On 21 May 2025, the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Lusaka hosted an interactive outreach activity at Kabulonga Secondary School for Boys which centered on the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Under the resonant theme, "Acknowledge the past. Repair the present. Build a future of dignity and justice," 100 eager learners embarked on a journey of understanding, reflection, and empowerment.UNIC Lusaka National Information Officer, Mark Maseko, made a presentation that served as a poignant reminder of the brutal realities of the transatlantic slave trade, the forced migration of millions of Africans, the dehumanizing conditions they endured, and the enduring legacy of this horrific chapter in human history. Through compelling narratives and stark facts, the learners were guided to confront the profound impact of slavery on individuals, families, and entire societies.He stated that, “Much as the slave trade represents a painful past, we need to talk about it so that we can honour the memories of those who suffered and learn from what happened to build a better and more equal society in which human rights and the dignity of every human being are respected,” setting the tone for the interaction with the learners. The presentation connected historical injustices to contemporary issues of inequality and discrimination relating to modern-day slavery, urging the young audience to recognize the throughlines that persist even today.Following the presentation, a Grade 11 learner, Timothy Chibaya shared a well-researched presentation focusing on motivations for the slave trade, scale of cruelty, impact on African communities and modern-day slavery, particularly human trafficking, child labour, sex work, and domestic servitude.“Stop modern-day slavery, we need education and awareness. We need to teach people about their rights and how to recognize trafficking. We need to support ethical brands by buying from companies that treat their workers fairly and avoid child or forced labour. If you suspect human trafficking, report to it to authorities,” he said. “We also need to support survivors and promote respect for human rights. Speak out against discrimination, racism, homophobia or any form of prejudice, and encourage leaders to pass anti-discrimination laws” he added.  Later, a short, impactful video brought personal stories and historical accounts to life, offering a connection to the experiences of those who were enslaved. The visual narrative served as a potent catalyst for reflection, prompting thoughtful consideration of the human cost of the inhumane system of slavery.The interactive question and answer session was handled by Charles Nonde, UNIC Lusaka Public Information Assistant, that sparked a vibrant exchange of ideas. The learners posed insightful questions, demonstrating a genuine curiosity and a desire to grapple with the complexities of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and its lasting impact. Questions ranged from the economic drivers of the trade to the psychological scars it left behind, avoidance of modern day slavery and the role young people can play in building a more equitable society now and in future."Empowering youth to engage with issues of justice and sustainability is key to shaping a more equitable tomorrow," noted Mrs Gertrude Musiwa, Headteacher, Kabulonga Secondary School for Boys, highlighting the significance of engaging young minds in these crucial conversations.The "Acknowledge the past. Repair the present. Build a future of dignity and justice" theme resonated deeply throughout the event. It underscored the importance of not only understanding the historical context of slavery but also actively working to address its contemporary manifestations. The call to "repair the present" encouraged the learners to identify and challenge systemic inequalities in their own communities and beyond. The final element, "build a future of dignity and justice," served as an inspiring call to action, empowering the young participants to become agents of positive change."We are the generation that can rewrite the future, one of peace, inclusion, and opportunity for all," shared James Zulu, a Grade 11 learner encapsulating the hopeful spirit of the outreach.During the tour of the exhibition Ms Nakamba Suwilanji, a Teacher of History said, “The youth are the architects of tomorrow’s world. Empowering them with knowledge of our history helps shape a more just and inclusive future.” UNIC Lusaka's initiative at Kabulonga Boys represents a crucial step in fostering historical awareness and promoting a culture of justice and dignity among Zambia's youth. By providing a platform for learning, reflection, and dialogue, this outreach activity has undoubtedly sown seeds of change in the minds of these young learners, empowering them to become informed and engaged citizens committed to building a more equitable and just future for all.  , filtered_html

For nearly 80 years, United Nations peacekeepers have delivered tangible change to communities worldwide. From Liberia and Namibia to Cambodia, Sierra Leone and Timor-Leste, their presence has been life-saving and transformative in some of the most volatile political and security contexts, guiding countries from conflict towards lasting peace.Observed under the theme “The Future of Peacekeeping” this year’s International Day looks at the invaluable contributions military, police and civilian peacekeepers have made over the last nearly eight decades. It encapsulates the spirit of progress and collective action towards creating a more equal, just and sustainable world.Today, more than 68,000 civilians, military, and police personnel serve in 11 UN peacekeeping missions, confronting increasingly complex and interconnected challenges shaped by a shifting geopolitical landscape. Despite the challenges, peacekeepers remain steadfast in their pursuit of peace.The International Day pays tribute to their unwavering service and sacrifice, as well as the resilience of the communities they support. It also solemnly honors the more than 4,400 peacekeepers who have lost their lives in the cause of peace, including 57 in 2024 alone. , filtered_html

