Call Us by Our Names, Not Our Disabilities: Advocates Demand Respect and Inclusion

 “We are tired of being called by our disabilities instead of our names.” 

This was the rallying cry at a community meeting organized by the Trust Foundation for Persons with Disabilities, where advocates and individuals shared their experiences of discrimination and called for respect and inclusion. 

 Rita Simulumba, a passionate advocate, highlighted the dehumanizing language often directed at persons with disabilities. 

“Even when people know your name, they choose to call you by your disability. 

This is disrespectful and unacceptable,” she said.

 Simulumba urged attendees to report such behavior to the authorities.

 “We have had enough. It’s time to stand up for ourselves and demand to be treated with dignity.” 

 The call for respect resonated throughout the meeting, with Rita Makoye emphasizing the importance of inclusion. 

“Disability does not mean inability. We want society to see us for our abilities and contributions, not our limitations. Respect begins with recognizing us as individuals,” she said. 

The event also shed light on the broader challenges faced by persons with disabilities.

Dorothy Velemu, Executive Director of the Trust Foundation, highlighted the organization’s efforts to empower individuals through cooperatives.

 “We are here to break the stigma and show that persons with disabilities can thrive. 

Mujala Cooperative is one of our success stories, securing K32,000 in funding.

 We are expanding our cooperatives to help more youths benefit from the Constituency Development Fund,” Velemu said.  

However, systemic issues persist. Friday Nachihyango recounted his struggles with law enforcement, alleging corruption and lack of support. 

“I reported being duped, but instead of helping, the police demanded a bribe. Even with resources like a CDF vehicle, they are failing us,” he said. 

 Businesswoman and philanthropist Mwangala Sililo brought a message of hope, distributing stationery to Grade 8 and 9 students.

 “Education is the key to breaking barriers. We want to support your journey and remind you that your potential is limitless,” she said. 

 Shungu Ward Councillor Samson Kandala reinforced the importance of unity and equality.

 “We are one Zambia, one nation. Everyone has value, and no one should feel left out. The president’s vision for unity includes all of us, regardless of ability,” he said. 

 The meeting concluded with a renewed determination to challenge stigma and discrimination, starting with something as simple yet powerful as calling people by their names. 

As the participants emphasized, respect and inclusion are not optional – they are fundamental rights. 

 

New Heritage Party Dismisses UPND Opinion Polls as Misleading

Lusaka—The New Heritage Party (NHP) has called out recent opinion polls circulating on social media, allegedly funded by the United Party for National Development (UPND). NHP Chief Spokesperson Mr. Brill described the polls as “fabricated and biased,” claiming they are designed to mislead the public and inflate the ruling party’s perceived popularity.

A Fabricated Narrative

“These opinion polls are a deliberate attempt to misrepresent the UPND's popularity,” Mr. Brill said. “They are a distraction from the real issues that Zambians are facing every day.”

He urged citizens to remain vigilant and not be deceived by what he termed as “UPND-sponsored propaganda.”

The Real Opinion Poll: Zambians’ Daily Struggles

Mr. Brill argued that the true state of the nation is reflected in the hardships endured by the population. He highlighted these key points:

• “Over 60% of Zambians are living below the poverty line, struggling to afford even basic necessities.”
• “Youth unemployment is alarmingly high, with over 50% of young people aged 16-24 unable to find work.”
• “Inflation continues to rise, making essential goods unaffordable for the majority.”
• “The healthcare system is on the brink of collapse, unable to meet the needs of the people.”
• “Our education system is failing to provide quality learning opportunities for the next generation.”
• “Load-shedding and escalating fuel prices are crippling households and businesses.”
• “Corruption scandals in government ministries have become the order of the day, eroding public trust.”

A Call for Accountability

Mr. Brill called on Zambians to reject these polls and focus on holding leaders accountable for addressing the nation’s pressing issues.

“The real opinion poll is the hunger, unemployment, and desperation that Zambians face every single day,” he said. “This is the reality we must confront.”

He urged citizens to demand solutions such as affordable mealie meal, reliable electricity, access to farming inputs, and meaningful job opportunities for the youth.

Charting a Way Forward

As frustration grows over the country’s socio-economic challenges, Mr. Brill stressed the need for unity and collective action to push for change.

“We cannot allow fake narratives to overshadow the real struggles of ordinary Zambians,” he concluded. “It’s time for leaders to focus on tangible solutions that will uplift the lives of our people.”

END

Kazungula UPND Meeting Resolutions Declared Invalid

 

Kazungula

The Southern Province United Party for National Development (UPND) leadership has nullified resolutions made during a January 1 meeting in Kabuyu, Kazungula District. The meeting, which saw selected district, constituency, and ward officials pass a vote of no confidence against District Chairman Shebby Mushabati and appoint new office bearers, has been deemed unconstitutional.

