Food For Thought

Kennedy Chanda stumbled back home, reeking of something that could only be combination of Kachasu, Chibuku and tujilijili. He was humming a beat of Michael Jackson's Smooth Criminal only that he would become inaudible when singing the vocals. Whatever he remembered in his grey matter, he burst out laughing in the midst of the song. 

His brain brain was clearly multitasking as it also needed to coordinate and balance the walking despite the alcohol affects on the cerebellum. Sometimes he would stand still for what seemed like days, swaying from side to side like a reed in the Kafue River, as he waited for the brain to reconfigure the movements and the tempo in his steps. 

It was clear he had a great time out with friends: drinking, clowning and jiving. 

When he reached home, his wife, greeted him with a warm smile and a steaming hot plate of nshima, Zambia's most sacred dish. He devoured the meal like he was about to die, savoring every bite. Especially the flavorful relish made from dried pumpkin leaves and what he thought was small fresh fish.

"Ah, you've outdone yourself, my dear!" Mr. Chanda exclaimed amidst his gulps of water as he washed down the meal.

"This relish is just like my mother used to make on the shore of Lake Mweru in Kashikishi. You've added the perfect touch with the small fresh fish!"

Mrs. Chanda's expression which started with smiles changed to confusion. 

"Small fish? I don't remember adding any fish to the relish. I only recall using pumpkin leaves and small pumpkins."

She de-strung a pile of pumpkin leaves, and cook them by simmering them with small tomatoes just for a few minutes until the leaves are tender and sumptuous. 

At least that’s what she remembered doing.

As they stood in stunned silence, the sound of crickets and the creaking of the old house seemed to provide a soundtrack to the suspense.

The couple exchanged skeptical glances. Mr. Chanda insisted he had tasted fish, while Mrs. Chanda swore she hadn't added any. 

Determined to resolve the dispute, Mrs Chanda rummaged through the house for some papers, pushed them on the fire which was almost going out, too a deep breath and blew it out on the papers that were now smoldering. 

Once lit, she carefully approached the pot, now empty except for a few lingering leaves. Peered inside whilst tilting it at about 45 degrees so that Mr Chanda can also see what was in the pot.

They gasped simultaneously.

Mr. Chanda shrieked. Huffed. Puffed. Covered his mouth. 

He felt the entire booze leaving his body instantly. "Oh no, I’ve just eaten a lizard!"

The small fresh fish was, in fact, a lizard – cooked to perfection – that had fallen into the pot from the eaves of their grass-thatched house. With his his inebriated antics now dissipated, Mr Chanda's thoughts were on the food he had just eaten.

Religion Matter

Out of boredom, I recently found myself watching a documentary titled “What Is A Woman” by Matt Welsh. If the content of this film has any truth to it, then civilization is hurtling towards a self-destructive trajectory. I urge you to watch it and draw your own conclusions. For me, this all stems from efforts to remove religion from the significant role it has played since the dawn of time.

You see, many people derive their sense of control and motivation from external sources. Fear of the law, societal judgment, or family opinions often dictate their behaviors and belief systems. Left unchecked, our inherent nature can manifest negatively. This is where religion plays a crucial role in taming our primal instincts and encouraging humane behaviour. 

Unfortunately, many individuals require the threat of eternal punishment to act with compassion, decency and integrity. This dependence on external controls highlights a sobering reality: without these constraints, the average person may struggle to demonstrate truly humane qualities.

Throughout recorded history, religion has played a vital role in every major, sustainable civilization. Most people have relied on the guiding principles religion provides. Interestingly, some individuals now turn to "science" as a substitute, yet struggle to define fundamental aspects of humanity like what a woman is. Organized religion, especially when taken literally, may seem illogical or even exploitative, particularly to skeptical minds. However, its primary function isn't to explain the universe or creation. Instead, religion serves as a moral framework to prevent unchecked human free will from descending into self-destructive behavior.

While other human laws address criminal acts, they often fall short in navigating moral gray areas due to political correctness. This is where religion steps in, providing essential guidance. The collapse of religious influence typically leads to societal implosion, highlighting the crucial role it plays in maintaining social cohesion and moral stability.

I shudder to think of the world which will bequeath to our children. So if you have beef with religion, do not - I repeat - do not pass on that beef to your kids. Introduce religion to your kids, they have more to gain than lose once they are from that position.

I will conclude by stating what should be the obvious. These so-called "free thinkers" are merely attempting to swing the ideological pendulum from the far right to the far left. This shift seems retaliatory, and religion is collateral damage. I wish that the proponents and constructors of the new definitions of gender and sexuality would listen to and analyze perspectives that do not align with their narrative. I hope they stop shifting the burden of proof and labeling the request for due diligence as harassment. 

Ancient Greece thrived as the center of civilization because they allowed debates in the Agora and Pnyx. These debates were not just about winning arguments; they were about fostering a well-informed and engaged citizenry for collective decision-making.

