Nkwazi-Inflight Magazine Issue 14

Issue Fourteen YOUR FREE COPY
March / April 2015

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OPWRNEOLBFCOLOAIMGRHEDT

Dear Customer,
We are well and truly into 2015 and as we look back on 2014 we are proud to have flown over 130,000
passengers and operated over 9,000 flights.
This is a time of the year where demand on the tourism routes of Mfuwe and Livingstone is down
and the Lower Zambezi schedule commences only on 01 April. International Tourists travel to Zambia
primarily in the dry season when game viewing is at its best. For the adventurous “local tourist”
there are many wonderful sights at this time of the year; great bird viewing, fantastic light and cloud
formations and best of all very few people, so you can really have the wilderness to yourself.
Proflight has some very attractive fares on Mfuwe, Livingstone and Lower Zambezi and this coupled
with the various public holidays we have coming up in March, April and May is the perfect time to get
out there and enjoy our country if you have some spare time. So take advantage of the Firecracker
Fares and Explore Zambia with us.
Tourism is a very important Industry for Zambia but perhaps Proflight’s most important function is
carrying the people who help to drive and steer our economy, these are mainly the passengers using
our Ndola and Solwezi services but of course Livingstone and Kasama are also important business
centers. To all the businessmen and woman that use Proflight Zambia to help drive their businesses I
thank you for your support and wish you all a very successful 2015.
Yours sincerely
Tony

8







CONTENTS INTDEERSNTIATNIAOTINOALN 17

14
CONSERVATION FAEFSRITICVAANLS
We explore what’s on LEISURE 32 Looking to the Future in LubumbashiLITERATURE
in Africa from March to
April 2015 38
Jo Pope gives us an
overview of the Waterfalls Wilbur Smith and
on her Bucket List his latest book.

CULTURE Glamping in Zambia 58CPARBOINFLCIRGEHWT
and across our Borders
54What turns theTide Pack for a Purpose

CSR

56 A little about the people that
make up Proflight

SPORTS TENNIS Operation Noah

72HEALTH HISTORY

74Mobile Health 80

LDOESCTAILNATION Cruising on Lake Kariba 22 CREDITS
PHOTO
ENTERTAINMENT GALLERY EDITORIAL TEAM

Benny Blow focuses on 44 Benny Blow
the Band Members of Christopher Clarke
Jo Pope
40the ZMAs Kapalu Mutenda
Karthik Jayaprakash
Mazuba Kapambwe
Mukumbi Kabesha
Mwanabibi Sikamo
Rachel Mupela

PUBLISHING EDITOR

Joanna Hickey-Damalis

DEPUTY PUBLISHING
EDITOR

Samba Yonga

DESIGN & ARTWORKING

Deeva Amin

60 CULINARY 68 PUBLISHER
BUSINESS
66Spices and Spandex ADVERTISING
PROFLIGHT NEWS Dollars and Sense
Find out whats been going [email protected]
on at Proflight!
PRINTERS
83
New Horizon Printing Press
Helpul Travel Apps
COVER IMAGE
TECHNOLOGY
Cristina de Middel

DOODERONOMY

What’s On

TOP PICKS FOR

AFRICAN FESTIVALS AND CEREMONIES

MARCH - APRIL 2015

STORY by Mazuba Kapambwe | IMAGES from splashyfen.co.za

1 K(ZUaOmMbBiaO) KA S(MZIAUaVmSOIbCNiFaGE) ASTIVALEvery Easter, the Although the
One of Zambia’s most ZAMBIA MUSICshores of Zambia’s Zambia Music
colourful traditional Awards is the
ceremonies, The Lake Kariba come latest award
Kuomboka returns in show recognizing
2015 after an absence AWARDS (Zambia)alive with sound as Zambian musicians,
last year due to the sound engineers,
death of the Litunga’s 2 Zambia’s top artists producers and
wife. The Lozi ceremony centers perform for over more, it is one of
around The Litunga moving from 3,000 people. Last the most well organized. Sponsored
lower (Lealui) to higher ground years event saw performances by Zambia Breweries and endorsed
(Limunga) as the Zambezi river from Cactus Agony, EL Mukuka. by the National Arts Council, last
floods. Dates for the 2015 edition Maureen Lilanda, Pompi and more. years event featured performances
have yet to be announced, but it is Houseboats ferried attendees from by Pompi, Salma, Roberto and many
usually held at the end of March more. Exact dates have yet to be
or early April. Check Proflight for 3Eagles Rest and Lake Safari Lodge
specials on airfare.
www.flyzambia.com in the day, while evenings featured
firework shows and dj’s played until
4A(SFoRuItKhAABfUricRaN) the early hours of the next day. 2015
Held in the Tankwa dates have yet to be confirmed but
Karoo national park should take place during Easter
in South Africa, The weekend which is April 3-5.
Afrika Burn is a regional
gathering of people 5(HZIiFmAbabwe) announced but the ZMAs will be
who create their own The Harare held in April.
utopia while in the International
desert. Festival attendees must Festival of Arts is 6 F(MMEASoWTroIAVcZAcIoLN)E
bring all their essentials to the one of Southern Mawazine (meaning
festival as money does not exist in Africa’s most Rhythms) is one of
the Afrika Burn community. If you’re respected festivals. the most attended
up for an adventure and a challenge, Held over the course festivals in the world,
Afrika Burn is definitely for you. of a week, the with numbers over
2015 dates are 27 April- 3 May. festival celebrates 3 million. Held in
art, fashion, music, Rabat, past performers
theatre, comedy and combines
workshops in drumming, djaying have included Justin
Timberlake, Psy, Sting and many
and more. 2015 dates are 28 more. There are rumors that the
April 28-May 3 and the theme is
Articulate. 2015 festival will include Maroon 5,
Ariana Grande, Avicii and more. 2015
dates are 29 May-6 June.