In a statement issued on January 3, Provincial UPND Chairman Mr. Billiard Makwembo described the meeting as unauthorized, saying, “The Provincial Committee was neither consulted nor informed of the meeting.”

Mr. Makwembo cited Article 42(c) of the UPND constitution, which grants the Provincial Management Committee exclusive authority to supervise and coordinate district activities. “The only body allowed to sanction such a meeting is the Provincial Committee,” he said.

He further highlighted procedural lapses, noting that Article 70, which outlines steps for addressing grievances and disciplinary actions, had been disregarded. “None of the required processes were followed in arriving at the decisions made during the January 1 meeting,” Mr. Makwembo stated.

As a result, he declared, “I, therefore, using powers vested in me by the party constitution as amended in 2021, declare the said meeting and its resolutions null and void.”

Mr. Makwembo confirmed that all leadership positions remain unchanged, asserting, “The leadership structure returns to its original status as it was prior to the meeting.”

He urged dissatisfied members to follow proper channels, stating, “Any grievances should be addressed to my office within 14 days of receiving this communication.”

The statement was copied to the National Chairman, Secretary General, Provincial Minister, Member of Parliament, and Chairman of Elections, underscoring the importance of adhering to party protocols.

The decision reflects Mr. Makwembo’s commitment to upholding the UPND constitution and ensuring discipline within the party's ranks.

Human Trafficking a Growing Concern in Livingstone: Sr. Grace Katongo Urges Vigilance

Livingstone – Human trafficking is on the rise in Livingstone and surrounding areas, warned Sr. Grace Bwalya Katongo of the Little Sister of Saint Francis during Sunday Mass at Christ the King Catholic Parish in Libuyu Township.

Addressing the congregation, Sr. Katongo highlighted the alarming prevalence of human trafficking, emphasizing the role of both close relatives and strangers in perpetuating the crime. "People's love for money blinds them to the harm they cause. This makes it easy for them to exploit others, even their own kin," she said.

The nun stressed the particular vulnerability of children, who are often lured by traffickers with false promises. "Children can be easy targets. It’s our responsibility as parents and guardians to safeguard them and ensure they do not fall victim to this heinous crime," she added.

Sr. Katongo called for massive sensitization campaigns to educate the public on the dangers of human trafficking and to foster a collective effort to combat it. "We need to create a strong network against this vice. This is why we are reaching out to every church in the Livingstone Diocese, regardless of denomination. This issue affects all of us, and together we must act to protect our communities."

She encouraged families to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their loved ones, urging the congregation to take part in the anti-trafficking network. "Let us stay alert and united. Together, we can put an end to human trafficking," she said.

The congregation responded with a renewed commitment to join hands in combating the issue. Sr. Katongo's message served as a call to action for Livingstone residents to prioritize the safety of their children and contribute to a community-wide effort to address the menace of human trafficking.

For those interested in joining the anti-trafficking initiative, Christ the King Parish in Libuyu Township is serving as a focal point for coordination and outreach efforts.

Livingstone Bishop Calls for Reflection and Renewal at Christmas Vigil

Bishop Valentine Kalumba of the Diocese of Livingstone delivered a heartfelt homily during the Christmas vigil mass at St. Theresa Cathedral Parish on Tuesday night, calling for renewed faith and reflection on the significance of Christ's birth.  

Addressing a congregation gathered in the spirit of celebration, Bishop Kalumba reminded the faithful of the transformative power of God’s love, which he described as a profound and personal gift to humanity.  

“This sacred day reminds us how deeply God loves each one of us. So deep, in fact, that He sent His only Son into the world to bring light, hope, and salvation,” Bishop Kalumba said.  

The bishop drew parallels between the struggles faced by the people of ancient Israel and those experienced by individuals today. Quoting the prophet Isaiah, he said, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light. On those dwelling in deep darkness, a light has shone.” He emphasized that the birth of Jesus fulfills this promise, bringing renewed hope to a world often filled with uncertainty and conflict.  

**A Personal Savior for All**  

The homily underscored the inclusivity of God’s love. Reflecting on the Gospel of Luke, Bishop Kalumba highlighted the shepherds, ordinary workers who were among the first to witness the birth of Christ. “This reminds us that God’s love reaches every heart, regardless of status or circumstance,” he noted.  

“The angels announced, ‘Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you.’ That word, ‘you,’ is significant,” the bishop said. “It means each of us is included in this divine gift. Christ is a personal Savior, born for you and for me.”  

