Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Billy C Sichone
First edition 2005
Copy right © 2005
Billy C Sichone
Contact details: Billy.Sichone@gmail.com,
Cell: 260977429521, 260966559762
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owner.
In coming up with this book, many people and sources have impacted on my
mind, chief among them being the Holy Scriptures as enshrined in the Bible.
They have shaped my world view in many things. Apart from the scriptures,
many have spoken into my life by way of comment or advice. As such, I felt
duty bound to return thanks to some of these people as well as other sources
at the risk of leaving out significant others.
I would also like to say thank you to my elder brothers and sisters in the
Christian faith that never gave up on me when the chips were down, but
always encouraged me to try a little harder. Among them are Mr and Mrs
(Marlon and Bupe) Banda, Mr and Mrs (Paul & Emily) Mumba, Mr and Mrs
(Johnson and Agness) Malipenga, Pastor and Mrs (Conrad and Felistus)
Mbewe, Pastor and Mrs (Ronald and…) Kalifungwa, Mr & Mrs (Stephen &
Lucy) Tembo, Pastor and Mrs (Michael and Jacqueline) Bwembya, Pastor
and Mrs (Choolwe and Merilyn) Mweetwa, “Professor Paul” and counsel
Kamo Simfukwe, Pastor Clement Kaunda, Mr and Mrs (Anne & Chikondi)
Phiri, Mr and Mrs (John and Margaret ) Mthethwa, Mr Sikapale Chinzewe,
Mr Patrick “old guard” Chama and myriad others who I cannot mention here
for want of space and time. It would be the greatest crime not to mention my
faithful constant companion that has often brightened the horizon-my dear
wife Jane.
God speed
It has much vexed the author to observe that a whole generation of youths
has been raised and continues to be churned out in succession that
practically have no hope, or direction for life•. Many have more or less given
up on life and left their fate to the whims of chance and circumstance. The
average youth on the street does not know or even care to enquire what will
become of them after they leave school at whatever level. Two extremes
have been synthesized. The one group is too pessimistic and has completely
lost hope to the extent where they do not even know where the next meal
will come from. The other extreme has those that have more than they can
handle. They have, as it were, an abundance of resources at their disposal
such that they do not see any rational reason for self exertion, after all, their
fore runners have done the work! It is the author’s hope and prayer to draw
people from both extremes to a central point where they take charge of their
destiny. People should not work at less than one tenth their capacity but use
all that is within them to eke out a unique sustainable path for themselves
and progeny.
It is true that that the times have rapidly changed. It is also true that in some
instances, the job market has shrunk while in others expanded. The million
dollar question contingent upon macro and micro economic indicators is
whether these apparent “expansion” correlate to quality. It is not enough to
boast about “job creation”, quality issues must also be addressed by the
same token. Could this state of affairs possibly signify a declined economy
Ecclesiastes 12:12, Holy Bible
Dr Kenneth Kaunda made similar comments to that effect in one of the May 2005 Post Newspaper
editions
It is high time we returned to those ancient paths where every newly born
child had hope and a bright future ahead of them. As we approach this most
important subject, let us always remember that whatever step we take, we
either condemn or promote ourselves!
Remember that the world has no time for losers but applauds winners∅.
In deed, we agree with Professor Clive Chirwa that Zambia needs a fresh
start ∈ in every sense but will you make a difference in your generation?
Arise and be counted among the valiant of mother Zambia!
Finally, this book comes as an alternative to what the average mind thinks. It
seeks to bring hope to the hopeless. It also aims to sober the wasteful so that
they realize their potential and soar to greater heights. Come with us as we
trace our heritage that takes us to higher orbs!
Chapter 1
“A country of party lovers will never rise”
Billy Sichone
As one scans the Zambian landscape, all they see is a land full of great
potential but filled with a disillusioned and discouraged lot. They have really
nothing to live for and roll along like a stone on an inclined plane. Each
morning brings with it the painful reminder that one is a burden not only to
the self but to the world at large. Similarly, at the end of the day, despondent
and disillusioned, one lies down and remains awake for many hours
wondering what the next day holds. After such torturing thoughts, one
gradually slides into a troubled sleep. The next day is pretty much the same.
The hours that occupy space between waking up and lying down are filled
with either extreme isolated silence or with the noisy hustle and bustle of
life, really heading nowhere. The average Zambian engages in all sorts of
activities to generate any kwacha that might be available either by hook or
crook. Gone are the days when the State, Charities or individuals would
easily be moved by compassion to action by the plight of the poor and
The other reason that results directly from the aforementioned is the
apparent shrinkage of the economies as evidenced by the rapid company
closures, spiralling inflation, unstable local currency, mass job losses and
declined quality of life among the nations’ citizenry at the advent of
unavoidable globalisation blizzards. Many atrocities are hidden under the
gullible guise of “being a liberal modern economy” with its attendant effects
such as over dependence on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) via the
experimental Structural Adjustment Program (SAP). “Thatcherism” was
directly ‘cut and pasted’ onto Africa without any serious prior impact
assessment. Things backfired by and large but someone still made a name
somewhere. To a large extent, the Multinational Corporations (MNC) have
manipulated African economies to their advantage, since the profit motive
over rides everything else including environmental destruction. The whole
world is yet to encounter the full backlash of global warming and yet
historically, Africa contributes least to the wanton environmental
Source: UNAIDS 2003
For another reason, how can a nation develop with over 17 different exotic
top-down development plans all vying for simultaneous attention? The other
reason is to some extent a legacy of the monarchical African system where a
power wielder does not tolerate any opponents. Shaka the Zulu’s doctrine of
never leaving an enemy behind seems to sell really well in Africa. The
native African mindset has crept into the constitution making process
evidenced by the powers given to the President. A typical African President
is generally egocentric and determines to remain in power as long as
possible. Any fly that attempts to buzz around is doomed. They glory in a
large power distance. Apart from the power craze, the patriotic spirit among
the leaders is long dead. In yester years, people were ready to lay down their
lives for others but the opposite is true in the present age. Today’s so-called
leaders are actually bosses & egocentric mercenaries rather than
inspirational.
When all these factors are cooked and mingled in one pot, it is hardly
surprising that the people, youth in particular suffer as a result. The old
adage “When Elephants fight, the grass suffers” holds true except that in this
instance, all animals are simultaneously fighting each other! As a result, the
school leaver dreads the day that they write their last paper. Equally true is
the formal unestablished worker that dreadfully approaches the retirement
age and yet without any tangible asset tied to their names. His/her children
face an uncertain future without any shelter. These vulnerable children are
all heaped in the back yard and tragically their grand children are equally
vulnerable. Others are too frail due to terminal illnesses. We do not have
time to look at lack of access to clean water, dependent citizenry, inefficient
collapsed and corrupt judicial or government systems that once held promise
for the budding graduate. The other side of the coin has its story to tell too.
Zambia is filled with youths who, despite being poor or rich, have been
carried away by the pleasure driven currents of the times. Think of how
many are engrossed in various vices reflected in juvenile delinquency such
as drug addiction, liquor abuse, promiscuity, entertainment and are
2006-07
Another thing worth noting is that most Zambians are generally merry
makers. Where ever they get a rumour that “It will be happening”, there,
expect scores of patrons converging akin to a moth around a flame. If they
hear that a buffet will be set, some cool beers flowing in the background and
loud music electrifying the air, be sure to pull a sizeable unmanageable
crowd including gate crashers. If “booze” is absent, the function is dubbed a
flop because people did not get “zoozled” or “shake their bones”, as the
world would coin it. Further, they are always looking forward to the next
function venue. Strategic thinking is only swiftly employed with a view to
maximize pleasure.
Even when clearly serious and inevitable issues such as proposal writing,
fund raising, development planning are to be crafted, they trivialize them
until their fingers are “oiled” buttressed by some ‘cool beers’ to clear the
throat while brain storming! They are more willing to let opportunity fly past
In general then, it can safely be asserted that Zambians are pleasure driven
rather than target oriented. They are cultured and nurtured to be docile,
dependant, indifferent and to a large extent carefree unless something
directly threatens their very existence or livelihood. Sadly, they are
reactionary and do not proactively respond unless pushed to the wall.
As a result, the subtle Zambian Republican Presidents, both past and present
have ridden high and long because of such terrible Zambian attitudes. For
instance, the lost decade (1991-2001), Zambians watched helplessly as the
MMD dissected the country’s economy and failed to repair the damage.
Zambians only reacted when the third term bid popped up. A similar
situation has taken place under the so-called “New Deal Government” and
its successors though that is not our subject matter for now. Suffice it to say
that Zambians are generally laid back, complain for a season and then move
on only to drop into the same pitfall!
