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Mandela Was Watching Over Me

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Mandela Was Watching Over Me
Nelson Mandela was watching over me

I first slept away from home 70 years ago in 1959 when I was 6 years old. My mother and I were travelling from Lundazi to Chasela Primary School and spent a night in Lundazi before we were to catch the Central African Road Services (CARS) bus service the following day. We slept in the Lundazi Council Rest House opposite the present day Lundazi Bus station. It was 3 pence or tiki to sleep downstairs and susu or six pence to sleep upstairs. It was noisy all night. This was during the British colonial Northern Rhodesia which is now independent Zambia in Southern Africa. Since that time, I have spent numerous nights in rural Zambia Rest Houses and motels. I have slept in motels and lodges in Lusaka and the Copperbelt.

Mr. John Chanda of Chandaland Services Apartments

I have spent nights in hotels in Johannesburg, London in the UK, in Amsterdam in Holland, in Jamaica, and in the United States. As the popularity of Airbnbs has exploded, the popularity of Serviced apartments has also exploded in Lusaka. What I love about them is not only that they have laundry, cleaning services, and comfortable living arrangements, but I get to cook my own food. I stayed at a Serviced Apartment for a month when I decided to go and visit relatives in Lundazi and Chipata. When I returned the Service Apartment was fully booked. I found another one at the Upland Apartments along Leopard Hill Road.

When I entered the gate, the first thing I noticed was the sound of construction. It looked like 5 apartments were completed. Many more were under construction. The landscape around the front of my apartment was gorgeous with beautiful flowers. When I entered the apartment, the first thing that surprised me was that all the furniture in the whole apartment was unique and different like nothing I had seen before. There was a huge TV in the living room. The tables, kitchen cabinets, chairs or the furniture just looked very odd and different. I had never lived in a place where nearly everything inside seemed to challenge almost everything I had experienced about an apartment or even a house.

I cooked my dinner, took my shower, and went to bed. When I woke up in the morning, I boiled a big mug of tea and was walking to the living room couch or sofa when something just hit me. High above the living room wall above the sofa was a very large, odd picture frame with a large photo of some man raising his fist high in the air as a symbol of defiance. Within a split second, I recognized the man; it was the iconic photo of the great Nelson Mandela. How did I miss it the previous night? Numerous questions exploded in my mind. Who puts the photo of Mandela in a Serviced Apartment? Why? Who was the foreign owner of the apartments who did this? Was he trying just to ingratiate himself with Zambians or Africans? What did it all mean? Is it why I had slept so well because the revolutionary heroic spirit of Nelson Mandela was always guarding and watching over me? Was the spirit of Mandela bathing over me as I innocently slept during my first night in the apartment? Whose mind was behind the uniquely artistic creative aura of the whole apartment? I was overcome with curiosity with numerous questions.

I talked to a young employee who gently broke the news to me. The owner of the Upland Service Apartment was a Zambian, Mr. Chanda. I was stunned. How could a Zambian do something so unique in which he was not just following what foreigners especially Europeans or bazungu had already done? When I finally met Mr. Chanda, we immediately laughed and hit it off. We went into friendly tribal Zambian banter of mbuyaship between Bembas and Ngoni Easterners. During the few days, there were loud sounds of construction as a large number of over 30 young men worked all day.

Before I left for Kenneth Kaunda International airport on my last day, I was able to talk to Mr. John Chanda and take a tour of the construction site. The 57-year-old told me he had been to the United States where he obtained his master’s degree in business administration. When he returned to Zambia, for many years he co-owned and was a CEO or Managing Director of a large truck transportation company. He decided to build service apartments employing his own unique style which I loved. He obtains Rosewood and Teak wood from villagers in rural Zambia. All the unique furniture was made on site providing carpentry and other skilled jobs to the local Zambian population.

I cannot wait to spend time again at the Chandaland Serviced Upland apartments . My biggest challenge now is how can I build my own Serviced Apartments and call them Temboland apartments so that I can beat this Bemba man from Kasama?

By Mwizenge S. Tembo, Ph. D.

Emeritus Professor of Sociology

Top Road Safety Rules from Our Celebrities

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Top Road Safety Rules from Our Celebrities

Road Safety Starts with You

From sports stars to everyday pedestrians, each of us faces daily risks on the road. That’s why 1xBet ambassadors have joined the “Safety on the Road” campaign to share their essential safety rules, simple yet life-saving.

Despite their diverse backgrounds, all our ambassadors agree on key principles: caution, respect, and responsibility. These aren’t just theories; they’re practices that can save lives every day.

About the “Safety on the Road” Project

“Safety on the Road” is a social initiative by 1xBet in Zambia, in collaboration with public organizations and opinion leaders. The goal is to reduce road accidents, enhance road behavior culture, and make responsibility the new norm for everyone, not just drivers but also pedestrians who face daily risks on busy streets.

In 2024, the campaign reached thousands of Zambians through quizzes, public events, and educational activities. This experience laid the foundation for an even more extensive continuation in 2025.

This year’s highlight: for the first time, the campaign includes both drivers and pedestrians. This comprehensive approach allows for a more holistic discussion on road safety and engages a broader audience.

Key focus areas of the initiative include:

  • Engaging recognizable ambassadors: musicians, athletes, football stars;
  • Creating new educational formats: videos, quizzes, interactive content;
  • Working with youth, fan communities, and local schools;
  • Personalizing rules through real-life stories and advice from well-known individuals;
  • Involving pedestrians in special activities, quizzes, and educational formats.

To encourage active participation, the campaign includes a prize fund, with a total project bank of 100,000 ZMW.

“Safety on the Road” is more than just an educational initiative. It’s a tangible influence on behavior and a collective effort to protect lives, whether you’re behind the wheel or simply crossing the street.

What Do 1xBet Ambassadors Say?

Magnate – Entrepreneur, Lecturer, Responsibility Ambassador

Magnate is an ambassador who doesn’t just represent the brand but actively changes the approach to road safety in Zambia. As an entrepreneur, UNZA lecturer, and founder of an educational platform, he joined the project to promote a culture of responsible driving through personal example.

“Every day, we face risks on the roads. Through media, public events, and personal example, I want to be part of the solution.”

Rule: “Protect others as you would yourself”

“I always remind myself: it doesn’t matter if you’re behind the wheel or just crossing the road, your actions affect others. I’ve seen how inattentiveness has cost people their health. That’s why I treat everyone with respect, drivers, pedestrians, passengers. Don’t drive with headphones on, don’t touch your phone. This isn’t just about rules, it’s about humanity.”

