The Silent Pandemic: How Antimicrobial Resistance Is Threatening Zambia's Health Future

By Alain Kabinda

For decades, antibiotics have been among medicine's greatest achievements, transforming once-deadly infections into treatable illnesses and saving millions of lives worldwide. But that medical success is now under threat. Across Zambia, health experts are raising the alarm over the growing danger of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)—a silent but rapidly escalating public health crisis in which bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites are becoming resistant to the medicines designed to kill them.

As antibiotics lose their effectiveness, common infections are becoming harder and more expensive to treat, placing patients, healthcare systems, and the country's development at risk. Experts warn that unless urgent action is taken to promote the responsible use of antimicrobials, strengthen surveillance, and increase public awareness, Zambia could face a future where routine infections once again become life-threatening.

LUSAKA – Speaking to Daily News In Lusaka, a 32-year-old Grace Lungu developed what she thought was an ordinary urinary tract infection, she expected to recover within a few days. Like many Zambians, she walked into a local pharmacy, bought antibiotics she had used before, and returned home confident they would work.

Instead of improving, Grace's condition deteriorated. Her fever worsened, the pain became unbearable, and she was eventually admitted to hospital.

"I had taken the same medicine before and it worked," she recalls. "This time, nothing happened. I became weaker and eventually had to be admitted to the hospital."

"I had never heard of antimicrobial resistance," Grace says quietly. "I didn't know that taking antibiotics the wrong way could make them stop working."

Grace's story is becoming increasingly common—not only in Zambia but across the world.

Health experts describe antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as one of the greatest public health threats of the 21st century. It is often called a "silent pandemic" because, unlike disease outbreaks that capture headlines, it spreads quietly, gradually rendering life-saving medicines ineffective.

They have made surgeries safer, reduced deaths from pneumonia, protected mothers during childbirth, and cured infections that once claimed millions of lives.

Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites evolve and no longer respond to medicines that once killed them.

As these microorganisms become resistant, infections become harder—and sometimes impossible—to treat.

Doctors are increasingly forced to prescribe stronger, more expensive medicines, while patients spend longer in hospital and face a greater risk of death.

Experts warn that without decisive intervention Zambia could enter an era where routine infections once again become fatal.

Speaking to the Daily News, Dr. Malizgani Paul Chavula, a lecturer and researcher in the Department of Community and Family Medicine at the University of Zambia's School of Public Health, said antimicrobial resistance has quietly become one of the country's most urgent health challenges.

"Delays in action will accelerate the spread of resistance. Antimicrobials that are effective today may be ineffective tomorrow," Dr. Chavula warned.

According to him, one of the biggest drivers of antimicrobial resistance is the misuse of antibiotics by the public.

Many people continue using antibiotics to treat viral illnesses such as influenza, coughs and the common cold—even though antibiotics have no effect against viruses.

Others stop taking medication as soon as they begin feeling better, while some keep leftover antibiotics for future illnesses or share them with family members.

"The inappropriate use of antibiotics is allowing resistant organisms to emerge much faster than new medicines are being developed," Dr. Chavula explained.

Experts say antimicrobial resistance is also driven by the widespread use of antibiotics in livestock production.

Across the agricultural sector, antibiotics are often administered to poultry, cattle and fish not only to treat disease but also to promote growth and prevent infections.

While this may improve productivity, it also encourages resistant bacteria to develop and spread through food, water and the environment.

Dr. Chavula noted that this is why antimicrobial resistance is now being addressed through the One Health approach, which recognizes the close relationship between human health, animal health and environmental health.

Communities without reliable access to safe drinking water are more vulnerable to infectious diseases, leading to greater dependence on antibiotics.

Inadequate infection prevention and control in health facilities also contributes to the spread of resistant organisms.

“At the same time, many health facilities continue treating patients without laboratory confirmation because diagnostic services remain limited, instead of identifying the exact cause of illness, health workers are often forced to prescribe antibiotics based on symptoms alone.

While necessary in many situations, this practice increases unnecessary antibiotic use and accelerates resistance,” Dr. Chavula said.

Experts warn that if current trends continue, routine surgical procedures, maternal healthcare, cancer treatment and tuberculosis management could become significantly more dangerous.

Dr. Chavula believes reversing the trend requires action from every sector of society.

He also urged members of the public to use antibiotics only when prescribed by qualified health professionals, complete the full course of treatment, and never share medicines or use leftover drugs.

He added that Health Facilities must strengthen infection prevention and control measures while expanding laboratory-guided diagnosis and enforcing prescription-only antibiotic dispensing.

