Celebration with a Cause

Mukobela turns birthday into community service, demonstrating leadership through tangible support for mothers and infants while giving back to families and improving maternal care services

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia24 (10th October 2025) — United Party for National Development (UPND) aspiring candidate for Matero Constituency, Evans Mukobela, marked his birthday by donating baby hampers and essential supplies to new mothers at Matero Level One Hospital.

Mukobela chose to spend the day with mothers and newborns instead of holding a private celebration, emphasizing community service as a key aspect of leadership.

“Many people celebrate birthdays with parties, but I wanted today to support those who need it most,” Mukobela said.

He thanked hospital management and staff for coordinating the event, noting that the hospital serves as a critical facility for mothers and infants in Matero.

“Matero is where I was born and raised. Today, I wanted to celebrate by sharing this moment with mothers and their newborns,” Mukobela said.

Matero Level One Hospital is one of the few facilities in the constituency with a functioning maternity ward, providing care to families from across the area. 

Mukobela highlighted the hospital’s role in serving the wider community, as smaller clinics in the area do not offer maternity services.

The donated hampers contained essential items for newborn care, aimed at easing postnatal needs for mothers.

Senior Nursing Officer Jane Botha described the gesture as meaningful.

“These are exceptional moments. Most people celebrate privately, but today we share joy with the babies and their families,” Botha said.

“We appreciate Mr. Mukobela’s kindness and hope it inspires others to give back.”

Veronica Tembo, a mother who received a hamper, expressed gratitude.

“These items will help us care for our babies. It is encouraging to see someone think of the community first,” Tembo said.

Observers described Mukobela’s initiative as a model of community-focused leadership.

“Matero has given me everything. Spending my birthday with these families is my way of giving back,” Mukobela said.

“This is not about politics — it is about compassion and service.”

The event concluded with hospital staff and mothers expressing appreciation, highlighting the role of community engagement in improving maternal and child welfare in Matero.