“Don’t think you’re alone on the road. Your decisions can cause someone else’s pain, or help avoid it. Respect for others isn’t weakness; it’s maturity.”

Kabwe Warriors F.C. Players – Discipline Begins on the Road

Kabwe Warriors players understand that discipline, concentration, and teamwork aren’t just about footbal l— they’re also about daily behavior on the road. As a partner of 1xBet with a long-standing collaboration based on shared values, social responsibility, love for the game, and support for local communities, the club actively participates in the “Safety on the Road” campaign.

This isn’t just an initiative, it’s part of the culture that Kabwe Warriors and 1xBet are building together to make sports and life around them safer. If this campaign can save even one life, that’s a true victory.

“Driver, pedestrian, passenger, it doesn’t matter. On the road, we all are responsible for each other. Behavior is also a choice. Choose safety.”

Rule: “The road is a game where mistakes aren’t forgiven.”

“On the field, I’m focused until the last second. The same concentration is needed on the road. One phone call, and it doesn’t matter how fast you were. Driving is your match with life. Don’t play carelessly.”

Rule: “Move cautiously near schools and stadiums.”

“I see children running out after training or classes. If you see a school or stadium, slow down! You have time; they don’t.”

 

Safety Is Our Shared Journey

“Safety on the Road” is more than a campaign. It’s part of 1xBet’s global approach to social responsibility: from educational initiatives to concrete actions for the common good.

Together with ambassadors, athletes, and communities, 1xBet promotes values of respect, caution, and care for others. And most importantly, inspires everyone to be part of the change.

Join the movement! Follow the progress of the “Safety on the Road” campaign on 1xBet Zambia’s social media:

Together, we can make roads safer. Be the example. Choose responsibility with 1xBet!

 

RPP Welcomes China’s Support in Strengthening Zambia’s HIV Response

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RPP Welcomes China’s Support in Strengthening Zambia’s HIV Response

The Republican Progressive Party (RPP) acknowledges the critical importance of collaborative partnerships in addressing Zambia’s public health priorities, including the fight against HIV, malaria, and related health challenges.

We commend the commitment by the Chinese government, delivered through the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Chinese Embassy in Zambia, Mr. Wang Sheng, to support Zambia’s HIV response with a donation of 5,000 rapid testing kits and enhanced cooperation in the health sector. This gesture reflects the value of international cooperation and Zambia’s continued engagement with development partners in pursuit of national health goals.

As a party, we emphasize the importance of not only external support but also local innovation. And as a party, we believe local and traditional remedies in the fight against disease should be explored through rigorous scientific research. We therefore urge the government to continue prioritizing investments in science, technology, and research to find sustainable, homegrown solutions to health and development challenges.

The RPP also commends the government’s ongoing commitment to tackling corruption.We anticipate the outcomes of the final audit report and call on relevant institutions to take timely and decisive action where any misuse of resources is uncovered. Upholding transparency and accountability remain essential for national development and for fostering trust among citizens and partners alike.

Leslie Chikuse
President
Republican Progressive Party (RPP)

BanaPromise Nalumango: Changing Government is Key to Poverty Eradication

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BanaPromise Nalumango: Changing Government is Key to Poverty Eradication

When I first read the headline, “Changing Governments Is Not, In Itself, A Solution To Poverty,” at Lusaka Times, I assumed it was mere satire. It wasn’t. It came from Leslie Chikuse, the self-styled president of the Republican Progressive Party, agreeing with Vice President Mutale Nalumango’s remarks at the Regional Poverty Reduction and Climate Resilience Conference.

I have spent my academic life studying the intersections of governance, corruption, and climate justice. In “God’s Family, God’s Earth,” I argue that corruption isn’t a marginal concern—it’s the systemic rot at the heart of both poverty and ecological collapse. This isn’t abstract theory. It’s a lived Zambian reality, where poverty and environmental degradation are not parallel crises but interconnected.

Take charcoal burning, for example. One cannot discuss its environmental toll without engaging the economic plight of those who rely on it. The rural poor cut and sell; the urban poor buy and cook. Meanwhile, load shedding drives demand. This vicious cycle is not just ecological—it is political. You cannot solve Zambia’s climate vulnerabilities without addressing the poverty that makes them inescapable.

Which brings me to the center of the Vice President’s misleading claim. Poverty is not apolitical. To pretend otherwise is to insult both scholarship and lived experience. Throughout history, political leadership and poverty have been entangled. Governance either disrupts poverty or entrenches it. Here, who governs matters. In this case, poverty eradication (not just reduction) is not ideologically neutral. It is shaped by policy—and policy is shaped by power.

Consider President Hakainde Hichilema’s decision to open the Lower Zambezi to mining. This was not a technocratic decision; it was political. The ecological and social repercussions will be felt for generations. Ask the people of the Gwembe Valley. They are still living with the anthropological insults of the late 1950s when the Kariba Dam was built.

Poverty is about fairness, too. Why are marketeers—overwhelmingly poor women—subject to daily local government taxes, while elite traders in emeralds, gold, and other precious stones enjoy tax holidays? Why do foreign investors receive generous incentives that local businesses are denied? And why do our politicians get “tax-free this and that”? These are not economic accidents; they are deliberate political choices. They expose whose interests the government protects, and whose it abandons.

So yes, political transitions matter. Governments campaign on concrete promises to fix roads, create jobs, and end poverty. If changing leadership had no bearing on poverty, why hold elections? Leadership change alone won’t fix everything—but it is the first step to ending poverty.

I feel for the Vice President’s bind. With 2026 approaching, perhaps she’s managing expectations. But in doing so, she alerts us to the problem. If we continue treating politics as a popularity contest, changing parties will not change outcomes.

I believe Zambia doesn’t just need a new president. We need a new political culture. We must dismantle the ‘ngatwesheko” mindset—the dangerous belief that anyone deserves the presidency simply because it’s “their turn.” You wouldn’t hand the car keys to someone blindfolded, no matter how many times you change the driver. Visionless leadership, no matter how often rotated, will only reproduce failure.

So let us be vigilant. Ask the hard questions. Demand concrete plans. If a candidate cannot clearly articulate a strategy during their campaign, what makes us think they will lead effectively once in office?

Is BaShiPromise Hichilema, alongside BaNaPromise Nalumango, not already proof of the cost of vague rhetoric over visionary leadership?