“The agricultural sector must also reduce unnecessary antibiotic use by improving vaccination, animal health management and biosecurity and even Communities can contribute by improving hygiene, sanitation and access to clean water, reducing the spread of infectious diseases that often require antibiotic treatment,” Dr. Chavula Added.

Dr. Chavula says Zambia's response must extend beyond the health sector.

He is calling for stronger collaboration among the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, environmental agencies, universities, healthcare institutions, regulatory bodies, the media and civil society organizations.

Together, these stakeholders can strengthen surveillance systems, improve laboratory capacity, implement Zambia's National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance, and educate communities about responsible medicine use.

"The fight against antimicrobial resistance cannot be left to doctors alone," he said. "Every citizen has a responsibility to protect these medicines for future generations."

For Grace Lungu, surviving a drug-resistant infection changed the way she views antibiotics forever.

She now encourages friends and family to seek medical advice before taking antibiotics and to complete every prescribed course.

"I thought antibiotics would always work," she says. "Now I know they can stop working if we misuse them."

Her experience serves as a warning that antimicrobial resistance is no longer a distant scientific concern.

And unless the country acts collectively—through responsible medicine use, stronger health systems, improved sanitation, better agricultural practices and greater public awareness—the miracle medicines that transformed modern healthcare may gradually lose their power.

 

 

 Zambia Positions Artificial Intelligence at the Heart of Inclusive Digital Transformation

By Alain kabinda

LUSAKA – As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape economies and societies across the globe, Zambia is taking deliberate steps to ensure the technology becomes a catalyst for inclusive development rather than a source of inequality.

This commitment was underscored during the Stakeholder Consultative Engagement and Awareness Training on Artificial Intelligence, Emerging Technologies and Digital Inclusion held at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Lusaka. The meeting brought together representatives from the COMESA Secretariat, government ministries, regulators, academia, the private sector, civil society and development partners to chart a common vision for the country's digital future.

The consultative engagement forms part of the Inclusive Digitalization in Eastern and Southern Africa (IDEA) Programme, a regional initiative aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure, harmonising policies and promoting responsible adoption of emerging technologies across COMESA Member States.

The discussions reflected a growing recognition that artificial intelligence is no longer a technology of the future but one that is already transforming key sectors of the economy. Participants heard that AI could contribute an estimated US$15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, while Africa has the potential to realise as much as US$1.2 trillion if adoption is accelerated through sound governance and strategic investment.

Speaking during the official opening of the Stakeholder Consultative Engagement and Awareness Training on Artificial Intelligence, Emerging Technologies, and Digital Inclusion in Lusaka, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Technology and Science, Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, said responsible adoption of AI would create new opportunities across critical sectors of the economy.

Dr. Habeenzu said Artificial Intelligence is already transforming industries worldwide, with applications in agriculture, healthcare, education, and financial services. He noted that Zambia has significant opportunities to use AI solutions to address development challenges and improve service delivery.

“In agriculture, AI-enabled systems are helping increase yields through precision farming and climate-smart solutions,” he said, adding that AI-driven innovations could support farmers with better decision-making tools and improved productivity.

The health sector also stands to benefit, with AI-powered diagnostic technologies offering opportunities to improve accuracy, reduce delays, and enhance patient outcomes. In education, adaptive learning platforms are providing new approaches to improving learning outcomes, while

AI-based financial solutions are expanding access to financial services for underserved communities.

However, Dr. Habeenzu cautioned that unlocking the full benefits of AI requires strong governance, effective policies, and institutional readiness. He emphasized the need for coordinated approaches among African countries to ensure innovation is accompanied by safeguards that protect public trust.

The two-day engagement, supported through the Inclusive Digitalization in Eastern and Southern Africa (IDEA) Programme, brings together government representatives, regulators, private sector leaders, academia, civil society, development partners, and regional stakeholders to discuss Zambia’s AI readiness and digital inclusion priorities.

The IDEA Programme, which supports digital transformation efforts across the region, is expected to contribute to stronger digital infrastructure, improved access, and harmonised policy frameworks among participating countries.

Dr. Habeenzu further highlighted Zambia’s progress in expanding digital access, noting that mobile broadband penetration increased to 72 percent in 2025, compared to less than 40 percent a decade earlier. He also pointed to the addition of more than 300 communication towers nationwide since 2022 as part of efforts to improve connectivity.

“Digital inclusion is not only about access. It is about ensuring meaningful participation,” he said, emphasizing the importance of ensuring women, young people, persons with disabilities, rural communities, and small businesses benefit from emerging technologies.

