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Sinazongwe Community Radio Station, zamtel Street, Sinazongwe (2025)

26/05/2025

FIND ALTERNATIVE LAND BEFORE DISPLACING PEOPLE - OVP

The Office of the Vice President (OVP) has emphasised that investors must find alternative land before displacing people in line with government policy.

OVP Southern Provincial Office Resettlement Development Officer Mubanga Mulenga stated that individuals facing displacement must involve the OVP to ensure their interests are protected.

Mr. Mulenga said this in Sinazongwe District Southern Province during a Multi-stakeholder Dialogue organised by the Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ)
under the Resilience Initiatives for Sustainable Environment (RISE) Project supported by Bread for the World (Germany).

He explained that new resettlement areas should include essential services such as schools, health facilities, markets, roads, and water infrastructure, ensuring displaced individuals are left in a better position than before.

Providing an overview of the department’s mandate, Mr Mulenga said the resettlement programme aims to coordinate and implement both voluntary and involuntary relocations, including those caused by development projects, mining, and disasters.

He noted that voluntary resettlement applies to individuals who willingly seek support from the department, while involuntary resettlement occurs due to external factors such as natural disasters or mining operations.

Mr Mulenga highlighted that the department prioritises vulnerable groups, acknowledging the difficulty many individuals face in acquiring land.

He said efforts are made to ensure land allocation includes infrastructure development and support services from traditional leaders, government institutions, and the forestry department.

Mr Mulenga noted that resettlement is not just about relocating people but about ensuring they have access to essential services and economic empowerment opportunities.

He explained that when land is allocated, beneficiaries are not abandoned but are provided with training on agriculture and livelihood development to help them sustain themselves.

Mr Mulenga added that the resettlement process also involves addressing vulnerabilities and safeguarding the rights of affected populations.

He stressed the importance of collaboration between stakeholders, including the private sector, communities, and government agencies, to ensure responsible and sustainable resettlement.

He reiterated that displaced individuals must receive adequate compensation.
He called on investors to adhere to these policies, ensuring displaced communities are left better off than before.

Mr Mulenga concluded by reaffirming the OVP’s commitment to responsible resettlement, urging community participation in decision-making processes, and ensuring displaced people are treated with dignity.

Earlier, Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) Executive Director Maggie Mapalo Mwape said the Resilience Initiatives for Sustainable Environment (RISE) Project, empowers mining-affected communities in Sinazongwe and Serenje districts.

She said the RISE Project, launched in 2019, is set to conclude in December 2025 but will be extended for a third phase from January 2026 to December 2028, following approval from its funding partner.

Ms Mwape highlighted significant progress made over the years, including the establishment of 21 saving groups in Sinazongwe with over 300 members.
She noted that despite the achievements, challenges such as economic instability, environmental degradation, and displacement continue to affect communities.

The CEJ Executive Director said the dialogue was an opportunity to celebrate successes, confront existing obstacles, and develop solutions for the next phase of the project.

She outlined four key focus areas for the third phase: food systems innovation, environmental protection, community economic livelihoods, and social equity and justice.

Ms Mwape announced plans to visit saving groups in Mamba and Sinazongwe to help establish cooperatives, aligning with the current phase of the project.

She said CEJ intends to provide seed loans of up to K50,000 to cooperatives, ensuring they operate with a formal legal structure and receive capacity-building support to access funding through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Ms Mwape further revealed plans for an award ceremony in the second week of June, during which cooperatives and saving groups will be recognised and granted resources.

She said the event would also mark the handover of a tree nursery and shade structure at Makonkoto Primary School in Sinazongwe, developed in collaboration with the Forestry Department to support environmental conservation efforts.

She extended her gratitude to the European Union, Bread for the World, and the CEJ team for their dedication to making the dialogue possible.

Meanwhile, Chieftainess Sinazongwe emphasised that traditional leadership holds a sacred duty to protect communities, ensuring their well-being despite challenges posed by mining activities.

She said the people of Sinazongwe have endured environmental degradation, water contamination, and displacement due to mining operations, yet their spirit remains unbroken.

