Lions Club Spreads Cheer at Chinama

... Zone 8 members bring festive joy to hospital patients and pledge to continue executing signature projects that impact the community

By Francis Maingaila 

Lusaka, Zambia –  (14-12-2024) - Zone 8 Lions Club of Lusaka carried out its annual Christmas Cheer Initiative at Chinama Hospital, uplifting over 150 patients with festive joy and essential support. 

This event reflects the club's unwavering commitment to addressing health and social welfare needs in the community.

Spreading Festive Cheer and Support

Lions Club President Ln. Chishimba Chansa Mazokera described the initiative as a heartfelt way to connect with the vulnerable during the holiday season. 

"This program ensures no one feels forgotten or isolated during Christmas. It’s our way of showing that the community cares," she said.

Mazokera added that the initiative goes beyond material donations, focusing on emotional support and building a sense of belonging for patients. 

"It’s about reminding people that they are valued members of society," she explained.

Fostering Resilience Through Holistic Programs

During the event, the Lions Club provided warm meals, essential items, and words of encouragement. Beyond the festive season, the club is committed to youth empowerment through its Lions Quest program. 

This initiative equips young people with life skills and educates them on avoiding risky behaviors.

“Investing in youth means securing a brighter future for our communities,” Mazokera emphasized.

Tackling Zambia’s Pressing Health Issues

Service Chairperson Lions Ndonano Siuluta highlighted the club's efforts to combat food insecurity, diabetes, and HIV through various outreach programs. 

One key project, the Chinama Project, focuses on alleviating hunger, while campaigns in Makeni target diabetes and HIV awareness and care.

Siuluta also discussed the club’s commitment to eye health, noting October as a month dedicated to free screenings in Kamanga and nearby areas. 

She praised healthcare workers, especially those caring for patients with mental health challenges, stating, “We are inspired by their tireless efforts and proud to support their mission.”

Siuluta emphasized the importance of collaboration, applauding the Zambian government for fostering an enabling environment for such initiatives.

Reflecting on mental health care, Siuluta noted improvements but called for greater investment in facilities for the elderly and individuals with mental health conditions. 

“We must expand support systems to ensure dignity and care for all,” She urged.

Collective Action for a Better Zambia

Zone 8 Lions Club of Lusaka’s Christmas Cheer Initiative and its year-round programs showcase the transformative power of collective action. 

She said through these efforts, the club continues to address Zambia’s most pressing social challenges, bringing hope and positive change to communities in need.

Planning for Long-Term Community Impact

District 413 Governor Welly Chikuka urged clubs to focus on early planning for more effective execution of community projects.

“Strategic planning ensures that initiatives are impactful and sustainable,” he said.

Chikuka also encouraged leaders to revive paused programs like the Casi Project and collaborate with the media to highlight their work and keep the public informed.

Empowering the Marginalized:

Leos Vice President Dalitso Mutange spoke about the club’s dedication to assisting vulnerable groups, including individuals with disabilities and those struggling with addiction. 

“Our goal is to provide mentorship and create spaces where people feel supported,” Mutange shared.

The Leos group plans to continue regular outreach efforts to address issues affecting marginalized communities, fostering a more inclusive society.

Strengthening Partnerships and Advocacy

The Lions Club’s community programs are sustained by contributions from members and corporate sponsors.