Luck, Privilege and Limits of Hard Work

With a global value of $41.2 billion as at the end of 2023, the self-help industry marshaled by motivational speakers and bestselling authors, often peddles a very simplistic formula for success: work hard, stay focused, and believe in yourself. While these principles are essential, they overlook the most important factors that significantly influence an individual's potential for success like privilege and systemic inequalities. The lady who wakes up at 4:00 AM to go to Soweto Market to order vegetables for her corner stand doesn't need to read the 5AM Club to boost her mental focus and reach peak performance. The bus driver and conductor who wake up even earlier to pick her up with other passengers, do not need to read 48 Laws of Power. The vegetable farmer who despite the drought still travels all night from Shimabala to reach Soweto Market early enough for the vegetable lady does not need to read Who Moved My Cheese. The farm worker who picks vegetables to take kids to school and cater for her livelihood doesn't need to read Rich Dad Poor Dad. Privileged people wrote these books and they often claim that poor people are poor because they do not work hard or/and aren't smart enough. They overlook the immense effort and dedication that many individuals put into their daily lives just to make ends meet and exist. 

The reality is that success is not a linear journey, but depends on a number of intrinsic and extrinsic factors usually outside a person’s control. Nothing in life is liner because our existence and success is contingent of how the ecosystem react and support our journeys. For instance, a person born into a low-income household may need both hard work and a kiss from Tyche (Greek mythology) or Fortuna (Latin) or Lady Luck in accessing quality education, healthcare, and opportunities. In this article, I acknowledge what I term the social determinants of success.

One's background and the surname they carry plays a significant role in determining their chances of success. We are all too familiar with the concept of powerful and influential names in Zambia. There are names which are found in every sector and everyone knows them. Unfortunately, I cannot help the uninitiated and list these names here because I cannot afford neither a lawyer or food whilst in police cells. But having those name alone opens doors and gives you access to opportunities. And that group has subsets made of those that benefited from post-independence politics and loyalty; those born into royalty, and; those who benefited from the privatization program that happened in the 1990s. The newest new money group got its money between 2011 and 2021. And since life isn’t a movie and wealth doesn’t have the emotions of humans, all these families have created a great generational wealth, education standards and family values that are still standing today. These are names that have controlled pretty much everything in Zambia since Independence. A familial backdrop, thus can either provide a springboard or create obstacles to overcome. Working hard doesn’t sort out this problem.

The second issue is the enabling environment. The ecosystem or environment surrounding an individual can either foster or hinder their growth. While working in the Pondo area of Chama district, I encountered a boy (let’s call him John Doe) who had been in Grade 7 for 4 consecutive years. This wasn't due to a lack of nearby secondary schools; in fact, Chikwa Boarding School was only about 10 to 20 kilometers away. However, his family lacked the resources to send him there. What made his situation particularly heartbreaking was that he was the best student in his class, consistently acing the Grade 7 exams each year.  Still in Chama and now in Sitwe of Chief Kambombo, a young boy who was a community school teacher and grade 4 girl (let’s call her Jane Doe) who was his student decided to elope. When asked why they did that, the girl boldly stated that she is the one who initiated the relationship because she wanted to be respected in the community as a ‘Mrs Teacher’ and she felt she was to dull to be in school. Now, both Jane and John were hard workers in every definition of the word. But the environments were not supportive, in fact the environments were an anchor tied to their respective ankles dragging them down the abyssal plain. Even the great escapologist Harry Houdini would find it hard to escape in such an environment. Things like access to quality community support and mentorship can provide the necessary tools and resources to help individuals thrive. Conversely, systemic barriers can stifle potential no matter how hard one works or the exuberance they exhibit.

The last but not the least thing I want to talk about is network or connections. Who you know can be just as important as what you know because in addition to doing everything already discussed above, it can enhance credibility and reputation. Motivational speakers will say building and leveraging a network requires intentional effort. But connections are influenced by factors outside one's control, such as socioeconomic status or geographic location. For instance, individuals from affluent backgrounds may have more opportunities to attend prestigious schools, join exclusive clubs, or participate in high-profile events where they can meet influential people. The digital age has introduced new dynamics to networking inequalities because digital networking still requires access to technology like a smartphone and the internet even a SoChe Bundle, which is a barrier to Zambians since 60% of us are poor.

Let me conclude by stating that when I find a motivational book or speaker who doesn’t use the oversimplified "work hard and succeed" narrative, someone who acknowledges the social determinants of success, maybe I will start listening to them. A motivational speaker who acknowledges that a person from a low-income background may face limited access to quality education, which affects their network and future opportunities. Someone that acknowledges that an individual with a disability may encounter environmental barriers, limiting their access to resources and social connections. Success is not solely the result of individual effort. No. The background, enabling environment, and connections, while not exhaustive, play a significant role in shaping our outcomes.

 

“'If wealth was the inevitable result of hard work and enterprise, every woman in Africa would be a millionaire.”

 

LUSAKA’S DIRTY SECRETS

 Climate change and the heavy rains are obviously one of the main causes of the floods in Lusaka. However, many people fail to acknowledge the role that infrastructure play in driving and worsening the situation. Some areas of the city have developed informally and lack proper structures to drain excess water. And another major issue is the management of garbage that usually end up be thrown in undesignated places and block the drainage systems. The last cholera outbreak was mainly due to poor hygiene, limited access to sanitation, and inadequate water supply.

