Eric Liswaniso, Programs Manager, Malaria-Free Zambia
When we launched Partners for a Malaria-Free Zambia (PMFZ) in March of 2021, one of our objectives was to establish a Rotary club in at least one of the districts we would be serving. On 15 June, that objective became a reality with the chartering of the Rotary Club of Mpika.
This milestone is particularly significant as it coincides with the 30 June closing of the Programs of Scale project and its hand over to the Rotary Healthy Communities Challenge. The timing couldn’t be more perfect as the establishment of the Rotary Club of Mpika gives us hope that our initiatives in Mpika and surrounding districts will be sustained under its stewardship.
The journey to this moment has been anchored on the collective effort and dedication of the residents of Mpika, members of the Rotary Club of Kasama, Past Assistant Governor Martha Lungu, and myself. Special mention is due to our selfless District 9210 Governor Gabriel Chipara who has been a constant source of guidance and support to the steering team from the very beginning. In fact, DG Gabs, as we fondly call him, traveled all the way from Harare, Zimbabwe to Mpika in the northern region of Zambia early this year to encourage the then-prospective members of the club. His support and encouragement have been a driving force behind this achievement.
DG Gabs also made the long trek up north to officiate at the charter night. The PMFZ project through Malaria Partners Zambia supported the orientation training of all prospective members, ensuring they are well-prepared to uphold the values and mission of Rotary. Throughout the life of the project, Rotary volunteers have been at the heart of our advocacy, mentorship, and technical support efforts. Their contributions have been invaluable in driving forward our mission to combat malaria and improve health outcomes in the region.
Throughout its life, the project has strengthened existing Rotary clubs in Zambia and contributed to their growth and sustainability. The project has engaged more than 130 Rotary and Rotaract members from across the country. PMFZ played a key role in integrating members of the newly chartered Rotary clubs of Solwezi and Samfya, enhancing members’ Rotary experience.
In addition, PMFZ has inspired and contributed to successful small grant applications from Malaria Partners International for the Rotaract Club of Lusaka and the Rotary clubs of Samfya and Kasama. Their efforts are crucial in sustaining the gains achieved by the project.
To us, the charter of the Rotary Club of Mpika is timely and significant for the sustainability of our work in Muchinga province. Having laid the foundation for a healthier, malaria-free future, we will continue to support and nurture the new club, ensuring that the seeds we have planted grow into a robust and vibrant force for good in Mpika and beyond.
About the author: Eric Liswaniso spent 10 years in public service before joining Malaria Partners Zambia, which is part of Malaria Partners International founded by Rotary members to eliminate malaria. He’s using his passion for Rotary and his experience in socioeconomic development, project management, and community engagement to raise awareness and inspire people to become advocates for a malaria-free Zambia. Read this previous post by Liswaniso and learn more about Rotary’s Programs of Scale.
https://blog.rotary.org/2024/08/13/rotary-club-in-mpika-continues-work-of-malaria-free-zambia/