01/10/2024
I don't know about you but I'm tired of seeing our leaders fight constantly. Those who have their ear, please tell them that the back and forth must stop.
I'm tired of being the grass on which the elephants wrestle at a time when there's no rain to bring me back to life.
I'm tired of watching our country become more and more polarised, when did we become this way? Our families and communities are blended, or is all that taking care of each other and coming together we do during events fake? Do online posts and comments actually reflect how we truly feel about each other? Here we're divided and brutal.
I'm tired of watching people defend and shift blame on the old or new status quo, all the while the cost of living this life is worsening for so many. Most of us no longer live within our means, we're living way beneath it and even that, isn't enough.
And constantly reminding each other of how it was then and why this is now, isn't helpful or getting us closer to solutions. We were all there and did something about it in the last election. Now, we're here, living this experience together, no need to keep repeating it to each other. It's unhealthy and retrogressive.
So, yes I'm tired and the tired is tired. Most of all, I'm tired of how unequal global economic systems and these powerful institutions continue to keep countries like ours in a debt and poverty trap, pushing us to turn on each other the way we're doing. This is what we should be calling out - systems that make it extremely difficult for our leaders to respond and deliver essential services and on their promises.
Zambia and Zambians deserve so much better. Yes, some challenges will take a long time to change but between our leaders especially now during a crisis, shouldn't. It is achievable. It is the right thing to do for Zambians and October, our independence month feels like the perfect time.
PS. For those inclined to keep posting about what separates us, I'm afraid this post isn't for you. I'm looking for those energised by the idea of a reconciled Zambia. How'd that look like? A Zambia where despite disagreements and our differences, we get along and find lasting solutions that work for us, a Zambia where people don't have to change their names to show their support online for a preferred candidate? A Zambia where people not politics are first. I believe that Zambia is possible especially if we shift the energy we put into mockery and attacks to sharing ideas, supporting each other's visions and businesses, ensuring opportunities reach everyone and celebrating our historical and present successes. So, let's go!
@60