The Traditional Leader praised the Resilience Initiatives for Sustainable Environment (RISE) Project for its commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that women, who she described as the backbone of communities, and people with disabilities, who offer unique perspectives, remain central to development efforts.

And Sinazongwe District Commissioner Nchimunya Siakole has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and environmental resilience in the district.

In a speech read on his behalf by Sinazongwe District Administrative Officer, Brian Siwelwa, Mr Siakole underscored the importance of collective action in addressing challenges posed by mining activities and environmental degradation.

He noted that Sinazongwe is a district rich in natural resources and resilient communities, yet it continues to grapple with issues such as water contamination, economic instability, and displacement—particularly affecting vulnerable groups including women, youth, and people with disabilities.

The DC further recognised the presence of representatives from the Office of the Vice President’s resettlement department, noting the importance of aligning local efforts with national policies to create lasting solutions for affected communities.

23/05/2025

PS COMMENDS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY, NGO WASH FORUM'S PUBLIC HEALTH INITIATIVE IN KABWE

Central Province Permanent Secretary Milner Munakampwe has paid tribute to Habitat for Humanity and Zambia NGO Wash Forum for their role in strengthening public health efforts following a recent cholera outbreak in Kabwe.

He revealed that the outbreak had led to 115 recorded cases but noted that all patients were successfully treated and discharged, with the majority of cases reported from David Ramusho Secondary School.

Dr. Munakampwe said that, in response, the Ministry of Health, alongside the local authority, implemented key interventions aimed at containing the disease.

He made these remarks in Kabwe District in a speech delivered on his behalf by Central Province Assistant Secretary Brave Mazuba during the handover of essential sanitation resources to Kabwe Municipal Council by Habitat for Humanity in partnership with Zambia NGO Wash Forum.

Dr. Munakampwe emphasised that these efforts align with Zambia’s Vision 2030, the 8th National Development Plan, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

He stated that the provision of granular chlorine and drinking water stations by Habitat for Humanity Zambia and the Zambia NGO Wash Forum represents a practical and sustainable approach to addressing waterborne diseases.

Meanwhile, Habitat for Humanity Zambia Interim National Director Ruth Mitimingi Nabutali stressed the importance of collaboration in responding to public health challenges.

Ms. Nabutali emphasised that cholera outbreaks highlight the urgent need to strengthen water, sanitation, and hygiene systems across communities, while also underscoring the critical role of civil society organisations in tackling health emergencies.

She stated that the items handed over were intended to support the council’s ongoing efforts to prevent future outbreaks and improve sanitation infrastructure.

Ms Nabutali reaffirmed Habitat for Humanity Zambia's belief that access to clean water is not a privilege but a fundamental human right.

Speaking earlier, Zambia NGO WASH Forum Coordinator Bubala Muyovwe Mumba reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to safeguarding public health and eliminating cholera through sustained and coordinated action.

In a speech delivered on her behalf by Zambia NGO WASH Forum Finance and Administration Lead Zama Lungu Banda, Ms Mumba said the recent outbreak at David Ramusho School, which was traced to contamination near a critical sanitation water pipeline, is a stark reminder of the urgent need for robust interventions.

She commended the government’s Cholera Elimination Plan for prioritizing prevention, rapid response, and community engagement but stressed that bold and sustained investment in sanitation infrastructure is necessary, particularly in known cholera hotspots.

She underscored findings from cost-benefit modelling by the Ministry of Health, which indicate that for every ZMW25 invested in cholera control through enhanced water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives, the nation stands to save ZMW700.

And Kabwe Deputy Mayor Wesley Phiri said the donation, consisting of ten 20-kilogram bags of granular chlorine and twenty 40-litre drinking water stations, would significantly enhance Kabwe's water treatment capabilities and ensure safe, potable water was accessible to all residents.

This is contained in a statement issued by Zambia NGO WASH Forum Communications Officer Bangwe Naviley Chisenga.

