Posts in category: Uncategorized

By TROY MUKUPA

Many youths fear taking over family run businesses because of self-doubt that they might not perform as well or even better than their parents. And when the role reversal happens in their 20s, the burden can feel too much to bear, but for 28 year old, Hagaizo Chabala Mukomanga, best known as ‘Chabby’ in her friendship and family cycles, the challenge of taking over the family run school was a blessing she welcomed with both hands.

Hagaizo, a greek name from the Bible which means “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth” as supported in John 17:17, she is the first born child whose character is best defined by her name. Her interest in the education sector began in her young age, having observed her mother’s undiluted contrubution and love for the teaching service. She also witnessed how challenging it was to keep the family run school afloat, particularly when it came to increasing numbers for pupils and developed an aspiration to turn her burgeoning skills into a success. With practical experience under the watchful eye of her parents, whom she credits highly, coupled with the knowledge she gained earning a diploma in Music and English Teaching at Evelyn Hone College, primed, Hagaizo, for her career in the teaching service and current role as CEO at the Seven Builders School where she’s been for nearly six (6) years, ensuring the school has and maintains it’s vision of embracing the five major aspects of; Spiritual, Mental, Physical, Social & Economic empowerment.

“The School was started in 2016 by my mom, Anet Nzali Mukomango, a teacher by profession. She taught at Ngwelele Primary School in Garden, Chilulu. She named it “Seven Builders School” after my father’s construction company which to us ‘Seven’ means ‘completeness. I took over the runnings of the school at the age of 23 after completing my music and English teachers diploma, with the support and knowledge of both my parents strengthening my perspective on the significance of the work. Funny enough, I wanted to do engineering just like my dad who is an architect but later found myself in education alas it turned out to be something that was meant for me. The lessons were hard-won. I did much of the advertisements like giving out flyers to people in the area which lead to the growth of the school from Baby-Class to Grade 7″

“My day-to-day office work responsibilities include working on all errands in making sure we offer quality education to the learners. We are right in the community because we want to tap on the lowest aspect and give them a hope and vision to asend to the highest level of human attainment from the lowest, this is why we have placed the school in the low community in Lilanda, Tandeni area. Our inspiration is we want a school that is different and mostly centered on both Biblical and physical academic understanding,” adds Hagaizo

Overall, her dedication and hard work have paid off, as the school has had a significant impact on the community, providing quality education and a nurturing environment to children. Hagaizo, has extended her passion to service in the community as she is now sponsoring about 15 orphans that are under the school responsibilities.

By TROY MUKUPA

A quote by Roy T. Bennett that one should never let hard lessons harden their heart because the hard lessons of life are meant to make people better, and not bitter, is what best describes, Thresa Njavwa Bwalya, an activist, social entrepreneur, holder of Bsc in wood science & technology (Copperbelt University), post-graduate diploma holder in gender statistics from international training program statistics (Sweden), holder of various certificates in climate change, feminist leadership and monitoring & evaluation from reputable institutions.

Born in a shanty compound, precisely, John Howard, where experiencing hardship has forced many young minds lose their brilliance to rampant challenges of drug abuse, criminality, illiteracy, early marriages, and other negative vices, Thresa, who at the age of Seven witnessed the unthinkable when her parents divorced, and against all odds, chose to go the right way and managed to set up Limitless Foundation, with the aim of helping children who live on the streets, shelters, orphanages and other vulnerable areas especially in rural areas as she felt young people deserve an opportunity and support to realize their potential. “I always had the idea of building an orphanage and giving back to the community. Around winter of 2020, my friend, Keshi Mubanga, texted me; “imagine someone your young sister’s age on the streets right now, it’s so cold in our homes how about on the streets?” This struck me deep. I told him let’s organize warm clothes and donate. I also asked a couple of friends. We called the campaign, ‘Jumper Campaign’, under ‘Limitless Charity Organization’. The response was so overwhelming, and that’s how it all started”

Looking back, Thresa, recognises how God prepared her for the difficult but noble task of leading a foundation, an experience of helping others navigate stormy waters, which she says has taught her not only administration and management but also gained important insights about relationships with people and the importance of ‘UBUNTU’. The foundation has so far implemented several successful projects that have benefited more than 500 beneficiaries like the Jumper Campaign which has been implemented for the last 4 consecutive winter seasons since 2020 providing warm clothing and shoes. They have also been very instrumental in advocating against period poverty through their annual end period poverty reduction campaigns. And when asked why the name ‘Limitless’, Thresa responded, “We believe there is no end to the amount of help we can offer each other. What is lacking in one individual/family is present in others hence there is a potential of endless help”

She acknowledges the biggest challenge faced as lack of a proper streaming of income, “We implement our projects using money we fundraise from our social media platforms and the money we contribute as a team. We are currently operating in two provinces, Lusaka and Copperbelt with the focus on children, youth, women living on the streets, shelters, orphanages and other vulnerable areas”

“We have continued to conduct skills development programs which have graduated 250 adolescents in baking, sewing of reusable sanitary pads, web designing, face makeup and doormat sewing skills. And through our social media platforms we have continued to conduct awareness raising on mental health, gender based violence, drug abuse, poverty, climate change negative impacts and period poverty” added Thresa, who is currently enrolled at American University of Beirut pursuing a masters degree in environmental sciences with a major in environmental policy planning.

