The PACE Initiative

Beware of junkies

Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings when encountering individuals who may be under the influence of drugs or involved in substance abuse, known as junkies. Such individuals can sometimes behave unpredictably due to impaired judgment, heightened aggression, or desperation. Maintaining situational awareness is important for personal safety.

In some cases, these individuals may carry various objects that could be used as weapons, either for self-defense, intimidation, or criminal activity. Younger individuals who are aggressive or heavily intoxicated may react impulsively to situations that might otherwise seem ordinary. Because of this, their behavior can quickly escalate without warning.

For your own safety, it is advisable to keep a reasonable distance, avoid confrontation, and remain calm. If a situation feels unsafe, the best course of action is to remove yourself from the area and seek assistance if necessary. Being cautious, observant, and respectful of potential risks can help reduce the chances of harm in unpredictable environments.

゚viralシ

Breaking News

A young boy from Chipulukusu named Musonda has been found this evening after reportedly getting lost in the area. Concerned community members quickly stepped in to ensure his safety, and he has now been taken to the police station, where officers are providing protection and assistance while efforts are being made to locate his parents or guardians.

Authorities are currently trying to identify and contact his family so that he can be safely reunited with them as soon as possible. If anyone knows the child, his family, or has any information that may help reach his parents or guardians, you are kindly encouraged to come forward.

For more information or if you believe you may know the child or his family, please contact the following number: 0976824625.

Please help share this message within the community so that Musonda can quickly find his way back home to his family.

Invited discussion:

We must shift our mindset as citizens. Leadership at ward level is not about saying, “Honourable, give me money.” That is a misunderstanding of how governance works.

We elected Councillors to represent our interests in the ward, not to distribute cash to individuals. A Councillor is essentially the “president” of the ward in terms of representation. However, they do not personally control government funds, nor do they operate a private budget they can dish out at will. Their authority is procedural and representative, not financial in a personal sense.

The real transformation at ward level depends on the synergy between:

Councillors

Ward Development Committees (WDCs)

These two structures are the primary drivers of grassroots development.

Role of the WDC

The WDC is responsible for:

Identifying and assessing community problems

Prioritizing developmental needs

Collecting community input

Submitting structured proposals

They are the diagnostic and planning arm at community level.

Role of the Councillor

The Councillor:

Represents ward proposals at council level

Tables development priorities before the CDF committee

Advocates for allocation of funds

Influences approval processes within council structures

In simple governance terms:
The WDC identifies. The Councillor represents. The Council approves and implements.

On CDF and Local Authority

The Constituency Development Fund (CDF) is a structured public fund governed through committees and regulatory frameworks. It is not personal money for a Councillor to control arbitrarily. It passes through formal approval systems.

Similarly, matters like town sanitation, waste management, and general municipal services fall under the local authority, operating under the Mayor and Town Clerk.

For example:

In Ndola, municipal operations are overseen by the Jones Kalyati (Mayor) and the Town Clerk.

Councillors operate within that municipal governance framework.

That is why the title is “Councillor” — they are part of the Council system, but they do not individually control the treasury. Their influence is legislative and representational, not executive in a financial sense.

Clarifying the Role of the President and MP

We must also separate governance scales.

1. The President operates at national executive level.

2. The Member of Parliament (MP) operates at national legislative level.

Their responsibilities are broader, policy, national budgeting, legislation, not direct ward-level project ex*****on.

Blaming an MP for every stalled local project, without understanding the administrative chain, can sometimes be political propaganda rather than fact-based analysis.

Civic Education Matters

Development requires:

Professionalism

Advocacy

Community participation

Education

Empowerment

This is the essence of the P.A.C.E Initiative (Professionalism, Advocacy, Community, Education and Empowerment).

When citizens understand governance structures, accountability becomes clearer. Instead of demanding cash from leaders, we demand transparency, proper reporting, and visible project implementation.

This message is purely for civic education and awareness.

Good morning everyone.

For the sake of our safety, unity, and peace of mind, I would like to address an important issue that concerns all of us. In this digital age, information moves extremely fast. Unfortunately, so does misinformation. It is therefore critical that we remain cautious about the content we consume and share across platforms such as WhatsApp, TikTok, and Facebook.

Before posting, forwarding, or commenting on any sensitive matter, especially those involving national issues, let us make it a habit to verify facts from credible and authoritative sources. Spreading unverified information can create unnecessary panic, confusion, and tension within our communities.

