University of Zambia Students’ Union (UNZASU) Vice President Jemimah Mwaba, widely known among students as “Commander Kwishiba”, has addressed the student body following the tragic death of a fellow student and rising concerns over poor sanitation conditions on campus.
In an emotional media briefing, Mwaba assured students that their voices are being heard and that the union leadership is committed to working with university authorities and other stakeholders to improve conditions at the institution. Her remarks, shared in a widely circulated video message on social media on Wednesday, came as student frustrations grew after an 18‑year‑old second‑year student drowned in an open water‑filled pit on the Great East Road Campus.
Mwaba’s message sought to calm rising tensions among students following protests over the death of the young man, whose tragic death on March 31, 2026, has sparked calls from campus mother bodies for UNZASU leadership to resign over perceived inaction on welfare issues.
Campus sanitation, including blocked ablution facilities and poorly maintained infrastructure, has been a growing concern among the student body, with many calling for urgent improvements to protect health and safety. The government has since released funds and launched audits to tackle these challenges, following directives from national leadership.
In her address, Mwaba reiterated the union’s commitment to dialogue and unity, urging students to work together for sustainable solutions rather than resorting to unrest. She reassured students that the tragic loss will not be in vain and pledged continued advocacy for better living conditions, access to clean water, and improved sanitation services across the UNZA campus.