To manage on component of hygiene, the government established the Lusaka Integrated Solid Waste Management Company (LISWMC) which has outsourced waste collection to private contractors. For the dumpsite, new equipment was invested in which eliminated queues and improved efficiency. Additionally, they purchased new skip trucks and compactors to collect waste in public areas, markets, and bus stations. However, according to the 2023 Waste Survey, Lusaka generates 1,200 tons of solid waste daily but only 55% of this waste is collected and disposed of at the Chunga Landfill, while 45% remains uncollected due to non-subscription and indiscriminate disposal.

I want to talk about the 45% issue which mainly end up in indiscriminate waste dumping by individuals and agencies. The government cannot tackle this problem alone. In the early months of the UPND administration, the local government minister attempted to relocate vendors in Lusaka due to health risks. This move was met with resistance, citing concerns over human and economic rights.

For instance, the Zesco Powerline along Tokyo Way (aka Ring Road) has been transformed into a dump site by individuals, not the government. Enforcement is necessary, but we must acknowledge that we are collectively responsible for the current unsanitary conditions. People often discard trash from their vehicles without considering who will pick it up. This situation requires collective responsibility.

Many are quick to blame the local council, but where is the responsibility of those who dump garbage indiscriminately? Why don't they use designated dumpsites? Should the council constantly explore and discover new dumping sites? While Zambians maintain personal cleanliness, environmental hygiene is often never given a thought.

I’m calling out those who prioritize appearances over responsibility. You know who you are. The well-dressed man and woman driving luxury vehicles, yet thoughtlessly littering our streets with fruit peels, bottles, plastics, and more.

I’m calling hose who boast about their education but refuse to pay for waste collection services. Instead, they recklessly dump trash in drainage ways, undeveloped areas, roads, and anywhere else they please.

And I shouldn’t forget those who mindlessly clog our sewer systems by flushing non-biodegradable items down their sinks and toilets. This group is also quick to complain about blockages but never takes responsibility of its own role in causing them. It's time to own up to our actions and take responsibility for our waste. Let's work together to keep Lusaka clean and beautiful.

We have turned drainages, roads, and other spaces into garbage dumps. Businesses operate without providing toilets and clean water sources. We need to recognize that environmental hygiene is as important – if not more important – as personal hygiene. Did you know that one person generates 16kg of waste per month and for a family 5 members that translates into 80Kg? How of us can account for how their waste is collected and disposed of?

In conclusion, waste management prevents spread of cholera and other diseases. I know that everyone agrees that unless serious attention is given to the matter of environmental hygiene, we risk having another cholera outbreak. But anticipating problems is not enough, it is the proactivity taken to mitigate them that truly matter. The Bible presents a classic example of Noah who didn't just predict the flood but also built an ark to ensure survival for him and his family. Similarly, having knowledge of an impending public health crisis but continuing to disregard waste management is tantamount to dereliction of duty and a betrayal of humanity's trust.

Trust? Yes, We Must.

Trust is like the air we breathe. When it's present, nobody really notices. But when it's absent, everybody notices. - Warren Buffett

There is no news like good news. - Elliot Carver (In the movie Tomorrow Never Dies)

Though he was an antagonist, Elliot Carver (played by Jonathan Pryce) was highlighting the common trend to journalism today. This is that negative stories are often given more prominence in the media because they are more compelling or sensational, which drive higher engagement from audiences. Tune in to any radio station (especially radio stations) during morning or evening shows, the journalistic and societal approach is usually to focus on the negative aspects of events, people, or situations. Even trivialities like mis-pronunciation of a certain word would take the entire show just being discussed.

In a world where negative news and stories of mistrust dominate the headlines, it’s easy to overlook that social interactions are the fundamental component that makes humanity. Our human existence is buttressed on trust. It’s the chain that holds our relationships and communities together and its ubiquitous influence is everywhere. This is despite the ills that plague our world today

The truth is, the few bad apples and unfortunate events tend to receive more attention, getting amplified and perpetuated through media and social platforms. Meanwhile, the countless acts of trust that happen daily go unnoticed. And if there are talked about, it is usually in a sotto voice. It’s helpful and healthy to shift our focus and acknowledge the inherent goodness of humanity. Society usually find itself in dire straits not because of bad things, but also because good people who do nothing.

As social beings, we rely on trust to navigate everyday life and most of these interactions are mundane. But they demonstrate the depth of our trust in one another. Taka a child, for instance? S/he will be all smiling when being thrown in the air (commonly called baby tossing) because they know that you will catch them when gravity starts pulling. They are only going to develop fear of that if someone drops them. A lot of us have helped or given a lift to total strangers even at night until someone tried to take advantage of us. Mistrust is like hate, they are both taught emotions. People's natural disposition are trust and love, until we break them. 

Consider these examples:

• When we board a bus, train, or plane, we entrust our lives to the driver or pilot, despite being strangers. This is why many of us feel comfortable enough to sleep once our rides are in motion. We are quick to join in the hum of conversation or ask someone to hold your things during the gentle sway as the vehicle moves
• At the dentist’s office, we willingly allow them to put us under anesthesia, trusting them to be professional and not make mistakes that could harm us.
• In our communities, we trust local businesses to provide quality goods and services.
• The coronavirus pandemic exposed how much interdependent society really is. We learnt that the many essential workers, who are crucial to the normal functioning of society, are actually the usually lowly paid among us. The grocery workers, police officers, nurses, and even the lady selling vegetables on the corner. These people kept things moving while the privileged stayed home. Trust in their dedication allowed us to weather the storm.

