By TROY MUKUPA
Silwizya Ward, Lusaka Central – A throng of enthusiastic faces, clad in the fervor of hope and change, gathered at Nit Quest Events on Sunday as Gabriel Kaoma, affectionately known as ‘Mungeli’, took center stage.
The aspiring councilor was met with thunderous chants of “Pali Mungeli” (a name residents of Silwizya Ward have given him for his community work) as he arrived, setting the tone for a rousing interaction meeting that would see him garner the support of Silwizya Ward 13’s youths, women, and elderly in his bid for the ward’s councilorship.
The meeting, which brought together a cross-section of residents from Silwizya Ward’s polling stations (Northmead A, Northmead B, and Thornpark), provided a platform for Kaoma to engage with constituents and discuss issues affecting the ward.
The turnout was overwhelming, with residents eager to express their endorsement of Kaoma’s councilorship bid and share their vision for a better Silwizya Ward 13.
“The youths have confidence in Kaoma’s ability to drive development in the ward,” said Andrew Mwansa, a youth, in an interview, citing Kaoma’s dedication to improving the area even before he gets into office.
“He understands our needs and is committed to creating opportunities for young people. Having someone like him in a leadership role will inspire and motivate us to participate in the development of our community,” Mwansa added.
Mary Tembo, a marketeer at Northmead Market, praised Kaoma’s initiatives, including the zero-interest revolving empowerment loans offered through the Gabriel Kaoma Foundation, which have benefited women in the ward.
“These initiatives are a game-changer for our community, as they provide women with the necessary capital to boost their businesses and improve their livelihoods,” Tembo said.
Tembo also commended Kaoma’s garbage collection efforts, including the donation of a canter truck in the ward, and his logistical support during funerals.
“The garbage collection initiative has significantly improved our community’s sanitation and overall aesthetic appeal. It’s a testament to his commitment to transforming Silwizya Ward 13 into a model community. We are grateful for his dedication to enhancing our quality of life,” she added.
In a heartwarming gesture, Kaoma, under the humanitarian arm of the Gabriel Kaoma Foundation, donated walkers and cratches to the elderly at the event, aimed at assisting them with mobility challenges.
The gesture was met with applause and praise from senior citizens in attendance, who expressed their gratitude for Kaoma’s thoughtfulness and commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable members of the community.
In response, Kaoma expressed gratitude for the support, promising to deliver on his promises and work tirelessly for the betterment of Silwizya Ward 13.
“I am humbled by the trust you have placed in me, and I promise to serve with diligence and dedication once we get into office. I promise you, we won’t disappoint,” he said.
The endorsement comes as Kaoma seeks the councilorship position in Silwizya Ward 13, with many residents looking to him to bring positive change to the ward.