In particular, there has been widespread circulation of claims suggesting that the government rejected a US$1 billion health funding package. I would like to clearly state that this information is false and appears to be based on a misunderstanding. Yesterday, government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa publicly dismissed these allegations and cautioned members of the public against sharing misleading narratives. He emphasized the importance of relying on verified information from credible news outlets and official government communication channels.

As responsible citizens, we have a duty to promote truth, stability, and informed dialogue. Let us avoid speculation, emotional reactions, and unverified claims. Instead, let us uphold professionalism and diplomacy in our discussions, both online and offline.

Let us remain calm, informed, and responsible.

Ernest David Kaonga
The P.A.C.E Initiative
(Professionalism, Advocacy, Community, Education and Empowerment)

People in our communities, especially those who genuinely desire change, often speak passionately about the need for good governance. But very few take time to interrogate what actually produces good governance. There is a widespread assumption that it is solely the responsibility of those who occupy public office. We expect leaders, councillors, Members of Parliament, and government officials to deliver transformation while we remain passive observers.

In reality, governance is not a one-sided function. It is a shared ecosystem. Sustainable development emerges when citizens actively collaborate with those in authority. When communities participate in public consultations, monitor projects, demand accountability constructively, pay their civic obligations, and contribute ideas, they shift from being mere beneficiaries to becoming partners in development. That partnership is the foundation of meaningful governance.

Development does not begin in national headlines; it begins at the grassroots, within wards, compounds, and neighborhoods. When citizens engage with Ward Development Committees, attend stakeholder meetings, and understand policy processes, they bring development closer to their homes. That proximity creates ownership, and ownership strengthens transparency and accountability.

The core issue, therefore, is mindset. Many people desire change but lack a developmental orientation. A developmental mindset understands that progress requires participation, discipline, patience, and cooperation. It moves away from entitlement and toward responsibility. It recognizes that leadership and citizenship are complementary roles.

This is why civic education and community sensitization are critical. People must be equipped with knowledge about governance structures, budgeting processes, public policy, and their constitutional rights and responsibilities. When communities are informed, they make better decisions, engage more effectively, and hold leaders accountable in a constructive manner rather than through reactionary criticism.

Good governance is not imported; it is cultivated. And it is cultivated when informed citizens work hand in hand with accountable leadership. If we want real transformation, we must invest not only in electing leaders but also in educating and empowering our people to think and act with a developmental mindset.

Ernest David Kaonga
The P.A.C.E Initiative (Professionalism, Advocacy, Community, Education and Empowerment)

Advocacy in Today’s Climate – A Call for Reflection and Peace

Advocacy is slowly losing its meaning unless it is being used merely for content creation. Many leaders today are preoccupied with mobilizing supporters for political campaigns. In such an environment, genuine concerns from the grassroots are rarely given full attention.

The reality is that political leaders evaluate influence strategically. While we may have influence among those who know and support us, we must acknowledge that our reach does not yet extend across the whole of Chipulukusu or Ndola. Because of this, our voices are often not prioritized.

At the same time, we are pushing strongly for developmental change, yet we must confront a hard truth: advocacy is not easy, and it is not always safe. There are hidden adversaries, individuals who see activism as a threat, waiting for opportunities to strike. Speaking out for change can place lives at risk. This is a responsibility that must never be taken lightly.

Therefore, our focus should shift toward advocacy rooted within the people of Chipulukusu and Zambia at large, advocacy that protects lives, promotes unity, and strengthens community resilience. We must recognize that political seasons can bring tension and, tragically, loss of life. These are uncomfortable realities, but silence will not solve them.

Now more than ever, we must stand firm for peace.
We must encourage dialogue between political parties rather than division.
We must prioritize the safety of our communities over political alignment.

True advocacy is not noise. It is responsibility. It is courage. And above all, it is a commitment to protecting the people.

Ernest David Kaonga
The P.A.C.E Initiative

Good day everyone, we hope you are all doing well.

The P.A.C.E Initiative would like to clarify a few important matters so that everyone fully understands who we are and how we operate.

1. Social Media Posting Policy
If any post is made by a member of The P.A.C.E Initiative and it is not published directly from the official P.A.C.E Initiative page, then it should be treated as a personal, standalone post. It does not represent the position, opinion, or direction of The P.A.C.E Initiative as a body.
The only platform authorized to address community challenges, development matters, leadership concerns, or organizational positions is the official P.A.C.E Initiative page. This ensures accountability, consistency, and clarity in our communication.