14

S(SPoLuAtShHAYfrFicEaN)
Since 1990, a farm
in Underberg,
KwaZulu-Natal has
been a haven for

7 alternative/rock
music lovers in
South Africa. The
good times continue with the 25th
edition featuring The Muffinz and
many more. Dates are 2-6 April.

8 F(BSEUwSSaTHzIVFilAIaRnLEd)
Bushfire Festival in
Swaziland is lauded for
its efforts to give back
to the community, as it
donates 100 percent of
proceeds back. Previous
performers have
included the return of
South African kwaito group Bongo
Maffin. The 2015 edition will be
headlined by Les Nubians and held
on 29 May- 31 May.

9 S(GLTRuAIsNRaDTkaU)P
Powered by Google for
Entrepreneurs, Startup
Grind is a global
startup community
designed to educate,
inspire, and connect
entrepreneurs. Monthly
events are hosted
in more than 150 cities and 65
countries featuring successful local
innovators, educators and investors
who share personal experiences
learned. Sandras Phiri director of
Africa Trust Academy heads the
Lusaka chapter, held every last
Friday of the month. The January
edition hosted Rocky Sombe and
the March edition will feature Brad
Magrath, the co-founder and Chief
Disruption Officer of Zoona.
http://startupgrind.com/lusaka

15

Our commitment is clear. So is our contribution.

At First Quantum, we recognize that we have an obligation to the people To meet the needs of 1,300 students,
and communities that make our success possible. That obligation includes classes are offered in three shifts per
living up to our responsibilities as a good corporate citizen and helping day at the Mushitala Primary School
to support Zambia’s economic growth. Through our direct operations, in Solwezi. Through its investments,
subsidiaries and partnerships, First Quantum is the country’s largest First Quantum is helping to alleviate the
taxpayer. In 2013, our combined payments to the Zambia Revenue challenges of inadequate resources
Authority and other government departments were over US$605 million* and infrastructure.
and we also made approximately US$23 million in Corporate Social
Responsibility payments. Through its 20% share in First Quantum’s
Kansanshi mine, ZCCM received in excess of US$28.5 million
in dividend payments. In total, these payments amounted to more
than US$657 million over 2013, and reflect our commitment and our
contribution to a legacy of lasting self-reliance and prosperity for Zambia.

* Kwacha to US$ conversion rate = K5.4 to US$1

www.first-quantum.com/corporate-responsibility

International Destination

Pr3oLtfuilmibguehmst bfalaiwessheietok
www.flyzambia.com

STORY by Christopher Clarke | IMAGES by Thinkstock, © FAO / Olivier Asselin & Archives

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s new office blocks (a number of has led to substantial foreign
second largest city is on the rise, which have already been built) and investment in recent years, $25bn
striving to leave behind a torrid residential areas. in the last decade to be exact. It’s
history and show the rest of Africa Both of the above events hint at the also helped add to the already
and the world that it is open for rapid economic growth of the city as cosmopolitan feel of the city (a
business. a whole in recent years, fuelled by number of dialects and ethnic
As of October 2014, Proflight the wealth of natural resources to groups from right across DRC and
became the latest in an ever longer be found in the region surrounding beyond had long since become well-
list of African airlines running direct the city, and by a period of relative established here). Perhaps the most
flights to the city of Lubumbashi, peace and stability after decades notable community of new arrivals
just across the border from Zambia of war and following the country’s to this fast-developing city is the
in the DRC’s Katanga Province. first democratic elections in 2006. South African contingent -- this is
Just a week or two prior to this, Foremost among the region’s mirrored in the increasing visibility
Lubumbashi hosted a sod-turning resources are cobalt and copper. of South African retailers such as
ceremony for the DRC’s first ever The Katanga Province, of which Shoprite and Famous Brands and
mall. The shopping centre will Lubumbashi is capital, produces a number of South African-owned
form part of Luano City, a 300ha, more than 3% of the world’s copper restaurants and guesthouses around
$1.4bn mixed-use development supply and, staggeringly, more than the city. In 2013, Lubumbashi
being built on the outskirts of the 50% of its cobalt; Katanga produces even played host to South African
city. The developer is South African- 60% of the DRC’s entire annual comedian Barry Hilton, who
based Forum Properties Africa and revenue. performed to a sell-out crowd.
the development also includes Not surprisingly, all of the above It would certainly seem then that