These instances illustrate the intricate web of trust that underlies human society. That’s not being naïve, but just being human. Like any normal distribution curve, there are outliers. But bad should be allowed to prevail. We must recognize and appreciate trust which ultimately fosters a more compassionate and cooperative world. It’s a self-reinforcing process. Warren Buffett's wisdom encapsulates it perfectly: trust is the silent force that underpins our lives. We often take it for granted, but its absence reverberates loudly through fractured relationships and broken bonds.

As I conclude dear reader, know that trust is the unsung hero of humanity. It’s the foundation upon which we build our relationships, communities, and societies. Let us be bolds and actively cultivate trust whether by expressing gratitude, volunteering, or simply being more open to trusting others. By acknowledging and nurturing this trust, we can create a world where cooperation, mutual support, and social interaction thrive.

Civil Service Woes: The Curious Case of Mulenga Chanda

It was on a cold June day at the bustling offices at Zambia's Cabinet Office, a peculiar figure emerged from the doors. No one really knew who he was or what he was there for but he seemed to know what or who he wanted. After usual formalities, introductions and onboarding, it was learnt that the man who was later known as Mulenga Chanda had just been appointed to Cabinet Office as an Assistant Director-General of the Emoluments Commission. 

Big Mule (as he was fondly called by his peers due to his larger than life personality) or Chanda Beu (named after the late famous dancer in Amayenge Asoza Cultural Ensemble by his foes due to his small stature) used to be a District Education Board Secretary (DEBS) in one of the districts and used to be very vocal against the previous administration. The then ruling political party even labeled him an enemy of the party and pushed him out of the public service when he was retired in public interest. 

Now the retiring of someone in public interest is usually triggered at the pleasure and volition of the President and in the context of Zambia, it is a tool which is susceptible to abuse as politicians use it to punish certain individuals purely for political reasons. Based on this, it is open to speculation whether Mulenga deserved the boot from the civil service or not. Different political spectra have different explanations. 

Mulenga was a typical village staring who walked with a rhythmic bounce in every step and with shoulders high, his nose always in the air and his eyes sparking with self-assurance that can only be rivaled by stars. He exuded an air of confidence that commanded admiration and envy. Real to him and imaginary to those surrounding him. He was brash and full of braggadocio colloquially referred to as the 'Bemba Arrogance'. 

He wore those suits you would get for K500 at salaula joints common on every street corner. Suits that you don’t have to take for professional laundry but could just hand it over to your helper to wash it. The suits also allowed him to carry roasted groundnuts and cassava, his favourite snacks. But it seemed it also had pockets for stationery, coins, a shoe brush and a packet of cigarette with matches. 

As he made his way to the new office which was extemporaneously prepared, Mulenga couldn't resist sharing his thoughts on how he wants things to moving forward with anyone who would listen. He loved to hear the sound of his own voice, and his colleagues would soon learn due to his incessant chatter. Despite his chatter, he colleague often found themselves lost on what he would be talking about, searching for a glimpse of substance amidst the verbal desert.

"A whole desert of nothingness without any oasis of sense," his workmate, Titameni Phiri, would often whisper to others while rolling her eyes in exasperation and resignation. 

Titameni was the self-appointed spokesperson for everyone as she was the only who would object to Mulenga’s outrageous demands. This was due to two possible reasons. Firstly, she was a Chewa and a woman. Chewa women are verbal artists with a reputation of entertaining nothing and taking no prisoners. These original feminists are assertive and sometimes abrasive. 

Secondly, by virtue of her hailing from the eastern part of Zambia, she had diplomatic immunity over Mulenga. She was his tribal cousin. There is a longstanding social reciprocal relationship premised on jokes and power formally described as traditional cousinship in Zambia or Chimbuya. However, this cannot be exercised by anyone. You can't get away with condescending jokes if you are not a tribal cousin. Context and names are the key.

Due to his tendency to speak at length without saying anything of substance, Mulenga’s charm and charisma - as he thought of it - won over less people. His reason for having that new job and know it all attitude made him a divisive figure in the office.

One day, while presenting a critical project to his superiors, Mulenga launched into a lengthy monologue which was laced with threats and accusations. It was woved in a tapestry of words that left everyone bewildered. It had to take Mr. Mwaba, his supervisor, to intervene and gently guided Mulenga back on track and throwing a lifeline to a meeting which was on a precipice of a disaster.

"Mr Chanda, my fellow Alice Lenshina descendant," Mr. Mwaba said with a smile, "hide that wisdom from the many rat-eating easterners in this room. They will steal that wisdom and claim its theirs since they've always claimed that wise people are from the east. For now, let's just on the task at hand.”

Everyone busted out laughing but the message was clear to Mulenga who nodded and stuck to reading the presentation word for word to avoid veering off in a troubling direction. Again. 

At the time of writing, Mulenga isn’t a man to make even little concessions that would eviscerate his opportunity to demonstrate his authority. However, in life, a little bit of nonsense can be a welcome respite in the midst of the chaos. We must forgo validation and status for the greater and collective goal. 