It is time to stop gambling with our national future. Poverty is not simply a developmental challenge—it is a failure of leadership. Unless we confront it head-on, the slogans may change, but our Poverty will not.
Kapya Kaoma

Two Zambian Roads Named After Late Namibian Presidents

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Two Zambian Roads Named After Late Namibian Presidents

Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has paid glowing tributes to the Zambian Government for hosting former leaders during the independence struggles especially those from the Southern African region.

Dr Nandi-Ndaitwah says Lusaka hosted many liberation freedom fighters, such as the African National Congress of South Africa, ZANC of Zimbabwe, Emperor of Angola as well as the South West People’s Organisation (SWAPO) of Namibia where they planned the struggle for independence of their respective countries.

ZANIS reports that the Namibian President was speaking in Lusaka during the renaming ceremony of two roads in Lusaka in honour of the two late Namibian Presidents, Sam Nujoma and Hage Geingob.
The road situated near Levy Mall formerly, Sadzu Street, has been renamed after Dr Hage Geingob and the former Kasama road in Chilenje has been named as Dr Sam Nujoma.
The Namibian Head of state commended President Hakainde Hichilema and the Zambian government for honouring late Namibian leaders.
“The renaming of the roads has re-energised the warm and cordial relations the two countries enjoy,” she said.
She revealed that the late Geingob and herself both lived in Zambia for a long period of time.
And speaking at the same occasion, former Namibian first lady and wife to Dr Geingob, Monica praised President Hakainde Hichilema for exhibiting true testimony of belief in Pan-Africanism for former leaders in the Southern region.
She remarked that Lusaka in particular became the second home of her former late husband.
“The former president never got tired of telling everybody that Zambia was his second home,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of the Nujoma family, President Nujoma’s grandson Prince Nujoma, expressed gratitude to the people of Zambia for honouring his grandfather.
Mr. Nujoma said the road naming gesture is a sign of shared values and principles propounded by the two founding fathers of the two nations and emphasised that the values should be embraced by the two countries.
After unveiling the road names, President Nandi-Ndaitwah and Mr Nujoma proceeded to plant a tree which they related to Namibia’s newly established annual tree planting ceremony on the anniversary of Dr. Nujoma’s birthday.
Lusaka City Council Mayor, Chilando Chitangala said the renamed roads symbolise the legacy of the late Namibian Presidents.
Meanwhile, the visiting Namibian President also planted a red mahogany tree, an indigenous while Mrs. Monica Geingob also planted the same species.
Geigbob lived in Zambia where he headed the United Nations institute for Namibia in Lusaka from its inception in 1976 until his return to Namibia from exile in 1989.
Dr Hage formed a line of southern African development community leaders who lived in Zambia.
The Namibian President, has since departed Zambia for Namibia after a two- day working visit.
President Nandi -Ndaitwah was seen off by President Hakainde Hichilema at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport at exactly 18:17 hours Zambian time.
While at the Airport, President Ndaitwah was accorded a 21- gun salute and later inspected a guard of honour mounted by the Zambia Army.
Among others that saw her off at the airport were Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mulambo Haimbe, Lusaka Province Minister, Sheal Mulyata, Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa and Lusaka Mayor Chilando Chitangala.
Zambia and Namibia have continued to enjoy cordial relations since the establishment of the two countries bilateral ties in the early 1990s.

Zambia Welcomes Namibian President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah for Two-Day Working Visit

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Zambia Welcomes Namibian President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah for Two-Day Working Visit

Zambia has welcomed Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, who arrived in the country for a two-day working visit aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation.

President Hakainde Hichilema extended a warm welcome to his Namibian counterpart, emphasizing the historic and enduring ties between the two nations. “Beyond being neighbouring nations, Zambia and Namibia share deep-rooted ties of friendship, shaped by our shared history—including the support we offered to Namibian freedom fighters,” said President Hichilema.

The visit marks a significant step in deepening regional collaboration on matters of mutual interest, including trade, energy, infrastructure development, and regional peace and security.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s engagements during her stay are expected to include high-level discussions with Zambian officials, a review of existing bilateral agreements, and exploration of new areas of cooperation that will advance the welfare of both peoples.

“We are pleased to host President Nandi-Ndaitwah, as her visit will further reinforce the strong bonds between our two countries for the benefit of our people,” President Hichilema added.

The two leaders are expected to issue a joint communiqué at the conclusion of the visit.

President Trump’s Keeping up appearances with Catholic Church faces test with new Pope from his own nation

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President Trump’s Keeping up appearances with Catholic Church faces test with new Pope from his own nation

By Edward Chisanga

I was reading an article written by Mark Jenkins that states, “Analysis of the results of the US Presidential election has shown that former president Donald Trump won the national Catholic vote by a fifteen-point margin, winning 56% of the Catholic vote against the 41% achieved by Kamala Harris.” While she failed to appeal to the Catholic, Trump and his camp visibly and clearly sided with the church. They shouted love for the Catholic while their opposition camp showed their true colors of exhibiting anti-Catholic policies.

That led Tim Busch, National Catholic Register, to make comment, “From what I’ve seen, the president’s team is earnestly striving to apply the precepts of our faith to the policies that govern America.”

Other optimists argue that since winning elections, Trump has received praise from Catholics on several issues but skepticism and even legal challenges on others. They mention he has received endorsement on man Catholic issues, including the administration’s initial pro-life efforts, religious liberty protections and moves to extricate
I have also heard that whether before or prior to, and after the recent election that he won, President Trump has vehemently assured the Catholic Church of strong support. Catholic online news states, ‘Donald Trump has sent a letter to the 18th Annual Catholic Leadership Conference. He acknowledges that Catholics are ‘a rich part of our nation’s history, the United States was, and is, strengthened through Catholic men, women, priests and religious sisters.’

Further, it says, “Catholics make about twenty percent of the US electorate and are a crucial swing bloc. Catholics tend to be liberal on issues such as immigration, the death penalty and universal health care, but are stanchly pro-life. The primacy of the pro-life issue results in many Catholics supporting conservating candidates in general. Catholics in the United States are a rich part of our nations’ history. The United States was, and is, strengthened through Catholic men, women, priests and religious Sisters, ministering to people, marching in the civil rights movement, educating millions of children in Catholic schools, creating respected health care institutions, and in their founding and helping the ongoing growth of the pro-life cause. I have a message for Catholics: I will be there for you. I stand with you. I will fight for you.”
So, it all seems to mean that the Catholic Church and president Trump are like two peas in a pod. But, this seemingly symbiotic relationship may soon face a tough test.