Still other Zambians are taken up with the short-term luxuries that are
neither sustainable nor bring food on the table. For instance, some waste
many valuable hours in front of the television or computer screen, for say 3
hours daily. In a week, the total time translates to almost one whole day in
front of the screen! If one attends to both (TV and Computer), that knocks
off two days in a week! Other common captivating habits include romantic
novel reading, card playing, computer games, Internet surfing, pool playing,
music and idle chatting. Granted, some of these may not be evil in and of
themselves but if they are not properly regulated, a lot of valuable time is
irretrievably lost. Take a US movie as an example, captivating, violent,
intriguing and suspense filled easily sweeps one off their feet. Granted, it is
good to have your mind off the basic bread and butter issues once in a while,
but calculate the cost benefit you-wards. For one thing, those actors you are
glued to are already multi-millionaires! (US Dollars bwana, not the unstable
kwacha!) In all probability, they already made their life time fortune with
much more to spare. They have minted gold as it were. Why spend so much
time watching already wealthy people while you grow poorer? Suck the
progressive ideas from the screen and implement on your own projects!
When are others going to benefit from your works? Why not spend the same
At this miserable rate and attitude, Zambia will remain a pathological pauper
nation. What we need are inspirational, sincere, brave, methodical, strategic,
sacrificial and devoted leaders that will weather the wind and galvanize
everyone to rise to the challenge. I mean, why should we perish of hunger
when we sleep on golden pillows? With all the resources at our disposal,
why have one meal a day, while the multi-layered shapeless politicians eat
“masuku” over our heads? We must arise and change our lot lest we perish!
Further, Zambians have a bad reading culture in keeping with what someone
has quaintly quipped “If you want to hide something from an African, then
put it in a book!” how so true! They concentrate on the wrong things such as
fantasy rather than real tangible idea generating literature.
There is urgent need to rectify this anomaly so that the nation should begin
to turn the tide towards prosperity land. For why should we linger around
this pauper hill for all these years? As this book unfolds, we shall be
considering aspects we need to address if we are to see changes in our
fortunes both at the individual and national level.
But what can be done to turn the tide? What can individuals do to change
things round so that the world around them can ‘bow’ to their demands?
How can YOU take charge of your destiny against such a dark, dark
backdrop? A number of pearls are suggested in this and subsequent
chapters. These are by no means magical solutions but proven workable
options that may work for you depending on your context and strategic
positioning. The African mind does well to take heed. Here goes…
1. Radical mental paradigm shift. The first thing that desperately and
urgently needs to change is at the mental level, from being fearful,
dependant, relaxed, indifferent, laid back and laissez faire to an
entrepreneurial mindset. It is true that Zambians have known better
days when almost everything was free from nursery up to University
level and beyond. In a sense it was a good season good while it lasted
but in another, it virtually killed the competitive innovative and
creative spirit of people to the extent that they expect the government
From Mr. John Chundu, 12/02/05
Put differently, one asset will produce another once prudently and well
harnessed. Provided certain principles are upheld and practiced, I am
not afraid of the result. Some principles include:
(i) Entity and perpetual going concern: The organisation must have an
identity of its own separate from the financiers. Half the time, the
owners get offended once you attempt to divorce their private lives
from the organisation.
(ii) Separation of domestic and business affairs/transactions. There is
need to run domestic affairs separately from the business. Often
partnerships do not grow and blossom because the distinction is
vague. The business must run as a self-standing entity. My parents
tried and failed in many businesses, probably because the same
business also supplemented our domestic budget. Usually, in such
settings, the working capital remains the same or decline with
time.
(iii) Consistency, bit by bit/constancy. There is need to hold the highest
ethics, seriousness and consistency over the years. The way of
recording transactions and policies must be clearly laid down and
followed from year to year.
(iv) Sacrifice and commitment. Investment entails delaying immediate
gratification with a view to multiply returns in future. This is by no
means easy but profitable. If you are not ready to wait, wealth
creation will elude you and make you feel the frustration often.
(v) Diligence and determination. Diligence entails self-exertion and
desire to get something done. Ardour, energy, resolution and pulse
are needed to get things done. A determined person does not accept
defeat as an option but is always advancing.
(vi) Vision. This refers to the future mental picture of what you would
like to see as your ultimate goal. Without a clear view and goal,
you and I grope around in the darkness and leave everything to
chance.
(vii) Consortium mindedness. To achieve great things, you need others
contribution to make the burden lighter. Half the time, we operate
as solo commandos and wonder why we scarcely succeed! With
correct terms of reference and team work, much can be achieved.
Egocentrism will only sink us lower than the grave.
Once the above is done, it will open another financial stream that can be
ploughed back as investment to raise the present levels of business. Let
us take option one for a case study, once the building is set up or nearly
complete, potential tenants will begin to enquire. As soon as the place is
ready, they occupy it, pay advance rentals as agreed. This same cash can
be either used to service a loan, cushion some urgent matter (though you
meticulously watch this!) or simply reinvest in another structure. Note
carefully, that the first building will start paying back and over time
increases your asset base. Obviously, the payback period is crucial for
some people but long term projects have to give an allowance never the
less.
As can be seen, the first option has a multiplier effect over time in that other
structures will develop into profit centres. As a general rule, real estate is the
most stable and appreciative business in the world of all time. Think of the
September 11, 2001 bombing of the twin towers, what really hurt was not so
much the trade itself as much as the trade centre buildings! Whereas trade
resumed the next day, the buildings remain in ruins. As late as 2007, debate
of reconstruction rages on while income is daily lost. On the local scene, the
Building Society House continues to be an eyesore, as it stands erect after
the great fire of 1997. Think of the billions of potential revenue dollars that
have been lost the past decade or so.
Below are some the reasons why Zambians do not succeed in their own
projects:
(i) Lack of vision/weak strategic thinking. The serious myopic views
cripple many.
(ii) Laissez faire attitude/laziness. Many long to rest and have ease
even before they strike gold.
(iii) Indifference. Others are indifferent, do not care or leave things to
chance.
(iv) Procrastination. They push things to a later date when they can do
things today. Many leave things to the very last when it is too late.
(v) No sense of urgency. If you do not see any immediate tangible
benefit, your antennas suddenly go to sleep thus leading to a
weakened pulse. Life is an urgent serious matter worth our
attention.
We trust that this chapter has provoked you to greater heights of usefulness
and pragmatism. You rise or fall contingent on your strategic plans and
acting. Let us now progress to consider some definitions so that we are on
the same page.
Bibliography
Curry S.J & Winfield R.G, Success in investment, 3rd edition, John Murray
publishers, 1981.
Krames A. Jeffrey, The Welch way: 24 lessons from the World’s greatest
CEO, Tata McGraw-Hill edition, 2002
Blanchard Ken & Muchnick marc, The Leadership Pill, Free Press, 2003
Schapera I, Government & Politics in tribal societies, C.A. Watts & Co. Ltd
Definitions
In the previous chapter, we gave an over view of typical daily life scenarios
of many people across the world especially as relates to developing
countries. It was abundantly demonstrated from that chapter that many
youths today both delight and dread the day they leave school though get
disillusioned when they realise that the competitive world is not as friendly
What is work?
The first word that begs clear definition is the four-lettered word “work”.
Work means many things to different people. It is defined variously across
the world and evokes varied reactions. Some love the word, others hate it or
are simply indifferent. At the mention of the word “work”, some cringe
because it evokes some amount of self exertion while others delight and
beam up to be associated with it as it bespeaks some dignity. They feel it is
the only reasonable thing to do on this side of the grave. We attempt to give
some definitions though we know that we cannot fully define it in capsule
form. The first idea to come to mind is that work involves some form of self-
exertion in a particular direction. In other words, work is the energy exerted
to move from point “A” to point “B”. This simply means exercising mental
or physical energy to move an object or self from one spot to the other.
Another definition carries the connotation of using mental and physical
strength to generate wealth. The worker uses their best strength,
determination, will, competence, ability and wisdom to generate wealth.
This entails long range penetrative thinking and acting. Before any step or
action is taken, the person concerned spends time critically thinking through
processes, systems and outcomes of their proposed action. Having clearly
determined their path, they then summon all the latent potential energy, turn
it into kinetic to achieve their target. As sweaty application is in motion,
wealth is created contributing to the overall lifetime goal. In other words,
good livelihood is a result of calculated risk taking buttressed by constant
relentless breath taking self-application. Next time you see a comfortable or
rich person, register in your mind immediately that they must have begun
some time back painstakingly working at their objective. Further still, work
So much then for the “work” usage and definition. But what constitutes
work? What are the elements of work? We set out to crystallise some
cardinal ingredients of this all-important word.
d. Skill & competence. To get things done to the required standard, the
person has to marshal their inherent talent or acquired skills. Having been at
it for some time, they are most probably experts in that procedure and soon
achieve their goals without much ado. Always sharpen your skills and hence
build your competence base.
f. Concentration. For one to show some sign of seriousness, they must have
clearly defined their objectives and then zero in on their strategy to hit the
mark. To get the precise end, concentration and focus are needed. For a
number of years, academic success eluded this author until a friend
suggested that I needed to concentrate when studying as opposed to
needlessly spending many fruitless hours yielding little. In his view, a
quality hour or two would do just fine as compared to my daily four-five
hours study periods. His suggestion did the trick.
g. Consciousness. Serious work also means that one has to be awake to the
reality that they are about a serious matter that demands their whole being.
Doing a work half asleep does not help getting good quality work done, is
slower and the person involved rarely learns anything new. Their proficiency
levels are continuously low.
q. Ethics. These are guiding principles determining what is right, wise and
acceptable in a given context. Every context has its own rules and
regulations and in some cases, unwritten but expected behaviour conduct.