22/05/2025

CHILDFUND, ZOCS SIGN STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP TO EXPAND QUALITY EDUCATION ACCESS FOR DISADVANTAGED CHILDREN IN ZAMBIA

Zambia Open Community Schools and ChildFund Zambia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, marking an important step in their joint efforts to improve educational opportunities for Zambia’s vulnerable children.

The partnership aims to enhance access to quality education through collaborative initiatives benefiting over 1.15 million children across the country.

The collaboration focuses on joint fundraising, capacity strengthening of education systems, and advocacy for inclusive education policies.

ChildFund Country Director Victor Koyi stated that the partnership had sought to ensure that all children, regardless of their circumstances, would access quality learning opportunities.

ChildFund Education Specialist Tashar Simasiku noted that the collaboration had been a pivotal moment, saying that combining resources and expertise would create lasting change in the lives of Zambia’s underserved children.

The two organisations had committed to strengthening community-based schools, mobilising resources, and advocating for policy reforms that promote inclusive education.

Meanwhile, ZOCS Director Cleopatra Muma described the agreement as a shared vision and a strategic roadmap for the future of education for orphans and vulnerable children.

She explained that the MoU had established a platform for collaboration, innovation, and positive change, demonstrating their dedication to improving the lives of Zambia’s disadvantaged children.

The MoU had outlined a framework for joint funding, capacity building, and advocacy efforts.

The partnership had aimed to unlock funding opportunities inaccessible to the organisations individually, thereby increasing resources directly impacting marginalised children.

Furthermore, the agreement sought to facilitate knowledge-sharing, staff training, and the development of a skilled workforce to address educational challenges.

This is contained in a statement issued by ChildFund Zambia Communications Specialist Priscilla Chama-Mpengula.

19/05/2025

ZAMBIA NGO WASH FORUM CALLS FOR ACTION ON HAND PUMP CORROSION

Zambia NGO WASH Forum Coordinator, Bubala Muyovwe Mumba is concerned over the corrosion of galvanised iron (GI) pipes in hand pump installations in some parts of the country.

She stressed that the issue not only affects the functionality and sustainability of water sources but also poses a significant threat to water quality and public health, which is a priority in international development planning.

Ms Mumba noted the urgent need for further research to address the problem and advocated for the adoption of corrosion-resistant alternatives.

She emphasised that such measures are crucial for equitable investment in safeguarding the human right to water and ensuring long-term access for communities.

Ms. Mumba said this in Chongwe District during a learning visit on Rapid Hand pump corrosion under the Stop the Rot Action Group led by the Zambia NGO WASH Forum graced by Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation Permanent Secretary Engineer Romas Kamanga.

In a presentation earlier, Consultant Engineer Javan Nkhosi raised concerns over the issue of rapid corrosion in water systems, attributing it primarily to aggressive water conditions and low pH levels.

He explains that while some water remains neutral, many sources contain acidic elements that significantly contribute to the deterioration of infrastructure.

Nkhosi notes that over time, water-related projects have encountered serious corrosion challenges, particularly affecting galvanised iron (GI) components, leading to abandoned hand pumps and inefficient water supply systems.

He cites past projects such as the Central Province Water Supply initiative of 1985 and subsequent efforts in the late 1990s and early 2000s, which attempted to address the issue.

He, however, points out that despite studies and interventions, corrosion remains a persistent problem.

Eng. Nkhosi emphasises the need for decisive action, urging government agencies and development partners to formally integrate solutions into national policies.

He urged government and development partners to take decisive action to address the issue by formally recognising the extent of the problem and implementing lasting solutions.

Eng. Nkhosi urged government to revise national water policies to include measures specifically designed to tackle aggressive groundwater conditions and ensure a sustainable water supply.

He proposed standardising the use of stainless steel materials in areas prone to acidic and corrosive water conditions, as has been done in Ghana and other regions facing similar challenges.

The Consultant called for providing incentives for private sector investment in the production and supply of corrosion-resistant components, such as stainless steel pipes and hand pump mechanisms.