17

International Destination

Lubumbashi Cathedral

Lubumbashi is beginning to challenge long-held less and less characterized by its colonial inheritance.
perceptions that the whole of the DRC is nothing more The colonialists could never have foreseen the
than “that strife-torn country” in the middle of Africa, recent rate of expansion and urbanization and the
or, as Joseph Conrad had it, the ‘Heart of Darkness’. At infrastructure of the colonial city they built could
present, Lubumbashi is stepping well and truly into the never have sustained it. Some estimate that the city’s
light, and the world is beginning to pay attention. population has grown from 1.6 million to close to 4
The rapid growth and urbanization of the city forms million since 2006.
an interesting dynamic when considered in contrast to Again, some international retailers have been quick to
the city’s Belgian colonial heritage. Lubumbashi (then spot the potential to be found in the so-called “boom
known as Elizabethville) was founded in 1910 by the town”. Put simply, Lubumbashi’s growth means more
Belgian colonialists and soon became the country’s consumers and more spending power. If Lubumbashi’s
most prosperous city. Even black Africans living in the trajectory continues on its current path, there may well
city enjoyed a higher standard of living than anywhere be a number of Luano Cities in the near future.
else in Africa (though this doesn’t really say a lot) The leisure and tourism markets are gradually
during the final decade of Belgian rule. cottoning on to the potential for them too. Though
business travellers strongly predominate those visiting
Visit Lubumbashi today and the colonial heritage is Lubumbashi, there is an increasing number of leisure
still evidenced by a handful of handsome buildings and tourism offerings for them to enjoy between,
around the city centre, such as the striking art-deco before or after their business commitments, while
Palace of Justice, the intriguing Grand Hotel and the the “scene” for those living in the city has become
imposing St Pierre and Paul cathedral, all of which significantly more cosmopolitan and vibrant in the last
have been restored since the late 20th Century. There few years.
are also a number of colonial houses in the so-called There are now a handful of good cafes and restaurants
“Belgian Quarter” that have survived the changing around town, whether for proper South African pub fare,
environment around them. Some are still inhabited something local or something a little more European.
by Belgian colonial descendants who know no home As the night draws on the Kings and Queens Casino is
except Lubumbashi. certainly worth a visit for those feeling lucky and there
But with each year that passes Lubumbashi becomes are a few popular watering holes and clubs, including
the Marilyn Monroe Cigar Bar at the Riverside Hotel,
18

whilst live jazz is on the menu most Museum and the city’s botanical just a little way beyond the borders
evenings at Park Hotel, another of garden all remain interesting places of the city, the country continues
Lubumbashi’s colonial era stalwarts. to explore around the city. to face a number of the same
The Cine Betamax shows a number The overall picture being painted issues that it has for decades, while
of Hollywood and African films. The here is mostly likely very unfamiliar for all the economic growth and
local soccer club, TP Mazembe is and surprising to anyone who expansion within the city itself, the
one of the most successful teams hasn’t been to Lubumbashi in the vast majority of the local population
on the continent, and crowds at last ten years. And it is true that remain in a state of terrible
the city’s stadium regularly reach despite all the potential, all the impoverishment. Nevertheless,
around 18,000. For the daylight recent progress and the growing Lubumbashi is certainly one of the
hours, golf, horse riding, tennis, sense of hope among Lubumbashi key cities to watch anywhere on
or taking a paddle boat around residents, for many potential visitors the African continent as it doggedly
the lake are among the outdoor and investors the DRC continues to continues its mission to put the past
leisure pursuits to be enjoyed in evoke feelings of uncertainty and behind it and look to a brighter and
Lubumbashi. The zoo, the National wariness. There is no denying that more prosperous future.

Central Market

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Know your cyber space

Using the internet is fun. You can do a lot of great things on the Internet. You can play games,chat with friends, meet new
friends and find a lot of useful information. You have the right to enjoy and explore all that the digital world has to offer!
But you also have to be aware that you can find some unpleasant things on the Internet, such as images and stories that may
confuse or even frighten you. Your friends and trusted people are not the only ones within this digital world. Unfortunately,
the Internet is also used by people who are not so nice or who might even want to harm or harass you. Always ensure that you

Do Not give out your password to Anyone. Also, Do Not share personal information with people you do not know.
The Zambia Computer Response Team (ZmCIRT) is the National CIRT which serves as a trusted and central coordination point

of contact for cybersecurity aimed at identifying, defending, responding to and managing cyber threats.
Report All cyber threats to ensure your safety
Be cyber - smart at all times.

ZM CIRT
www.cirt.zm
www.zicta.zm
c/o Zambia Information and Communications
Technology Authority
P.O. Box 36871
Lusaka, Zambia

Local Destination

CLRAUKISIENGKOANRIBA
STORY by Rachel Mupela | IMAGES by Thinkstock, Lake Kariba Inns, & Protea Hotels

Boating isn’t exactly a word synonymous with Zambia, African wild, you will truly come to appreciate the beauty and
being a landlocked country and all, but you will be in for wonder of lake Kariba, especially during a full moon.
quite a pleasant surprise. Zambia is blessed with several
water bodies and these waterways provide unique To sample this African marine adventure, one needs to
cruising opportunities for those who enjoy the luxury of head out, two and a half hours out of Lusaka to the town of
taking quality time out on the water. We put the spotlight Siavonga, nestled on the southern shores of the lake and a
on Lake Kariba, one of the world’s largest man made stone throw away from Kariba dam. Moored in the harbours of
lakes, spanning an impressive 5580 square kilometres this small holiday town are magnificent water vessels offering
right on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe in the luxury water excursions. If you do have your own boat, the lake
southern province. still makes a superb playground for all sorts of water sports
including, jet skiing, sailing and water skiing.
A houseboat holiday on the lake is a great way to spend
time away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The For the leisure seeker and business traveller, it is perfect for
sheer size of the lake in some places feels as though you the tranquillity it offers as well as being a sheer indulgence for
are indeed taking a cruise on the ocean and watching those moments when you just want to take in a good view to
the deep orange setting of the sun on the shimmering help relax and clear your mind.

waters adds to the magical experience. Cruising on the
calm waters and taking in the sights and sounds of the

THE TAKAMAKA HOUSE BOAT: LAKE KARIBA INNS enthusiast, there is a tender boat that accompanies
This luxury houseboat is named after the evergreen each excursion to take you on fishing trips out on
tree in the Seychelles. This vessel has four twin berth the lake, bait and tackle can be pre-arranged before
cabins, which sleep a total capacity of 8. There are departure. Upon return to the main vessel, you can
two bathrooms, fitted with showers and have hot have a go at cooking your catch or have a hired chef
running water. No bathtubs to soak away those tans come aboard to do it for you. There is a well-stocked
acquired from spending all day soaking up the sun, bar offering an assortment of refreshing drinks to
but don’t despair; the vessel does have a splash wash it all down. Staff on board includes the captain
pool to relieve you from the heat. For the fishing and a deck hand.