Pope Leo’s coming finds many unpalatable decisions to the Church he’s head of, made by President Trump. He made many executive orders against many developing countries, one important one being withdrawal of aid on health that hits African countries directly, given the many citizens suffering from various diseases that have been supported by US financial aid for many years. This support has agreeably led to prolonged life for many people suffering from HIV, Aids, TB and other related problems. Many African governments, NGOs and even churches like the Catholic Church have been playing major roles to life-saving, using the same funds.

President Trump’s first test to the making up appearances to his public pledges and statements may be his policy decision to cut or withdraw America’s support for global health care which particularly affects Africa. He’ll be tested by the new Pope from his own nation, and the Pope whose own brother attests that he’s likely to be the second Pope Francis. Pope Leo will not accept being the first American Pope presiding over dying millions in Africa as a result of reckless decisions by one American.
Millions of lives in Africa will be lost if the Trump this policy on health is allowed to prevail. Today, almost every African leader seems to bravely, argue that Trump’s decision is a blessing in disguise because it’ll teach them to be more responsible, self-reliant and account for their own resources, including taking care of their own people.

But behind this keeping up appearance statement hides the truth, that it’s not possible for any single African country to mobilize funds to save life for those struck with deadly diseases. If there’re those still arguing that most African states are not dead states, at least, the same will accept that Africa’s health department is a failed department that cannot stand on its own without foreign aid. Perhaps African leaders can continue to support aid cut decisions on non-health issues.
For me, it’ll be Pope Leo’ single most important urgent agenda to persuade his American president to withdraw decision on health aid cut, and one of his most important achievements in office in the coming years if he succeeds. Africa may’ve a huge agenda for the new Pope to accomplish. Health in general, and in particular Trump’s reinstatement of health aid is one of them. The Catholic Church provides one of the best health care institutions in Africa, serving many lives. Trump himself admits that the Catholic Church is, “creating respected health care institutions, and in their founding and helping the ongoing growth of the pro-life cause.”

Of course, God saw other parts of the larger global problem, namely, the wrong way where the world is heading to under president Trump beyond health issues. Trump wants the US to break ties with the whole United Nations, World Trade Organization, Africa Development Bank, hard-line immigration policies, funding cuts to NGOs, and anything that he feels is not pro-American or corrupt. He has already destroyed his own USAid that provided invaluable services to lazy Africa. And in some ways, he’s right. But he’s largely wrong. Huge global problems don’t get solved like that.
While some, including I may extol Trump and say, “Yes, teach us a lesson so that we can learn quickly to look after ourselves,” the reality is not that way. Decision-making is about weighing the pros and cons. Leadership is not about choosing immediate gratification over long-term goals. For many years, the US was a lonely hegemony. Not anymore. It has a strong competitor. The US cannot, on the one hand, fight to control Africa or the world, while on the other, it announces policies that alienate the very nations it seeks to get support from. Alienating us means, one day, Africa will become so self-sufficient that it’ll not be bullied anymore.

Previously, what sustained America’s hegemony were the very carrot and stick policies it’s terminating today. All China has to do is ensure that it replaces fittingly, all the key withdrawal dots left by the US and win the continent completely.
So, I see African leaders prioritizing health over other things with their relationship with the new Pope. While not accepting that Africa’s aid dependence for health should perpetually continue, it’s foolhardy to assume that the decision made by President Trump to cut aid is the right one at this time when most African countries are getting poorer. The timing is wrong. You don’t inflict pain in an already painful body.
In concluding, I wish to remind Mr. Trump that countries are inter-dependent. The rich trade their technology, technical and security expertise with resource-rich nations like we’re witnessing between the US and DRC. There’re other things that can keep two unequal nations together. Therefore, you can’t simply use your greatness to make every poor nation unhappy. Pope Leo must tell the President that poor nations need the support of rich nations. Also, the US cannot simply unwrite what it has written for many years.

Bravo imwe ma soldier; now it’s time to tackle industrialization!

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Bravo imwe ma soldier; now it’s time to tackle industrialization!

Late last year, we wrote an article whereby we suggested that since our country is not at war…..and not likely to go to war any time soon, it would be prudent to encourage our men and women to help us improve food security. Hereunder, we reproduce part of the article in question:

“The country is effectively at war with imminent hunger. The same way we’d summon the mighty of the military to help clean up our cities whenever there’s an outbreak of Cholera, we expect the military, particularly ZNS to come in and help the nation contain hunger.

Phiri (the Agriculture Minister) must request Gary Nkombo, (the Minister of Local Government then) to engage our traditional leaders to consider surrendering massive tracts of land, particularly in areas where they’ve vast water bodies. Once enough land has been secured, the Agriculture minister must further liaise with the Defence minister, Ambrose Lufuma to beseech the President who is of course the Commander in Chief of armed forces to give ‘marching orders’ to the men and women in uniform to take to the fields without further ado and help grow more maize using irrigation methods, if the rains fail us.”

A number of people didn’t take kindly to this, of course…..they wasted no time mocking us and calling us all sort of names. And boom…..a few months later, what do we see? From the Zambia Army establishments in Solwezi or Chipata; the Zambia Air Force base in Mbala to the Zambia National Service fields countrywide…..the story is all the same – Bumper harvest after Bumper harvest! Bravo to all our soldiers! The work you have done shall definitely go a long way in stablising the price of ‘our staple food’ as there will be surplus of the commodity. We don’t have to belabour the point; this is simple and straight forward!

If we may digressa little bit, may we now tackle the elephant in the room – youth employment! Without being seen to be seemingly attempting to ‘sway’ them away from their core mandate of defending and protecting our nation, we are appealing to government to consider further utilising the military to embark on a journey of industrializing our country as this would go a long way in triggering jobs galore that everyone is talking about.

The problem we have in Africa is that we always want to allow the West to dictate to us how we should run our countries. In countries such as China, Pakistan, Turkey and Indonesia; the military own businesses spanning from transport and logistics, real estates, manufacturing, construction, telecommunications and hospitality industry. One may argue that ZNS is already doing that……yes, but on small scale!

What is stopping our military from setting up farms to grow ‘green gold’ (marijuana) for export purposes? Why can’t the military establish companies to construct our roads as opposed to giving contracts to foreigners? We already have an open market in neighbouring Congo DR for mealie meal, beef, chicken, fish and vegetables etc, can’t the military take advantage of such and employ youngsters to work on their farms? Can somebody convince us our military can surely fail to operate emerald or gold mines?

