launched the "Check Your Neighbour Campaign"—a community-driven initiative encouraging Zambians to look out for one another and help restore hope to those battling mental health challenges.

The campaign, launched in Lusaka, seeks to promote compassion, reduce stigma and encourage communities to become the first line of support for individuals experiencing emotional and psychological distress.

Speaking during the launch, SAWOV President Mirriam Mumba said depression has become a growing concern that cuts across all segments of society, affecting people regardless of their age, social standing or economic background.

She observed that many people silently battle emotional and psychological challenges caused by poverty, unemployment, marital disputes, addiction and other life pressures.

According to Ms. Mumba, one of the greatest challenges is that many individuals do not seek help because they fear being judged, rejected or misunderstood.

"Many people are silently carrying emotional pain," she said. "Some have reached a point where they lose hope and even contemplate taking their own lives because they feel they have no one to talk to."

She explained that the "Check Your Neighbour Campaign"encourages ordinary citizens to regularly reach out to those around them, listen with empathy and connect individuals in distress with the help they need.

"It costs nothing to ask someone how they are doing," she said. "Sometimes, that simple conversation can make the difference between hope and despair."

Ms. Mumba called on churches, traditional leaders, youth groups and community organisations to actively participate in the campaign, saying mental health is a shared responsibility that requires collective action.

And meanwhile Zmai Social Care Foundation President Charity Chongo, addressing mental health begins with eliminating the stigma that prevents people from seeking support.

She said many people continue to hide their struggles because they fear discrimination or being labelled as weak.

"Mental health challenges should be treated with the same seriousness as physical illnesses," Ms. Chongo said. "People should feel safe to ask for help without fear of ridicule."

She also appealed to mobile network operators to support the initiative by introducing toll-free counselling lines that would enable people experiencing emotional distress to access professional assistance regardless of their financial circumstances.

She added that this initiative could become a lifeline support for individuals who may otherwise suffer in silence.

And Philanthropist Sanjeev Sharda added that society often underestimates the healing power of kindness and human connection.

He urged families, churches and communities to become safe spaces where people can openly discuss their struggles without fear of judgment.

"Many people are carrying invisible burdens," he said. "Listening with compassion and showing genuine care can transform someone's life."

Cybersecurity analyst Beatrice Mwansa described the campaign as timely, noting that mental health challenges continue to affect people across every profession and community.

She said increased public awareness would encourage more people to seek help before their conditions become severe.

Meanwhile, Zmai Vice President Emmanuel Kafula said the initiative seeks to strengthen community support networks capable of identifying vulnerable individuals early and ensuring they receive appropriate assistance.

He noted that neighbours are often the first to notice changes in behaviour and are therefore well placed to offer encouragement or refer someone to professional services.

Mental health experts increasingly agree that addressing depression requires more than clinical services. It also demands communities that are willing to listen, understand and support those who are struggling.

Campaign organisers hope the initiative will inspire Zambians to move beyond casual greetings and begin meaningful conversations with neighbours, friends and relatives who may be experiencing emotional distress.

As the campaign gains momentum, its success may ultimately be measured not by the number of events held, but by the lives touched, the stigma reduced and the people who find the courage to seek help because someone took the time to ask, "How are you?"