Appointments like Mulenga’s are part of the reason why the public service has been in the doldrums. People like him rarely go to the office to work and contribute to the greater good. Using the same algorithms that were used against them, they are usually on the lookout for opportunities to exert their authority or 'sort out' others, and this usually stretches to frustrate those who may decide to use anything else but political lenses when conceptualizing or analyzing things. 

It can be hard to understand why someone like Mulenga who had been abused and treated so unfairly to the point of even being dismissed from the public service would perpetuate abuse. However, literature has shown that such patterns are familiar and serve as a way to regain a sense of power. Woe to the land whose king was a servant, Ecclesiastes 10 v. 16 warns. 

Secondly, toxicity, inefficiencies and corruption are usually brewed by individuals like Mulenga who get positions on patronage. Another debate can be held on whether Mulenga is qualified to hold such a senior position as Assistant Director General without any prior experience in the similar environment. Then wouldn’t Mulenga go out hunting for everyone who he thinks may have contributed to his earlier career demise? But again, what is the best way of righting the wrongs that were done to Mulenga through politics? 

Clearly, political or discretionary appointments do not lead to the selection of meritocratic qualified appointees since politics values loyalty more than expertise. The feeling of entitlement by the appointees also harms the integrity, efficiency, and effectiveness of the public services. Mulenga is both cause and effect of a flawed system of governance in Zambia, a microcosm of deep rooted problems.

THE ADVANTAGE MY DISADVANTAGES

 Ease is a greater threat to progress than hardship. - Denzel Washington

That which does not kill us makes us stronger. - Friedrich Nietzsche

What naturally follows from these quotes is that suffering is good for you and makes you more resilient. However, there is little to boast about in suffering; it is humiliating and kills more dreams and people than anything else I can think of. My most humiliating moments, as someone who has known poverty for much of his life, have been a result of being in need. Even in my pursuit of higher education, my career was largely determined by the cheapest available course and the one where finding a job would be easiest. I could write extensively about my experiences with suffering and poverty, especially poverty. This is why I have a chronic case of peniaphobia.

I have been despised, accused, refused, cast aside, and rejected by both good people and a coterie of snobs, including those who always have their noses in the air. Despite all this, I choose to look at the brighter side and learn lifelong lessons with great gratitude. Albeit in retrospect.

There is an advantage to being disadvantaged. This definitely sounds like an oxymoron because it is. With the experiences I have lived, I have already been disadvantaged, and few things can really break me down. I have built a concrete wall of adversity quotient (AQ) – one’s ability to go through a rough patch and come out without losing one's mind.

People often judge an individual based on their intellectual capacity, cognitive abilities and family names. We are misguided by the assumption that someone’s success is determined by their intelligence and access to opportunity. These all are indeed an integral part of excellence, yes. Undoubtedly a huge blessing. But if you are unable to resist and hold out against challenges in life, you will not be able to utilize your intelligence and potential to the maximum extent.

Life is unpredictable and notorious for throwing a preponderance of curveballs, and we may encounter several challenges in our journey towards the end of the road. A perfect nonplus outcome. Thus, success is not only determined by achievements but is also dependent upon how capable an individual is at persevering in times of adversity. It is necessary to develop skills that enable one to overcome challenges, learn and grow from them. Running away from hardships is easy and effortless. But it requires courage, determination and serendipitous moments to fight your adversities and uplift yourself from life's stressors.

It's easier said than done, though. But with prayer and heart, there's no storm that can never be weathered.

Indigenous Knowledge Is The Unheralded Pillar of Sustainable Human Advancement

The narrative that human advancement can only be framed under the aegis of western ken must be dismissed with contempt. 

Throughout Zambia’s history, indigenous knowledges (sometimes called Traditional Ecological Knowledge) have been responsible for the development of many technologies and have substantially contributed to science.

Before you start disputing, remember that science is just the pursuit of knowledge. Approaches to gathering that knowledge are usually culturally relative and subjective. Indigenous science incorporates traditional knowledge and technologies, while non-indigenous science is commonly recognized as Western science. Together, they contribute substantially to modern science and cannot be sequestered.

Tradition practices have played an inviolable and inalienable role in people’s lives to solve problems and thrive in the face of challenges. From the intricate basketry and woodworking commonly found at Luangwa Bridge of the Chikunda people to the vibrant textiles and pottery of the Lundas and Tongas, Zambian communities have demonstrated exceptional ingenuity and creativity. The famous Kabwata Cultural Village, a showcase of indigenous architecture and craftsmanship, testifies to the excellence of traditional construction, art, and history.

Having used the village as my classroom and laboratory in my formative years and as my office in my current years, I can proudly say that indigenous knowledge and technology is the last redoubt of humanity and sustainability that is waning. Indigenous knowledge and technology can provide insight into management and mitigation of environmental change, healthcare, agricultural practices, social behaviour, economics and so much more. Traditional knowledge is used to maintain resources necessary for survival.