We’ve almost won the battle against hunger; it’s high time the military helped us tackle youth unemployment head on!

Salute!

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Lusaka–Ndola “Dual Carriageway”: Is the UPND Rebranding a Road Extension as a National Milestone

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Lusaka–Ndola “Dual Carriageway”: Is the UPND Rebranding a Road Extension as a National Milestone

By Kapya Kaoma

Recently, I’ve been struggling with what should be a straightforward question. Is the UPND government building a new dual carriageway between Lusaka and Ndola, or are they simply adding two more lanes to an existing road?

This is not a question of grammar or semantics. It is an important question we must answer as it relates to the politics of infrastructure in the nation. In construction, the difference between building something new and extending something old is not just technical, it’s financial and political. If I add two rooms to my house, I don’t claim to have built a brand-new house. Why, then, is the government selling an extension as a groundbreaking achievement?

From the beginning, the Lusaka–Ndola road project has been riddled with contradictions. Construction progress has appeared sporadic and uncoordinated. It only made sense when we learned — astonishingly — that the project had no lead engineer until late last year.

In any serious infrastructure project, that would be a red flag. But here, it was spun as a non-issue. We were told the workers on-site were “all engineers,” so there was no need for a supervising one. That statement is either technically crazy or deliberately misleading. Having people with engineering degrees on-site is not a substitute for qualified project leadership. It’s like having trained doctors in a hospital with no head surgeon or no plan.

The truth may be simpler — and more politically inconvenient. This project is not a completely new road. The additional lanes follow the exact path of the old road, which means this is not a greenfield development. There are no significant route realignments, flyovers, or alternative bypasses. No massive new bridges. No extensive drainage systems being redesigned. What we’re seeing is an expansion, not a reconstruction. A duplication, not a reimagination.

In engineering terms, this distinction is crucial. When you construct a new road, you invest in fresh geotechnical surveys, environmental assessments, and new civil and structural designs. That comes with high costs — and high expectations. But when you extend an old road using pre-existing plans, the complexity (and cost) drops significantly. So, if this is an expansion, then why was the price tag of the initial PF project so heavily criticized? And what are we really paying for given the corruption associated with this administration? The answer lies in politics.

The PF administration, for all its flaws, invested heavily in physical infrastructure. Lusaka saw massive road projects, flyovers, and bypasses — actual engineering works that reshaped how the city functions. Of course, critics rightly questioned the costs and debt burdens. But the work was visible, transformative. The UPND, on the other hand, came into power promising fiscal prudence and transparency. They needed to appear responsible — both economically and politically — while still delivering big-ticket infrastructure to please voters and donors.

So what did they do? They rebranded an extension project as a “new” road. No need for fresh designs. No need to re-engineer drainage. Just follow the old alignment, build two extra lanes, and declare victory. It’s politically safe — no ballooning costs, no groundbreaking risks. But it’s also intellectually dishonest.

Worse still, we risk ending up with a half-baked project. If the old lanes aren’t fully rehabilitated, we may find ourselves with one side of the carriageway crumbling while the other is just breaking in. It’s déjà vu — the same old road, now with twice the lanes and none of the structural reform.

And yet the public narrative remains confused. Most Zambians still believe we’re getting a brand-new dual carriageway. They see the headlines, the ribbon cuttings, the presidential tweets — and assume progress is being made. But as any builder or engineer will tell you, adding two lanes to a tired road without reworking its foundation is a short-term fix. Not a national milestone.

In the end, this isn’t just about tar and gravel — it’s about truth in governance. Infrastructure should not be a tool for political illusion. If we’re simply extending a road, then say so. If we’re repurposing old plans to save money, then own it. But don’t dress up a maintenance project as a generational transformation.

This road may get us to Ndola, but politically, we’re still stuck in a loop — repackaging old promises with a new spin.

Zambia Pledges More Troops For Peacekeeping Missions

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Zambia Pledges More Troops For Peacekeeping Missions

Zambia has pledged an additional Military Police Company, Two Platoons Mixed Engagement Teams, One Medium Utility Helicopter Unit and One Air Ambulance for peacekeeping missions under the United Nations.

The pledge was made at the just ended 2025 United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial Conference held in Berlin, Germany.
Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Mr. Maambo Haamaundu, who led the Zambian delegation, made the pledge on behalf of Zambia during the pledging session at the Ministerial Conference.

The Zambian delegation included Zambia Army Commander Lt Gen Geoffrey Zyeele, Zambia Army Secretary Brig Gen Dr David Sanene and Military Advisor at the Zambian Mission to the United Nations in New York, Brig Gen Oliver Musonda,Addressing the Ministerial Conference yesterday on behalf of Minister of Defence Mr. Ambrose Lufuma, Mr. Haamaundu said United Nations member countries must strategically invest in UN Police, fully implement the women peace and security agenda, and responsibly leverage new technologies like artificial intelligence and unmanned aerial vehicles to enhance operational effectiveness and transparency.

The Permanent Secretary added that addressing the escalating climate crisis and its impact on conflict dynamics is also a pressing priority.

“Greener and safer peacekeeping is a fundamental necessity. Equally vital is our ability to communicate strategically, counter misinformation, and foster trust with the communities we serve,” said Mr. Haamaundu.

He said peacekeeping cannot succeed in isolation and he reaffirmed the value of robust cooperation with regional organizations, as emphasized in the United Nations Security Council Resolution Number 2719.

“Excellencies, colleagues, our task is to collaboratively build a peacekeeping architecture fit for both the present and the future. Let us rise to this occasion with unity and determination,” said Mr.Haamaundu.

Zambia is a major troop contributing country under the United Nations, with a Zambia Army battalion deployed in the Central Africa Republic serving under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

The two-day United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial Conference is a high-level forum aimed at discussing the future of peacekeeping and for Member States to express and demonstrate their support.

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres opened the conference On Tuesday.

Issued by:
Paul Shalala (Mr.)
Principal Public Relations Officer
MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

Five Outstanding Zambian Businesses Win $20,000 Each and Japan Trip Under JICA Joint Empowerment Programme

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Five Outstanding Zambian Businesses Win $20,000 Each and Japan Trip Under JICA Joint Empowerment Programme

Five exceptional Zambian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have each been awarded USD 20,000 in equipment support and an all-expenses-paid business trip to Japan under the Joint Empowerment Programme (JEP), a collaborative initiative between the Zambian Government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The announcement was made during a courtesy call on Zambia’s Ambassador to Japan, Dr. Tobias Mulimbika, by Small and Medium Enterprise Development Permanent Secretary Mrs. Subeta Mutelo, who is leading a Zambian delegation to Japan from 9th to 17th May 2025.