22

Leading operator in Africa

1st: We are the 1st integrated logistics network in Africa BOLLORE AFRICA LOGISTICS (Z) LTD
24: The number of port & rail concessions Jerome Binois | Executive Director
43: The number of African countries where we are present
250: The number of subsidiaries in Africa P O Box 30131 - Plot No. 3535 -
250: Million Euros investments per year Corner Lumumba / Malambo Roads
2 010: Million Euros turnover per year
Tel: + (260) 211 246 191/6
Bolloré Africa Logistics, Fax: + (260) 211 246 106 / 246 201
a worldwide network dedicated to Africa
Mobile: +260 977 770 730
FTW6099 email: [email protected]

6 000: Transport vehicles used in Africa
22 000: The number of people employed in Africa
3 500 000: Containers handled per year
6 500 000: Tons of freight handled per year
8 000 000: Square metres of warehousing space and yards

www.bollore-africa-logistics.com

Have you paid your
water bill?

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Contact 250002 / 251571

Local Destination

Protea Southern Belle

PROTEA SOUTHERN BELLE KHOLISA HOUSEBOAT – KARIBA BUSH CLUB
Now this fine specimen is reminiscent of a 19th century Last but not least, we have the Kholisa houseboat,
American riverboat on the waters of the Mississippi moored at Kariba Bush Club. The boat has 13 cabins,
river, with a style and elegance all its own. The vessel offering a total sleeping capacity of 30. Most of the
has a total capacity of 40 passengers, making it the rooms are en-suite and air-conditioned.
perfect venue setting for a romantic wedding reception, The boat offers self-catering options for the foodies who
anniversary, themed party or business conferences. It love to cook their own meals. You could have a barbeque
offers stunning accommodation, combined with all the on either an open traditional fire or a gas powered stand
modern luxuries to afford you a most wonderful and and then enjoy your meal by the splash pool or dining
memorable cruising holiday. The vessel boasts 21 cabins, area. For the social gamer there is no shortage of card
1 presidential suite and 5 executive suites. All cabins are and board games available to keep you entertained,
air conditioned, en suite with shower. perfect for children as well. Perhaps you prefer to use
On arrival, you are served a sumptuous lunch in the your feet when having a having a good time, dancers
vessel’s restaurant to ease you into the laid back mood of are more than welcome to ‘move it’ in the spacious bar
the afternoon cruise…no self-service catering here. There and entertainment area, outfitted with surround sound
are also two well stocked bars, a lounge and two outdoor equipment. To rest those aching feet, there is a sun deck
decks for more relaxing options. For those tech savvy with loungers where you can lay back and enjoy the sun
folk that cannot do away with staying in touch with the set and moon rise.
outside world, Wi-Fi is available. There is also a splash Other activities include fishing and game and bird
pool to safely cool off on those hot days, pool selfie viewing on the lake’s private islands. Happy sailing!
anyone?
There is a host of activities on offer and these include
sport fishing, game watching in tender boats in the
morning and afternoon, a bush walk and cultural tour.
Conference facilities cater for 40 and 20 people, pax
cinema style in U shape

24

Protea Southern Belle Local Destination
Takamaka House Boat
“It offers stunning accommodation,
combined with all the modern luxuries
to afford you a most wonderful and
memorable cruising holiday. The vessel
boasts 21 cabins, 1 presidential suite
and 5 executive suites. All cabins are air
conditioned, en suite with shower.”

“For the fishing enthusiast, there is a
tender boat that accompanies each
excursion to take you on fishing trips out
on the lake, bait and tackle can be pre-
arranged before departure.”





28

Conservation

WONatMerYfaBlUlsCKET LIST

STORY by Jo Pope | IMAGES by Thinkstock

Major travels are planned months The trip was easy. A flight to softer sandstone. In the gorge, the
in advance but the “last minute dot Livingstone, a hire 4x4 vehicle, rock is collapsing in huge chunks,
com” trips can be very rewarding. good roads (mostly) and only a interspersed with dunes of river
Come on – let’s do it. No notice, four hour drive to Sioma. The rains deposited sand. We approached the
quick arrangements made and off had arrived, the bush was green horseshoe shaped falls by boat from
you go. Just before Christmas I and storms brewed on the horizon. the river, onto the east side. They
had a strong urge to go and see After crossing the bridge over the are very impressive and we sat for
the Ngonye Falls, also known as Zambezi at Sesheke we felt we well over an hour, mesmerized.
Sioma Falls, on the Zambezi in were in remote western lands. Retracing our steps the next day
Western Zambia. This trip has The brand new road stretches we passed a sign indicating the
been a long time coming. Having northwards across undulating official entrance to the falls. Shall
heard about the falls in the late hills with spectacular views of the we go? We had already viewed
1980’s this destination has been river, framed between huge mature them from the east. But we did and
on my Zambian bucket list for 25 baobabs, rosewood and teaks. were amazed to learn we had only
years. It jumped to the top of the Most of the Western Province is seen half the falls. The west side is
very long list as there is a planned sandveld but the Ngonye Falls equally as beautiful and there is a
hydroelectric scheme that will are created by a few kilometer very interesting information center
change the nature of the waterfalls, wide strip of hard, dark rock over worth visiting. On both sides you
especially in the dry season. access the falls via a community run
controlled gate where your fee goes
Ngonye Falls to those employed.
Back in Livingstone we had time
to visit the mighty Victoria Falls.
Since it was December the river was
low and, due to the hydroelectric
scheme, there was virtually no water
falling on the Zambian side. It was
a wall of dark rock – actually very
dramatic and imposing The impact
of diverting water away from a
waterfall to generate electricity is
clearly demonstrated at the Victoria
Falls.
Zambia is blessed with many
waterfalls. The topography of the

