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Zambia’s well-known “Elephant Charge” has been traversing the wild with their 4×4 challenge since 2008. But this year brings a new twist to the adventurous event with an Elephant Charge Trail Run for those who want to charge under their own steam!

The nature-based event is set in a different, secret location in Zambia’s wilderness every year at the end of September. Run by a voluntary committee with support from Zambian sponsors including Fuchs Lubricants, the event has raised almost $2 million dollars for grassroots conservation NGOs including the Chongololo Club (Wildlife Environmental and Conservation Society of Zambia) amongst many others. 

With most of these organisations relying on international funding to support conservation education efforts, the Elephant Charge provides flexible Zambian funding for core activities by Zambian groups. All these projects involve school children and communities in environmental education activities to help sow the seeds of the next generations of conservationists in Zambia.

Up to thirty vehicle teams must reach ten checkpoints in a secret course set in Zambia’s wilderness in the shortest distance. Crossing ravines and traversing gullies, this challenge is both epic and breathtaking. Historically the race has only involved 4×4 vehicles but this year two-legged creatures join the herd too! 

Teams of two runners will run the same course as the cars; starting at HQ, proceeding around all checkpoints in whatever order they choose and ending back at HQ. As well as a physical challenge, teams will be orienteering around the miombo woodland course using map and GPS reading skills to navigate this extreme contest. As this is the first year of the trail run, a maximum of ten teams will be allowed to start. Each team will pay an entry fee and make a minimum pledge to the conservation causes.

The Elephant Charge will take place on Saturday 30 September 2023. Families and spectators are always welcome, and campsites will be provided at the location less than three hours away from Lusaka. 

For more information see:

Website: www.elephantcharge.org, 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/elephantcharge, 

Instagram: @elephant.charge.zambia, 

Twitter: @elephantcharge1 

or contact: info@elephantcharge.org 

WITHOUT delving deep into the nitty gritty of stress and only touching its peripheral meaning, one can safely pronounce that music can heal the soul and rid it of undesired stress. 

The easiest method is to associate an emotion with a song. Whenever stress knocks, force the happy emotion by repeatedly listening to the associated song. 

Music offers a source of comfort and tranquility, facilitating the processing and expression of emotions, while also enhancing overall well-being. 

Although there is no concrete scientific evidence supporting direct physical healing through music, it undeniably contributes to the support and promotion of the healing process.

Studies have shown that music therapy can be beneficial for a variety of conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. Children with autism and physically disabled people have also benefitted from music therapy.

Music therapy is a highly effective treatment method for trauma. It not only enhances communication and socialisation skills but also helps reconnect with life. 

Furthermore, it has been proven to improve psychological, physical, cognitive, and social functions. Music therapy is also effective in treating a wide range of conditions, in addition to its benefits for trauma.

Numerous studies have proved that music can change emotional states, physiology, and perceptions and heighten spiritual awareness. 

Indian classical music, such as Carnatic and Hindustani music, is known to transform individual and collective consciousness into heightened states of love, compassion, forgiveness, and physical healing.

In Ancient Greece, music was believed to have a mathematical relationship with the Cosmos. The ancient Greek philosophers thought that music could serve a therapeutic purpose. 

Patients in manic states were often instructed to listen to the calming music of the flute, while those suffering from depression were prescribed to listen to dulcimer music. 

Healing shrines in Ancient Greece housed hymn specialists as well as physicians.

Some cultures, such as the Native American tradition, held the belief that music possessed mystical abilities. For centuries, music has been incorporated into healing rituals, typically through the use of singing, chanting, and percussive instruments.

Remarkably, these ancient musical healing practices have endured throughout Native American communities to this day.

Many preliterate societies had a highly regarded figure known as a “Shaman,” or medicine man. 

The Shaman was believed to have the ability to combine magic and music to heal the injured, cure the sick, and ward off evil. Rituals involved singing songs and using percussive instruments like drums.

In conclusion, music is often considered a holistic approach to healing. A familiar song has the power to awaken long-lost memories, transporting you back to a place and time of nostalgia. 

Simple melodies have the ability to evoke a range of emotions, from joy and laughter to pain and sorrow.

In a heartening display of compassion and community service, students from Texila American University Zambia  conducted a Free Hypertension Screening for the residents of Lilayi. The event, held at UCZ Gideon Congregation near Lilayi Market, witnessed an overwhelming response from the local community.