In response, Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation Permanent Secretary Engineer Romas Kamanga expressed appreciation for the opportunity to engage firsthand with water sector stakeholders.

He noted that field visits provide valuable insights into challenges on the ground, fostering a deeper understanding of the issues faced by communities.

Engineer Kamanga emphasised the government's reliance on experts to guide policy implementation, acknowledging that while policies are in place, it is the specialists in the field who must direct the government towards practical solutions.

He reiterated the government's willingness to support expert recommendations and ensure effective responses to longstanding water challenges.

Addressing concerns raised about spare parts availability for water infrastructure, he assured stakeholders that the issue should not pose a major obstacle, stating that mechanisms would be put in place to ensure accessibility.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing these issues collaboratively, with expert guidance shaping its approach.

This is contained in a statement issued by Zambia NGO WASH Forum Communications Officer Bangwe Naviley.

19/05/2025

CEJ KICKS OFF TRAINING FARMERS IN AGROECOLOGY TO BOOST CLIMATE RESILIENCE

The Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) has commenced training farmers in five districts in agroecology.

The Agroecology Training is being achieved through the Strengthening Civil Society Voices for Climate Advocacy in Zambia project funded by the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF).

The Project implemented in Chirundu, Lusaka, Chongwe, Rufunsa, and Luangwa focuses on the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and the National Adaptation Plan (NAP).

Speaking in Luangwa during the first Agroecology Training,
Project Manager Engineer Gabriel Mukuka said the two-year project has been working with local civil society organisations in five districts to strengthen climate advocacy in Zambia.

Mr Mukuka highlighted the importance of agroecology in improving resilience against climate change, noting that farmers using sustainable practices have maintained crop yields despite harsh conditions.

He also pointed to the National Climate Action Framework, developed collectively by local civil society groups, as a key milestone of the initiative.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, CEJ has facilitated training workshops across the districts, with 25 farmers per district equipped with climate-smart techniques.

Mr Mukuka reaffirmed the project’s commitment to empowering communities to take action against climate challenges and influence policy decisions.

Meanwhile, Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) Agricultural Specialist Memory Mfungo has called on farmers to adopt diverse farming methods for resilience and food security.

Ms Mfungo cautioned against monoculture, emphasizing the benefits of planting different crop varieties at staggered times.

One of the Facilitators, Peter Tindwa, also encouraged farmers to preserve indigenous seeds alongside commercial ones to strengthen sustainability.

18/05/2025

CYBERSECURITY LAWS NOT YET IN FORCE DESPITE PRESIDENTIAL ASSENT - DR KAABA

A Senior Research Fellow at the Southern African Institute for Policy and Research (SAIPAR) and a Senior Law Lecturer at the University of Zambia (UNZA), Dr. O'Brien Kaaba has clarified that the recently assented cybersecurity laws in Zambia are not yet in force, contrary to claims circulating on social media.

Dr. Kaaba said that while the laws received Presidential Assent in April 2025, they require a formal Commencement Order before taking effect.

He explained that the Cybersecurity Act requires a Commencement Order issued by the President, while another cybersecurity-related law requires a commencement order from the relevant Minister.

The Legal Expert said as of now, no Order has been signed, meaning the laws remain inactive.

He further noted that recent arrests related to cyber offenses in Zambia have been based on the 2021 Act, which remains in effect until the laws officially come into effect.

The Legal Expert said this in a Policy Brief dubbed The Cyber Crimes and the Cyber Security Acts: The Good and the Bad presented during a Roundtable Discussion at the Southern African Institute for Policy and Research (SAIPAR) Muna Ndulo Campus in Lusaka.

President Hakainde Hichilema assented to the Cyber Security Act No. 3 of 2025 and the Cyber Crimes Act No. 4 of 2025 on 8th April 2025, with the laws set to come into force upon the issuance of the commencement orders.

The new legislation is intended to repeal and replace the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act No. 2 of 2021.

Dr Kaaba highlighted the justification for cyber regulation, citing the exponential growth of computer technology and the increased pe*******on of the internet, which have drastically transformed human interactions and opportunities.

