WHAT I HAVE LEARNED SO FAR ABOUT BEING LUSAKA MAYOR-Chitambala Mwewa

The transition from public commentator and social media personality to the highest civic office in Zambia's capital is proving to be an eye-opening journey for Lusaka Mayor Chitambala Mwewa. In recent reflections shared with constituents, Mwewa noted that holding the mayoral seat is far removed from the comfort of an air-conditioned office or the detachment of global travels. Instead, true municipal leadership demands direct engagement with the chaotic, often grueling realities that define daily life in the sprawling metropolis of Lusaka. Since assuming office, Mwewa has emphasized that the Civic Centre must function as a hub of practical action rather than bureaucratic inertia. His early tenure has been characterized by visible patrols, inspections of clogged drainage systems, and direct interventions regarding street vending and sanitation. For years, residents of Lusaka have grown weary of administrative red tape and promises that evaporate once politicians secure power. By adopting a hands-on approach, the new mayor is attempting to bridge a long-standing credibility gap between local government and ordinary citizens. However, municipal observers point out that personal grit alone cannot overhaul structural failures that have plagued Lusaka for decades. Chronic issues such as unplanned settlements, poor solid waste management, inadequate drainage, and traffic congestion require sustained institutional reform and financial backing. While the mayor's visible presence on the streets has earned him praise from supporters who see it as a refreshing break from tradition, skeptics argue that long-term urban renewal requires rigorous policy execution rather than photogenic populist displays. The challenges facing Lusaka are a microcosm of broader urban governance struggles across Zambia, where rapid population growth outpaces municipal infrastructure. As devolution continues to unfold under the current national administration, the success or failure of Lusaka's civic