Some do not believe in ethics at all. They think that ethics are a waste of
time and hindrance to innovation in a competitive global context. As long as
no one dies, they will use any and every trick in the book to get ahead. But
ethics have a place and will preserve you long into the future.
So much then for the definition of work and what constitutes it, we now
proceed to briefly consider the ‘Labour’ definition as used largely in this
book.
Labour
Having laid the definition foundation stone, it now remains for us to apply in
the ensuing chapters. I hope you have been gauging yourself already as to
where you fall and whether you actually sufficiently exert yourself to the
limit, for that is the only key to achieve the extraordinary. The faint hearted
and lazy bones cannot leave any indelible mark upon their generations. Scan
through history and show me just one person who achieved a feat half
asleep. I dare assert that all that have left a mark upon the sands of time and
corridors of the centuries have pre-eminently been people of hard, resilient,
persistent and consistent hard work. They have weathered the tides of the
times and orbited in a unique lonely path. In one-way or the other, it costs
much to break away from the familiar human ‘force of gravity’. Many of us
get weighed down and give up even when we harbour immense potential to
change the world and leave a lasting impression upon our generation. Of
course, right motive is what keeps your motor running long after every one
has gone to darling sweet bed. I wonder, are you the worker of the times?
Having defined terms, it is high time we moved on from this spot for the
time is short, we must redeem it.
=====================
================
Bibliography
Shaw Ian (editor), Social issues and the local church, Evangelical Press of
Wales, 1988
The previous two chapters have set the foundation upon which we erect the
superstructure. First, we gave a birds’ eye view of the situation obtaining
generally, at least in third world Zambia. Next, we considered the working
definitions that we seek to employ in this book so that we are on the same
page. In this present chapter, we briefly look at the nature and rationale of
work as to why people apply themselves to generate wealth and earn a
living. Why sweat it out through life only to consume and continue craving
for more? These and several other questions will occupy the central theme
of our discussion hence.
Having established what work is, we now briefly consider the real rationale
for work at two levels namely the rational (logical) and Biblical.
Holy Bible
b. Paul had been an excellent understudy of the Lord and recalled all that
was taught to him and therefore sought to pass on what he heard. He
recalls some actual words of the Lord, probably passed down by oral
tradition, that it was more blessed to give than to receive. The picture
today is entirely altered by many present day preachers.
c. Paul worked really hard, day and night using his hands to generate
wealth. He ensured that he inoculated himself against covetousness by
ensuring that his team was adequately catered for constantly. Paul never
visited people’s homes in the pretext of preaching whilst secretly
coveting and envying people’s goods and riches, but nay, he toiled and
laboured through out. Laziness was tantamount to sin, and for sure it is.
Note further that the Apostle was a strategic thinker who used what he
had in hand to provide for his needs. He never waited for donor funds nor
rejoiced when he qualified to be placed on the ‘Highly Indebted and Poor
Countries’ (HIPC) conditions. Progressive people effectively use their
heads and hands to get what they want. Sometimes, to get the finer things
of life, it may have entailed doing some apparently demeaning jobs but
what did it matter, if only he avoided begging or being a burden to
others?
d. As his team generated wealth, they had a special eye towards the weak
that by their natural constitution could not fend for themselves. He had
no time for the deliberately slothful and lazy but went out for those
whose providential circumstances had frowned.
Today, we have a vast army of people from different walks of life that are
parasitic. They are able bodied but spend their lives begging or lazing
around. Some of the people covered under this category are relatives,
friends, children and spouses. Pastor Cholwe Mweetwa has written an
excellent treatise on the thorny subject of ‘relatives’, you will do well to
avail yourself to that one.
Therefore, there is need to revisit our paths and ensure they are in
conformity with the Holy writ. For reference, you could look up the some
verses from the Holy Bible to buttress our argument.ι
Dicti on ar y definiti on of wo rk
Webster’s dictionary definition is “Exertion of strength or faculties to
accomplish something; toil; labour; that which is produced or accomplished
by exertion or toil.” Clearly, work is that which is produced by mental labour
examples of them being a book authoring, a poem or any other that involves
I Thessalonians 4:11; I Thessalonians 5: ;I Thessalonians 2:9; 2 Thessalonians 3:8,12;
Acts 20: 33-34; Romans 12: 11; Genesis 1:28; Titus 3:1;Colossians 3:17,22-24;
Ephesians 6:6-8; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ecclesiastes 9:10; Proverbs 22:29; 1 Corinthians
10:31; Colossians 3:23; 2 Corinthians 5: 9-10,
Who is to work?
Every individual without exception is to engage in some kind of work, of
course bearing in mind the various rights due to different classes of people.
For instance, we do not expect child labour to be entertained but we do
expect child work/training to take place so that they acquire survival life
skills. In that way, the children grow up to be responsible innovative citizens
rather than turning out highly parasitic public nuisances unless of course
someone is a vegetable (invalid) or permanently physically challenged.
Apart from those exceptions, all must learn to generate their own wealth as
soon as possible. Recently, a case appeared in the news where a woman who
suffered brain damage in 1990 and artificially received nutrition through a
tube had her supply cut off by court order. The reasons advanced were
twofold: There was no hope of her recovery after 15 years and secondly the
husband claimed that his wife had said to him that if ever she became an
invalid, her wish was to die as soon as possible. The parents to the woman
had a contra opinion. Ethical issues flared up. Both sides of the human rights
coin pundits forcefully echoed their reason for their stand. With all due
respect to the law, such people (invalids) need help for sustenance. But if
someone is able bodied and sane, why keep them idling around?
When to work?
The work is to be undertaken at all times with the greatest diligence.
Depending on what shifts one elects, work must be pursued with utmost care
and devotion. In the language of the Bible, all must diligently exert all their
energies while it is day for night commeth when no one can labour. Six days
must be devoted to arduous serious hard work. It is an urgent matter that
Chapter 4
“Do not eat unless you work”
f. It is the basis for further development. Any nation that has advanced
in this global setting is one that first of all believes in itself. In
addition, it is ready to harness its resources for national development.
The development drivers could include local investors, Foreign Direct
investment (FDI) and other factors of production coupled with a
conducive enabling environment in terms of laws and political will. If
all these and many more are rightly put in the correct dosages in a
corrupt free environment, the nation will have begun somewhere. The
There could be other points but this should suffice for now. We proceed
to consider the result of hard work in brief though we shall enlarge upon
this in a later chapter.
3. The result of hard work. Hard work usually yields good results and
makes one confident as they face the future. Below, we briefly
tabulate some of them.
a. It pleases the Lord. Christians ought to be the best citizens any country
can have. Philippians 4:8-9 should characterize them. Hard work is a
clear mark of a true Christian. They work as hard and as much so that
they can bring glory to God. Because their motives are right, they work
as unto the Lord with a view to generate wealth that ultimately translates
into help to the genuinely weak or poor. The Christian Church in the
early centuries perhaps had far fewer deliberately poor saints. Granted
that they were a persecuted and despised lot wherever they went, but they
distinguished themselves by dignified hard work. Those that were more
fortunate to amass a bit more than the average person always had a
special eye towards the weak (Acts 20: 35) I am sure they were too
ashamed to major in donor dependence but rather, they preferred to be
the donors. In Zambia today, many delight in receiving free things but
d. The ability to help the weak. Another aspect, derived from the first
point in this section is the joy and privilege of being able to help the
genuinely weak among us. In every society, the poor and weak will
always be there, no matter how prosperous the place. Perhaps only
Heaven is the exception but whilst here on this terrestrial ball, we must
labour and toil to earn our bread. It is always a joy and delight to help a
fellow human being beset by unfortunate circumstances of life. I do not
for a moment encourages senseless handouts even to the able bodied who
f. Develops the nation and sustains the Church of Christ. If a critical mass
of people in a given nation is equipped with the correct enterprising, hard
working mindset and spirit, poverty will maintain its distance from that
place. The reason is simple, hard working people endeavour to produce
far more than they need for the day thereby forestalling any future crisis.
If, on the other hand, most of the people are lazy, dependant and laid
back, the nation will repeatedly go through the same motions and pitfalls
without ever learning. In addition, the Christian Churches will in turn be
in better shape financially, if a good proportions of those that work hard
in the nations attend regular worship and are faithful in supporting the
Thus, we have safely demonstrated that work is a good and necessary for
our development. Progress has only been achieved to the extent that we
exploit our resources in a directed fashion and goal. We now proceed to
consider some helpful tips to labour in the next chapter.
================================
========================
Bibliography
Chapter 5
Helpful labour principles
In a nutshell then, the successful person must have the goal clearly before
them and pursue it. They ensure it is kept fresh all the times and
guardedly so.
5. Determination
If you are to make any mark on your generation, one of the ingredients
you need to have is determination. Where pessimists see impossibilities,
you see opportunities. You must refuse to believe age-old tales before
trying out reasonable options. Your chest must bubble with a heavy
heartbeat to move on even against the grain. When I first set out to do my
Masters’ degree whilst in the outskirts of Lusaka, some scoffed and
others thought I was crazy. They questioned my sanity. But the weapon
that kept me working away those many lonely hours and years was
determination. Refuse to settle for less. Most things are possible for the
determined.