He noted that many government services, commerce, and routine communication now rely heavily on cyberspace, but this digital landscape also presents significant risks, with criminals exploiting online platforms to advance their own goals.

Dr Kaaba pointed out that while social media has allowed people to express themselves in ways conventional outlets could not, it has also become a space where offline harm is replicated.

He stressed that regulation is necessary to mitigate such risks while ensuring the enjoyment of human rights online, necessitating the criminalisation of certain harmful cyber activities.

He referenced Article 25(1) of the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection 2014, which calls for states to adopt legislative measures that criminalise acts affecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of digital systems and data.

He emphasised the importance of balancing state intervention with the protection of human rights, as outlined in Article 25(3) of the Convention.

The Cyber Crimes Act criminalises various forms of misconduct in cyberspace, including unauthorised access to computer systems, data interference, cyber fraud, child po*******hy, online human trafficking, and cyber terrorism.

Dr Kaaba noted that these provisions align with international standards, such as the Council of Europe's Convention on Cybercrime (Budapest 2001) and the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection 2014, which similarly prohibit a range of cyber offences.

Addressing concerns about surveillance, he highlighted provisions in the Cyber Security Act that require electronic communication service providers to equip their systems with monitoring capabilities, facilitate real-time interception of communication, and store call-related data.

While recognising surveillance as a necessary tool for national security and crime prevention, Dr Kaaba cautioned that it must be proportionate and precisely targeted to avoid infringing on human rights.

He cited a 2023 resolution by the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights, which encourages the use of privacy-enhancing technologies and discourages measures that weaken encryption or promote mass surveillance unless such actions are justified under international human rights law.

Dr Kaaba reiterated the importance of finding the right balance between effective cyber regulation and safeguarding individual freedoms, urging policymakers to ensure that security measures do not override citizens' fundamental rights.

15/05/2025

STAKEHOLDERS NODE WATER CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT EFFORTS IN ZAMBIA THROUGH AWARE 2.0 PROJECT

Mazabuka, Zambia – Stakeholders have noted with pride efforts aimed at advancing integrated water catchment management in Zambia through the AWARE 2.0 Project.

Representing GIZ AWARE 2.0 Project, Janis Hanz applauded the collaborative efforts of stakeholders, stressing the importance of sustainable and integrated water management alongside cross-sector engagement.

Mr Hanz further highlighted that successful catchment management requires time and efficiency, expressing hope that shared experiences within the project would inspire similar approaches elsewhere.

This came to light when members of the Zambia NGO WASH Forum participated in a week-long Governance in the Water and Food Nexus: Field Visit to AWARE 2.0 Project sites in Mazabuka and Monze, where key stakeholders convened to assess progress and share insights.

Delivering remarks on behalf of Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation Southern Province Senior Water Engineer Design - Engineer Gibson Chingwalala, Alice Namukonda emphasised the crucial role of water governance in tackling environmental challenges such as deforestation, land degradation, and climate change.

Engineer Chingwalala urged stakeholders to safeguard ecosystems and invest in infrastructure to ensure sustainable development.

Meanwhile, Parliamentary Caucus on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (PC-WASH) Member Engineer Christopher Kang'ombe outlined key changes in the budgeting process, advocating for rigorous sector budget analysis and increased local financing opportunities for water initiatives.

Water Voices United (WVU) Project Manager, Maria Carreiro, underscored the vital role of civil society organisations and international NGOs in advocating for water and sanitation rights.

She emphasised the importance of evaluating governance in real-life settings to ensure sustainable development.

And Zambia NGO WASH Forum Coordinator, Bubala Muyovwe-Mumba, in a speech delivered on her behalf by the Forum’s Advocacy Officer, Nonde Lwatula, reiterated the WVU project’s commitment to integrating water with energy and agri-food systems while addressing climate change and gender equality.