Participants at the workshop are expected to identify policy and regulatory gaps, explore high-impact AI applications, and contribute to the development of regional strategies on Artificial Intelligence and digital inclusion.

Dr. Habeenzu urged stakeholders to engage openly and consider how Zambia can responsibly harness AI to accelerate national development while contributing to regional innovation.

“The success of our digital future depends on partnerships,” he said, noting that government, the private sector, academia, civil society, and development partners must work together to build digital skills, strengthen trust, expand connectivity, and create inclusive digital economies.

The engagement marks another step in Zambia’s broader digital transformation agenda, as the country seeks to position technology as a catalyst for economic growth and improved quality of life for its citizens

And Speaking at the meeting Mr. Lonard Chitundu Telecommunication Officer representing Secretary General H.E. Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe noted that digital inclusion is about far more than expanding internet access. It is about ensuring that women, young people, persons with disabilities, rural communities and small businesses have meaningful opportunities to participate in and benefit from the digital economy.

Mr. Chitundu said that artificial intelligence should be developed responsibly and inclusively. While AI offers unprecedented opportunities to improve public service delivery, stimulate innovation and accelerate economic growth, its benefits will only be fully realised through collaboration among governments, the private sector, academia, civil society and development partners.

He also recommended that emerging from the two-day engagement are expected to inform Zambia's national AI agenda while contributing to broader regional policy frameworks under COMESA.

Mr. Chitundu reminded the participates that the region's digital future will be shaped not only by technological innovation but also by the collective commitment to ensure that no one is left behind.

He also said COMESA reaffirmed that partnerships remain the foundation for building trusted, inclusive and sustainable digital economies across Eastern and Southern Africa.

 

 

 From Community Problems to Profitable Solutions: Inside Zambia's First Youth WASH Innovation & Investment Night

By Alain Kabinda

The atmosphere inside the Government Complex was filled with anticipation as young entrepreneurs stepped forward, one by one, to present ideas they believe could change the way communities across Zambia approach water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH).

What began six weeks earlier as a training programme in hygiene behaviour change culminated on Friday, 10 July 2026, in the inaugural Youth WASH Innovation and Investment Night—an event that celebrated not only the completion of a programme, but also the emergence of a new generation of social entrepreneurs determined to turn everyday community challenges into sustainable business opportunities.

The event was organised by the Youth WASH Ambassadors Club (YWAC), which brought together government officials, development partners, civil society organisations, academia and private sector representatives to witness firsthand how innovation can emerge from local communities when young people are equipped with the right knowledge, mentorship and practical skills.

The evening's highlight was the pitching session, where four finalists, selected from a cohort of 25 programme graduates, presented enterprises designed to tackle some of Zambia's most persistent WASH challenges. Their ideas addressed issues ranging from handwashing and menstrual hygiene management to sanitation services and solid waste management—areas that continue to influence public health and environmental sustainability across the country.

Each presentation reflected weeks of research carried out in schools, markets, health facilities and neighbourhoods. Rather than relying on assumptions, participants engaged directly with community members to understand their needs and identify practical, market-driven solutions.

The result was a collection of business ideas that sought not only to improve hygiene and sanitation but also to create employment, generate income and build healthier communities.

The event was officiated by Acting Permanent Secretary Mr. Felix Mushabati from the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, whose presence underscored the government's growing recognition of youth as important partners in advancing Zambia's WASH agenda.

                                                              (Mr. Felix Mushabati) 

For many participants, it was the first opportunity to engage directly with policymakers, technical experts, development organisations and experienced professionals. The conversations that followed each presentation provided constructive feedback, fresh perspectives and the possibility of future partnerships that could help transform promising ideas into viable enterprises.

Instead, it represented a shift in thinking—one that recognises young people not merely as beneficiaries of development programmes, but as innovators capable of designing practical solutions to real societal challenges.

YWAC announced that the Youth WASH Innovation and Investment Night will become an annual platform dedicated to promoting youth-led innovation in the WASH sector. Future editions are expected to attract greater participation from investors, financial institutions and private sector partners, creating stronger pathways for promising enterprises to secure the support needed to grow.

The annual platform is also expected to contribute to Zambia's broader development aspirations under Vision 2030, the Eighth National Development Plan and Sustainable Development Goal 6, which calls for universal access to clean water and sanitation.

Perhaps the greatest achievement of the evening, however, was not measured by the number of pitches delivered or certificates awarded. It was reflected in the confidence of young people who had discovered that the challenges affecting their communities could become opportunities to innovate, create businesses and improve lives.

As the inaugural Youth WASH Innovation and Investment Night came to a close, the message was unmistakable: Zambia's youth are not waiting for solutions—they are creating them.