Under the guidance of medical doctors from the School of Medicine and with the support of the Hypertension Society of Zambia, the dedicated students organized a well-coordinated health camp. The Hypertension Society of Zambia generously provided additional manpower and some screening equipment, amplifying the impact of the event.

With warm smiles and open hearts, they set up their screening stations, ready to offer their services to the Lilayi residents. The Lilayi community, informed about the screening through local announcements and flyers, turned up in large numbers, illustrating their eagerness to prioritize their health. 

The event became a testament to the power of education and community collaboration, as it united students, healthcare professionals, and the local residents for a common cause.

Throughout the day, the students diligently measured blood pressure levels, counseled individuals on hypertension management, and provided valuable insights on leading a healthy lifestyle. 

In the midst of the bustling health camp, two students, Aquila Chilanga and Gaudencia Nghiitwikwa, shared their heartfelt reflections on the transformative experience.

Mr Chilanga said, “Being part of this hypertension screening event has been an eye-opening journey for me. As a student pursuing medicine, it’s one thing to learn about healthcare in classrooms, but it’s an entirely different experience to engage with real people and contribute to their well-being.”

Ms Nghiitwikwa added, “I feel incredibly humbled to be part of such a compassionate and dedicated team of students and professionals. This event has shown me that our education isn’t just about securing good grades; it’s about leveraging our knowledge and skills to uplift those around us.”

The success of the Free Hypertension Screening event serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the potential when knowledge and compassion come together. 

End

By TROY MUKUPA

MBALENHLE Manana, the director of Top Models Eswatini and a well-known name in local fashion, is anticipated to visit Zambia as one of the guests invited to Lusaka Fashion Weekend, which will celebrate the 76th anniversary of India’s Independence next month.

Manana, one of the guests, is bringing Nondumiso Msibi, one of her models, and Tema, a designer, who will present their collections at Lusaka Fashion Weekend scheduled for August 13, 2023, at the Neelkanth Sarovar Premiere, to commemorate India’s Independence through Indian fashion by Indian and Zambian designers.

Manana was also successful in bringing designers and models from the southern region to her nation this month as part of Eswatini International Fashion Week 2023, which was organized by Eswatini Biggest Braai and in which Zambia participated for the first time with current Miss Independence and model Ta’shery Nkhoma.

Eswatini Fashion Guru, a recipient of the Global Women Award and one of the Top 50 Most Industrial Women in Africa, has promoted Eswatini by hosting pageants, participating in competitions on international stages, organizing fashion shows at home, and traveling the world while bringing some of her country’s top models with her.

The agency has decided to do this in order to publicize its initiatives and fly the Eswatini Flag proudly in Zambia. Manana, who was also a winner of the Icon Awards in Nigeria, stated that she will be making her first trip to Zambia in this capacity and that it will be best for her nation to do so with the help of a modeling agency from the Eswatini National Arts and Culture.

“I have always wanted to visit Zambia to add to my profile, so getting the chance to do so is a privilege for me to learn more about other nations and how they host their fashion, as well as to keep up with trends and avoid missing out on them, and to be a benefit to Eswatini Fashion.” Manana said.

By TROY MUKUPA

UPRISING talented gospel rapper, singer, songwriter and entertainer, King Robert has released visuals for his most anticipated song titled “Bwela”. The song which is enjoying heavy airplay support has a message of hope for the listener. In the song, the rapper and entertainer talks to those who have swayed to the wrong path to come back to God.

Born Robert Samba, King Robert, said music has always been in him. He said God’s grace and love for him is what inspires his musical journey.

“I come from a Christian home. Music has always been in me. I was once a choir master for the Sunday school choir. And following in my uncle’s footsteps, uncle Pillar who’s been singing with renowned gospel artiste, Kings Malembe Malembe, I also decided to take music professionally. The song ‘Bwela’ has a message of when we repent and turn back to God, He forgives us and cleanses us from all unrighteousness,” said King Robert in an interview while quoting 1 John 1:9.

The single which is both in audio and video was produced by the talented Rocash and features gifted singer and songwriter Geshom. It is available on all streaming platforms.

By Lifestyle Reporter

FOUR contestants have made it to the last stage of the My Booth, a TV music competition on Power TV Channel on DStv.

The finalists are two Zambians namely Roy the Songster and Evans Vic Ndalama as well as two from Malawi namely Chisomo Chimoto and Joe Kellz.