My grandmother who never had the opportunity to attend school had a simple yet effective use of indigenous knowledge.  For example, for healthcare, she would often rely on a traditional remedy called Ukufutikila (steam therapy) to alleviate various ailments, and it would work wonders. Years later, I learned through formal education that steam therapy has scientific benefits, including relaxing the body's muscles, improving blood circulation, and stimulating the release of endorphins (body's natural painkillers). Nordic countries repackaged this practice and sold to the world as ‘sauna’.

When it came to treating Menso (conjunctivitis), my grandmother would swear by salt water as the answer. Her approach may have been unconventional, but it was effective.

In agriculture, this lady would use of natural pest control methods like neem and chili which – as I later learned is crucial in developing sustainable farming practices and ultimately soil fecundity and food security. She would observe leaf budding on trees and other phenomena to correctly predict the rainfall pattern and other environmental changes. The timing and intensity of leaf budding can be used to predict the onset and duration of the rainy season. Even leaf shapes, size and colour indicate an impending rainy or dry spell. This is because for the El Nino – the cause of Zambia’s current drought – causes stomata closure and reduced photosynthesis on tree leaves.

Moreover, my grandmother had a remarkable ability to predict the weather. Whenever the skies were cloudy, she would predict that the nights would be hot. I later learned in school that clouds produce a greenhouse effect, trapping the earth's warmth, which is why deserts can be cold at night despite being scorching hot during the day.

Why am I waffling about all this, you may ask?

First, its to pay homage to lady who was way ahead in time with the unflinching usage of indigenous knowledge to make corrective and preventive decisions. This surprisingly had a very small margin of error and over 90% confidence level.

Second, it is to highlight how life was simpler and linear before modernization. Our ancestors relied on traditional knowledge and natural remedies to solve everyday problems. I've even seen a video of a tribe performing successful brain surgery without conventional anesthesia or equipment, a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of our forebears.

While modernization has brought many benefits, we must not forget the wisdom and effectiveness of traditional practices. It is also dangerous and fatuous for us to just use conjecture to dismiss these ideas. Elders must display of noblesse oblige and relay the traditional knowledge and technology to the young and youth, it is a debt they owe those who have gone before them and the rich cultural heritage they bequeathed them. By embracing and valorizing both traditional knowledge and modern science, we can individually and collectively lead healthier, more sustainable lives.

The enterprising yet faceless Zambian women

ODF Billboards: From Triggering to Informative

As I grow and evolve in the WASH sector, I realize that my perspective on what messages Open Defecation Free (ODF) billboards should convey has also gone through an evolution. Initially, I believed billboards should be triggering emotions for change as used in CLTS. However, I now argue that announcing information on the achievement by the community is a more effective approach as it attracts envy and admiration from communities that may not yet have achieved the feat.

Though CLTS encourages the use of "shame" or "social stigma" as a tool to promote behaviors, some WASH practitioners have documented practices that don't meet basic ethical standards and violate human rights. Some have even gone to the extent of questioning whether CLTS undermines individual human rights in the name of the common good. For example, April 2013 the was an outcry led by the then Eastern Province Permanent Secretary – Patrick Mwanawasa – over a billboard announcing the open defecation free (ODF) zones which was termed dehumanizing. The Permanent Secretary would then order all District Commissioners in Eastern Province to pull down the billboards in all the 15 districts.

ODF billboards should convey information on the status of the community, highlighting progress made. This – I believe - fosters a sense of pride and responsibility among community members, encouraging them to sustain the ODF achievements. Thus, ODF billboards should be used to canvas support and promote a sense of pride for the locals for achieving the feat. For non-locals, they are for information dissemination and promotion of the achieved feat.  All this, however, should be done respectfully within sociocultural acceptable norms to amplify the messages needed to achieve equitable and sustainable WASH for all. The Sanitation Learning Hub will be running online training on Using ethical images in the WASH sector which aims to equip individuals and organisations to take respectful, ethical photos that represent the complex realities of WASH issues.

In conclusion, my perspective on ODF billboards has shifted from blowing a battle horn to blowing victory horn. I am quite agnostic on what exactly is the right way of putting out the messaging on the billboard, however the message should be more biased towards announcing the positive achievement particularly the ODF attainments and its sustainability. Announcing achievements establishes a positive tone and rapport with the reader. It is positive reinforcement.  

An Ode From Kasoma Bangweulu

Nature's grand overture, 

A precursor to the apotheosis of the day,

Where the darkness of night is gently 

Nudged aside by the golden fingers of dawn, 

Painting the sky with hues of rose and saffron.

A gash of waves creates slaps of breeze on the face.

Birds stretch their wings and glide.

And the fishermen heads for the day’s catch. 

The world awakens to embrace the warmth,

And promise of a new day.

Here, the water meets the sky,

Echoing the name Bangweulu into eternity. 

Equity and Equality in the Zambian WASH Sector

 The Zambian Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector is a fundamental component of sustainable development, public health, and poverty reduction efforts. Equity and equality within this sector are critical for ensuring that all Zambians have access to clean water, adequate sanitation facilities, and hygiene education regardless of their socioeconomic status, location, or other demographics. While these terms may sound similar, the implementation of one versus the other can lead to dramatically different outcomes for marginalized people.