The five winning enterprises—two based in Lusaka, two from the Copperbelt, and one from the Eastern Province—were selected from a competitive pool of 512 applicants who participated in a national pitch contest held on 25th February 2025.

Speaking during the meeting, Mrs. Mutelo emphasized that the JEP initiative is designed to accelerate SME growth through value addition, exposure to global markets, and international partnerships. “This programme demonstrates our commitment to empowering Zambian entrepreneurs and positioning them for both regional and international success,” she stated.

Targeting key sectors such as food processing, the circular economy, wood and wood products, metal fabrication and light engineering, textiles, and leather goods, the JEP programme seeks to enhance innovation, competitiveness, and sustainability among local businesses.

With an estimated budget of ZMW 7.5 million, the programme is largely funded by JICA, which contributed ZMW 7 million, while Zambia’s Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development provided ZMW 500,000.

The five businesses are currently in Japan to engage with Japanese counterparts, explore investment opportunities, and gain insights into advanced manufacturing and business practices.

Ambassador Mulimbika commended the initiative, noting that “programmes like JEP not only deepen the bilateral relationship between Zambia and Japan but also pave the way for meaningful, private sector-led development.”

The JEP continues to serve as a beacon of opportunity for Zambia’s growing SME sector, creating a bridge between local innovation and global markets.

Changing Governments Is Not, In Itself, A Solution To Poverty

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Changing Governments Is Not, In Itself, A Solution To Poverty

The Republican Progressive Party (RPP) acknowledges and agrees with the sentiments expressed by Her Honour the Vice President, Mrs. Mutale Nalumango,during a recent Regional Poverty Reduction and Climate Resilience Conference, where she rightly emphasized that changing governments is not, in itself, a solution to poverty.

Her message, shared on a global platform, was a timely reminder to all participating nations that poverty reduction stems from a shift in mindset, a culture of hard work, and collective responsibility. Which the new dawn government urges.

As a leader speaking on behalf of Zambia, the Vice President’s message resonated not only nationally but internationally, underscoring the fact that sustainable development requires more than political transitions—it requires personal and societal transformation.

We note that the United Party for National Development (UPND) government is making efforts to address poverty through various policies and interventions.

The Republican Progressive Party continues to believe in building a progressive nation by empowering citizens to be innovative, industrious, and resilient. We stand ready to contribute to solutions that uplift the lives of our people—not through empty promises of political change, but through concrete actions, mindset change, and accountable leadership.

Issued by:
Leslie Chikuse
President – Republican Progressive Party (RPP)

The War In Sudan Is Still Happening And The World Has Moved On

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The War In Sudan Is Still Happening And The World Has Moved On

By Kumbirai Thierry Nhamo

Somewhere between the latest tech layoffs, celebrity gossip, and viral TikToks about how to season your trauma with lavender oil and affirmations, a war is still raging in Sudan. Yes, still. Not metaphorically. Not in the abstract. Real bombs, real bodies, real cities reduced to skeletal rubble. Real people, over 13 million of them fleeing from homes that once smelled of spice and promise. But if you blinked, or just scrolled too fast, you probably missed it. That’s not entirely your fault. The world, it seems, moved on like it was just another news cycle. Like Sudan’s suffering expired with the algorithm.

Sudan’s civil war didn’t end because it got boring. It simply got inconvenient. On April 15, 2023, two men, both intoxicated with power and thoroughly uninterested in democracy, turned the capital Khartoum into a battlefield. General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan leads the army (SAF), while his former ally, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Their bromance soured, and like all toxic breakups between armed men, it escalated into carnage. Markets were shelled. Hospitals were bombed. Women were raped. Children starved. Then silence. Not in Sudan, but outside it.

Let’s be honest: the world has a hierarchy of horror. When war breaks out in Ukraine, the headlines scream. When missiles fall on Gaza, people protest. When terror strikes Paris or London, the monuments light up. But when Black bodies pile up in Darfur or Khartoum, the coverage comes slow, if at all. We’ve internalized the idea that African tragedy is ambient noise. It’s just how things are, right? War, famine, coups, it’s the usual rotation on the continent. We gasp briefly, maybe share a thread or two, then scroll on to lighter content. Our silence is not neutral. It’s complicity with a global order that doesn’t believe African lives carry the same emotional weight.

And then there’s the media, bless their sometimes shallow, sometimes exhausted hearts. They love a conflict with a narrative arc. Good guys, bad guys, a tearful reunion, maybe a golden retriever pulled from the rubble. Sudan offers no such simplicity. The warring factions are both drenched in civilian blood. There’s no Zelensky in olive green rallying Western support, no slick press conferences or rousing speeches that go viral. Just endless suffering in a place most editors couldn’t find on a map. It’s hard to sell nuance to a click economy. Tragedy, too, must be marketable.

The irony? Sudan is not some isolated, unknowable place. It’s a nation that stood at the edge of democratic transition not too long ago. In 2019, its people many of them young, many of them women, toppled the 30-year dictatorship of Omar al-Bashir with nothing but protest chants and raw courage. They dreamed out loud. And the world briefly clapped. But soon came the military takeover. And now this war. The democratic dream is bleeding out in the dark, without witnesses.

Meanwhile, the response from the so-called international community has been what you’d expect from a group chat with the read receipts off. The African Union, the United Nations, the Arab League, everyone released a strongly worded statement and then shuffled awkwardly into bureaucratic silence. The U.S. and Europe? Busy with domestic fires or more politically “urgent” conflicts. The 2024 UN humanitarian appeal for Sudan is still billions short. Some countries have sent aid, but not nearly enough to match the scale of need. And sanctions? Please. Both generals are still flying private.

So who’s keeping track? Sudanese journalists are doing the Lord’s work, often at great personal risk, documenting the unspeakable. Refugees are telling their stories, hoping someone with power might listen. Civil society groups are still demanding justice, even as they dodge bullets and bury loved ones. But their WiFi is weak, their platforms small, and their suffering is inconveniently complex. It’s hard to go viral when your city has no electricity.

