IT has been an exciting week for Proflight Zambia and the local aviation sector, as the airline took successful delivery of two additional Bombardier CRJ jets, bringing its total to five. The latest additions to the airline’s expanding fleet are a parcel freighter which touched down on Sunday, and was followed by the arrival of […]
Ian Banda keen to unlock obstacles to becoming president
By Troy Mukupa
THE saying “Where there is a will, there is a way” is demonstration of Ian Banda’s story.
Many people have both hands and legs, but they are restricted in their capacity to dream because they think they can’t or that it’s impossible.
Despite having a physical impediment from birth, Banda has never allowed it to define him or prevent him from realising all of his potential. On the other hand, he is the founder as well as the director of Youth in Action for Disability Inclusion in Zambia (YADIZ).
You could think that this is a dream.In a society where prejudice against people with disabilities still exists, it is perhaps inconceivable for a young man with a physical impairment to yearn for the presidency, the highest position in the land.
Born on February 11, 1993, in Lusaka, Banda is devoted to advancing the rights of people with disabilities. He contends that concerns of inclusive development would continue to evade them unless people with disabilities occupied the top leadership positions in their own communities. He has a passion for public speaking, poetry, and comedy who hopes to become president when the time is perfect for him because he feels that individuals with disabilities are underrepresented in leadership, particularly in politics.
The 30-year-old activist, who uses a wheelchair for errands, has resolved to not let his physical limitation define and prohibit him from attaining his full potential and to take advantage of any opportunity to expand his potential as he already works towards achieving his goal. His passion in leadership first surfaced during his time as a Kabulonga Boys Secondary prefect, when he was also a committed member in the Youth Alive Club. As a result of that, he has acquired the necessary experience to the point where he can speak out against gender-based violence and support the rights of children and teenagers with disabilities. He participated in the University of Minnesota’s Public Management School after being chosen as a young African leader for the very prestigious and competitive Mandela Washington Fellowship programme in 2017.
The program was centered on public management and leadership across a variety of fields, such as policy, networking, and leadership, where he fervently defends the rights of kids and teenagers with disabilities. As a Mandela Washington Fellow, he had an opportunity with several American government figures who work in the area of disability and human rights advocacy. This fueled his desire to raise awareness of disability issues in the media, and he joined up with ZICTA to advance ICT for people with impairments. He graduated in civic leadership from the Young African Leaders initiative Southern Africa cohort 13 and joined over 140 other young people from all the SADC areas at the YALI Regional Centre at the University of South Africa under the School of Business Leadership.
Banda is pursuing his Diploma in insurance while studying insurance at the Zambia College of Pension and Insurance Trust under the scholarship programme offered by the Archie Hinchcliffe Disability Intervention (AHDI).
President Hakainde Hichilema arrives in China for state visit
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema arrived in Shenzen, China on Sunday, starting his six-day state visit to China, from 10th to 16th September, 2023. The Head of State is making his first trip to China since taking office in August, 2021, at the invitation of President Xi Jinping. He is accompanied by The First Lady, Mutinta Hichilema. President […]
Gospel Artist, Emmanuel JB – Son Of David, hints two new songs
By TROY MUKUPA
KNOWN for his soul-soothing music that brings comfort, solace, and reassurance to the listeners, Creative-E-Splash media signed gospel singer, songwriter and minister, Emmanuel JB, who has earned a Kindom password name tagged “Son Of David”, has hinted in an interview to the Daily Nation Lifestyle that works on his soon to be released, ‘Nations’ and ‘I believe’ singles have advanced.
Inspired by renowned gospel recording artist and a lead pastor of the High Praise Centre in Vosloorus, east of Johannesburg in Benjamin Dube, a South African gospel who over the years has released several albums which have reached gold and platinum status in the music rankings and the Destined Kids, a popular child group that touched people’s hearts with melodious tunes, Emmanuel JB, who is under the leadership of Pastor Chris Chibale, of New Life Gospel Version Church, and the only child of his parents who died in the 90s said his love to do music started in his young age.