Equity in the Zambian WASH sector pertains to fairness and justice in the distribution of resources and services. It recognizes that different communities and individuals have varying needs and capacities and aims to address disparities by prioritizing those who are marginalized or disadvantaged. Equity is frequently linked with inclusion. Inclusion means the process of including these marginalized and unserved communities within, and not separate from, society. For WASH, it means considering their needs at all stages of WASH programmes, from planning to evaluation. Equity and inclusion are important cross-cutting issues in WASH because these groups of people have frequently been neglected in the past.

Older people and others who need support rails to hold onto, people with poor sight, and disabled children are just a few of these groups with very specific needs. It is important that stakeholders with responsibility for planning and implementation recognise these varying needs and ensure that individual groups are not overlooked.

In contrast, equality focuses on ensuring that everyone, irrespective of their background, has equal access to WASH services and opportunities. The disproportionate responsibility women and girls bear as primary users, providers, and managers of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) at the household level is yet to be matched by a commensurate representation in WASH-related decision-making. While women’s participation in water governance and the promotion of safe sanitation has long been encouraged, this engagement has not always translated into better services for themselves, and decisions on “big water” issues—such as large-scale infrastructure investments, water allocations, or water trading—remain largely gender-blind.

Key issues affecting equity in the Zambian WASH sector is the uneven distribution of resources and services between urban and rural areas. Urban centers generally receive more attention and investment, resulting in better infrastructure and higher access rates compared to rural communities. This disparity exacerbates existing inequalities and perpetuates the cycle of poverty and disease in rural areas.

Furthermore, within rural communities, certain groups such as women, children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly often face additional barriers to accessing WASH services. Gender norms and cultural practices may limit women's participation in decision-making processes related to water and sanitation, thereby hindering their ability to advocate for their needs and preferences.

Though the Zambian government, in collaboration with various stakeholders and international partners, has made significant strides in improving access to clean water and sanitation facilities across the country, challenges persist, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas where infrastructure is often lacking, and poverty rates are high.

In addressing these challenges, it is essential to adopt a holistic approach that prioritizes equity and equality in WASH programming and policy formulation. This entails:

 

1.       Community Participation and Empowerment: Engaging communities, especially marginalized groups, in the design, implementation, and monitoring of WASH interventions empowers them to take ownership of the initiatives and ensures that their voices are heard. By actively involving communities in decision-making processes, empowering marginalized groups, promoting knowledge sharing and capacity building, fostering sustainability, and advocating for their rights, communities can contribute to the development of inclusive and sustainable WASH systems that benefit all individuals and communities equally.

2.       Targeted Interventions: Tailoring interventions to address the specific needs and priorities of different communities, considering factors such as geography, culture, and socioeconomic status, can help bridge the equity gap and promote inclusivity. In 2023, the Zambian president issued a directive stating that only waterborne sanitation facilities and piped water schemes should be built in public institutions like schools, health facilities and markets in the country. While this directive is a positive step forward, it's essential that it's supported by efforts to enhance the entire WASH value chains. Without such support, the directive may not be sustainable or beneficial to end users. Gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) should also be mainstreamed in WASH programmes to contribute to both more sustainable WASH services as well as to gender equality and women’s empowerment as a stand-alone goal.

3.       Climate Smart Investment and Funding: Increasing investment in rural infrastructure development, including the construction of boreholes, piped water systems, and improved sanitation facilities, is crucial for expanding access to WASH services in underserved areas. Ensuring equity in funding is not only the responsibility of the central government, but also the responsibility of various stakeholders and international partners. Addressing the gap in WASH funding is not only a moral imperative but also a matter of economic and social justice. The increased allocation of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) offers a great opportunity to leverage on in increasing resources towards WASH especially in rural and peri-urban areas, including rural growth centres. Broadly, stakeholders must leverage domestic and international financing mechanisms including public-private partnerships, development aid, grants, concessional loans, and innovative financing instruments (e.g., water tariffs, user fees, revolving funds) to equity and equality WASH projects..

4.       Social and Behavior Change (SBC). These strategies are pivotal in enhancing equity and equality within WASH endeavors in Zambia. These approaches tackle behavioral barriers, foster inclusivity, and empower marginalized communities. By promoting hygiene education and behavior change communication initiatives, awareness regarding the significance of clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene practices is raised, resulting in improved health outcomes and a reduced disease burden. SBC interventions are integral in championing equity and equality within WASH initiatives in Zambia through addressing behavioral barriers, fostering inclusivity, empowering communities, ensuring sustainability, and advocating for policy changes prioritizing marginalized populations. By harnessing SBC strategies, stakeholders can collaboratively work towards establishing a more equitable and inclusive WASH system that benefits all individuals and communities alike.

5.       Policy Reform: Advocating for policy reforms that prioritize equity and equality in the allocation of WASH resources and the implementation of regulatory frameworks strengthens the government's commitment to achieving universal access to WASH services. By addressing resource allocation, legal frameworks, decision-making processes, financial mechanisms, regulatory oversight, capacity building, and monitoring and evaluation, reforms can help create an enabling environment for the equitable and inclusive delivery of WASH services to all Zambia.