6. Desire
Apart from the determination, you must have the other jewel of desire.
You must picture your ultimate goal and actually desire to take strides
towards that end. You may have the right ideas but if the desire is absent,
you will proceed for just a short distance and then abandon ship.
7. Discipline
Discipline, yea, Iron discipline is needed in whatever undertaking you
and I engage in. For over six years, I tirelessly and diligently toiled away
during the long lonely hours on end at my studies. I used to wake up at
04 hrs daily and sleep past mid night. The only exception was the Lord’s
Day when I would honour the King of Kings. I would arrive at the office
at 06:30 work through lunch till 17:30. Thereafter, I would turn to my
books and suck in as much knowledge like a sponge.
8. Daring
9. Diligence
When you meet or merely watch a diligent person at work, what energies
s/he exerts! How careful and yet efficient they are! They are aflame with
an issue until it has been accomplished! They seem to know the value of
what they are about and do all they can to get to their destiny. Sloth is far
from them. Away with the lazy Zambian attitude of working only when
we see immediate benefit! In the traditional African setting, when visitors
arrive in the home, watch how diligently the lady of the house operates!
She ensures the “Munkoyo” or “Chibwantu” tins are swiftly brought to
the fore.
10. Drive
Drive is closely connected to determination but it has to do more with the
inner energy and motivation to carry on a given task. Whereas the
determination is a mental disposition, drive is the fuel and momentum to
continue the forward motion constantly. People with a drive are
sometimes viewed as little tyrants but all they want are results, results,
results! As will be seen in the case below, Jack Welch is well known to be
a high drive person. Often, he throws the challenge to you and pins you
to the wall with your own idea and then gives you a charge to execute it.
In our African setting, to act like a Welch is highly insulting, intimidating
and resentful. But we need to learn to develop sails in which the winds
will propel us to higher orbs. Take a look at Jack…
By 1993, GEC had achieved the unimaginable. Despite being the most
complex entity by far, it remained an agile company. It had a lean work
force, was continuously learning was aiming for the 1st or 2nd slot in every
business line and where not possible, it pulled out so as to concentrate on
its core competences. It is on the road to success but certainly, the strides
hitherto are significantly great.
But how exactly did Jack Welch accomplish these feats where others had
failed? What role did he play? Reading through his profile, one concludes
that he had certain leadership traits, which translated into action. For one
thing, he broke down GE into smaller manageable semi-independent
businesses with managers freely making decisions on critical survival
live. Change was inevitable. Thus the changes needed a maverick, clear
and strategically minded person. Welch, qualified on that score and went
ahead to take bold fearless steps, setting goals and targets. He determined
that GE should be better than the best in all areas. But as one would expect,
them on edge all the time. Change is generally resisted but he undauntedly
In the quest to improve GE after the rapid positive changes, which left
their minds and dream up new routes as well as share methods of best
legends. For instance, the Lincoln philosophy and Jack Welch’s, one
cannot fail to see that in principle, they are similar, only that Welch is more
culture.
Looking at GEC today, it looks very fine, vibrant and alive once again,
especially as it crosses into the 21st century. A new lease of life has been
infused into it and as such, we can optimistically look to the future for
greater things.
Any Manager worth his/her salt must surely have heard of or read the book
“The Seven habits of highly effective people” by Stephen Covey. It has
consistently maintained its top slot on the Management shelf and ranks
among the foremost legendary titles because of its unique and captivating
nature. It is both pragmatic and addresses all the faculties of a person. If
one reads this book rightly, I am not afraid to assert that they will never
remain the same as they experience multiple paradigmϒ shifts in looking at
the world as well as personal effectiveness. Without question, this is the
management book of the times! In only 320 pages and in four parts,
Stephen Covey succeeds to highlight what the effective person is made of.
For us to appreciate this classic volume better, it is fitting for us to clear the
path that we must shortly tread. When we talk about “habits”, we mean
much more than just the theoretical knowledge but the skills as well that
are cultivated as a result of a desired repeated constant practice of some
activity. As Emerson once said “That which we persist in doing becomes
easier-not that the nature of the task has changed, but our ability to do has
increased”Ε. For a habit to qualify as such, three things must be true about
it, namely knowledge followed by skills and wrapped up by the desire to
repeatedly do that thing. This habit is principle propelled. ‘Effectiveness’
has to do with more than just getting something done but rather executed
diligently, timely and with minimal cost or side effects. Being principle
centred from the inner man, the following seven habits are imbibed. These
are proactivity as opposed to reaction or procrastination. The second and
third habits are beginning with the end in mind where one knows their
goals and work towards it, then followed by the right priorities. Many fall
short at this point as they think everything is of equal importance. The
fourth habit is to think win-win in our relationships where everyone
comes away satisfied. The fifth is seeking to understand others first
A paradigm is broad frame work/base from which we judge, perceive and interpret the world around us
e.g. the way we look at dancing by the wedding bridal party.
The seven habits of highly effective people, miniature edition pages 93 & 94, Running press.
Philadelphia.london 1989.
Reading through the book, one cannot help to pause several times along
the way and take a deep breath as well as a critical self analysis. Covey
illumines those dark and secure cabinets of our hearts hitherto undisturbed
by light photons exposing the inefficiency cobwebs that have clustered on
the cardiac walls! How much sloth we harbour within these wretched
hearts of ours! How so slow to learn we are! How so captivated by our
nature we are! The good thing is that this classical work shows us the way
forward by giving us the “tools” by which we can venture into those
deadly caves of our hearts and remove the radioactive substances without
much ado. The seven habits can be learned once one is determined to
emerge a victor. Thus, throwing off sloth, we can discard procrastination
and head for the best that we can ever be. As one writer once said, ‘we
Looking back at the book, I do so with some sense of wonder that a mere
mortal could enter the human mind, open up the heart, diagnose the
problem and then repair it! As earlier stated, this volume is a must for
every manager! Arise then and commence the book hunt!
Oswald Chambers
A very humorous and revealing story is told about a group of white people
who were fed up with African Americans, so they joined together and
wished themselves away. They passed through a deep dark tunnel and
emerged in sort of a twilight zone where there is an America without black
people. At first these white people breathe a sigh of relief. At last, they
said, No more crime, drugs, violence and welfare. All of the blacks have
gone!
Then suddenly, reality set in. The "NEW AMERICA" is not America at all-
only a barren land.
1. There are very few crops that have flourished because the nation was
built on a slave-supported system.
2. There are no cities with tall skyscrapers because Alexander Mils, a black
man, invented the elevator, and without it one finds great difficulty
reaching higher floors.
3. There are few if any cars because Richard Spikes, a black man, invented
the automatic gearshift, Joseph Gambol, also black, invented the Super
Charge System for Internal Combustion Engines, and Garrett A. Morgan, a
black man, invented the traffic signals.
4. Furthermore, one could not use the rapid transit system because its
procurer was the electric trolley, which was invented by another black
man, Albert R. Robinson.
5. Even if there were streets on which cars and a rapid transit system could
operate, they were cluttered with paper because an African American,
Charles Brooks, invented the street sweeper.
6. There were few if any newspapers, magazines and books because John
Love invented the pencil sharpener, William Purveys invented the fountain
pen, Lee Barrage invented the Type Writing Machine and W. A. Love
invented the Advanced Printing Press. They were all, you guessed it,
Black.
8. The lawns were brown and wilted because Joseph Smith invented the
Lawn Sprinkler and John Burr the Lawn Mower.
9. When they entered their homes, they found them to be poorly ventilated
and poorly heated. You see, Frederick Jones invented the Air Conditioner
and Alice Parker the Heating Furnace. Their homes were also dim. But of
course, Lewis Later invented the Electric Lamp, Michael Harvey invented
the lantern and Granville T. Woods invented the Automatic Cut off Switch.
Their homes were also filthy because Thomas W. Steward invented the
Mop & Lloyd P. Ray the Dust Pan.
10. Their children met them at the door-barefooted, shabby, motley and
unkempt. But what could one expect? Jan E. Matzelinger invented the
Shoe Lasting Machine, Walter Sammons invented the Comb, Sarah Boone
invented the Ironing Board and George T. Samon invented the Clothes
Dryer.
11. Finally, they were resigned to at least have dinner amidst all of this
turmoil. But here again, the food had spoiled because another Black Man,
John Standard invented the refrigerator.
Now, isn't that something? What would this Country be like without the
contributions of Blacks, as African-Americans?
Martin Luther King, Jr., "by the time we leave for work, Americans have
depended on the inventions from the minds of Blacks."
Black history includes more than just slavery, Frederick Douglass, Martin
Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, Marcus Garvey & W.E.B.Dubois.
In the same way, to succeed, you must be resilient despite the multiple
setbacks thrown into your tracks. As long as you have breath, you must
refuse to be defeated the first time. The Bible says that if you falter at a
setback, how weak is your strength! (Proverbs 24:10). Further, the same
Bible says that the Righteous man falls seven times but he still rises, now
that is resilience! In ancient Jewish custom, seven signified
completeness, and in this instance, seven times carries the connotation of
total failure but the resilient man still rises! We need more of such people
in our times.