“I started having this love of music at a young age. I enjoyed listening to the Destined Kids, from Nigeria and I admired to one day be like them. But my biggest inspiration to do music came from Benjamin Dube from South Africa. I desired to sing in his team or to sing with him one day which later in time lead me to join the praise teams. In 2016, I recorded my first song called ‘Takwaba’ by Dj Tino, back in Kafue. I did few more songs with him until when I Joined E-Splash Studios with the renowned multi-gifted-producer, Eliphas, at E-Splash Studios with whom we have done a couple of good music. I can say, apart from my cousin, Adcool, who is a rapper, am the only child who took music serious to a point of recording”
The gospel singer and songwriter said works on his two upcoming songs have advanced. And when asked what message the two songs had to the listeners, Emmanuel JB responded, “The two songs talk about the possibility man born a sinner to becoming righteous as is the plan of God from the beginning of the world through the gospel of Water, Blood and the Spirit, for it shows how man became a sinner and how Christ has exchange His righteous nature with us humans. They carry with them the message of hope, faith, salvation and redemption to the listeners”
Asked what would make Zambia Gospel music reach greater hights, he said, “unremitting spiritual focus, self-discipline, sacrifice and consistency in the study of God’s Word, through holding tenaciously to Christ’s hand as He leads us. With constant commitment, Zambia will have a future Minister of God in the music industry”
Meet Mubanga Keshi: Determined To Succeed In Online Fashion Branding Entrepreneurship
By TROY MUKUPA
Fueled by determination and dedication, to rise above challenges, CEO and proprietor of a trending fashion and branding business that deals in online clothing line, Mubanga Keshi, well known in the fashion world, and Entertainment industry as, Keshidollar, has managed to achieve significant milestones in this fast growing business as he continues to transform his-real-life experiences into an impactful-brand that delves into personal growth and determination.
Breaking away from doubt and negative energy, Keshi, has managed to maintain a positive mindset through his branding business. The fashion brand “Keshi” was started some 4 years ago, following his rise from humble beginnings to achieving his dreams of becoming a successful entrepreneur. The brand brings with it a fresh blend of authenticity, humor, and raw energy. In the 4 years of its existance, it has managed to get overwhelming support of being one of the most-sought in the streets of Lusaka, surrounding areas and Zambia at large.
His impressive work-portfolio of sleek fashion outfits & designs points to one thing, and one thing only, he has the skills and experience required to create designs in the fashion industry that will capture the attention of any targeted audience as he has worked with some of Zambia’s top-notch in both business and the entertainment industry as it continues to be undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the online fashion entrepreneurship industry.
Notable celebrities that have trusted and are proudly seen doning the ‘Keshi’ customise brand are; renowned songwriter and heavyweight rapper Chef 187, singer-songwriter & music producer Yo Maps, and the gifted IDC Light Comedy. Others are, rapper and songwriter Kay from Chanda na Kay fame, Barry Barry, just to mention a few.
“We are an active online clothing store. Our able staff are always available. On sales we have Given Njovu as manager, Kennedy Shimbeza on Finance, Solomon Phiri on advertising and Itongi Wandi as company secretary. We also have argents countrywide, to be specific Luanshya, Mufulila, Chinsali, Livingstone, and Chipata. The mentioned locations are all active on our platform for business. We also have offices at Lusaka house and in Kabwata”
Asked what differentiates “Keshi” to other online clothing stores, he responded, “We are a fashion business company that has a long standing reputation and a trust-worthy relationship with our clients. For over 4 years now we have proven to be a reliable online business company in terms of our products and our supply services. Big appreciation to Solomon Phiri, Bibiana Muya, Selisho Bwalya Given, Marcus Njobvu, Wandi Pezu, Chewe Keshi and Taonga Lister for their encouragement and support.
“Challenges are many especially that people who see things from afar have a different perspective of the business knowing in most cases we don’t showcase the loses or rather the challenges we face behind the curtains,” he responds when asked what are some of the challenges faced. “And bringing people on board especially celebrities is never an easy thing to do but with the help of God we do manage coz we choose to be professional, all in all, giving up has never been part of our agenda nangu fyakosa shani, us it’s to continue pushing forward”
Why mothers and babies will suffer more as Africa grows hotter
As Africa gets hotter, mothers and babies are most at risk. Why is this and what can be done about it? Matthew Chersich, a specialist in climate change and maternal health, explains the reasons to health editor Nadine Dreyer.
