Mulaima Museli

Tradition or Transaction? The Evolving Debate Over Lobola in Zambia In Zambia, weddings are far more than a union between two individuals; they are vibrant, weekly celebrations of cultural heritage. Whether through traditional ceremonies or modern Western-style events, the heartbeat of these celebrations often centers on Lobola (or insalamu), the traditional bride price. However, as of late 2025, a serious debate has taken hold across the nation. What was once a sacred symbol of gratitude and family unity is increasingly criticized as a commercial transaction that places an exhausting financial burden on young couples. The Financial Strain on Youth For many young men, the rising cost of Lobola has made the dream of marriage feel financially out of reach. Current rates frequently range from $1,000 to $5,000, with some families demanding as much as K100,000 ($4,000+). Eddie Zulu, a resident of Lusaka, captures the frustration shared by many: " The bride price is just too expensive t...

The Secret Social Life of Kids with Glasses The moment a child gets their first pair of glasses is a milestone. As parents, we usually feel relief - finally, the headaches will stop and the whiteboard at school will come into sharp focus. We worry about the practicalities: Will they break them? Will they lose them? But for the child walking through the school gates on that first day wearing frames, the concerns are entirely different. They aren't worried about visual acuity. They are worried about identity. Are they suddenly "the smart kid"? Are they "uncool"? Decades of research, including pivotal studies by developmental psychologists like Francine C. Jellesma, confirms what many of us suspected: glasses do change perceptions. They change how peers see your child, and crucially, how your child sees themselves. Here is a look at the psychology behind pediatric eyewear, and how we can help kids navigate the social blur. The "Einstein" Halo Effect (How ...

Why That "Lucky Ticket" is Just a Tax on the Poor? Mwebantu, greetings. We need to have a serious family meeting. You know how it is - you are walking through town, maybe by the bus station or the mall and you see those bright colors. The signs are shouting: "WIN BIG!" "JACKPOT!" You look at the coins in your pocket and you think, "Iye, if I just win this ka money, my life is sorted. No more nkongole, I’ll buy a farm, maybe a Land Cruiser and just relax." It’s a sweet dream, isn’t it? We have all been there. But today, we are going to look behind the curtain. We are going to look at the facts - real facts, not stories from the bar! About what the lottery actually is. And I’m telling you, what we found will make you hold your wallet tight.