Here’s the real kicker: the neglect isn’t just about geography or attention spans. It’s about race. We live in a world where empathy is unevenly distributed. Where the skin color of the victim still determines how fast and how fiercely the world responds. If millions of white people had been displaced, we wouldn’t be having this conversation. The appeals would be fully funded. The hashtags would be trending. Governments would trip over themselves to offer asylum. Instead, Sudanese refugees are being turned away at borders, deported, or stuffed into cages in detention centers in Egypt and Europe. Because to much of the world, they are not seen as fleeing war. They are seen as burdens.

Let’s not pretend this is new. In 1994, a million Rwandans died in a genocide while the world watched from a comfortable distance. In 2003, Darfur burned and the global response was performative at best. The cycle of Black death and white silence is old and vicious. But that doesn’t mean we can’t break it.

Because we are the world, too. The algorithms don’t force themselves on us. The headlines follow our clicks. The outrage follows our noise. If the war in Sudan has fallen off the radar, it’s because we let it. And while none of us can stop the bombs, all of us can push back against the silence. We can ask why our governments aren’t doing more. We can demand better coverage. We can amplify Sudanese voices instead of speaking over them.

The war in Sudan is not over. Children are still dying in makeshift camps. Pregnant women are giving birth in bombed-out schools. Families are eating leaves to survive. This isn’t yesterday’s news. It’s today’s reality. And unless we find the will to care, it will also be tomorrow’s shame.

Kumbirai Thierry Nhamo is a Social Justice Activist and a Writer.

Request of investigation to ACC against Minister of Defence Ambrose Lufuma, ZNS Commander Lt Gen Maliti Solochi and Deputy Commander Maj Gen Reuben Mwewa, as well as the ZCCM-IH Board of Directors

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Request of investigation to ACC against Minister of Defence Ambrose Lufuma, ZNS Commander Lt Gen Maliti Solochi and Deputy Commander Maj Gen Reuben Mwewa, as well as the ZCCM-IH Board of Directors

Request of investigation to ACC against Minister of Defence Ambrose Lufuma, ZNS Commander Lt Gen Maliti Solochi and Deputy Commander Maj Gen Reuben Mwewa, as well as the ZCCM-IH Board of Directors By an official letter dated 11 May 2025, as President of ZCCM Defense, I requested the Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate the suspicious conducts of Zambia National Service and Zambian Army.

1. Mushe Milling
Indeed, we have been informed by high-placed Zambians that the Zambia National Service has illegally diverted and operates ZCCM-IH’s Mushe Milling mill without any authorisation for more than a year.

Where does the produced mealie meal go ? What is happening there ? The price of mealie mill is astronomical and continues to raise… Are high ranking military officers involved in speculation to line their own pockets ? Who is making money off of the
Shareholders of ZCCM-IH with Mushe Milling ? Many unanswered questions…

The Army’s takeover of the mill is highly fraudulent ; everything is hidden, even though ZCCM-IH is the sole owner and legal operator of Mushe Milling.Beyond the major risk of misappropriation due to the opacity of the operations, the takeover by the armed wing of the Zambian state of one of the assets of a company listed on various international Stock Exchanges is totally illegal.

What is most surprising is that the Management of ZCCM-IH did not inform the Shareholders during the last AGM that the Company was being defrauded. We also requested the Commission to launch investigations at ZCCM-IH to find out who had an interest
in censoring this information and who the accomplices within ZCCM-IH are.

2. Kasenseli Mine
At the time of the closure of the Kasenseli gold mine, which according to Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe was to last just one month, the Zambia National Service and Zambian Army were responsible for guarding the mine. Yet the fences were strangely ransacked and Jerabos have mined gold. Worse still, the Zambian army was even accused of mining the gold during the long
years of closure according to testimonials on social networks. In response to the uproar and accusations, three ZNS officers were fired for illegal gold mining (1)

We pointed out the many suspicious acts at Kasenseli in our press release. “What is going on at Kasenseli gold mine ? Who is harming ZCCM-IH and Zambia’s interests ?” (3)

3. Recurrence of embezzlement in the Army
Last year, the Press has reported that the ACC was investigating the Zambia Army and Ministry of Defense for corruption and money laundering over a payment of US$5.3 million to kenyan DLS (2).

4. Request of investigations
It seems that there is a lot of malpractice linked to the Army. This is why, to safeguard the interests of ZCCM-IH shareholders, I requested the Commission to launch thorough investigations against Minister of Defense Ambrose Lufuma, ZNS Commander Lt Gen Maliti Solochi and deputy Commander Maj Gen Reuben Mwewa, as well as against ZCCM-IH’s Board of Directors, which is strangely turning a blind eye to this spoliation, is flouting the rules of listed companies and is not acting to defend the interests of the Company and its shareholders.

Issued by :
Thierry CHARLES
President of ZCCM Defense
14 May 2025, FRANCE
[email protected]

(1) https://www.lusakatimes.com/2023/03/01/zns-officers-fired-for-illegal-gold-mining-at-
kasenseli/
(2) https://zambianobserver.com/acc-is-investigating-the-zambia-army-and-ministry-of-defence-
for-corruption-and-money-laundering-over-a-payment-of-us5-3-million/
(3) https://www.lusakatimes.com/2023/11/12/what-is-going-on-at-kasenseli-gold-mine/

Can Kratom Help with Weight Loss?

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Can Kratom Help with Weight Loss?

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is widely known for its stimulating, pain-relieving, and mood-enhancing effects. But can it also support weight loss? Some users report reduced appetite and increased energy, leading to speculation about its role in weight management.

While kratom is not a traditional weight loss supplement, it may indirectly help by suppressing appetite, boosting energy, and improving mood and motivation. For those struggling with emotional eating, fatigue, or lack of focus, kratom could be a useful tool in maintaining a healthier lifestyle.

This guide explores how kratom may contribute to weight loss, the best strains for appetite control, and how to use it effectively.

How Kratom May Support Weight Loss

Kratom’s impact on weight loss comes down to four key factors: appetite suppression, increased energy, mood enhancement, and improved focus.

Appetite Suppression

Many users notice a decrease in appetite, leading to lower calorie intake throughout the day. This effect can be particularly helpful for those who struggle with overeating or snacking between meals.

Increased Energy and Metabolism

Certain kratom strains, especially White and Green veins, provide a natural energy boost. This increased stamina makes it easier to stay active, whether through workouts or daily movement. A higher energy output can naturally support fat burning and weight management over time.

Mood Enhancement and Emotional Eating Control

Kratom influences dopamine and serotonin levels, which help regulate mood and stress levels. People who experience stress-related cravings or emotional eating may find that kratom helps them feel more balanced and in control, reducing the urge to snack impulsively.

