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Radio Luswepo 89.5 Fm, Makanta area, Mbala (2026)

29/04/2026

Youth Equipped with Citizen Reporting Skills in Mbala and Mpulungu

Mbala, April 29, 2026 — ActionAid Zambia, in partnership with Dzuka Cholinga, has conducted a one-day training workshop aimed at empowering rural youths with citizen reporting and storytelling skills.

The training, held at Bavika Lodge in Mbala District under the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA II), brought together about 80 participants drawn from Mpulungu and Mbala districts, including representatives from two media houses and a partner organisation.

Speaking during the workshop, youth inspirator Brian Mphande said the initiative is designed to equip young people with the capacity to monitor and report on emerging issues affecting their communities, particularly in rural settings.

Mr. Mphande explained that many young people are often direct witnesses to development interventions but lack the necessary skills and platforms to document and share their experiences.

“This training seeks to bridge that gap by empowering young people with storytelling and reporting skills, enabling them to actively participate in promoting accountability and documenting change in their communities,” he said.

The activity, conducted from April 29th in Mbala and 30th April in Mpulungu, focused on training rural youth “Watch Groups” to enhance citizen reporting across SPA II areas, with a strong emphasis on transformative youth-led engagement.

Mr. Mphande noted that the initiative will result in the formation of at least three youth watch groups tasked with monitoring public service delivery and documenting community progress.

He added that at least 50 young people are expected to gain practical skills in reporting, monitoring, and story documentation, while also contributing to the creation of a platform for collecting impact stories in Mpulungu and Mbala.

The project aims to strengthen civic participation and accountability by building a network of young people capable of tracking development outcomes and contributing to democratic processes, especially ahead of electoral activities.

The initiative is part of ongoing efforts by ActionAid Zambia and its partners to enhance inclusive development and position communities to actively engage in governance and service delivery monitoring.

29/04/2026

Isanya Resident Applauds Community Support by Aspiring Ward Councillor

A resident of Isanya Village, Edward Sikazwe, has praised Moto Moto Ward aspiring ward councillor W***y Katele for his continued support toward community development initiatives.

Speaking from Isanya Village, Edward Sikazwe commended W***y Katele for contributing iron sheets toward the completion of the maternity wing at Isanya Health Post.

He said the support has brought hope to local residents, especially expectant mothers who rely on the health facility for maternal care services.

Sikazwe further noted that the aspiring ward councillor also distributed chitenge materials to elderly women in the community as a gesture of care and appreciation.

In addition, a football was donated to the local community team to encourage youth participation in sports and strengthen social unity.

According to Sikazwe, such acts of generosity demonstrate leadership that is responsive to the needs of ordinary people.

He encouraged W***y Katele to maintain the same spirit of helping vulnerable groups and supporting developmental projects within the ward.

29/04/2026

UPND Adoption Race Intensifies in Mbala District as Saise Emerges; Simutowe Yet to Declare Preferred Constituency

Mbala, April 29, 2026 — The race for parliamentary representation in Mbala District is gaining momentum, with attention now split between the newly created Saise Constituency and the existing Mbala Central seat, as aspiring candidates begin filing for adoption under the United Party for National Development (UPND).

Mr. Remmy Sikazwe has officially filed his adoption papers to contest in Saise Constituency, describing the move as a major step in his commitment to serve the people.

He said his decision follows wide consultations and engagement with residents, emphasizing development, accountability, and inclusive governance as key pillars of his agenda.

“I stand before the people not as a distant figure, but as one ready to listen, represent, and act in their interest,” Mr. Sikazwe said.

Meanwhile, Mbala Member of Parliament and Muchinga Province Minister, Hon. Njavwa Simutowe, has also confirmed filing his nomination papers at the UPND Secretariat in Lusaka. However, Hon. Simutowe has not yet disclosed whether he will contest in the newly created Saise Constituency or seek re-election in Mbala Central.

In a brief message, he described the filing process as the beginning of a new political phase, expressing confidence in the party’s adoption process.

Political observers say the emergence of multiple contenders and the uncertainty surrounding Hon. Simutowe’s preferred constituency highlights the growing political interest in Mbala District, particularly with the addition of Saise Constituency.

The UPND is expected to conclude its adoption process in the coming weeks, which will determine the party’s candidates for the respective constituencies ahead of the next general elections.