By TROY MUKUPA

Catherine Katebe Katongo, is a gifted Zambian entrepreneur and owner of a popular bakery called “Cathy’s Cake & All” located in Kamwala, just opposite Kamwala prison. And like many other seasoned entrepreneurs, Cathy, as she is fondly called by her peers, notes that passion and hard work are essential for any business to grow and flourish. She further explained that as the cake making business grew, her confidence in baking yielded.

Asked what was the inspiration to establish her baking business, she responded, “The business started like a joke (laughs). I used to bake plain cakes for my family. Then one day I decided to cream it for new year’s day and posted it in one of my recipe groups of which they congratulated me for trying and that’s how I gained strength, and kept on trying. The business has been running since 2020”

“For me I feel it’s the fact that I have worked on the product (cake baking) for so long of which I have perfected it,” she said when asked what separates ‘Cathy’s Cakes & All’ from other cake makers? “When you get a cake from Cathy’s Cakes & All, you are guaranteed a perfect and satisfactory product because I have been in this business for some time. I make cakes for all occasions; wedding cakes, picture cakes, themed cakes, anything, including all flovours of the the customers choice and sizes from 4 to 14 inches,”

She acknowledges that like in any business, there are challenges in the cake making business, “Yes there are alot of challenges especially when the stove stops working you opt for a brazier. Worse without a fridge and the customer decides to pick the cake in the evening when you agreed in the morning. Also there is the issue of market penetration. Almost everyone is rushing into cake making business and trying to win new clients over is usually hard. It takes a lot of marketing to finally convince them that you do have something better to offer”

Asked what advise she was given when starting her business and she would advise someone wanting to venture in the cake making business, Cathy, who advocates for self-sustainability and encourages the youths to use their skills and talents to make an honest living said, “The best advise was that never give up in this journey you have started because in this business you will face a lot of challenges, and my advise to those that would want to join this business is that they need to be strong, its not for the feint hearted because we are now many in the industry.”

By Mirriam Nasilele

Zambia joined the international community commemorating World Rhino Day on Friday 22 September. A critical mission is underway in the heart of Mosi-oa-tunya National Park. The “Rhino Protection Team,” is an initiative established to protect the endangered rhino species in Mosi-oa-tunya National Park, situated in the southern part of Zambia about five kilometers from the business area and 16 km up from Victoria Falls. The park is surrounded by urban areas making it susceptible to various existing challenges, necessitating dedicated efforts to safeguard its wildlife, especially the rhinos.

Rhinos are at momentous risk due to the illegal wildlife trade driven by the poaching of their horns. The demand for rhino horns, driven by unfounded beliefs regarding their medicinal properties and cultural significance, fuels this illicit trade, posing a severe threat to the rhino population and their existence.

Zambia in the 1960s witnessed a devastating decline in the black rhino population due to poaching, leading to their extinction between the 1970s and 1980s. In response to this crisis, the National Rhino Conservation Plan was formulated in 2003, involving a Rhino Specialist Group comprising experts. This group collaborated to devise a comprehensive strategy aimed at protecting rhinos and their habitats.

As part of this strategy, a rhino reintroduction program was initiated. The program aimed to re-establish rhino populations in national parks: Black rhinos were reintroduced in North Luangwa National Park, while white rhinos were introduced in Mosi-oa-tunya National Park. Concurrently, a Rhino Protection Team was established in Mosi-oa-tunya in 2008 to ensure the protection and well-being of the rhino species in the respective parks.

The Rhino Protection Team, an important component of this initiative, plays a vital role in executing anti-poaching efforts, monitoring rhino populations, conducting habitat preservation, and collaborating with local communities to raise awareness about the importance of rhino conservation. Their dedication and vigilance are instrumental in ensuring a future where rhinos thrive in their natural habitats and remain a cherished part of Zambia’s wildlife heritage. This was emphasised during an interview with Wildlife Senior Warden, Andrew Mukupa and Principal Wildlife Police Officer, Ferry Muntanga, from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife.

Andrew further emphasised that over the last three years, the park has celebrated three new births among the rhino population, a testament to the favourable conditions and dedicated conservation efforts in place. The Rhino Protection Team is extending a resounding call to all individuals, urging them to come together and tackle this critical challenge. By supporting ongoing initiatives aimed at combating nature crime, particularly focusing on the safeguarding of endangered species, we can collectively strive to prevent history from tragically repeating itself. It’s a shared responsibility to ensure a future where these magnificent creatures can thrive, and their populations can grow sustainably.

By MICHAEL MIYOBA

THE Zambia national futsal team has moved two steps up on the Africa rankings table to occupy seventh position. 

The latest development comes after Zambia won the 2023 September Cup Poreč in Croatia by winning two out of three games. 

Zambia beat Montenegro 5-1 in the first game at the tournament in Croatia before beating San Marino 4-1 to win the international futsal championship. 