Government, through the Ministry of Health has commissioned the new medical oxygen production plant located at Kasama General Hospital. Health Minister Elijah Muchima said this was to ensure a stable and sustainable supply of oxygen for the treatment of respiratory and emergency conditions."Located in Northern Province, the newly commissioned medical production oxygen plant will serve healthcare institutions within and beyond the region," said Dr Muchima.The Minister said the milestone underscored the government’s continued commitment to advancing healthcare delivery and ensuring life-saving medical resources were accessible to all Zambians.Funded by the Global Fund, the setting up of the Plant was facilitated by UNOPS by managing the procurement and construction of the medical production oxygen plant, which intends to significantly improve healthcare services in the region by providing consistent access to medical oxygen. To date, it is the third medical oxygen plant to be completed and officially handed over. In May 2024, UNOPS, in partnership with UNICEF, the Government of Sweden, and the Ministry of Health, inaugurated the medical oxygen plant at Kitwe Teaching Hospital. In November 2024, the Ministry of Health through UNOPS, with support from the Global Fund commissioned the medical production oxygen plant at the National Heart Hospital in Lusaka.The event was also graced by the Provincial Leadership led by Provincial Minister, Permanent Secretary, Kasama District Commissioner and the Area Member of Parliament.The medical production oxygen plants employ Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) technology, which extracts oxygen from ambient air under pressure. In addition to plant installation, the project encompasses the full design, procurement, and installation of oxygen distribution systems—including pipelines and manifolds—ensuring continuous oxygen flow to critical hospital departments. Each facility will also be equipped with a standby generator and a skip truck for oxygen cylinder transport.Work is ongoing on the remaining medical production oxygen plants located at St Paul’s Mission Hospital in Nchelenge (Luapula Province), Kabwe Central Hospital (Central Province), Chinsali General Hospital (Muchinga Province), and Kalindawalo General Hospital (Eastern Province). Once completed, these plants will collectively enhance oxygen supply capacity across all targeted provinces.  , filtered_html

In continued efforts to enhance collaboration towards the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the United Nations (UN) System in Zambia in partnership with the Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZACCI), brought together Zambia’s key business leaders from the private sector and UN agencies for a momentous first-ever engagement meeting, aimed at strengthening partnerships to support economic growth and sustainable development. The private sector, responsible for nearly 90% of employment in developing countries, plays a pivotal role not just in job creation and revenue generation, but also in driving innovation, infrastructure development, and investment—elements essential to achieving Zambia’s national development goals and the SDGs. Speaking at the event, UN Resident Coordinator Beatrice Mutali said that the UN was happy to engage with the private sector and explore potential areas for future partnerships.“We see the private sector as a key partner for the UN in several areas, including the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, through its roles such as job creation, building skills, spurring innovation, providing essential infrastructure, and supplying affordable goods and services. These speak directly to some the 17 SDGs and are fundamental to the attainment of the SDGs by the target date of 2030. Private sector will further play a key role in promoting trade, particularly in the landlocked developing countries, like Zambia, where trade is more competitive due to their geographic isolation,” she said. This inaugural meeting came at a crucial time with initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area and the Lobito Corridor presenting enormous opportunities for private sector involvement in regional trade and infrastructure. “One good area where the private sector could get the low hanging fruits is the on-going initiative of the Lobito Corridor,” Ms Mutali noted. The project, already drawing interest and funding from global partners, promises to transform regional connectivity and economic growth.And ZACCI President Anthony Kabaghe said the SDGs are not just a global blueprint but a local imperative. He noted that Zambia like many nations faces pressing challenges that require actions beyond the government and the innovation, resources and agility of the private sector aligned with the UN expertise and reach. “ZACCI believes that businesses are catalysts for sustainable growth and pledges its full support to the alliance with the UN. Let this engagement mark the start of a bold action-oriented partnership, one where businesses thrive by lifting communities and the planet.  Today we can turn the SDGs from aspirations into achievements,” said Mr Kabaghe. This historic meeting marked the beginning of a new chapter in public-private cooperation, laying a solid foundation for long-term collaboration and collective impact and a reminder that the future of Zambia’s sustainable development is one of shared responsibility.  , filtered_html