29/04/2026

Driven by community, guided by vision—Felix Mulwanda steps forward as an aspring candidate to serve Mbala as mayor under UPND, championing development, unity, and opportunity for all.

28/04/2026

Mbala Agro Dealer Urges Farmers to Tap into Eggplant Farming for Higher Incomes

A Mbala-based agro dealer has called on farmers in the district to diversify their crop production by venturing into eggplant cultivation.

Hytech Agro Vet proprietor, Blestie Mwaba, says it is concerning that many local farmers are not taking advantage of eggplant farming, describing the trend as a missed economic opportunity.

Mr. Mwaba explained that eggplants are not only suitable for household consumption but also offer strong market potential due to their high yields and growing demand.

He noted that farmers who embrace eggplant production stand to benefit from increased income as well as improved household nutrition.

Mr. Mwaba has since encouraged farmers to seek guidance on best agricultural practices to maximize yields and effectively access available markets.

He added that crop diversification remains key to achieving sustainable agriculture and improving livelihoods among small-scale farmers in Mbala District.

28/04/2026

Police Probe Death of Toddler Following Alleged Medication in Mbala

By Lewis Mwaba
Mbala, April 28, 2026 — Police in Northern Province have launched investigations into the death of a two-year-old child in Mbala District, allegedly after being administered medication at a local health facility.

Northern Province Commanding Officer, Simuji Mulonda, confirmed the development in a press statement issued to the Zambia News and Information Services in Mbala today.
Mr. Mulonda said the matter is under active investigation, and a docket has since been opened.

He added that the body of the deceased child has been deposited in a mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem examination to establish the exact cause of death.

Mr. Mulonda further stated that due to the medical nature of the case, and with the cause of death yet to be determined, the Zambia Police Service will only issue a comprehensive statement once post-mortem results are available and investigations are concluded.

He has since appealed to members of the public to remain calm and patient as investigations continue.

28/04/2026

Kazimolwa Ward Aspirant Raises Concern Over the state of the storm Drainage.

Kazimolwa Ward aspiring council candidate Nicholas Kapande Sikazwe has expressed concern over the poor state of the storm drainage system that stretches across Zambian Compound and New Location down to New Kasenga Market.

Mr. Sikazwe has lamented that the drainage infrastructure has been neglected for a long time, leaving residents vulnerable to flooding, stagnant water, and poor sanitation conditions, especially during the rainy season.

He noted that the drainage system, which serves as a major water passage connecting several residential sections to New Kasenga Market, requires urgent attention from local leadership and relevant authorities.

Sikazwe called on leaders to prioritize development projects that directly reflect and respond to the needs of the people rather than focusing on initiatives that have little impact on everyday community challenges.

According to him, infrastructure such as drainage systems plays a critical role in protecting public health, improving movement within communities, and creating a cleaner environment for residents.

The aspiring candidate further stated that leadership should be people-centered and driven by consultation with the community to identify pressing concerns.

He stressed that if given an opportunity to serve, he would advocate for inclusive development where local residents actively participate in shaping projects that benefit their neighborhoods.

Sikazwe added that he envisions a community built by the people and through the people, where leadership listens to citizens and ensures that public resources are directed toward addressing real community needs.

28/04/2026

List of Mbala Area members of Parliament from 1964-2026.

28/04/2026

PF Councillors in Mbala Defect to UPND Amid Constitutional Debate on Loss of Office

Five councillors from the Patriotic Front (PF) in Mbala Constituency have defected to the United Party for National Development (UPND), a development that has reignited debate over constitutional provisions governing elected officials who switch parties before the end of their term.

The councillors who have crossed the floor are Ntuntu Alfred of Lwandi Ward, Simbeya Jackson of Mwamba Ward, Mbao John of Kalambo Ward, Silondwa Kenneth of Motto Motto Ward, and Lambwe Thomas of Kawimbe Ward.

The latest defections leave the opposition with only one remaining councillor in the constituency—Clever Simbeya of Nsunzu Ward—marking a significant shift in political control at ward level in favour of the ruling party.

The move also aligns with earlier commitments by UPND leadership in Mbala to consolidate all wards under the ruling party ahead of the next general elections.