“Water Voices United is a transformative four-year project, co-funded by the European Union and Danish People's Aid and spearheaded by SNV in partnership with the NGO WASH Forum. This initiative aims to enhance the capabilities and synergies among WASH Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Zambia. By strengthening the role of CSOs in WASH governance, the project supports the Zambian Government’s efforts towards the progressive realisation of the Human Right to Water and Sanitation. Together, we are not just aiming for change; we are ensuring a sustainable and equitable future where access to clean water and safe sanitation becomes a reality for all,” she stated.

This is contained in a statement issued by Zambia NGO WASH Forum Communications Officer, Bangwe Naviley.

12/05/2025

AFRICA TRAVEL INDABA SHOWCASES ZAMBIA’S TOURISM POTENTIAL

Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that drive tourism development.

Speaking upon arrival in Durban for the Africa Travel Indaba (ATI), Sikumba noted that the strong turnout of Zambian private companies reflects their determination to promote Zambia as a preferred tourism destination.

He emphasised that this increased participation will contribute to the sector’s overall growth.

Sikumba highlighted the significance of Zambia’s extensive private sector involvement in one of Africa’s largest travel trade events.

He stated that Zambia’s presence at this year’s Indaba is intended to connect Zambian tourism operators with international buyers and agents while strengthening the country’s global market positioning.

The minister is set to engage in bilateral meetings with key tourism stakeholders, focusing on fostering partnerships, exploring investment opportunities, and advancing Zambia’s tourism agenda.

Zambia's Acting High Commissioner to South Africa, Inonge Mwenya, expressed her enthusiasm over the high level of participation from Zambian companies at the 2025 ATI.

She described the Indaba as a vital platform for collaboration, innovation, and economic empowerment through tourism.

Mwenya pointed out that the event plays a crucial role in showcasing Zambia’s tourism potential while facilitating sustainable growth and opportunity in the sector.

The Zambia Tourism Agency (ZTA), in collaboration with 41 Zambian tourism operators, is representing the country at Africa’s leading Travel and Tourism Trade Show.

This year’s Africa Travel Indaba is being hosted at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Durban, South Africa.

The Indaba is recognised as one of Africa’s premier annual travel trade exhibitions. It provides a strategic space for highlighting the continent’s rich tourism offerings and attracts professionals, buyers, media, and exhibitors from across the world. The event serves to foster business partnerships and strengthen Africa’s reputation as a top travel destination.

Africa’s Travel Indaba is owned by South African Tourism, with the primary aim of facilitating market access for Africa’s diverse leisure tourism products. The three-day trade show is preceded by the Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay), which creates a platform for thought leadership, knowledge sharing, and the latest industry insights. BONDay is developed in collaboration with global tourism organisations, continental experts, and industry associations.

The trade show provides African tourism exhibitors with an unrivalled opportunity to present their offerings to international and local buyers, destination marketing companies, and leisure tourism service providers. It is widely regarded as the continent’s leading forum for establishing business connections that shape the future of African tourism.

This is contained in a statement issued by Tamara Nyirenda, First Secretary for Press and Public Relations at
Zambia High Commission in South Africa.

07/05/2025

TO***CO HARM REDUCTION (THR) ZAMBIA ADVOCATES FOR SAFER ALTERNATIVES

To***co Harm Reduction (THR) Zambia has noted that safer alternatives can provide a route to a healthier future for Zambians.

THR Zambia Spokesperson Rebecca Mwambuy pointed out that, as in much of the world, Zambians are familiar with the appeal of lifestyle choices that might present health risks.

She emphasized that whether it is alcohol, to***co, or unhealthy eating habits, the temptations of modern living are a reality that everyone faces daily.

Mwambuy stressed that rather than judging or condemning, strategies should be developed that support healthier decisions—without imposing unrealistic expectations of perfection.

She explained that harm reduction plays a crucial role as a compassionate and practical approach to public health.

Mwambuy outlined that, at its foundation, harm reduction recognizes human behavior and seeks to minimize its negative impacts.

She remarked that it enables safer choices and has saved countless lives, particularly in Africa, where the stakes are high and challenges are complex.

Mwambuy recalled that harm reduction gained global recognition during the HIV/AIDS crisis, with ‘safer sex’ campaigns educating people on how to reduce their exposure to risk instead of insisting on abstinence.