Greetings friends,
Thanks for being wonderful exemplary mentors, I will miss working with
you.
I must continue packing for now while looking out for the earliest flight
out of this place.
Remain in His keeping.
Billy Sichone
Nexus ADP departure lounge...
Mars
"Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord..." Rom 12:11
====================================================
From a colleague….
Hi. I think this is sad. I can't imagine losing you from the team.
You've been an invaluable member of my team, a confidant, prayer
partner and friend. Namuso would not have reached the heights it has
reached without you. However, looking at what you have gone through
over the years and in the past weeks and months, I can only say I
understand considering the fact I have gone through similar situations
before. The last think I would ever want for you is to leave WV hurt, in
anger and bitterness etc. But the bottom line is that we need to work in
these organizations with respect and dignity. For now, I can only say
May God's will be done. But here at Namuso, you are always welcome
stay. We will make it a matter of much prayer.
=====================================================
=
23.Work smart
It is becoming evident that it is not primarily those that work hard and
long that succeed but the smart. They must be ready to tirelessly work
hard but use a lot of brainpower looking at the best way to reach the goal.
A few years ago, General Motors was by far the most powerful and
successful organisation in the Motor industry. By all standards, no other
company could compare its market dominance, size or financial muscle!
By that token, General Motors (GM) bathed in its glory for generations. It
is now over ninety years old, which record is rare to have in these turbulent
and competitive times. To be around for such a long time is one thing but
to maintain leadership in a particular market is quite another experience.
The Post News paper 24th February 2005
All the above led to the crisis of 1992 because the environment had
changed so drastically over the years while GM remained static like
monument. As earlier intimated, the Japanese entered the Motor Market
with superior quality products which ultimately undercut GM`s market
dominance. By 1991, the Japanese had triumphed already!
GM went full throttle and implemented the survival strategies. Since the
company is big, it has not been easy to steer it back to leadership in the
industry but the said company has scored many successes, some of them
thing is that GM is on the right track having thrown away the relics of the
determined to have agility and speed as its hallmarks. In all these efforts,
TQM lies at the heart or else the giant will tumble and die!
The market leader of the 21st century must take heed of GM`s mistakes and
28. Be proactive
Successful people have tremendous intuition and fore sight. By that
token, they ensure they see issues from afar and act now, long before the
event arrives. In other words, they operate from quadrant two, as Stephen
33. Persistence
Despite many hurdles, the person always perseveres. The said person
develops shock absorbers and “resiliers” over time. S/he has a strong
immovable staying power that keeps them hanging in there despite the
odds. We once had a student Doctor friend that was sickly and spent more
time in bed than class. Despite our suggestions for her withdrawal from
the demanding school, she stubbornly persisted and eventually graduated
with distinction! Persistent people often achieve more than anyone would
have expected.
35.Consistency
There is consistency along the way. What was perceived right in the past
is the same today and tomorrow, bearing in mind the context and times.
Further, the person will ensure s/he is neither a quitter nor unpredictable.
Refer to an article by Nikki Girvan in the Pick me magazine, IPC media ltd, February 2007 pp 18,19.
Autism refers to people who suffer from communication and language problems, often cringing when
under pressure to express them selves. Visit Stephen’s website to have a glimpse of his world-class
drawings: www.stephenwitshire.co.uk or write to nikki_Girvan@pcmedia.com for more details on the said
article. Phone 02073212622 England.
40.Make decisions
I have met people who dread making decisions. But the most successful
people are predominantly decision makers. They make literary thousands
of decisions in a very short time and progress. Many chicken out from the
If you allow them, parasites grow on your skin like algae or fungi on the
wall, minimise them or at best, avoid them! But bear in mind that this has
a rippling effect on your progeny, as they will never be helped by anyone
in the day of trouble. The developed world, despite being extremely
wealthy, is struggling with rising psychosocial issues (such as stress and
loneliness etc); hence the greater need of psychologists.
Webster’s dictionary defines a parasite as “ eating beside another…one who eats at the table of another,
repaying him with flattery”
How can this be done, one may ask? There are a number of ways but we
suggest one way and that is of meditation. In ancient past, many people,
religious or no, have engaged in meditation. It has further been proved
that those who meditate regularly come off healthier and clearer thinkers
that those that do not. We have no telling exactly how this works but one
thing we can suggest is that during meditation, the mind zooms on a
number of issues retrospectively, introspectively and futuristically and
ensures that it positions the mind at the right place. Further, the mind is
refreshed and constantly informed. In the case of the Christian
meditation, the mind is focused on the Holy supreme being of God,
which ultimately rubs on the Christian mind. The Christian also
meticulously watches the motions of the heart during the day and comes
to take stock of all events at the end of the day. Having surveyed the heart
tablets, the mind is instructed to modify the future practice there by
purifying the person. The benefits of meditation include the relatively
peaceful mind, liberty to think outside the box, improved health, reduced
stress related tension, unwinding, reflection, critical thinking and having
a clear conscience as one hurtles along in life.
Why Dumb Guys Get Rich While Smart Guys Stay Poor!
If you were to check the list of Fortune 500 company bosses, you would
find that more than half of them never attended university. In fact, many of
them never even finished High School. If you look around in your own life
circumstances, you will find that the smart and the "best" invariably do
NOT get to the top, despite all the myths to the contrary. They often end up
working for someone less smart and less talented than themselves, whose
chief talent is self-promotion and a street-savvy capacity for self
preservation.
Why is this? Why do the dumb guys get rich and the smart guys stay poor?
(Note for the ladies: no sexism intended here. For "guy", read "gal"
throughout this article).
2
Mr. Charles Bota, Shop rite Checkers Regional Manager, 2002
From Mr. Clifford Chinyama 2003
Most smart guys suffer from the syndrome of the over-talented. This
means that they are pretty good at learning almost anything they put their
hand to. Hence, they can achieve proficiency at most anything. However,
persistence is another matter altogether. You see, the smart guy is drowning
in opportunity. He doesn't
know which of the many paths to take. Once he takes one, he changes
direction as soon as the going gets tough (or worse, just as soon as he gets
bored!).
By contrast, there are some people who are only good at one thing and can
do nothing else. Through focusing relentlessly on this ONE THING, they
get astonishingly good at it. Bruce Springs teen jokingly refers to this at
times in his concerts when he says that he couldn't play sports, he was no
good at math, and he couldn't get a girl. The only thing he was any good at
was playing guitar! And the rest is history. Another example of single-
mindedness is Michael Jackson. We all marvel at his singing, dancing and
song writing ability at the age of 40+. But
really... give yourself a break! How good would YOU be at his age if you
had also started when you were only five years old, and done nothing else
all your life?!! I would hazard a guess that you'd be pretty damn good!
Smart guys won't stoop too low. They won't touch things that are beneath
them. They think that once they have a degree qualification, the world is
theirs for the asking. If you have a Law degree from Harvard, would you
work in a restaurant, or start a shoe shop? Yet, in the NY Times bestseller,
"The Millionaire Next Door", the authors revealed that the vast majority of
millionaires in America made their money in standard businesses like
Smart guys think the world owes them a living. Dumb guys don't.
Smart guys whine something like "I've got this degree in Fine Art, and I've
self-published a book of poems, etc., etc. But I just can't seem to get a
break. I'm talented and I'm being ignored. It's a closed shop. You've either
got to know
Someone, or have money. And me, I don't have either...". In my first job in
Investment Banking, I recall being told to spend a couple of DAYS typing
numbers into a computer like a secretary. What was I thinking? "I'm a
Physics PHD! I shouldn't have to be doing this!!".
Here's a simple fact the dumb guys know that the smart guys usually don't.
Success, and Wealth (IF you choose to measure success that way), takes
effort, persistence, determination, large amounts of disappointment, and
sheer guts. Crying to mummy doesn't cut it. Giving up first time, saying "I
tried it and it
doesn't work. It's a scam", won't do. As Napoleon Hill said, you need
"definiteness of purpose". This means you need to decide on the one thing
you really want and stick at it, come what may, until you get it. Most
people simply cannot do that. That is why most people end up dissatisfied
and unhappy, especially the smart ones.
Smart guys don't even use 10% of what they've got, while dumb guys give
it all (after all, they don't have that much to give, do they? So they may as
Anyway, who is really "smart" here? Is it the person with a lot of degree
certificates, who knows how to play that game well, but is seemingly
incapable of playing the game of life? Or is it the person who, perhaps
without any fancy education, knows how to interact with the world in a
way that optimizes the results that he or she gets?
So please, take the point and get the lesson. Don't be too smart for your
own good. Don't be blind to opportunity simply because your eyes are too
busy contemplating your degree certificate. Don't be over-sensitive. Get
out there. Success is a contact sport. Take chances. Get beat up once in a
while. Be willing to LOSE (yes, LOSE - and forget what other people will
say about it) once in a while. Be prepared to be scammed once or twice too
in your pursuit to find out what actually works. Regard everything as a
learning experience, and keep on trying. And remember this:
Between where you are now and where you want to be in life, there are an
unknown, but finite, number of mistakes to be made. So, resolve to make
those mistakes just as fast as you possibly can. So... Let's shed the over-
sensitive skin, get off your backside, get a little "DUMB"... and ... MAKE
IT HAPPEN!
