By Francis Chipalo
Traditional leaders in Batoka Ward of the newly created Choma South Constituency have praised parliamentary hopeful Joe Muchindu for swiftly responding to a community request by delivering roofing sheets to Bombo Secondary School, just three days after village headmen appealed for help.
The gesture has brought renewed hope to residents who have long complained about poor infrastructure and slow development in the area.
Bombo Secondary School Block Stalled at Roof Level
Bombo Secondary School has been facing a serious classroom shortage after being upgraded from a primary school to a secondary school.
A 1×3 classroom block had remained incomplete after construction stalled at roof level, leaving pupils and teachers struggling with limited learning space.
According to PTC chairman Givenson Sikwalulwa, the community had initiated the construction project but failed to complete it due to lack of resources and support.
“The community started the project, but numerous appeals to current leadership fell on deaf ears,” Sikwalulwa said.
“Our Children Will Now Learn in a Conducive Environment”
Sikwalulwa expressed gratitude to Muchindu for responding without hesitation, stating that the roofing materials will help improve the learning environment for pupils.
“We are happy that you did not hesitate when we approached you. Our children will now learn in a conducive environment,” he said.
Senior Headman Hambulo Pledges Support for Muchindu
Senior Headman Hambulo praised Muchindu for responding to what he called a pressing need and pledged support for him ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The headman said the community was encouraged by the quick action and believed it showed commitment to service delivery.
Headman Maite Complains of Decades of Underdevelopment
At the same meeting, Headman Maite echoed concerns about long-standing underdevelopment in Batoka Ward, saying residents had endured years of unfulfilled promises.
He said the community had been “lied to enough” and needed leadership that would deliver tangible results.
Muchindu Urges Support for Free Education Policy
Addressing the gathering, Joe Muchindu said his contribution was aimed at supporting government efforts and improving access to education.
He urged traditional leaders and residents to support President Hakainde Hichilema’s free education policy, stating that education remains a key pillar for national development.
Muchindu also encouraged the traditional leadership to carefully assess aspiring leaders.
“Power is in your hands to change the status quo,” Muchindu told the gathering.
Headman Siachona Calls for Unity Behind Muchindu
Meanwhile, Gamela village Headman Mike Siachona, who accompanied Muchindu, urged fellow traditional leaders to rally behind the aspiring lawmaker, saying the constituency needs a leader who responds to real community challenges.
Muchindu Continues Community Tour in Choma South
Muchindu is currently on a tour of the newly created Choma South Constituency, where he is engaging communities and addressing developmental challenges affecting schools, water supply, and other social needs.
The roofing donation to Bombo Secondary School is being viewed by many locals as one of the first visible steps toward addressing educational infrastructure problems in the constituency.