**Christ as the Bread of Life**  

Bishop Kalumba also reflected on the symbolic significance of Christ’s humble birth in a manger, a feeding trough for animals. He suggested that this was no coincidence, but a divine hint at Christ’s role as spiritual nourishment for humanity.  

“This child laid in a manger is our food for the journey. Jesus himself later tells us, ‘I am the bread of life.’ He satisfies our deepest hungers — for unconditional love, mercy, and light in the darkness,” he said.  

The bishop urged congregants to open their hearts, as the shepherds did, and embrace this gift with humility and gratitude. He also encouraged them to emulate Christ’s love by reaching out to those in need and being instruments of hope and grace in their communities.  

**Renewed Commitment to Faith**  

As the vigil mass concluded, Bishop Kalumba called on the faithful to use this Christmas season as an opportunity to renew their commitment to living out God’s grace in their daily lives.  

“This is a time to reflect on the extraordinary gift we have received and to carry it in our hearts. Let us rejoice and remember that Christ’s gift of salvation is not just for one night, but for all time,” he concluded.  

The mass was marked by hymns and prayers, as worshippers embraced the spirit of Christmas with renewed devotion and gratitude for the message of hope and salvation brought by Christ’s birth.  

Mr. Limbalambala Refutes Claims by Mr. Miles Sampa

 Mr. Gibson W. Limbalambala has refuted allegations made by Mr. Miles Sampa regarding the case of an individual known as "Why Me," accusing him of spreading misinformation and politicizing a sensitive matter for personal gain.  

In a statement, Mr. Limbalambala clarified that the individual referred to as “Why Me” is not 17 years old, as alleged by Mr. Sampa, but is over 20. 

He also dismissed claims that the detainee had been denied visitors, stating that he personally visited the individual in custody, provided food, and offered moral support.  

Mr. Limbalambala criticized Mr. Sampa for what he described as “baseless politicking” and accused him of destabilizing the Patriotic Front (PF) during his brief and controversial leadership.

 He argued that Mr. Sampa’s actions weakened Zambia’s primary opposition party and diminished its ability to represent marginalized communities.  

Turning to the "Why Me" case, Mr. Limbalambala commended the Human Rights Commission for closely monitoring the matter to ensure justice. 

He noted that while bail had been granted, the failure to secure sureties was the responsibility of the concerned parties, not external influences.  

“The government has no involvement in the ‘Why Me’ case,” Mr. Limbalambala stated.

 “The Human Rights Commission worked diligently to protect the individual’s rights and prevent any mistreatment.”  

He called on Mr. Sampa to publicly apologize to both the Patriotic Front and the Zambian people for what he described as “spreading falsehoods and creating unnecessary confusion.”  

“Instead of using sensitive cases for political mileage, Mr. Sampa should focus on rebuilding trust and making meaningful contributions to the nation,” Mr. Limbalambala said, emphasizing the need for integrity in handling matters of justice and human rights.

Small Traders in Southern Province Await Constituency Development Funds

Small-scale traders across Southern Province are voicing concerns over delays in accessing Constituency Development Funds (CDF), despite fulfilling all application requirements.

 According to Frederick Sakala, Provincial Coordinator of the Zambia Micro and Small Traders Foundation, no members of the foundation have benefited from the CDF allocations to date, leaving many traders frustrated and disillusioned.  

Speaking in an interview, Sakala acknowledged that while 2024 has been a challenging year for traders, the foundation remains optimistic about the future. 

“We have been sensitizing our members in Livingstone, Kazungula, Kalomo, and across the province to organize into groups and apply for CDF,” he explained.

“Despite completing all necessary applications and meeting the conditions, none of our members have received the funds.”  

The CDF initiative, designed to promote economic growth and empower local communities, has yet to make an impact for many small traders. 

Sakala emphasized the critical role these funds play in improving the livelihoods of small-scale traders, who are the backbone of Zambia’s economy.  

“Our hope is that by 2025, with the increase in CDF allocations, our members will finally receive the much-needed financial support,” Sakala stated. 

“This will allow them to invest in their businesses and improve their operations significantly.”  

The foundation has consistently advocated for timely and fair distribution of CDF and urged policymakers to prioritize small traders who form a significant portion of the informal sector. 

The lack of funding has hindered traders from expanding their businesses and contributing more substantially to the local economy.  

Sakala’s message to members remains one of resilience and hope.

 “We are praying that this time around, our members will benefit,” he concluded.  

The Zambia Micro and Small Traders Foundation continues its efforts to lobby for greater inclusivity and transparency in CDF distribution, ensuring that the voices of small traders are heard and their needs addressed.