29

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Conservation

country is a high plateau that lies website) the projected capacity will With or without the Batoka Dam,
between 910 and 1370 meters be 3116 megawatts. This goes a Zambia will, or at least should be
above sea level. Some 50% of the long way to supply Zambia’s power a regional power hub exporting
water in Southern Africa arises demand, including the mines. In significant power across Southern
in Zambia and so there are many addition to this is the much-debated Africa. Many of the schemes will
waterfalls as the rivers drain Batoka Dam Project, with a US$ 3 be ROR on our less famous but
from the plateau towards the billion price tag, planned to be some exceptionally beautiful waterfalls in
coasts, via small and then major 50 km downstream from the Victoria the Northern Province.
rivers (Luangwa, Kafue, Zambezi Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the dry season an estimated
and Congo). A country needs to There will be two power stations, two thirds of the water will be
generate power and preferably clean one each side of the river each diverted from the falls and this
power. Access to so much “falling producing 800 megawatts. will have a considerable impact on
water” is certainly a competitive This 181 meter dam wall will the beauty of the waterfall. There
advantage for Zambia and of course create a back up of water that will are many to visit, but the ones that
should be utilized. There are two flood the famous gorges up to a are earmarked for hydro schemes
ways to do this – dams which store kilometer or so from the Falls. The will shoot straight to the top of my
the water or by “run-of-the-river” nature of the area will of course bucket list.
(ROR) hydroelectricity which diverts completely change and so there
river flow through a turbine. will be a long term heritage cost
Some 99.5% of Zambia’s electricity of this power, earmarked partly for
is from hydroelectric sources export. I wonder what our great
producing 1850 megawatts but after grandchildren will say about the
the ongoing “Power Rehabilitation generation that changed the face of
Project” is complete (due to be one of “Seven Natural Wonders of
completed this year, see ZESCO the World”.

ECMining Limited
Plot 5293/5294, Tanganyika Road,
Heavy Industrial Area P.O Box 23357,
Kitwe, Zambia
Tel +260 212 210 642
Fax +260 212 210 645
[email protected]
www.ecmining.com

GlampingLeisure
STORY by Mazuba Kapambwe IN ZAMBIA
IMAGES courtesy of Grant Cummings (Chiawa Camp),

Norman Carr Safaris & Robin Pope Safaris

The great outdoors has never appealed to me. Hiking up a Luangwa Safari house – Robin Pope Safaris
mountain or hunting has never been on my bucket list. That’s The magnificent structure of Luangwa House hangs
why I wasn’t too thrilled when in eleventh grade, my class had between twenty-five enormous leadwood poles – this
to spend two nights camping near Ethiopia’s Lake Langano. It silvery weathered wood embodies the powerful yet elegant
took more than an hour to figure out how to set up our tent, nature of the house.
and the thought of bathing outside while being feasted on by Each of the spacious rooms are individual in style and have
mosquitoes was enough to make me wish I had been sick that their own en-suite bathroom and private verandah area for
weekend. you to enjoy the tranquility of Zambia.The Luangwa Safari
Many years later, I am now an avid festival attendee averaging House is extraordinary - large and powerful, this castle like
about five festivals a year. To save money on accommodation, house gives you space, luxury and comfort with nature on
camping has been an option at a few of these festivals (Kariba your doorstep.
Music Festival, Lake of Stars, Victoria Falls Carnival among Visit: www.robinpopesafaris.net
others), but I’ve always prefered to fork out the extra cash for
my own ensuite bathroom and comfy but underused bed (you © Robin Pope Safaris
spend most of your time at a festival dancing and taking part
in festival related activities).
However, there’s a trendy new way to explore the outdoors
that is making me consider this whole camping thing again.
Its called ‘Glamping’ or luxurious camping. According to Time
Magazine, “High-end tents have long been a staple on safari
trips in Africa and Asia, but the trend recently took hold in
Europe and has made its way to the United States in the
past few years”. Towergate did a survey on glamping, which
was released on January 20 and revealed that there was a
22 percent rise in the term ‘glamping’ on Internet searches
between 2010-2012. According to the survey, many glamping
sites sold out in the summer of 2012 despite the bad weather.
Here’s a rundown of the top places to ‘Glamp’ in Africa from the
southern tip of Africa all the way to Morocco in the North via
Glamping.com

© Robin Pope Safaris © Robin Pope Safaris

32

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Leisure

CHINZOMBO CAMP – Norman Carr Safaris
Wildly luxurious , designed by award winning architects
Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, Chinzombo brings levels
of comfort, style and elegance previously unseen to the
Luangwa Valley.
The old Chinzombo Camp was for years the green season
base for Norman Carr way back in the 1970’s. The camp is
super-luxurious but retains its bush feel with grass and
canvas walls and spacious living areas that melt into the
exquisite surroundings of the beautiful, tranquil site.
Visit: www.normancarrsafaris.com