With preparations already underway for the 2027 edition, organisers hope the platform will continue to grow into a flagship national event where innovation meets investment, partnerships are forged and young entrepreneurs become catalysts for healthier, more resilient communities across the country.

(c) All Copyrights Reserved. 

 AIPAC Urges Political Parties to Prioritise Manifestos Over Divisive Campaign Rhetoric

By Alain Kabinda 

LUSAKA, 7 July 2026 — With Zambia's general election just weeks away, the Acton Institute for Policy Analysis Centre (AIPAC) has called on political parties to place greater emphasis on explaining their manifestos rather than engaging in divisive political rhetoric.

In a statement issued to Daily News the independent public policy think tank AIPAC Executive Director Mr. Solomon Ngoma said that election campaigns should provide voters with a clear understanding of the policies and programmes political parties intend to implement if elected into office.

According to Mr. Ngoma, a party manifesto remains the most important document through which citizens can evaluate a political party's vision, priorities and commitment to national development.

 Mr. Ngoma argued that campaign platforms should be used to discuss practical solutions to Zambia's economic and social challenges instead of promoting messages that could fuel hostility or deepen political divisions.

The organisation also expressed concern over what it described as misleading information regarding voting rights during the election period. AIPAC reminded the public that the Constitution allows voters to elect an independent candidate for Member of Parliament while simultaneously voting for a presidential candidate from a political party.

Mr. Ngoma also warned against attempts to misinform citizens on their constitutional rights, stating that every eligible voter has the freedom to make independent electoral choices without intimidation or undue influence.

Mr. Ngoma further challenged parliamentary candidates to be realistic in the promises they make to voters. It observed that public expectations of elected leaders have grown over the years, with citizens increasingly demanding accountability and consistent engagement from their representatives.

The organisation noted that many Members of Parliament have previously lost public confidence after failing to maintain contact with their constituencies or deliver on commitments made during election campaigns. It urged aspiring legislators to focus on achievable commitments and to recognise the constitutional responsibilities attached to public office.

As Zambia prepares for the 13 August 2026 general election, AIPAC encouraged voters to critically assess campaign messages by comparing candidates' public statements with the commitments contained in their manifestos.

The institute argued that informed voting is essential to strengthening democratic governance and ensuring that electoral choices are based on policy proposals rather than political slogans or emotional appeals.

"The electorate deserves to hear practical solutions to the country's challenges," Mr. Ngoma said, adding that political parties should explain how they intend to implement their policies if entrusted with public office.

AIPAC also reaffirmed its role as an independent public policy think tank, saying it will continue monitoring campaign messages throughout the election period, particularly on policy issues. The organisation appealed to all political parties and candidates to conduct peaceful, respectful and issue-based campaigns that place national interests above partisan considerations.

With less than six weeks before Zambians cast their ballots, AIPAC believes the quality of campaign discourse will play an important role in helping citizens make informed decisions about the country's leadership over the next five years.

 Political Violence MUST END and Suspend Magoye east Campaigns--Ms. Simpungwe

                                  (Ms. Nakiwe Simpungwe)

By Alain Kabinda

LUSAKA, Zambia – The Civil Society Elections Integrity Forum Zambia (CSEIFZ) has condemned the killing of Mr. Sakala, the driver for Independent Magoye East parliamentary candidate Mr. Mweene, describing the incident as a serious threat to the country's democratic process.

In a statement issued to Daily News on Friday, Ms. Nakiwe Simpungwe, Vice Chairperson of the Civil Society Elections Integrity Forum Zambia and Executive Director of HANZ expressed condolences to the deceased's family and said the killing, which reportedly occurred at a campaign centre during the night, was suspected to be politically motivated.

Ms. Simpungwe said the incident highlights the dangers of political violence and its impact on democratic participation, peace, and public safety.

"This tragic incident is not only a devastating loss to his family and the community but also a stark reminder of the dangers that political violence poses to our democracy," the She said.

She strongly condemned the attack and urged all political parties, candidates, supporters, and stakeholders to reject violence in all its forms.

The forum also appealed to the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to suspend all campaign activities in the Magoye East constituency while investigations are underway and until measures are implemented to ensure the safety of candidates, campaign teams, and members of the public.

In addition, Ms. Simpungwe called on the Zambia Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to conduct a swift, impartial, and thorough investigation into the killing and bring those responsible to justice.

According to CSEIFZ, political violence undermines democracy, weakens public confidence in institutions, and threatens national unity.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peaceful, free, fair, and credible elections and urged Zambians to honour the memory of the deceased by embracing peace, dialogue, and political tolerance.