Case
Different people respond to trials in varying ways. Some are well
adjusted and thus soon mutate while others are very fragile and easily tip
over with terrible fright at encountering challenges. University students
go through incredible amounts of academic pressure and spend many
sleepless nights long after they have left the exam room. Most of them
dread failure because it is demeaning for many as well as having very
bad repercussions on resources. Interestingly, this author has met some
students who faced traumatic academic trials but still triumphed in the
end, regardless of how long it took. Thus, this author also took a leaf
from the seasoned when he himself went through the dark academic
valleys back in the 1990s. The author recalls how one friend went for two
years at UNZA before being excluded at the end of second year. He
proceeded to the Copper belt University and took another ten years on a
five-year program! Today, if you meet this person, he is one of the finest
guys to hang out with, very mature and patient. Others spent seven years
instead of four at UNZA. One thing flows through all these people,
taking each failure as a stepping-stone to greater heights, no matter how
hard it appears.
55. Shed off “excess baggage” as you progress and refine your
strategies.
In life, if you are not careful, everything appears equally important and
you could end up doing everything but achieving nothing tangible. It is
therefore necessary to identify what is important and urgent as compared
with what is unimportant and to some extent urgent. The strategic mind
carries out a self-SWOT analysis and knows what is critical for success
while discarding the unimportant. Thus, any excess baggage is hurled out
while refining future success strategies. This author was once very active
in too many spheres and in the process wasted a lot of time and energy.
Even if you are multi-tasked or talented, watch what you are about. You
may need to shed off some of those weights to generate higher efficiency
levels. It may entail parting with some darling things and activities but
the dagger must be swiftly applied none the less.
62.Know yourself
This is the first mark and entails knowing ones’ limitations, potentials,
abilities and powers. In other words, the earlier you discover your core
competencies, the better. For example, I bet Kalusha, Mbesuma, Chitalu,
Nervous, Conrad, Cholwe Mwetwa, Mutembo Nchito, Amon Simutowe
among many celebrities of our time discovered their strengths whilst still
very young and wasted no time plunging into their callings. I think that in
part explains why they sparkle so brightly even today. If another with the
wrong fit had taken the same professions, they would soon be frustrated
and quit.
But what type of scenario did Mugala exactly find when he first stepped
into the building society executive office in mid 1998? What hurdles has
he encountered thus far? Firstly, we not that he found a divided house that
was crippled by evil organisational politics. The Management and the
union were at daggers drawn and constantly fighting with no strength left
wrestling to do any positive work. The union spent all its time squabbling
about wages, pointing fingers and daily fuelling more animosity in the
company. If a PhD could be earned through antagonism, the union could
have bagged a multiplicity of them!
Fourthly, the people who were previously at the helm of the organisation
were half the time not equal to the task but rather political appointees
because of their patriotism to the party in power. This trend sadly has
persisted to this very day. The lament is that these clown Executives were
not original but did the bidding of the state and even more tragic was the
fact that many had no heart for the entity. Of course, many with greater
credentials than Mugala have traversed the path that he now treads but
none perhaps has been as salty as he. Having proved himself both in public
and private practice, the Government, in its usual unconventional ways,
called him to resuscitate the ailing company. By all counts, the Building
Society was headed for the company bone yard.
Time has gone by and many problems have crossed his path but he remains
focused towards the goal. Problems such as low pay, low morale, bad
attitudes, evil suspicions and resistance from the “old guard” still linger.
Happily, these green headed vices are slowly being mortified.
====================================
============================
Bibliography
Cole Robert & Mishler Lon, Credit Management, 11th edition, 1998
Covey Stephen, The seven Habits of highly effective people, Pocket books.
London. Sydney. New York. Singapore. Toronto
Bower, Bartlett etal, Business Policy, McGraw Hill, 1998 8th edition
The following highlighted points nibble away at our prosperity, they steal,
rob you and me of our potential higher quality of life. Take time to reflect on
our proposals:
1. Laziness
Laziness comes in various forms and it may or may not be tolerated
depending on the culture, values and context. In the developed north,
everyone is expected to work hard, be self reliant, innovative and
contribute to their own and national well being. It is actually a taboo and
embarrassing to go through life without engaging in any gainful work.
Motivational speaker Bernard Chiwala∅ accurately described the
Refer to the article “Chiwala ties poverty to wrong mindset” in the Post of 10th October 2007 by Patson
Chilemba page 2
Remember those mealie meal coupons of the 1980s? That was seriously
damaging on our innovative creative minds. Perhaps it was good while it
lasted in the command economy era and context but the spill over effects
were really bad. That explains in part, why many Zambians failed to
adjust to the rapid changes that took place in 1992. Many expected the
government to continue with its spoon-feeding approach to development
but the capitalistic context would not permit this. The few enlightened
citizens that realised the implications of the liberalised economy took
advantage of the faulty privatisation process and minted gold. Today,
some of them boast of being filthy rich while the vast majority remain
2. Despair
Despair manifests itself in many ways. One-way is when individuals
have a low self-esteem, are weak decision makers or do not confidently
trust themselves to do anything right unless another applauds their effort.
More than that, despair is when someone or people simply give up, resign
themselves to fate or leave everything to chance hoping that some divine
intervention will alter the course of nature. Usually, the poor happen to be
desperate because they do not see or hope for a better future because
there seems to be no light at the end of the tunnel, as Kaunda used to say.
When you despair, you halt any further enquiry or plans to improve your
lot. The best you can do is whine about each and everything. In effect,
you become mentally crippled and dare not attempt anything new
because of your pessimistic mindset that is reinforced by what you see in
your locality. If you accidentally find yourself among the elite and
affluent, you often feel disadvantaged, robbed, cheated and disoriented as
a result of your already firm pessimistic mindset. Unless you resolve to
pick up the broken pieces, you will forever remain on the fringes of life.
Zambia needs a fresh start. A new lease of life is needed to remove the
despairing wet blanket that has enveloped our nation for so long. A few
elite people are having a field day and cannot see my reasoning here but
if you took a casual visiting one of these compounds, you cannot help but
sense the high despair levels among our people. Of course, some of these
3. Pessimism
Closely connected to despair is pessimism. This means having a negative
attitude about everything. As a result, you do not see any possibility of
making it to the next level because you have convinced yourself that
certain things are too complex, remote or belong to a certain class of
people. In fact, pessimists always concentrate on the bad and negative
side of things and make conclusions before s/he even tries out. If
Professor Chirwa was a pessimist, he would not have ventured into the
Crashworthiness research, because no one had ever done it before him. If
he reasoned that he could not make it because he was black and hailed
from one of the scandalously poor nations in the world, he would have
long given up. But the man believed in himself and went on to be advisor
to powerful governments like the USA, British and the EU in general.
Interestingly, the Zambian government has scarcely given him a proper
hearing! If it was a “Muzungu” parroting the same stuff, the whole nation
would have come to a standstill just to hear the exotic fellow. All this
behaviour emanates from a pessimistic mind set. No wonder why the
“PHD” syndrome finds fertile ground on Zambian turf. But you need to
turn the tide round in your generation. If everyone around you refuses to
budge, turn yourself around! William Cowper (1731-1800) was a serious
pessimist and yet wrote over 67 classical hymns and countless poems.
12.Doubt
Doubt has always been a killer of many projects because doubters are
often not courageous enough to present and defend their ideas to a wider
audience. While they still doubt, another quickly steals their ideas and
pose as the originator. No matter how they mourn, the world will not hear
them but give credit to the patent holder. I have heard of a Zambian who
claims to have pioneered the isolation the HIV Virus but delayed to make
their findings known. Another stole their conclusions and published them
in a journal thus getting the credit. That was sad but it happens so
frequently. Many have claimed to have invented or discovered this, that
17. Procrastination
This is the bad habit of always pushing things to a future date that could
well be handled today not tomorrow. The person in this habit develops a
mindset that is always doing things in a panic at the eleventh hour
although they had plenty time throughout the given period. Many
students are culprits of this vice, no wonder many of them resort to
21. Inconsistency
Others are good at learning from the past and from others but are
amazingly unstable! Initially, they appear as dark clouds pregnant with
much rain about to fall but suddenly prove to be a mere bag of wind.
Some easily get distracted by mirages and thus end up chasing after the
wind. There is need to be consistent in whatever we do or undertake. Just
like the consistent Accountant reports the same way across the years, so
also must you and I be when we are pursuing a certain path of activity.