© Norman Carr Safaris © Norman Carr Safaris

© Norman Carr Safaris © Norman Carr Safaris

35

Leisure

CHIAWA CAMP © Chiawa Camp
Indulge in attentive yet unpretentious, personalised
service, fabulous cuisine and fantastic “tents” with Glamping
spectacular views of the Zambezi and its resident
wildlife. All this in a beautiful setting with leopards, lions, MoAroccCo RBOOSRSDOEURRS
elephants, hippos and other wildlife as your neighbours.
Along with Chiawa’s renowned dedication to its guests, Desert Luxury Camp
staff, local communities and conservation, share in Desert Luxury camp is nestled in the sand dunes of Erg
Chiawa’s passion and experience so that you can enjoy Chebbi by Merzouga & is completed surrounded by sand
one of Africa’s very finest safari camps and the wildlife dunes as far as eye can see. The eight luxury tents give
adventure of a lifetime. the illusion of being alone in the vast African desert. It
Visit : www.chiawa.com is a place of heaven with prevailing friendly welcome
© Chiawa Camp by the cobalt blue turban & djellaba men. Each tent
as well as the whole camp have thick pile rugs lining
© Chiawa Camp the grounds. Tents are spacious featuring handcrafted
Moroccan furniture along with modern bedding.
Glamping Options: Tents
When to Go: September - June

Botswana

Okuti
This delightful camp lies alongside the Maunachira
River which flows through Xakanaxa Lagoon within the
world renowned Moremi Game Reserve, Okuti is built
amidst the wilderness of one of Botswana’s prime game
viewing regions.
Okuti comprises of 7 “masasas”. Five twin-bedded units,
each with en-suite bathrooms, indoor and outdoor
shower, hot and cold running water and flush toilet.
Included in the five is honeymoon unit features a
double bed, bath,indoor shower and outdoor shower.
Glamping Options: Safari Tents
When to Go: March to January

36

Desert Luxury Camp Okuti Gorah Elephant Camp

South Africa Tanzania

Gorah Elephant Camp Greystoke Mahale
Gorah Elephant Camp, an exclusive tented safari In the remote forests of the Mahale mountains and
lodge, recaptures the romantic mystique of authentic bordered by Lake Tanganyika lies the Greystoke Mahale
safaris of centuries past – the awesome natural world camp. Guests can trek through the forest spotting
of Africa merged with colonial nostalgia and modern chimpanzees, leopard, bushbuck, bush pig, and a variety
sophistication to deliver an unforgettably unique 5-star of birds and butterflies. The lake, with 250 species of
adventure. tropical fish, is perfect for snorkelling and fishing, as
Here visitors can stay over in luxury – the camp’s 11 well as kayaking.
tented suites include private bathrooms, a verandah Glamping Options: Bandas
overlooking the African plains and a personal chef. When to Go: Year Round
Glamping Options: Tented Suites
When to Go: Year Round

ECMining Limited
Plot 5293/5294, Tanganyika Road,
Heavy Industrial Area P.O Box 23357,
Kitwe, Zambia
Tel +260 212 210 642
Fax +260 212 210 645
[email protected]
www.ecmining.com

Literature

SWmILitBhUR
STORY by Mwanabibi Sikamo | Images © www.wilbursmithbooks.com

Cairo Road has got to be the best He spent his early childhood on his It’s fair to say that it was not as
place to get second hand books in father’s ranch being a pretty typical glamorous an experience as he had
Lusaka. The vendors always have an Zambian lad, running riot with his envisioned. Anyone who has been to
interesting selection and you’re bound friends and his slingshot, hunting, boarding school in Africa remembers
to find an old classic that you’ve been trapping birds and cooking his catch the food, regimented existence and
searching for in the bookstores or a over open fires. His mother was an if unlucky the caning. Smith tried in
novel that you read as a child that avid reader and she introduced him vain to get his headmaster to send
conjures up old memories. You can to storytelling and books at a young him back to that carefree playground
haggle to your hearts content and age. She read to him and he describes he had become accustomed to, his
unlike some of the major book shops spending an obscene amount of time fathers ranch.
they don’t mind you fingering through hidden away reading in the outdoor His one escape from the drudgery
their wares at all. latrine. Literature was to become a of school life was the library. Smith
Visit a few of these makeshift book lifelong passion but not before he describes himself as a voracious
stands and you will begin to notice had a few adventures of his own. reader, an activity that was nurtured
that a handful of authors reign His father was a real mans man, a by a librarian who must have been
supreme. Think riveting good reads, no strict disciplinarian who gave him thankful to finally have a boy who
nonsense fiction, timeless stories. Clive a firearm at the age of 8. Smith, like could read without the necessary
Cussler, Alistair Maclean, Jeffrey Archer many little boys worshipped his father prodding. He won an award for the
and of course our very own Wilbur and continually sought his favour. Best English Essay and for the first
Smith are firm favourites. In fact, I This contrast between his angelic, time conceived of the possibility of
would go as far as to say that Wilbur nurturing mother and a father who actually becoming a writer.
Smith is a mainstay on most Zambian certainly did not spare the proverbial Smith went on to attend Rhodes
bookshelves. rod was to become something of a University in Grahamstown, Eastern
theme in Smith’s novels. Cape, South Africa. These were
formative years as he spent many of
Wilbur Smith was born in Kabwe, Smith left Zambia and undertook
Central Zambia on 9th January 1933. the 3 day journey south to attend
boarding school in South Africa.