However, the defections come against the backdrop of the Constitution of Zambia, which clearly outlines the consequences for elected officials who abandon the political parties that sponsored them into office.

Under Article 157, a councillor is required to vacate their seat upon resigning from their sponsoring political party, a move that ordinarily triggers a by-election within 90 days.

Mbala District UPND Chairperson Mutale Chanda defended the timing of the defections, stating that the councillors are aware that the constitutional requirement for by-elections can no longer be practically enforced.

Mr. Chanda said the defectors have “recognized that the 90 days required to conduct by-elections are no longer feasible,” noting that Parliament is expected to dissolve in about three weeks’ time.

He argued that the proximity to the dissolution of Parliament makes it unlikely for any by-elections to be held, creating a situation where councillors shift political allegiance without returning to the electorate.

The developments have once again brought into focus the tension between the clear provisions of the Constitution and the realities of political timing, with observers questioning whether the spirit of the law is being upheld as the country approaches the end of the parliamentary term.

27/04/2026

Aspiring Mayor Kafata Supports Rural Health Post with Maternity Supplies

An aspiring mayor of Chila View Compound, Luckyson Kafata, has continued his community support initiatives by donating essential items to Masamba Rural Health Post in Sunzu Ward to improve maternal healthcare services.

Mr. Kafata donated five mattresses, five blankets, five padlocks, and one roll of black plastic, specifically aimed at assisting pregnant women who seek delivery services at the rural facility. The donation is expected to improve comfort, safety, and overall conditions for expectant mothers.

In addition to the donation, Mr. Kafata pledged to further support the health post with 60 litres of paint to help repaint and improve the appearance of the facility.

Speaking during the handover, Masamba Rural Health Post Committee Chairperson Kedrick Simusokwe expressed gratitude for the gesture, noting that the support will go a long way in enhancing service delivery and patient welfare.

He said Mr. Kafata’s continued involvement highlights growing community-driven efforts to strengthen healthcare services in rural areas.

(Video captured by an amature)

27/04/2026

Hard Talk Program
Topic: UPND DEFECTIONS.
FESTURING: POLITICAL DEFECTIONS.

27/04/2026

Obbie Musunga Chomba Bids Farewell to Corporate World, Sets Sights on Parliament

LUSAKA—Zambian pharmaceutical and healthcare professional Obbie Musunga Chomba has officially announced his departure from the corporate world, marking the end of a 13-year career and the beginning of a new chapter in public service.

In a statement released today, Chomba said the decision fulfills a personal goal he set to exit formal employment by the age of 35—an ambition he says he entrusted to God and has now come to fruition, just two months ahead of his target.

Reflecting on his journey, Chomba described the corporate environment as a formative space that shaped his discipline, resilience, and leadership skills. Over the years, he has worked across private companies, non-governmental organizations, faith-based institutions, and multinational pharmaceutical firms, gaining extensive experience in organizational leadership and healthcare systems.

“I leave with deep gratitude for the lessons, the growth, the relationships, and even the challenges that refined me,” he said, noting that his career progression—from humble beginnings to working on global platforms—was guided by faith and perseverance.

Chomba extended appreciation to key institutions and partners he collaborated with, including the Ministry of Health, the Pharmaceutical Society of Zambia, the Zambia Medical Association, the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority, and the Churches Health Association of Zambia, among others. He also acknowledged his work with international pharmaceutical manufacturers such as Cipla, Novartis/Sandoz, and Ethypharm.

As he transitions from corporate life, Chomba revealed his intention to contest for the Munali Constituency parliamentary seat in Lusaka. He said his decision to seek public office is driven by a desire to serve communities more directly and contribute to national development through policy and legislation.

“This step is driven by my passion to serve our communities and nation as a lawmaker and policy implementer. The conversations from boardrooms to the streets will guide my voice in the National Assembly,” he said.

In addition to his political ambitions, Chomba indicated he will remain active in the healthcare sector through consultancy work, focusing on business development, regulatory compliance, policy analysis, and mentorship of emerging leaders.

He emphasized that while one chapter has closed, his broader mission of service continues—now in what he described as a “different battlefield.”

Chomba’s announcement comes at a time when Zambia continues to see professionals transitioning from corporate careers into public service, signaling a growing trend of technocratic leadership entering the political arena.

Radio Luswepo 89.5 Fm

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