Anything short of that invites scorn, doubt, lowered confidence and
erratic results. If positively embraced, it will definitely have the opposite
22.Conflict of interest
In one way or the other, we all have interests in whatever we engage
ourselves. We seek some form of benefit. But some interest is far too
much, especially over public resources simply because no one person can
claim ownership. As such, there is need to regulate and ensure the right
safety guards are in place to avoid abuse. For instance, we read of a
Lands Cabinet Minister who is alleged to have amassed multiple plots for
her family. She is said to have used her position and thus abused
authority to get undue advantage. In another case, the daughter to the
President got a plot without following procedure in a given prime area, as
reported by the Post newspaper at one time. Yet another heart breaking
incidence was the famous Copper belt Energy Corporation (CEC)
scandal√. Some senior person from ZESCO (Zambia Electricity Service
Corporation) used their influence to sell cheaper energy to CEC of which
he was a share holder thus reaping off the country. Surprisingly, the state
cast a blind eye to that. Perhaps the gentleman belonged to the ‘family
tree’ as interesting Mr Michael Sata often says. Conflict of interest goes
far beyond the examples we have cited. It can be said to be that
acquisition of rights, privileges or properties because of one’s advantaged
position. To the Zambian, this may sound quite a foreign concept because
the “farmer must eat from the farm as /she toil” away, so the conventional
reasoning goes.
23.Wrong motives
People sometimes start high-sounding projects and pledge to do great
exploits in a short time. Some go all the way and prove truthful but the
vast majority quit when we least expect. This leaves a sour feeling down
September 2007
25.Corruption
Corruption has been recognised as one of the major killers of a nation.
Many countries suffer seriously at the hands of this vice. In capsule form,
corruption is the acquisition of goods or services using wrongful means
such as bribes. Zambia teems with this corruption disease. Like the
colonialists of old, FTJ left his unique legacy that will live to haunt us-
corruption. A booby-trap all right. It is his brainchild that was born in the
cradle of 1991, grew in that decade, matured in 2001 and yet to reach its
26. Nepotism
In a country where there are over 73 tribal groupings and where
intermarriages are hardly surprising, nepotism sadly still displays its ugly
green head. We see it all over the place, in government, in churches, in
companies and even in families! If one belongs to the ‘right clan’ or
grouping, then chances of success are very high because they carry the
correct label and garment. The down side of nepotism is that it sometimes
discourages the truly competent from taking up key positions to change
our fortunes based on their origins. Another pitfall of this vice is that the
people we gather to our side usually turn out to be careless and abusive of
resources entrusted to their care. At one time, it was believed that certain
tribes were the only and greatest thieves in Zambia but time has proved
that theory wrong. The truth is that we all carry within our hearts a fallen
nature needing regeneration to make one think and behave properly. Not
even education can totally change a person’s character or heart although
it may modify some perceptions or actions. Nepotism then refers to one
deliberately and exclusively granted favour to ones’ relations at the
expense of national progress and interest using public resources. This is
hardly an all-embracing description. My brother once worked for a nearly
all ‘Namwanga’ beer company! I was startled when I learnt about that
and wondered why. The best answer I got was that they (tribes’ mates or
relatives) understood each other and worked well together. I was far from
being convinced. But then, as earlier stated, we could stretch ‘nepotism’
to other things as party politics or denominations. If you do not belong to
the right group, you are doomed. Your businesses may even plummet.
28.Dysfunctional system/team
The temptation to do things alone is very strong especially if you do not
trust your colleagues to do the right thing. When you are forced to work
with them nonetheless, you behave in many ways inconsistent with your
claims. In times like this, you tend to hide information or keep a close
eye on whoever you are working with or supervising. When many of
such queer minded fellows converge to make a group, heading towards a
team, not a few hurdles are encountered. Each person suspects the other
and dares not leave anything to chance and repeatedly suspiciously
double checks what others have done resulting in a dysfunctional unit
where people waste a lot of time back biting, slandering or cutting each
other to size. Much heat is generated and lost to the wind leading to a
tired but unproductive team. Alternatively, one team may be excellent but
the next in the chain is problematic, this disrupts the overall quality flow
of work and eventually leads to corporate bone yard.
30.Lack of conviction
At other times, it may not necessarily be resource shortage or too much to
do. It may actually be the lack of conviction over some pursuit resulting
in sudden abandonment midway or hesitation by parties concerned. For
example, if you are not convinced that the gospel is the solution of man’s
wicked heart, you will be hesitant to disseminate it especially when you
meet the elite and obstinate. Conviction begets passion.
32. Not asking critical questions such as opportunity cost, value added,
sustainability or long term benefit to all concerned many generations
hence.
Very few people in Zambia have critical minds courageous enough to
question why and how things are done. If there were, we should not be
where we are as a nation or as individuals. If you are to make head way,
you need to develop an additional sense that will discern the issues and
ask correct questions. In that way, you will then intelligently craft a clear
strategic path to success. In the same breathe, you will also have time to
evaluate the impact of present actions on the future, continuity and
outlook of the future. Lack of raising critical questions results in many
lost opportunities, bad decisions and unsustainable practices that may not
be eco-sensitive. Always think through issues before acting or devoting
yourself to something. You may live to regret.
Indented words quoted from the Monday 14th February 2005 Post News paper verbatim
36. Individualism∇
The advent of western civilisation to some extent has eroded and
supplanted our rich communal social structure. At one time, villages
worked together and co-existed in equilibrium. They were harmoniously
united and available for each other to fill in the missing link when one
was lonely. We seem to be losing that virtue and rapidly have imbibed
individualistic mindset postures. Today, it is “each man for himself and
God for us all” as the old English saying goes. In whatever we undertake,
we always are looking for our egocentric stake rather than the communal
good. Granted, we cannot avoid personal interest but this can be
Refer to Muna Ndulo’s book, “Mining Rights in Zambia” pp8 which alludes to some social changes when
people of different ethnic groupings converge in an area such as the Copper belt of Zambia.
40.Lying
Milingo’s wife once lamented that Zambians lie a lotκ. At first I felt
offended and insulted by that allegation but upon reflection, I agreed with
her observation. I mean, if the President himself can lie and behave as a
trickster, how do you expect his subjects to turn out right? Lies germinate
and take root in different ways, either they emanate from a culture or are
learnt along the way. If it is an established culture of lying, expect
anything from anyone. No one’s word can be trusted either. The tragedy
today that even today’s saints, including Pastors have been infected with
this lying virus despite clear biblical injunctions against such a vice. If
people have learnt it along the way, then there is better hope of
“disinfecting” them before it reaches the bone marrow. People lie for
various reasons. Some lie because they want to quickly get something,
others do it to avoid bad repercussions but the vast majority in Zambia
habitually lie. Lying has never occurred to them as wrong! Like
highlighted earlier, if you cannot trust the next person’s word, then you
will walk circumspectly fearing any sudden backlash. Further, lies
contribute to the heightening of doubt and thus the individual or nation is
progressively destroyed rather than built.
This is a terrible cancer needing weeding out if you and I are to make
headway. Our word must be trusted by all without any iota of doubt
regardless of whom or where we are. Children often learn from their
seniors and carry on that culture for many years hence. Politicians in
Zambia lie too much because they are tolerated by the electorates who
themselves are guilty of lying!
41.Blame shifting.
Instead of owning up when things go wrong or objectively enquiring
what caused an evil occurrence, people tend to spend more time shifting
blame on others rather than discovering the root cause. In some cases,
others are to blame but in many cases too, the individual him or herself is
the cause of the problem. People who specialise in the blame game
always have excuses for failing to achieve anything and will spend all
their time justifying their actions or misfortunes, as the case may be.
Well-adjusted people face up to the challenge and look the problem
Post newspaper 2007, over the health status of her husband Emmanuel Milingo
The issues raised in the present chapter are exceedingly painful but also
insightful for the discerning. If you elect to change your fortune, this
revelation will exceedingly be handy as it will not only assist you avoid
past pitfalls but help you to strategically plan for the future. If a critical
mass of Zambian citizens fled from the thieves of labour, the nation will
potentially have been firmly put on the road to self-redemption from the
poverty clutches that have hitherto caged it. As we move to other
chapters, it is hoped that the points thus far brought to the fore will affect
our perceptions as well as serve as a driving force to future success. I
wonder what will become of you ten years hence, after persistently
working smart and hard.
===============================================================
Bibliography
Chapter 7
Having firmly laid the foundation and erected the structure, we now
precede to in insert some finishing touches. The present and subsequent
chapters merely buttress the foundational truths thus far asserted. A special
feature of this and other chapters is that it zeros in on the individual though
largely applicable on a national level.
c. Ant mentality. Have you ever watched ants at work? They are always
working laying up for the difficult day ahead. They spare no effort and
scarcely have time to rest, at least as far as the human eye can visibly
see on a good day. No stone is ever left unturned and every nerve,
muscle and energy is summoned to achieve the benchmark. Due
diligence is the need of the times. You need to see the importance of
something before you devote yourself.
h. Energy. As one diligently works their way through life, they need to
have the right ardour, zest and zeal to get things done. This inward
drive must be well moulded and maintained regulated by a good head
and heart. This warmth and strong desire is called “fervency” derived
from the word fervour. If you are fervent and on fire over something,
even the apparently difficult things appear far much lighter.
j. Minimal supervision. This point has been ably dealt with in the
previous point and as such, we speedily pass on to the next trait.
m. Acumen. This also has been alluded to in the previous point but we
add saying that acumen is the insight, shrewdness, right judgement or
intelligence into something. As such, you need to have an intelligent
discerning eye to see into things so that you respond appropriately in a
given context.
p. Robust. You must be stout hearted, bold, strong, tough, vigorous and
forceful if ever you are to make a mark. In this competitive world, you
need to be the best you can if you are to stand out and beat your
competitors. More than that, you need to be in a sense stubborn and
unwavering in your quest to achieve something. You must struggle
and be at times for many hours, weeks, months and in some cases,
years depending what it is that you are about. You must also be
consistent to register your point in people’s minds.
r. Risk taker. To achieve anything worth talking about in life, risks are
unavoidable. We take risks daily at every turn but what matters is the
quality and timing of those risks. If one is risk averse, they will
scarcely take any decisions in which ever direction, always remaining
in the safe zone.