Zambia is behind African Champions Morocco, Egypt, Libya, Angola Mozambique and South Africa while Zimbabwe Tunisia and Algeria complete the top ten on the continental rankings. 

“This is very exciting news for our team. This is what we have been pushing for and we are happy that our hard work in Croatia has paid off,” national coach Cristoforetti said. 

He said Zambia will fight to join the giants of the continent in top five.  

Asked if he was disappointed with the team’s positioning on the global rankings, Cristoforetti said; “Not really disappointed because we haven’t been taking part in international tournaments since the Covid-19 broke out so it is not something which is shocking but as things return to normal after a long time, I’m sure we will claim our right position soon.” 

On the global rankings dominated by Brazil, Zambia finds itself on 92nd position while Morocco is the only team in Africa in the top ten where they occupy eighth position. 

Meanwhile, the futsal squad will today begin the four-team international futsal championship in Italy with a match against Celano Futsal Club before taking on CUS L’Aquila Futsal Club in the second match.

After getting a win and a draw against Sulmona and Pescala Futsal Clubs in two friendly matches in Italy before the four-team tournament, Zambia will end their successful European tour with a match against Avezzano Futsal Club. 

By BUUMBA CHIMBULU

VICE President of the European Investment Bank (EIB), Thomas Östros, is expected to be in Zambia from September 25-27 for a three-day business and agriculture investment visit.

By NATION REPORTER

AFTER two years of acting as Clerk of National Assembly and 33 years of unbroken service to the people’s assembly, Mr Roy Ngulube was yesterday ratified as Clerk taking over from Ms Cecilia Mbewe who served from October 2017.

A job that’s demanding but less than rewarding may take a big toll on a man’s heart health, a large new study suggests.

…as Mufulira Wanderers date Red Arrows

By MICHAEL MIYOBA

NAPSA Stars’ quest to pick their first win of the season will come under tough test when they host league leaders Zanaco FC in a Lusaka derby at Woodlands Stadium. 

After four games played in the Super League, the Pensioners have struggled with two defeats and two draws and the game against the Bankers could be a turning point for the Perry Mutapa-drilled side. 

However, the Week-5 fixture will not be a walk in the park for the Pensioners who are 15th on the Super League table because Zanaco, led by experienced coach Wedson “Wada” Nyirenda will be fighting to maintain top spot on the log. 

The Bankers are unbeaten with two wins and two draws from the first four games played so far. 

“We are really ready to play against the log leaders Zanaco.  Obviously, they are full of confidence and they want to continue with their good run. We are yet to taste victory and last week we almost got the much-needed win and so we are looking forward to the game against Zanaco,” Mutapa said in a pre-match interview. 

Mutapa said beating Zanaco will boost the morale of the Pensioners who are determined to start rising on the league table. 

“Zanaco has improved with an experienced coach in Wedson Nyirenda and I think from the start of the season we have been unlucky but the goodness is that we are moving up on the log from the last position to second last and now we are now fourth from bottom so we just want to get a win, it will be a morale booster to kick-start our campaign where the players will have the confidence to soldier on,” Mutapa said. 

For Nyirenda, who guided Zanaco to a 1-0 beating of Mufulira Wanderers last weekend, the derby against Napsa will not be easy for the Bankers who are still missing the services of defensive midfielder Isaac Shamujompa and striker Chawanangwa who are nursing injuries. 

Meanwhile, Prison Leopards and Kabwe Warriors will lock horns in a Kabwe derby at the Godfrey Ucar Chitalu Stadium. 

Prison Leopards will be aiming to bounce back to winning ways after the painful 2-1 defeat to Kansanshi Dynamos while Warriors, who snatched a crucial stalemate against Napsa last weekend will be fighting for their second win after going two games without victory. 

At Shinde Stadium, “Mighty” Mufulira Wanderers will seek redemption when they host rejuvenated Red Arrows who defeated Trident FC in their previous fixture. 

Trident who are still searching for their first win have a date against Mutondo Stars at

Nkana Stadium in Kitwe while Nkwazi will welcome Kansanshi Dynamos at Edwin Imboela Stadium in Lusaka. 

Meanwhile, after giving Nkana their first point of the season following a 1-1 stalemate against Muza on Wednesday, Ian Bakala will face another tricky test when Nkana face Forest Rangers who are seeking to bounce back from last weekend’s defeat to Mutondo Stars. 

Struggling Konkola Blades will play host to Green Buffaloes at Konkola Stadium in Chililabombwe while tomrrow’s Super League action will see Green Eagles and FC Muza facing off in a Southern Province derby at Independence Stadium in Choma. 

Defending champions Power Dynamos have a tricky date against rejuvenated Zesco United who thumped Konkola Blades 3-0 in the previous fixture.

By ROGERS KALERO

IN an effort to effectively serve the interests of miners and ensure that mineral resources benefit the respective countries in Africa, the Mine workers Union of Zambia (MUZ) and the General Union of Workers in Mines and Quarries and the Navigations (GUWMQN) of Egypt are set to form a federation of African mine workers unions