Mukobela Donates to Progress Disabilities
…The Matero aspirant provides food relief to vulnerable people at the Progress Disabilities Organization in Lima Ward 30.
By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 – (5-09-2024) — Matero Constituency aspiring candidate Evans Mukobela has continued his advocacy for vulnerable communities, this time by donating assorted foodstuffs to residents of the Progress Disabilities Organization in Lima Ward 30.
The donation, which included maize meal, cooking oil, and other essentials, was aimed at alleviating food insecurity among the differently-abled individuals supported by the organization.
During the handover ceremony, Mukobela reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing the needs of those with disabilities, a group often overlooked in political promises and development agendas.
“It is disheartening to see that differently-abled people continue to be marginalized. My contribution today is a small step in addressing their immediate needs, but my long-term plan is to make their concerns a key part of my agenda if elected,” Mukobela said.
He took a moment to express gratitude to those working behind the scenes to uplift the community. “I want to take a moment to appreciate and recognize our friends who are doing a great job for us.
We are where we are today because of them, and it’s important to acknowledge their efforts,” Mukobela said.
Addressing the crowd, Mukobela focused on the strength of the community and the role of prayer. “Today, I stand here to address our mothers and fathers.
The president may be briefing you, but it’s the power of prayers that has brought us here,” he noted, adding, “The president is working hard in China, while we continue our work here. We are here to serve you because that’s our goal.”
Mukobela also praised Mr. Bellington Seti, Chairman of the Progress Disabilities Organization, for his dedicated service.
“I want to acknowledge Mr. Bellington Seti. He has done a lot for this community. Without his dedication and research, we wouldn’t be making the progress we are today.”
He went on to stress his deep understanding of the challenges facing the community. “I understand your problems, and I carry them on my shoulders.
That’s why I’m here—to make sure your issues are addressed. This time, we are saying we don’t need outsiders to represent us in Matero Constituency. We need someone who lives here and understands our challenges, not someone unfamiliar with our community,” Mukobela emphasized.
Mukobela further underscored his commitment to the people, stating, “I’m here to serve you. I will never seek an adoption certificate if I can’t demonstrate my commitment to helping you.
If I fail, it means I’m not worthy of being called a leader. But I need to prove myself through action. This is what I am doing. Even if I apply for an adoption certificate, I will get it because I have shown I am worth it. I am here to serve the good people of Matero, and I will continue to do so with dedication.”
He concluded by reiterating his loyalty to the current administration, while encouraging the people to remain steadfast in their support.
“I want to take this opportunity to say that we are not trying to bring down the government. Your time is coming. We will stand firm and protect the president. We are committed to defending the leadership because the power belongs to you, the people. The president is smart and continues to push for progress, and we will do everything in our power to support that.”
The donation has sparked a broader conversation about the role of political aspirants in addressing systemic challenges facing the disabled community. While some argue that such acts of charity are noble, others question whether this gesture is enough to tackle the deep-rooted issues of accessibility, healthcare, and social inclusion for persons with disabilities.
Critics contend that sporadic donations only provide temporary relief, failing to address the structural challenges that impede the full participation of differently-abled individuals in society.
“This is certainly a kind gesture, but what happens after the food runs out?” asked one community member who wished to remain anonymous. “We need policies that ensure long-term support, not just handouts during election seasons.”
Mukobela, however, countered these claims by stressing that his efforts extend beyond charitable donations.
He emphasized that his focus, if elected, would be on enacting policies that prioritize healthcare, education, and employment opportunities for people with disabilities in Matero Constituency.
“The donations are only the beginning. My goal is to push for comprehensive disability-inclusive policies at the local government level,” he stated.
The Progress Disabilities Organization, which houses over 70 individuals, expressed gratitude for Mukobela’s support.
Bellington Seti commended Mukobela for his generosity and criticized the current leadership for failing to meet the needs of the community.
“The people in this area are not benefiting from the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) because the MP appears not to care about the needs here.
Despite not being in office, Mukobela has shown his affection for the people,” Seti said.
Seti further highlighted that Mukobela’s gesture is the first of its kind in the area, where persons with disabilities have often been neglected.
“What are my thoughts on this? Well, I am very happy because for so long, we have been neglected as people with disabilities. What happened today feels like a miracle. An aspiring candidate has come to George Compound and done something significant for us,” Seti said.
He continued, “We are grateful for his actions today, and I know he is still pushing to assist other organizations. We need all stakeholders to come together to address the challenges facing vulnerable people, especially those with disabilities. They are lacking many things.”
Seti also criticized the current councilors, noting that they do not even come to sensitize the people about the existence of CDF, emphasizing the need for a representative who truly cares for the community.
Philimon Shumba of Lima Ward 30 praised Mukobela for demonstrating exceptional leadership. “Mukobela has shown great leadership by coming here and addressing the needs of our community.
The organization looks after many people in need, and what he has done today has never happened before. Even our current councilors do not visit to sensitize the people about the existence of CDF. We need a representative who always has the people at heart,” Shumba said.
Rotaria Banda also weighed in, urging Mukobela to continue his efforts. “I urge the candidate not to relent from doing good. He should not stop what he had started,” Banda said, reinforcing the need for continued support and dedication to the community.
About Hon. Evans Mukobela
Hon. Evans Mukobela is an aspiring candidate for Matero Constituency, running under the United Party for National Development (UPND).
With a strong commitment to social justice and community development, he has been actively involved in local initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Matero residents.
Mukobela’s campaign is rooted in the principles of inclusivity and representation, particularly focusing on marginalized groups, including the differently-abled.
His hands-on approach and dedication to understanding the specific needs of his constituents have earned him respect and support within the community.
Hon. Mukobela’s vision is to create a more equitable Matero where every resident has the opportunity to thrive.