Improved Focus and Motivation

Lack of motivation can derail even the best weight loss efforts. Many kratom users report feeling more focused and driven, making it easier to stick to a workout routine or maintain a healthy diet. The added mental clarity may also help with making better food choices.

Best Kratom Strains for Weight Loss

Not all kratom strains work the same way. Some are highly stimulating, while others promote relaxation. Choosing the right strain depends on individual needs and how kratom fits into a weight loss plan.

White Vein Kratom (Best for Energy and Focus)

If the goal is to boost energy and increase motivation, White vein kratom is the best choice. White Maeng Da is one of the strongest, providing a powerful energy boost and increased endurance, making it great for pre-workout use.

White Thai is another solid option, offering long-lasting focus and motivation, perfect for those needing a mental and physical lift.

Green Vein Kratom (Balanced Energy and Appetite Suppression)

For a milder, more balanced approach, Green vein kratom provides both stimulation and relaxation. Green Malay is known for its sustained energy boost with mild appetite suppression, making it a great all-day option.

Green Maeng Da offers a stronger mix of stimulation and relaxation, reducing stress-induced cravings while keeping energy levels high. Red Vein Kratom (Best for Stress and Emotional Eating Control)

If stress and emotional eating are the biggest obstacles, Red vein kratom may help. Red Bali kratom is popular for promoting relaxation and reducing binge-eating tendencies. For those who struggle with anxiety-driven cravings, Red Borneo helps stabilize mood and decrease stress-related hunger.

How to Use Kratom for Weight Loss

Using kratom effectively means choosing the right dose, timing, and consumption method.

Recommended Dosage for Appetite Suppression

The effects of kratom vary depending on the amount consumed. Lower doses tend to be stimulating, while higher doses lead to sedation, which may reduce cravings but can also cause drowsiness.

A low dose (1-3 grams) is ideal for boosting energy and focus. A moderate dose (3-5 grams) provides a balance between stimulation and appetite control. Higher doses above 5 grams may help with stress eating but could lead to fatigue, making them less ideal for daytime use.

Best Times to Take Kratom

Taking kratom in the morning or before workouts can enhance energy and motivation, helping users stay active throughout the day. Consuming kratom pills, extracts or powders before meals may assist with appetite suppression, making it easier to control portion sizes.

Consumption Methods

How kratom is consumed affects how quickly it takes effect and how strong it feels. The toss and wash method is the fastest, delivering effects in 15-30 minutes. Kratom tea is gentler on digestion while still working efficiently. Capsules offer convenience, but take longer to kick in due to the time needed for digestion. Kratom shots and kratom extracts typically deliver the fastest results.

By selecting the right strain, dosage, and consumption method, kratom can be a helpful tool in a weight management routine. However, it’s important to use kratom responsibly and pair it with a healthy diet and active lifestyle for the best results.

Scientific Perspective: Does Kratom Really Promote Weight Loss?

While scientific evidence is limited, anecdotal reports from users consistently mention reduced appetite, increased motivation, and enhanced physical activity when taking certain kratom strains. Many claim that White and Green vein strains help them stay more active and focused, indirectly contributing to weight management.

However, without clinical trials, kratom’s role in metabolism regulation and long-term weight loss effects remains uncertain. More research is needed to determine whether kratom can be considered a reliable weight management tool beyond user experiences.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Using Kratom for Weight Loss

While kratom may support energy levels and appetite control, using it specifically for weight loss comes with certain risks.

  • Dehydration: Kratom has mild diuretic effects, meaning it may lead to increased fluid loss. Without proper hydration, users may experience dry mouth, dizziness, or fatigue.

  • Loss of Appetite and Nutritional Deficiencies: Since kratom can suppress hunger, long-term use without proper nutritional intake could lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals.

  • Increased Tolerance: Frequent kratom use may lead to tolerance buildup, reducing its effectiveness over time. This can lead to higher doses being required to achieve the same appetite-suppressing effects.

  • Digestive Issues: Some users report nausea, constipation, or stomach discomfort when taking kratom, especially in high doses. These side effects may impact digestion and overall well-being.

To minimize risks, it’s best to rotate strains regularly to prevent tolerance buildup. Kratom should be used in moderation and alongside a balanced diet to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Taking occasional breaks can help prevent dependency and ensure long-term safety.

Comparing Kratom to Other Weight Loss Supplements

Kratom is not the only natural supplement that people use for energy and appetite suppression. Here’s how it compares to other common weight loss aids:

Kratom vs. Caffeine

Both kratom and caffeine boost energy and focus, but caffeine often causes jitters, crashes, and increased heart rate. Kratom provides a smoother, more controlled energy boost without the same level of overstimulation.

Kratom vs. Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract is rich in antioxidants and supports metabolism by increasing fat oxidation. However, it does not influence mood and appetite suppression in the same way kratom does.

Kratom vs. Prescription Weight Loss Medications

Prescription weight loss drugs undergo clinical testing and are FDA-approved but often come with stronger side effects such as nausea, anxiety, or heart complications. Kratom, while natural, lacks official approval and long-term safety data, making it a more experimental option.

Is Kratom a Safe and Effective Weight Loss Aid?

Kratom is not a magic weight loss pill, but it may be a helpful tool when combined with a healthy lifestyle. It works best when used alongside proper diet, hydration, and regular exercise rather than as a standalone weight loss solution.

Since its long-term effects are still unclear, responsible use is essential. Those considering kratom for weight management should start with low doses, avoid excessive use, and monitor their body’s response.

For individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or concerns about kratom’s effects, consulting a healthcare professional before use is highly recommended.

References:

  1. Striley CW, Hoeflich CC, Viegas AT, Berkowitz LA, Matthews EG, Akin LP, Iheanyi-Okeahialam C, Mansoor U, McCurdy CR. Health Effects Associated With Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) and Polysubstance Use: A Narrative Review. Subst Abuse. 2022 May 20;16:11782218221095873. doi: 10.1177/11782218221095873. PMID: 35645563; PMCID: PMC9130800.

  2. Vicknasingam B, Chooi WT, Rahim AA, Ramachandram D, Singh D, Ramanathan S, Yusof NSM, Zainal H, Murugaiyah V, Gueorguieva R, Mansor SM, Chawarski MC. Kratom and Pain Tolerance: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Study. Yale J Biol Med. 2020 Jun 29;93(2):229-238. PMID: 32607084; PMCID: PMC7309661.

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