Kutaba Podcast

Season 2 Episode 10: Rethinking Grassroots Education with Sinai Community School

Education is more than classrooms it is the foundation of community transformation. Since 1996, Sinai Community School in Chazanga, Lusaka, has been committed to breaking barriers by offering affordable, inclusive, and high-quality learning Guided by the motto "Set free to learn", Sinai community school nurtures learners to become responsible citizens equipped for a rapidly changing world. In this episode, we were honoured to host Mr. Elias Khondowe, the School Coordinator whose career journey from mining and banking to education reflects resilience and leadership. For the past five years, Mr Elias has strengthened Sinai's systems, empowered staff and ensured smooth operations all with the goal of giving every child an equal opportunity to thrive. Join us as we explore how grassroots education is shaping Zambia's future and why investing in schools like Sinai community school is key to sustainable development.

Season 2 Episode 9: Breaking Barriers Rethinking Primary Dysmenorrhea

We were honored to host Dr. Nachizya Edith Namukanga, a passionate public health researcher whose work is transforming how we understand and respond to adolescent health in Zambia. Her focus is on Primary dysmenorrhea a silent but widespread challenge that affects countless adolescent girls. Dr. Namukanga's journey began not in a lab, but in classrooms where she witnessed girls quietly battling pain, missing exams and even leaving school altogether. What makes her research remarkable is her approach as she doesn't see girls as subjects, but as partners. Through participatory workshops, co-designed tools and open community dialogues, she ensures that their lived experiences directly shape interventions, policies and advocacy. This episode is more than a conversation about health it's about agency, dignity and the power of listening to young women's voices.

Season 2 Episode 8: Championing Equity Aquila Ng'onga on Tax, Climate and Gender Justice

We were honored to host Aquila Ng'onga a development and policy practitioner championing tax justice, gender equality, climate action and accountable resource governance. Guided by the belief that systems must answer to the people they impact most, Aquila blends economic expertise with real world advocacy from leading national research and budget analysis to shaping policy conversations at the highest levels. Currently a Project Coordinator at ActionAid Zambia, Aquila drives work on responsible minerals, gender inclusion and climate justice, while representing Zambia on regional and global platforms. This is a conversation about power, justice, and building systems that work for everyone. #KUTABAPodcast #Policy #ClimateJustice #TaxJustice #GenderEquality #Zambia #Leadership

Season 2 Episode 7: The White Rose Foundation transforming lives and empowering communities with Dr. In'utu Lubinda

Dr. Lubinda is a medical doctor and community impact leader dedicated to advancing equitable opportunities for underserved children and youths and she is the Founder of the White Rose Foundation which is a nonprofit organization committed to promoting equitable quality education and creating learning opportunities for disadvantaged children and youths. Its mission is to empower underprivileged young people to become self-reliant and contributing members of their communities. The foundation focuses on three key areas: •  Education: Providing school supplies and STEM programs to spark imagination and prepare children for future opportunities. •  Entrepreneurship: Equipping young people with financial knowledge, confidence, and entrepreneurial skills. •  Health: Delivering basic health services and education to underserved communities, bridging barriers to education. Since its inception, the foundation has donated over 1,500 essential school supplies, empowered hundreds of children with practical skills and continues to foster sustainable social progress. Her leadership philosophy is rooted in intentional service, excellence and capacity building transforming lives and building resilient communities. In 2023, she was recognized with the Zee women's banking catalyst for change Award by ZANACO for her outstanding contribution to education and skills development.

Season 2 : Episode 6 Stoma Care Zambia: A Voice for the Unspoken

In this episode we have a candid discussion with Benjamin Lungu who is one of the inspiring founders behind Stoma Care Zambia, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals living with stomas. A stoma is a surgically created opening on the abdomen that allows waste (stool or urine) to leave the body when the normal route is not possible due to illness, injury, or surgery. It can be lifesaving, but it also comes with challenges. Benjamin's vision has been to create a safe space where patients can find not only medical guidance but also emotional strength, community, and dignity in their journey. He understands that beyond the surgery and treatment, patients need ongoing support to live confidently and without stigma. At Stoma Care Zambia, the team works tirelessly to: •  Educate and raise awareness about stomas, helping patients, families, and communities understand what they are and how to care for them. •  Provide peer support networks, where people living with stomas can share experiences, encourage one another, and break the silence around this condition. •  Advocate for access to essential ostomy products, such as stoma bags and skin care supplies, which are often difficult to find or afford in Zambia. •  Empower patients to live independently, with dignity and confidence, by challenging stigma and misconceptions. Through Benjamin's leadership and the dedication of his colleagues, Stoma Care Zambia is transforming lives turning what many see as a burden into an opportunity for resilience, hope, and community.