Show initiators Elation Entertainment’s director Sokwani Chilembo said in an interview there is a fifth spot reserved for the contestants that were earlier evicted on the show to bring the finalists to five.

This according to organisers will not involve the judges, but out-of-the booth performances whose winner will be decided by the viewers and come back on the show.

Both Malawi and Zambian finalists are feeling confident about emerging victorious and are looking to putting in hard work.
Chilembo, who is also one of the judges that include musicians Maureen Lilanda and Namadingo, says the competition has proven to be very tough both for the competitors and the judges.
” We have seen great talent grace the show, leave the show and stay in the show,” he said, adding that the show is trying to build artistes that can grasp different concepts and genres, in the shortest possible time.

By TROY MUKUPA

“We are a full service creative media company that provides cutting-edge solutions with outstanding results through the power of creativity. In short, we are a team of strategists, designers, developers, and marketers who can provide you with a better, more convenient way to meet you needs at the right budget,” says Eliphas Ngindu, proprietor and CEO at E-Splash Media, a media company located in PHI/Chainama 1 eliace Mutale street that is making waves in this creative field through graphic designing, music production and all things IT.

With a demonstrated history of working in the graphic design industry, Eliphas, who has been running E-Splash Media for over 5 years now, has managed to cement a permanent name in this creative field. His impressive portfolio of sleek product designs points to one thing, he has the skills and experience required to create visuals that will capture the attention of any targeted audience.

“We are a complete package and we make people’s dream a reality,” says Eliphas when asked what differentiates E-Splash Media from others. We are specialized in graphic designing of logos, flyers, magazines. We also do audio production, mixing, mastering, jingles, photography, videography for coparate, weddings, kitchen parties, music videos, and coperated live streaming. Not only that, we also do music classes in vocal training and instrument training”

Notable A-list events E-Splash Media was involved to do some graphic designing are, The Kenneth Kaunda Inaugural – Memorial Public Lecture and Commemorative Activities, which was held at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre. In attendance was His Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema, as guest of honor. Notable guest speakers, former South Africa President, Thabo Mbeki, and H.E Joaquim Chissano, the former President of Mozambique. In the music industry, notable celebrities E-Splash media was involved is with the PRISM AFRICA TV – Music Fellowship, Swallowship show with gospel singer and songwriter Christine and the Team Risen.

By TROY MUKUPA

Every generation has had its share of successful young entrepreneurs, from agriculturalist Eliza Lucas Pinckney (1800s) to Apple founder Steve Jobs (1900s). According to the 2022 Investopedia Financial Literacy Survey, the Generation Z adults (i.e., those between 18 and 25 years old) are more financially sophisticated than any previous generation was at their age.

The Daily Nation Lifestyle recently interviewed 24 year old, Mwewa Joy Kabole, who has managed to cement her name in the nails and beauty business. She went from being a receptionist at Lafe Hotel to becoming one of the most sought after in the world of nails and beauty services. CEO and proprietor of Glam Haven by Joy, located in Ng’ombe along Magoye road, opposite Ng’ombe police, she is currently changing the nail and beauty industry with her nail and beauty salon which offers a variety of beauty services.

She acknowledges that running a business is no child’s play, but with some great tools the journey can be enjoyed. She shares 5 factors that have assisted her in her journey of making her business a success: “God, who is the source of all great ideas, vision, patience, perseverance and effective marketing – You could be the best hair dresser in the country but if nobody knows about you, you have no business”

“I have been doing this business for over 2 years now. Glam Haven offers a variety of beauty services like manicure, pedicure, and make up. We do acrylic, gel builder, poly gel, rubber gel and gel paint. In addition to these services, we also sale hand bags, perfumes, body mists and various cosmetic products. We also do home calls, ofcourse at an extra fee”

Asked what advise she had for someone wanting to venture into this business, she responded, “Have a plan. Starting any business without a well-thought-out plan is like going to battle without a plan; the outcome of such a move is inevitable defeat. A good business plan is mostly the difference between a successful entrepreneur and a failing entrepreneur. The magic is not always in your expertise, but it’s in the time you spend on planning and strategizing. Be patience enough and learn your craft. And never fear to follow your dream”

By TROY MUKUPA

BASKING in the glory of the now trending gospel hit song “Mwambika Ku Wire” with the United Church of Zambia (UCZ) Good Shepherd Choir, multi-gifted celebrated gospel music minister, powerful praise and worship leader, prolific song writer, voice coach, vocalist and expert in grooming choirs, Apostle Ian Kita Kita, has officially released his brand new single dubbed “Wakulekafye Alipalwa Kale” as he aims high in his quest to win souls through music.