Gospel Singer – Victor Nyirongo Weds Tasila
By TROY MUKUPA
Manjazi Hotels at 10 miles area, along Great North Road, Lusaka, was a centre of attention and entertainment last week Sunday when they hosted a double event ceremony (wedding & kitchen party) for renowned gospel singer, songwriter & entrepreneur, Pst. Victor Nyirongo and his long time sweetheart, Tasila Chibunga Nyirongo.
The exquisite colourful double event ceremony that went down over the weekend was graced by close family members, friends and renowned musicians in the industry. The couple looked classy and exquisite for both ceremonies. For the wedding the bride wear a long white gown exuding elegance and refinement, with the groom doning a three piece grey suit & a white shirt. For their kitchen party event, she wore an emerald green dress with a bit of gold stripes while Victor wore an emerald green and white shirt & emerald green trouser.
Notable celebrities in attendance; the legendary singer, songwriter and entertainer, Uncle Jah Zambia, who was on hand to mesmerise guests with a live band performance of his hit songs, renowned songwriter and music producer, Amos Mbewe of the AmosCole Flavour Studios who was on hand to back performing artists with some unique keyboard playing skills. Other notable celebrities; renowned gospel singer, songwriter and minister, Reuben Kabwa, fast-rising songwriter and music producer, Joosy Beats, social media influencer, marketing expert and entrepreneur, Paul C Zambia, renowned gospel artist & music producer Enoch Mbewe who was the Master of Ceremony and the gifted singer, songwriter and performer Edwin HVP who doubled as the best man to the groom.
And earlier in the today, few minutes before the ceremony started, the gospel singer in an interview with the Daily Nation Lifestyle said, “Today is definitely about to be one of the best days of my life! I can proudly confirm that I have never been more ready to take this step. Am so excited,”
Following, the nuptial a happy Victor Nyirongo, describing their union as a testimony of God’s Grace, took to social media to thank everyone who took part in making his day a success, and immediately welcomed lots of congratulatory messages from colleagues, fans, and celebrities.
13 dangerous criminals escape from lawful custody, police say
POLICE have put an alert on 13 dangerous suspected criminals who escaped from lawful custody at Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe police station in Lusaka yesterday. The suspected criminals are believed to have escaped from lawful custody after spraying an unknown liquid in the eyes of the police officer on duty. A manhunt has been launched for […]
Mentally ill inmate dies after jumping out a window of a moving vehicle
AN inmate with a mental illness has died after he jumped through the window of a moving vehicle. His fellow inmate also living with a mental illness who also jumped has been admitted to hospital after sustaining injuries. The inmates were being driven in a Zambia Correctional Service bus, which was coming from Chinama East […]
Danny Kaya Music Fest: a test of legendary
By Lifestyle Reporter
MUSICIAN Danny Siulapwa fondly called Danny Kaya continues to prove music is his life and will do anything to preserve his works. This was witnessed at his recently held ‘Danny Kaya Music Festival’ which this year celebrated its 5th anniversary.
The show held at Lusaka Polo Grounds attracted a multitude of fans mainly loyal to his music and style, probably beating the record of his previous shows. These fans were treated to a legendary experience of Zambian music from artistes mostly Danny’s peers that took turns to offer back up performances.
Petersen, JK, Afunika, Mozegator, Hamoba, Ty2, the evergreen Amayenge Band and Shimasta were among the many artistes that turned up to give the show its legendary status. It was Danny’s over 20-year connection to his Mo Fire Band, featuring the likes of Marrie, Naso, Rupert, Titus, and many others, that heightened the performances rich in coordination and authenticity.
Danny graced the show with his well-known and sing along tunes that have stood the test of time and are shelved under timeless music. The crowd proved this by singing along to almost every song called by Danny. The show was also used as platform to reconnect with the past and take appreciation to the people that built Zambian music. For this reason, Danny honoured Chisha Folotiya, a founder of what birthed the current Zambian music through Mondo Music. Danny promised this gesture will be happening every year and he also showed deep appreciation to the fans for turning out in real numbers.