In conclusion, achieving equity and equality in the Zambian WASH sector demands collaborative efforts from the government, civil society, and the private sector. By prioritizing the needs of marginalized communities, promoting inclusive decision-making processes, and investing in sustainable infrastructure and capacity-building initiatives, Zambia can progress towards its 2023 goal of ensuring access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene for all its citizens. It's crucial to acknowledge that achieving universal access to WASH services in Zambia entails addressing underlying inequalities and barriers that hinder certain groups from accessing these vital resources. Therefore, a combination of equality and equity approaches may be necessary to effectively address the challenges in the Zambian WASH sector and guarantee that all individuals and communities can exercise their right to clean water and sanitation.

 

Kamanga Kaleidoscope in the 1990s

In the heart of Kamanga compound, where my first venture into business took root, the ambiance was set against the flickering glow of paraffin lamps. The name Kamanga was drawn from the Chewa language, translating to 'to tie.' This community received its name in 1967 as a homage to Mr. Reuben Kamanga, the Vice President of the Republic of Zambia during the UNIP government.

Situated approximately 14 km from Lusaka's central business district, Kamanga was an unplanned and poor settlement grappling with the absence of fundamental amenities such as water, schools, and improved sanitation.  This narrative of Kamanga's would change when the Irish government intervened and developed a vital and massive water reticulation system. Additionally, the structures that once housed South African Guerilla fighters (Ma Gorila) were repurposed into a primary school. This transformative initiative reached its pinnacle with the official inauguration by none other than the then Irish President, Mary Robinson. The memory my greeting her remains indelible, more so since her government took profound strides in positively impacting the lives of the people of Kamanga. Bless her soul.

Here my childhood unfolded with the rhythm of the 1990s: high inflation, political assassinations, a liberalized economy, an influx of NGOs and everything else in between. I did my grade 2 to 7 at Kamanga Primary and was one of the 7 students who made it Munali Secondary School where Only The Best Was Good Enough. I had started my grade 1 at Chibote Farms which was subsidiary of Chibote Group of Companies, owned by one of Zambia's finest industrialist, Benjamin Yoram (BY) Mwila. Post Munali, my secondary education concluded in Chongwe at Chongwe Secondary School. 

In Kamanga, the theater of my dreams, was where I spent 6 of my formative years, culminating into my teenage years. The rustic charm of Kamanga wasn't just about the humble lighting source but also the clandestine enterprise that emerged from it – the paraffin trade.

A tradition that faded with the introduction of candles and later electricity, I ventured into the world of selling paraffin and streets of Kamanga became my playground as I moved shouting ‘palafini’ every evening. Most households had homemade lamps made from empty bottles of mayonnaise picked from well to do neighborhoods or better still from clay. For me, however, each paraffin transaction was a lesson in resourcefulness and the savoring of opportunities and options that came with having money of my own.

But Kamanga was no ordinary island; it was a tapestry of contrasts, within and with its neighbours. To the east lay Chelstone, a hub of menial jobs where Kamanga residents eked out a living through tasks like house cleaning for women and landscaping and guarding for men. Meanwhile, to the west, Chamba Valley exuded affluence, an elusive realm filled with whispers of the privileged few who called it home behind tall wall fences. And of course, there was Hybrid Poultry Farms where hordes of people would show up at least once per year to buy chickens especially for the festive ceremonies.

In the north, there was a sprawling dumpsite which served as an unusual bounty for the locals. Madido, we called the dumpsite. As the Zambia Consumer Business Corporation (ZCBC) dump trucks showed up, a carnival of scavengers, including myself, would be following behind and descend upon the discarded treasures. Expired groceries became a treasure trove, transforming the lives of Kamanga's residents. Canned beer for the jubilant drunkards, meali meal and canned foods for grateful households – the dumpsite was an unconventional marketplace that painted our lives with unexpected abundance.

One man’s trash is definitely another’s treasure. Life.

Heading south, beyond the makeshift stalls and bustling homes, a multipurpose sports ground emerged. More like slumped as it was in a depression. Beyond that lay a dense forest stretching almost to ZCBC and the Great East Road. The forest became a realm of childhood adventures, where we role played every episode of Tour of Duty and embarked on daring escapades using Pendelo Guns, Bow and Arrows and anything we could turn into a weapon. Urban legend had it that this mini forest was lurking with Ninjas - yes the same black costumed, stars (shuriken) throwing, sword wagging, and martial arts practicing Japanese warriors - who would brutally kill anyone who was unfortunate enough to meet them. 

Kamanga, with its unique blend of struggle and triumph, was a microcosm of life's contradictions. The island's vibrant tapestry unraveled along its winding streets that turned into streams whenever it rained, meeting places on most days, and a news center to get the latest happenings in the neighborhood. My childhood in Kamanga wasn't just a chapter; it was an odyssey of resilience, camaraderie, and the pursuit of dreams against the backdrop of a flickering paraffin-lit past.

In the midst of paraffin transactions, scavenger hunts at the dumpsite, and escapades in the enchanting forest, Kamanga revealed itself as a vibrant tapestry of resilience, resourcefulness, and unexpected wonders. Little did I know that these seemingly mundane elements of our daily lives would weave together to create a rich and captivating chapter in the story of a shared past. 

Like Joe Cocker reminded us in his song N’oubliez Jamais, I never forget the experiences, moments and people that contributed to who I am. Today, I toast to the ones here today; I toast to the ones that I lost on the way on this pilgrimage called life.