The single which was released some 11 days ago on all streaming platforms and straight away attracted heavy airplay attention from gospel music lovers, was impressively produced by the talented Johnny at the Anointed Sounds Studios who made sure the song was one to definitely lift people’s souls and minds. It features the gifted, Apostle Grey.

Born Ian Filaba, in Southern province, a holder of a masters degree in theology and best known for his energetic singing, Apostle Ian Kita Kita, said he started his singing at an early age.

“I started singing at a young age but only started recording professionally in 2007 and the first album project I worked on with the Good Shepherd Choir was ‘Kachema Musuma’. In 2009 we did another album called ‘Eloi’. I have also worked with the Angels Church Choir from Kaunda Square on their album called ‘Muchalo Muli Ukusushana/Nshakalubane”

Apostle Ian, who has earned a kingdom password name tagged “Global Speaker” for his ability to compose songs that highlight the message of hope and trust in God said his music which is dubbed ‘Kita Kita Music’ to mean ‘Holy Spirit come down’ is meant to spread the word of salvation to the world.

“The music I do is for soul-winning-purposes. The Bible in Mark 16:15, God commands us believers to go out in the world and preach the gospel of salvation, and this is exactly what God has called me to do through music”

Asked what motivated him to go into the music industry and why gospel music, Apostle Ian Kita Kita responded, “The love and grace God has for me is what influenced my decision to become a gospel singer. In short my relationship with Him is what influenced my decision to become a gospel singer”

“To everyone who keep encouraging me in my music journey, thank you for the endless support. Let us continue spread the gospel of salvation to the world” he added

DRIVING on big flyovers one cannot help but marvel at the engineering feat achieved by humans. However, these flyovers stand tall in contrast to the poverty existing unabashedly, underneath.

These flyovers offer shelter to many homeless people who have travelled to big cities hoping to transform their lives only to realise the futility of their dreams. 

Manjeet Kaur cannot exactly tell – how old she is or how long she has lived under the busiest flyover in New Delhi, India, with her belongings in plastic bags, and her washing hanging on the railing.

Kaur was kicked out years ago by her husband’s family in the northern Indian city of Ludhiana after a quarrel over property. She boarded a bus to New Delhi with her two young sons, going first to a Sikh gurudwara, a place of worship, for free food.

With no money and no one to turn to, Kaur and her sons first settled on the pavement outside the gurudwara, marking their space among other families who lived there. Then she found a place amongst other homeless families living under the flyover.

These people have little protection from the winter’s cold or the summer heat when temperatures routinely soar above 40°C (104°F).

Kaur is one of at least 10, 000 homeless women in India’s capital, where thousands of people arrive every day from villages and small towns, looking for better opportunities.

Many end up in slums and informal settlements while others settle under bridges, flyovers, pavements, and road dividers.

Globally, at least roughly about 150 million people, or about two percent of the world population, are estimated to be homeless.

But getting an accurate handle on homelessness is difficult because of different definitions in countries, and the governments’ inability to adequately measure the phenomenon – according to Joseph Chamie, a former director of the U.N. population agency in a 2018 Reuters Report.

He concludes that governments also have a tendence to understate the problem. The causes are the same: poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental illness, alcohol and drug addiction, family breakdown, civil conflict, and environmental disasters.

He also remarks that there is no quick solution as even developed countries are encountering considerable difficulties. So, ending urban homelessness in less developed countries is unlikely.

Homeless women bear the brunt, as they face more abuse and violence on the street, but have few claims over property and limited access to shelters.

Kim, 34, from Sydney, Australia had been homeless for a dozen years after being kicked out of home at the age of 18 years. She slept in cars and on couches and became pregnant with her daughter at 21. While living in a refuge, she was assaulted by a male worker. To survive, Kim endured a series of abusive relationships, just to keep a roof over her daughter’s head.

There are endless, horrid stories of homeless people. The homeless must become a protected class. They have no rights whatsoever. The glitzy, blinding city lights hide dark secrets in its belly- the breed of homeless.