Authorities had not yet released official findings on the circumstances surrounding the killing at the time of publication, and investigations were expected to continue.

 Airtel Africa Highlights Sustainability Drive Through Digital Inclusion and Community Investment

By Alain kabinda

LUSAKA, Zambia – Airtel Africa is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development in Zambia through investments in digital inclusion, education, entrepreneurship and environmental responsibility, positioning connectivity as a catalyst for socio-economic transformation.

Speaking during a media roundtable to present the company's 2025/26 Sustainability Report, Airtel Africa Group Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar said sustainability remains central to the company's long-term strategy, with partnerships and innovation playing a key role in expanding opportunities for communities across the country.

One of Airtel's flagship initiatives is its partnership with UNICEF, which has connected 300 schools across Zambia to the internet. The programme has provided nearly 292,000 learners and more than 5,000 teachers with access to digital learning platforms and online educational resources, helping bridge the digital divide, particularly in underserved communities.

The investment comes at a time when access to digital technology is increasingly viewed as essential for improving educational outcomes and preparing young people for a technology-driven economy.

Beyond internet connectivity, Airtel has continued to invest directly in school infrastructure through its School Adoption Programme. Over the past year, the company supported schools in Mufulira, Chipata, Solwezi, Mansa and Mongu by constructing classroom blocks, establishing computer laboratories, improving sanitation facilities and providing internet connectivity.

And according to Mr. Taldar stated that two schools that have already been handed over in Chipata and Solwezi have reported increased enrolment, suggesting that improved learning environments are encouraging more children to attend school.

Mr. Taldar also said that Airtel's sustainability agenda is to extends to economic empowerment through entrepreneurship. Working with the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) under the Innovation Challenge, the company has trained more than 500 innovators, supported the commercialisation of over 30 start-ups and contributed to the creation of more than 200 direct jobs.

Mr. Taldar added that the initiative aims to nurture local innovation while creating employment opportunities for young entrepreneurs seeking to build technology-based businesses.

The company's sustainability strategy is anchored on four pillars: expanding access to connectivity, equipping communities with digital skills, supporting entrepreneurship and promoting responsible environmental practices.

Mr. Taldar said Airtel Africa remains committed to scaling up these initiatives and strengthening partnerships that promote inclusive growth and accelerate Zambia's digital transformation.

As demand for digital services continues to grow, Airtel says its focus will remain on ensuring that the benefits of technology reach schools, businesses and communities that have traditionally been left behind, helping build a more connected and inclusive future for Zambia

 Pastor Reuben Sambo Condemns Anti-Immigrant Violence in South Africa, Calls for Urgent African Action

By Alain Kabinda

A Zambian church leader has strongly condemned the reported violence and forced deportation of immigrants in South Africa, calling on the country's leadership to uphold justice, democracy, and human dignity.

Speaking to Daily News in Lusaka on the recent reports of attacks and the removal of foreign nationals to their countries of origin, Pastor Reuben Sambo expressed concern over what he described as a failure of leadership in addressing violence against migrants.

 Pastor Sambo has urged South African authorities to take decisive action to restore peace and protect all people living in the country, regardless of their nationality.

"The leadership in South Africa must rise to the occasion and govern with justice and democracy. Violence against innocent people cannot be tolerated," Pastor Sambo said.

He also questioned whether South African leaders were satisfied with the current situation, saying strong political leadership is needed to prevent further violence and protect vulnerable communities.

Pastor Sambo also appealed to traditional leaders, church organizations, and civil society groups in South Africa to speak out against the attacks and defend the rights and dignity of those affected.

"The Church cannot remain silent when people are suffering. Religious leaders have a moral responsibility to stand for peace, justice, and the protection of human life," Pastor Sambo said.

Pastor Sambo further called on African leaders and regional bodies to urgently engage with the South African government through dialogue to help resolve the situation before it escalates further.

"Africa must act quickly. Dialogue is essential to restore peace and ensure that all people are treated with dignity and respect," he said.

He noted that South Africa plays a significant economic role on the continent, supplying goods and services to many African countries, making stability and peaceful coexistence important not only for South Africans but for the wider region.

The bishop urged faith-based organizations across Africa to unite in condemning violence and promoting peaceful coexistence among all communities.

Pastor Sambo has also emphasized that lasting solutions should be grounded in justice, respect for human rights, and responsible leadership rather than violence or discrimination.

His remarks come amid growing concern over reports of anti-immigrant tensions in parts of South Africa, with calls from various stakeholders for authorities to protect all residents and uphold the rule of law.