By Francis Chipalo
There was joy and jubilation in Siamakando village when 2026 Choma South parliamentary hopeful Joe Muchindu returned to the area with community-driven interventions.
Siamakando, under Siaskabole Ward in the newly created Choma South Constituency, broke into song and dance as residents praised Muchindu for swiftly responding to their requests.
During a previous community engagement, members of Siamakando and surrounding villages told Muchindu that pupils at Siamakando Primary School faced daily risks due to lack of basic needs — including no running water and inadequate learning facilities.
The community also raised concern over the absence of a clinic in the area, saying their pleas had “fallen on deaf ears” for years.
Upon learning about these challenges, Muchindu pledged to address them.
On his return, Muchindu donated pockets of cement “for starters” to assist with maintenance works at Siamakando Primary School.
“We cannot talk about development when our children learn on the floor and drink unsafe water. A healthy, educated child is the foundation of Choma South,” Muchindu told the gathering.
He pledged to repair the community borehole as soon as possible and ensure that other basic necessities at the school would be made available.
On health, Muchindu said he would engage the Ministry of Health and Choma District Health Office to prioritize a health post for Siamakando.
Muchindu called on the community to elect leaders who prioritize their needs.
He also urged residents to vote for President Hakainde Hichilema “so that he can continue with his transformative agenda for the country.”
“The power is in your hands as the people, because you are the ones who know what is lacking here in Siamakando,” he added.
Village headman Chrispin Siamakando said the community had waited years for such interventions.
“We have been promised many things before. But Mr. Muchindu has shown that he does not just talk — he acts,” he said.
Muchindu said his team is documenting community needs across Siaskabole Ward to ensure targeted interventions.
He added that partnership with government and NGOs were needed to address the clinic, classroom blocks, and teacher housing deficits.
Choma South Constituency was created following the recent delimitation exercise. General elections are set for 13 August 2026.