2. Meaning of The P.A.C.E Initiative
The name P.A.C.E is not just a title; it represents our foundation and guiding principles:

P – Professionalism
Professionalism means conducting ourselves with integrity, discipline, respect, competence, and responsibility. We approach matters objectively, avoid personal attacks, and focus on solutions rather than emotions.

A – Advocacy
Advocacy means standing up for the rights, concerns, and interests of the community. We speak on issues that affect people’s lives and push for constructive change through lawful and structured engagement.

C – Community
Community represents unity, inclusion, and collective progress. Our focus is not on individuals but on the well-being and development of the entire community, regardless of political, social, or personal differences.

E – Education and Empowerment

Education means informing, enlightening, and equipping people with knowledge so they can make informed decisions.

Empowerment means strengthening individuals with opportunities, confidence, and support so they can improve their own lives and contribute positively to society.

Everything we stand for aligns with these principles.

3. Our Slogan
“Leadership that inspires action.”
We do not operate on hearsay, rumors, or emotionally driven narratives. We analyze situations carefully to ensure that whatever position we take benefits the broader community, regardless of personal affiliations or preferences.
We believe leadership should produce visible results and inspire positive action in both citizens and leaders. When a leader performs well, we acknowledge and appreciate their efforts. Recognition of good work should not be misinterpreted as bias.
If you see a post appreciating someone you personally disagree with, do not let emotions control your judgment. Your enemy is not automatically everyone else’s enemy. Progress requires maturity and objectivity.

4. Our Motto
Our motto is to uplift the community under unity and responsible leadership while giving people the freedom to choose their preferred candidates without pressure or intimidation.
We work with the leaders of the day because they are the ones entrusted with governing. If leadership changes, we remain committed to working with whoever is in power for the benefit of the community. Our loyalty is to development and progress — not to individuals.

Conclusion
The issue is not with those who read or understand our posts. The real challenge arises when emotions and personal hatred influence interpretation. Expecting everyone to take the same side because of personal feelings undermines unity and progress.

As The P.A.C.E Initiative, we are guided by facts, structured principles, and a written constitution that governs our actions. Emotional reactions do not strengthen judgment, they distort it.

We understand the pain people go through, and we also celebrate the happiness and successes within the community. Our commitment is to remain balanced, fair, and focused on what benefits everyone.

Thank you.

STATEMENT FROM THE P.A.C.E INITIATIVE REGARDING SHISH*TA AND THE MISCONCEPTIONS SURROUNDING IT

The P.A.C.E Initiative wishes to address the growing concerns and complaints coming from the people of Chipulukusu and other communities regarding shish*ta, particularly in relation to misconduct by some police officers and neighborhood patrol members.
First and foremost, we must set the record straight. Shish*ta is a legally and widely accepted community security measure, recognized by both government structures and local communities. The narrative that shish*ta does not exist is not factual, it is a denial of reality. Shish*ta exists for one primary reason: to protect lives and communities from night-moving criminals and criminal activities.
When a person is found moving at night, the police or neighborhood patrol has the right to question their movement. This should not be interpreted as hatred or harassment. It is a security procedure meant to establish who you are, where you are going, and why you are out at that time. The responsibility of the individual is simple: explain clearly, truthfully, and with facts, not with insults, ignorance, or hostility.
Arrest only becomes justified when an individual fails to comply, refuses to explain, or cannot reasonably convince officers with facts or evidence. Jurisdiction operates on facts and evidence, not mere speech, because even criminals can speak convincingly.
It is important for the community to understand that the guideline allows questioning within a 50-meter radius from one’s home.
If you are found outside this boundary, you must provide a reasonable explanation supported by facts.
If you are within or near your home, you have the right to state that you are close to your residence and request to be escorted home, and officers are supposed to comply.
However, we must also acknowledge a serious issue: misconduct from within the system itself. When police officers or neighborhood patrol members arrest people without questioning, without listening, or without following procedure, that becomes an abuse of power and a violation of the law. Such actions have created deep mistrust between authorities and communities.
Security cannot work in isolation. Communities must work together with the police, not against them. The police are not the enemy, but it must also be said honestly that some officers behave in ways that turn the public against them.

We therefore urge our people:

1. Know your rights

2. Remain respectful and cooperative

3. Report abuse of power when it occurs

At the same time, remember that failure to comply with lawful procedures can still lead to arrest, even when you feel wronged.
The police exist to protect and maintain peace, and citizens should not act superior to them, just as police officers should never act superior to the law. They are positioned by higher authorities and must be held accountable to the same law they enforce.