She reflected that the key lesson learned was that meeting people where they are leads to better outcomes.

Mwambuy observed that Zambia’s public health sector is now ready for a deeper discussion on harm reduction.

She indicated that while progress has been made in tackling HIV, alcohol misuse, and non-communicable diseases, there is still significant room for improvement—especially regarding smoking.

Mwambuy underscored that to***co remains a leading cause of preventable death.

She highlighted that in Zambia, to***co-related diseases such as heart disease, respiratory illness, and cancer place a burden on families and the healthcare system.

Mwambuy asserted that simply instructing people to quit is insufficient.

She explained that ni****ne is addictive, and quitting smoking is famously challenging.

Mwambuy pointed out that safer ni****ne alternatives—such as ni****ne pouches, e-ci******es, and heated to***co products—hold great potential.

She stated that these alternatives provide ni****ne without exposing users to the thousands of harmful toxins found in ci******es.

Mwambuy acknowledged that these products are not entirely risk-free, but emphasized that they are significantly less harmful and have helped millions worldwide to reduce or quit smoking.

She likened these products to mosquito nets used to prevent malaria.

Mwambuy elaborated that although mosquito nets do not eliminate mosquitoes overnight, they significantly reduce harm by providing practical protection.

She asserted that similarly, for smokers who are unable or unwilling to quit, switching to safer products lowers their risk.

Mwambuy reiterated that harm reduction does not eliminate the behavior—it simply makes it safer.

She cautioned that Zambia’s progress towards to***co harm reduction still faces obstacles.

Mwambuy highlighted that misconceptions about ni****ne, concerns over potential “gateway” effects, and regulatory uncertainties persist, while public awareness remains low and access to alternatives is inconsistent.

She explained that the gateway effect suggests that the use of smokeless products leads to cigarette smoking.

Mwambuy countered that while the use of smokeless products has risen, smoking rates have dropped to record lows, indicating that the opposite of the gateway effect may be occurring.

She argued that this is why Zambia must invest in evidence-based education and policy development.

Mwambuy referenced examples of countries such as the UK, New Zealand, and Sweden that have dramatically reduced smoking rates by recognizing alternative ni****ne products as harm-reduction tools.

She pointed out that England’s health service has distributed millions of free vapes to smokers in a ‘Swap to Stop’ initiative, while New Zealand’s Health Ministry has endorsed va**ng as a safer alternative in its ‘Quit Strong’ anti-smoking campaign.

Mwambuy mentioned that Sweden has taken the lead toward a smoke-free future by ensuring smoke-free products are accessible, acceptable, and affordable to adult smokers through evidence-based policymaking, accurate public health messaging, and proportionate taxation.

She concluded that by distinguishing between high- and low-risk ni****ne products, Zambia can create regulations that help smokers transition safely while preventing underage access.

Mwambuy emphasized that civil society also plays an important role.

She stated that harm reduction must be integrated into communities and supported by health professionals, researchers, and advocates.

Mwambuy noted that whether addressing alcohol misuse, HIV, or to***co use, community engagement is crucial.

She observed that Zambians are resilient and forward-thinking.

Mwambuy remarked that Zambians are resourceful, with the youth eager for change and leaders increasingly recognizing that outdated solutions cannot address contemporary challenges.

She maintained that harm reduction presents a smarter and more humane way forward.

Mwambuy pointed out that as Zambia continues to face rising non-communicable diseases and ongoing health threats, the need to embrace harm reduction has never been greater.

She urged that Zambia must reject the false dichotomy between complete inaction and abstinence.

Mwambuy advocated for championing a more compassionate and effective path toward improved health.

She clarified that To***co Harm Reduction (THR) Zambia was established to disseminate evidence-based information in favor of safer alternatives to smoking.

Mwambuy affirmed that THR Zambia remains committed to promoting innovative smoking cessation solutions to lower to***co-related deaths in Zambia while continuing to support to***co control efforts across Africa.

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