38

his holidays working in gold mines, Smith’s publisher advised him to;
trawler fleets and whalers. Not your “Write what he knew about” and he
typical part time university jobs. Smith did just that. He is a prolific author
was certainly no slacker and it’s easy and has penned a total of 35 books,
to see where he drew inspiration for the most recent, last year. His books
many of the protagonists in his novels. are all based in Africa, which is
wWhile at university Smith worked just as well because there is plenty
on a campus newspaper, producing of opportunity for swashbuckling
all the content himself, but his foray adventure in the savannah. He writes
into the literary world was cut short about family, love and intense rivalry.
upon graduation when his father His novels are page turning but also,
nudged him towards a more sensible incredibly, for someone who has
occupation. He became a chartered written so much, extremely detailed.
accountant, a soul destroying career When he writes about a pilot in the
for a man as relentlessly creative as cockpit, a surgeon or a hunter he
Wilbur Smith. describes every aspect with the type
of accuracy that only a man who is
engrossed in his subject can do.

It was not long before the writing Decades after his first novel, he has Smith’s latest epic novel, released in 2014
bug hit him and Smith wrote his first written 3 series which keep his loyal
novel, “The Gods First Make Mad” at fans hooked, sold an average of 3
the age of 24. It was not published. million copies of each book worldwide
He describes it as an atrocious effort. and had his books translated into 26
He retreated into the comfort of his languages, Smith shows no signs of
career but after his second divorce slowing down. He found a way to keep
he gave storytelling another shot. going back to that playground on the
This time he was far more successful. old homestead in Zambia.
The book was, “When the Lion Feeds”,
a family saga full of action and
adventure set in Southern Africa. The
book introduced us to the Courtney’s,
a name Smith procured from his
grandfather, and he has since gone on
to write a series of books chronicling
the fictional family’s fortunes.

39

BandTogetherEntertainment

STORY by Benny Blow | IMAGES by Simon Binder, © Amayenge & Uncle Rex

Sponsored by the country’s most Abi - Mali Pande
beloved lager-- Mosi-- the Zambian
Music Awards (ZMAs) are now in their
third year and have been bestowing
accolades on deserving (though this
has been a source for debate) artists
and musicians. The Mosi Lager ZMAs
continue to promote music through
the voice and choice of the public, this
year’s will be no different.

Aside from the actual awarding, award
shows would be nothing without the
ambience enhancing acoustics of live
performances. The bands and backup
singers behind the beautiful sound
may not always be recognised, but they
certainly do make it possible for many
acts to shine.

LOTA HOUSE BAND

The band has been playing together
for a while now and consists of Sam
Chitundu (lead and rhythm guitar);
Sam Nyambe (Keyboard. Nominated
for Best Keyboard Player 2015); Ronald
Chikwase (Bass Guitar); Eston Mwape
(Drums. Nominated for Best Drummer
2015); Seya Fundafunda (Vocalist) and
Abi Mali (Vocalist).

Lota House is home to the immaculate, Because the band plays for different Seya is one to immerse herself in the
Pompi (nominated for Best Gospel label mates, they sometimes have to music, “I basically drown myself in
Male Artist 2015) and super producer, adjust their sound or creative process the music, in the lyrics of the songs,
Mag 44 (nominated for Best Studio to fit in with the artist’s vision. it doesn’t matter if I am singing with
Sound Producer 2015). The stable Abel, Mag44 or Pompi, I just become
produces gospel and conscious tunes “When you’re working with, Abel one with the songs. And let the songs
and their goal is to get their message (Chungu), he’s got a very instrumental speak to me.”
of deliverance out to more people oriented mind because he also plays
through their music. guitar. So when it comes to your own Nominations and award wins are
creative input you don’t have to do too considered victories for the entire
The band members all share this belief much, he usually knows exactly what label, and not just individual artists.
and they bring this to the table every he wants,” says Sam Chitundu, “Pompi The Lota House band may usually be
time they play. is more focussed on a feeling he wants, behind the scenes, but a head nod
a certain mood. So he might reference from the ZMA adjudicators is fulfilling
40 an artist [to help you understand].