If something is wrong, report it through the proper channels. Silence only allows abuse to continue.

The P.A.C.E Initiative
(Professionalism, Advocacy, Community, Education & Empowerment)


*taAwareness

Based on the ongoing conflict between Hon. Frank Museba Tayali and Mr. Joseph Phiri, it is clear that this situation is unhealthy for the party and is slowly weakening it. Public fights, constant attacks, and personal rivalries do not build the party, they divide it. Instead of strengthening Ndola Central, this conflict is creating cracks that the opposition can easily exploit.

If this continues, the biggest beneficiary will not be either of these two leaders, but the opposition. Disunity at this level sends a dangerous signal to the electorate: that the party cannot manage its internal differences, let alone govern effectively.

Let us be realistic. If Hon. Frank Museba Tayali is adopted as the candidate, there is a high likelihood that some supporters of Mr. Joseph Phiri may feel sidelined or frustrated, and as a result, choose not to vote, or worse, shift their support to the opposition. The same risk applies if Mr. Joseph Phiri is adopted; some supporters of Hon. Tayali may refuse to support him and either stay away from the polls or vote against the party.

This cycle of division will only lead to one outcome: the destruction of the party’s strength in Ndola Central. No matter how strong individual leaders may be, a divided party cannot win.

What Ndola Central needs now is unity, maturity, and collective responsibility. Both leaders have influence, followers, and the ability to shape the future of the party. That power should be used to unite, not to divide.

Let us put personal ambitions aside and focus on the bigger picture. The party must come first. Ndola Central must come first. Only through unity can victory be achieved.

What is your take?
Comment below 👇👇👇

INVITED DISCUSSION | CLARITY CHECK ⚠️

To Mr. Joseph Phiri we heard he got a lot of energy 💪 and he has a big mind for leadership at some point he could be practically adopted as Ndola Central MP. I can see that.

But there is an issue 🚩
During most campaigns and radio talks he always talk about Frank Museba Tayali. He keeps on discrediting him. So the question is...
How is he uniting people from different politics to lead while keeping on discrediting any other leader?

Leadership is about vision and solutions not about personal attacks

🤔 So the question is...
If Mr. Tayali is rejected and he is picked then what is his manifesto for Ndola Central? Or will he keep repeating the same message about him?

To his supporters: don’t get emotional. Politicians are for strong minds 💪.
This is a clarity check not an attack.

👇 A comment below.

🚨 A CALL TO ACTION FOR EVERY ASPIRING LEADER 🚨

From: The P.A.C.E Initiative (Professionalism • Advocacy • Community • Education & Empowerment)

This is a message to every aspiring leader, from councillors to Members of Parliament, and even those with presidential ambitions.

The world is changing fast. People are no longer blind followers. Citizens today are more informed, more aware, and better able to distinguish between politics and true leadership.

Leadership is not about titles, popularity, or personal gain.
Leadership is about service, vision, accountability, and impact.

Not everyone who seeks leadership is a leader.
Some are driven by business interests.
Some by personal grudges.
Others by hatred for those currently in office.

Yes, everyone has the right to contest — but the real question is:

👉 What are you bringing to the table?

Why wait to be in office before acting like a leader?
Leadership begins with character, discipline, and contribution — long before power is handed to you.
Many aspiring leaders have no clear manifesto.
Instead of solutions, they offer insults.
Instead of ideas, they spread character assassination.
Criticism without facts, alternatives, or vision is not leadership — it is noise.

So let us ask the hard questions:

🔹 If you were given leadership today, what would your manifesto stand for?
🔹 What makes you different from the leaders you criticize?
🔹 When you say leaders have failed, can you provide facts, not emotions?
🔹 Why should the people trust you with their future?

At The P.A.C.E Initiative, we believe leadership must be built on:

Professionalism – integrity, competence, and discipline
Advocacy – standing for the people, not personal gain
Community – unity, inclusion, and development
Education & Empowerment – building minds, not followers

And to the citizens and supporters:
Be loyal, but not blind.
Be supportive, but not ignorant.
Ask questions. Demand accountability. Choose wisely.
The future will not be shaped by noise or hatred —
but by informed citizens and leaders who understand that leadership is service, not entitlement.

✊🏽 The P.A.C.E Initiative
Professionalism • Advocacy • Community • Education & Empowerment