Ronald Chikwase, Sam Nyambe, Sam Chitundu

for everyone. They’re happy because “For me it was something I always Tembo (Percussions); Jonathan
they gain more of an audience to get dreamed about. It was a dream for me Nthanga (Lead Guitar); Matthew
the message of Christ across to. to one day play at an award show,” says Mulenga (Rhythm Guitar); Darius
Sam Nyambe, “I remember when Pompi Kalaba (Rhythm Guitar); Sam Chiluba
Ronald says, “Going to the awards for told us that we’d be playing there (Bass Guitar); Chabala Kamfwa (Drums)
us is a statement. If we get nominated (ZMAs)....just the whole rehearsal and Eddy Chilembo (Sound Engineer).
its because God is good, not because process, rehearsing at night was really
we earned it.” The band members each exciting… I gave it everything I had. I Scooping the last two ZMA awards
have their own stories to tell about think if I died after that I would have in the Best Band category and many
how they got into music. From church been happy,” he laughed. other awards over the years, the band’s
choirs to guitars as birthday presents, motivation remains unchanged.
their stories all share one thing in AMAYENGE CULTURAL ENSEMBLE
common--passion.
Back in 1978 when Rock n Roll was “First and foremost, we earn a living
“Why do I sing? Because I can actually still a heavy influence on Zambian out of it,” joked the band’s manager,
sing,” laughs Abi Mali, “I’m kidding. I music, the legendary Amayenge Fraser Chilembo. He did however
think I express myself better when I Cultural Ensemble was born. Originally stress that what they do is motivated
sing. If I could communicate through called, Crossbones because of their by more than just currency, “When you
singing I would. And my voice is a gift Rock inspired themes, the band gained do something you love, you can keep
I want to utilize for a greater purpose. popularity when they realised they going forever,” he said referring to the
Also because I love it, it is my happy needed to get back to their roots and band’s 37 year illustrious career.
place.” created a definitive Zambian Kalindula
sound.
This year’s ZMAs will be a spectacle
the entire country will be anxiously Founded by the late, great Kris Chali, Aside from making their own music,
waiting to watch, but the Lota House the band is made up of Mrs. Alice M. the band has backed the likes of Ruff
crew are probably looking forward to Chali (Lead Vocalist/Dancer); Obert Kid and JK at the ZMAs as well as a
it more than anyone else. They would Chali (Vocalist/Dancer); Evaristo slew of other artists at their shows,
definitely love to play again. They were Mangango (Vocalist/Dancer); Mummy including M.C Wabwino, Daddy Zemus,
the closing act in 2014. Mwelwa (Vocalist/Dancer); Chilando Runnel and even Kanda Bongo Man.
Mwenge (Vocalist/Dancer); Presindah Because of their vast experience,
Tembo (Vocalist/Dancer); Joseph the band say they rarely face any
Mulenga (Vocalist/Dancer); Frank challenges when playing for others.
“We just ask the guys to come for
rehearsals.” Mr. Fraser did however

41

Entertainment Seya Fundafunda
Ronald Chikwase, Sam Chitundu
note that sometimes artists get
overwhelmed and so excited that they
sing off key.

The Ensemble might be one of the
country’s greatest exports, and Mrs.
Chali fondly remembers travelling the
globe with the band, “We’ve been to
America, Scotland, London. Moscow…
Nigeria, Zimbabwe... China…,” Their
performance in China was something
they will never forget. There were only
a few Zambians from the embassy, but
the people of China danced like there
was no tomorrow.

As a backing band, the Amayenge
Ensemble always encourage other
artists to use live instrumentation.
They say it adds a certain authenticity
to it and separates that Zambian sound
from other foreign acts.

The entire band is looking forward to
this year’s awards and they certainly
would like to be there on the night.
“Of course we’d want to be part of
the awards,” said Mr. Chilembo, “When
you’re in the industry, you want to be
part of it.”

Asked about their chances this year,
Mrs. Chali simply laughed. They are
fairly confident they will scoop this
year’s Best Band award too.

UNCLE REX AND THE BAND

You may have heard the jazzy sounds
of the Uncle Rex Band in the old
Lounge, at O’Hagans Pub and Grill or
even at last year’s Stanbic Misty Jazz
Festival. Regardless of where you’ve
heard them, there’s no denying their
attention to detail. Known mostly for
their covers, the band was motivated
by last year’s ZMA Nomination in
the Best Band category to produce
an original album of their own. With
their second nomination in the same
category this year, the band is looking
to make history.

42

Mukuni Mulundika (Vocalist); Mark Amayenge
Zulu (Vocalist); Masi Nyambe (Vocalist); Uncle Rex and the Band
Kennedy Shwana (Bass Guitarist);
Smith Phiri (Drummer. Nominated for
Best Drummer 2015); John Samalama
(Pianist/Keyboard) and of course,
Uncle Rex Mukubonda (Lead Guitarist.
Nominated for Best Lead Guitarist
2015) have been together for over
eight years. They’ve played for Mampi,
JK, Abel Chungu and Pompi, as well as
Nigerian Afro pop singer, Yemi Alade.
They are yet to play at the ZMAs.

Mukuni says the band has great
chemistry and has been working
tirelessly on their upcoming album,
“We lay down a beat and everyone
goes into their own little corner. The
bass guitarist will be strumming
something, Uncle Rex will be doing the
same, and we’ll be writing some verses
and exchanging ideas. Before you know
it, we have a song and we tweak and
perfect it over a couple of days.”

The Zambian Music Awards may not
have been around for very long, but
they are setting a standard and echo
the people’s musical preferences. The
award night will be something to look
forward to not just because of the
awards, but also because of the live
performances. Don’t forget to look out
for the bands that make that possible.

ATHFERONAUTS

ZAMBIA’S FORGOTTEN SPACE PROGRAM

A Photo-essay by Cristina De Middel

In 1964, still living the dream of As a photojournalist I have always
their recently gained independence, been attracted by the excentric
Zambia started a space program lines of story-telling avoiding the
that would put the first African on same old subjects told in the same
the moon catching up the USA and old ways. Now, with my personal
the Soviet Union in the space race. projects, I respect the basis of the
Only a few optimists supported truth but allow myself to break the
the project by Edward Makuka, rules of veracity trying to push the
the school teacher in charge of audience into analyzing the patterns
presenting the ambitious program of the stories we consume as real.
and getting its necessary funding. “Afronauts” is based on the
But the financial aid never came, as documentation of an impossible
the United Nations declined their dream that only lives in the pictures.
support, and one of the astronauts, I start from a real fact that took
a 16 year old girl, got pregnant and place 50 years ago and rebuild the
had to quit. That is how the heroic documents adapting them to my
initiative turned into an exotic personal imagery .
episode of the African history,. Cristina De Middel

Photo Gallery

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