The tabulated traits will suffice for now although there are many more traits
you will need to put on in order to tick in these dynamic times. Our work
would only be half complete if we did not consider some of the reasons why
you and I fail to succeed in the field despite our world class credentials.
Once these are identified and meticulously watched, we shall minimise the
frequency of our follies. We therefore proceed to consider these pitfalls in
point form. Some of these may appear as repetitions but this is done for
emphasis’ sake.
The first killer trait is the wrong mind set. If you approach work with a
negative attitude, you will not put in your best and ultimately quit when an
opportunity allows. If work is a drag, a weight and an encumbrance, you will
try as much to keep away from it and thereby reduce on your output. In fact,
you will spend more time running away instead of putting your hand to the
plough and moving ahead. They that complain the most generally produce
the least output.
The second failure cause is wrong orientation, which actually is, in a sense,
the mother of many other vices. If you were brought up always working, two
reactions are possible. It is either you will hate work, keeping as far away
from it once liberated or you will love it and labour on hardly aware that you
are over working. On the other hand, if you have had an easy laissez faire
life, mandatory work will be a major trial for you and yet it is necessary.
That explains why some people always employ many domestic workers
even for simple jobs one can easily do. Work on your orientation and
program your mind to look at work positively.
At other times, people behave the way they do because of wrong instruction
about something. Some people are taught to look forward to a nice easy and
cosy life without being told HOW to acquire such a nice life. For instance,
this author once had a bad attitude towards study which ultimately had its
toll on his performance. Some brethren taught us to believe that studying
was a weakness, a waste of time and idolatry of the highest order. This
wrong teaching took its rounds in Zambia and many from that generation
never progressed far beyond grade twelve although they had more than
enough grey matter between their ear lobes. Thankfully, this author
discovered the real teaching of scripture that encourages scholarship and
innovative thinking. The Bible abhors laziness of any kind and this teaching
has shaped my thinking since then. Why do you behave the way you do? We
believe that what you value most has a bearing on how you behave and
respond to the world.
But sometimes, it may not necessarily be wrong teaching. It may well be the
lack of it. If someone has not been exposed to the fruits of hard work, or
indeed seen people that work hard and achieve much, they are likely to
continue on in the ways that they have considered correct, normal and
acceptable. If one has grown up thinking that drunkenness is a good value
and activity, they will find it strange when they encounter a person that is
constantly working with little rest. Furthermore, some are in that state
because they do not have a model, mentor or coach that stands by their side
to guide them through life’s winding paths. I have had many people speak
into my life at different stages that has shaped my thinking. If you are
always in the company of quitters or lazy people, chances are that you will
adopt their way of thinking and find it very difficult to adjust if you go into a
different setting. For instance, if a person gets a job in the NGO circles from
the government, if they choose to carry along the same slothful ‘red tape’
kind of attitude with them, they will not last long or wreck the new social
setting. Blessed are you if someone is always beside you, for you shall soon
prosper, unless your guide leads you astray like someone once sincerely did
in our lives.
I used to think that the environment and socialisation alone is what shaped
one’s behaviour and outlook to life but after reading the Bible, I have come
to the conclusion that it is actually the condition of one’s heart that
determines what they do in life. No matter how many restrictions, laws and
impediments you put in a person’s way, they will still do what they want and
are convinced about. Let me illustrate it in this way. Many years ago, I
worked for an organisation that boasted of having some of the strongest
internal controls but at one time, millions of kwachas were stolen by
insiders! What was the explanation, was it lack of academic credentials? No!
The people involved were some of the most educated and yet they stole!
They stole within the system. The answer lies in the condition of the heart.
How is it with you? Have you a rotten defective heart?
The other killer of work is lack of ambition and therefore resolution. If your
vision is blurred and unclear, you will not summon any energy to exert
yourself in a given direction. An ambition is an overriding goal and desire to
get to a certain destination no matter what it takes. Many young people are
not ambitious enough and leave everything to blind fate. I often feel heart
broken when I ask many rural kids about their ambitions. Firstly, they get
startled at my question and secondly, they leave the ‘Grade 12’ results to
determine. Thus, they will work harp-hazardly and not focused nor
concentrating in the relevant areas. For instance, if you want to be a lawyer,
you need to work on your history and English. But if you are undecided, you
will concentrate on wood work or Technical drawing which do not add any
value to your professional quest. Thirdly, some use the local people only as
their role models. Their exposure is extremely limited. For instance if the
prominent people in a village are Policemen, teachers or preachers, truck
drivers, every child will want to be like them.
I suppose the last section has added clearer light on what needs to be done to
uproot the work destroyers. It is the small leaks that sank some of the
world’s greatest ships. The logical thing to do in the ensuing section is to
address issues related to work improvement. We spend some time on that
one and then hurtle along to close this chapter.
The first is that if you have a corrupted nature and wounded conscience, you
need a complete overhaul. This implies that your inner systems, values, and
ambitions must drastically be revived and brought to life again. You need to
reset and reboot your system. In theological circles, we call this
“regeneration” or the new birth where you start a clean slate all over again
like a new born baby. Regeneration bespeaks vivification, bringing to life
from the dead where there was previously no life. Once one is regenerated,
they are then able to look at things in new light from a correct premise and
good perspective. It is our conviction that a regenerated heart is the best
heart because it can discern the issues and see clearly even where there is
thick dark smoke. The regeneration rays shed light through the deep thick
darkness of soul enabling one to do things differently in new ways.
Having had a vivification, there is now need to change the heart by taking
away the hard heart of stone and placing in a new heart of flesh. In computer
language, we call this, ‘new software’ that will now guide movements. This
software will embody the new constitution. Reformatting may be critical so
that all remaining corruption is swept away. For instance, if a hard core civil
service baptised professional joins the private sector, this new software will
Furthermore, the new heart begins to look at life in completely new ways
with respect to the future. The person now develops long range thinking and
able to strategise properly, long before a crisis occurs. The person has a
sense of purpose and the big picture view enables them to wisely take
correct steps towards their goals.
With the right long range thinking in place, the regenerated person is able to
see where they are heading to and know when to point to the mountains!
They clearly see the star that takes them to the desired haven, as it were.
But then, to get them to the mountains, requires a strong determination and
sense of direction which resolution and drive provide. When Paul visited
Corinth on one of his missionary journeys, he determined to stick to his goal
regardless of what fell upon his path. He was a highly focused man who
knew exactly where to lay his weight and energy.
Yet another aspect that results from a changed heart is the strong desire to
cut off the weights that easily entangles them to the ground. Bad habits, evil
company, wrong advisors, unhelpful practices must be discarded and loathed
at all times. If you allow them back, the will weigh you down because old
habits die hard, as that ancient saying goes. The best you can do is to flee!
The changed heart may make mistakes initially but with time, it learns the
ropes and knows the way. Soon, it becomes established in its good ways and
is able to make progress. This is achieved by walking with the wise so that
they sharpen each other as Iron sharpens Iron (Proverbs 27:10). The
scriptures are right when they state that he who walks with the wise grows
wise because valuable wisdom gems are shared and passed around (Proverbs
13:20). If you want to be an astute business person, hang out with the serious
Having selected the good crop of friends, you then set you objectives very
clearly and draw the parameters for your interaction. You must have similar
goals, aims and desires. More than that, each of you as individuals must
have one major overall goal from which all your various goals are derived.
As an individual, be a person of one thing at a time. Paul was pre-eminently
a person of one thing. He used to say, “One thing I do…” and stretched
towards his high goals. Challenge yourself each year by raising the bar
higher. Then you will stretch yourself towards that.
Once you have amicably agreed on terms of reference, once more, revisit the
purging work by chiselling off the rough edges that have a potential of
slowing you down. Runners have bare minimum weights on their bodies and
train long hours to make themselves agile ready for the arduous race ahead.
They clear their minds and psychologically prepare themselves for
concentrated action. Once in strict training, they do not allow anything to
distract them, not even the allowable and lawful things which might rob
them of valuable time. Similarly, identify those things that steal away your
time and concentration on the right things. What is it that nibbles away at
your productivity, among friends? Excess baggage must go! It must be
hurled into the sea!
Case study
Patrick Chama was born in an average Zambian family. The last of the
five boys in a family of seven. He was born in his father’s declining years
when the old man was about to retire. While his parents formally worked,
life was fine and hunger practically unknown. His other brothers and
sisters had by that time long left home and had eked their way through life.
The young man did not stop there, he continued to excel in computer
wizardry while he added papers to secure his position. In the fullness of
time, he went abroad for studies to India and the Netherlands respectively.
In between, he travelled extensively representing the university at many
conferences and computer labs.
After a decade of distinguished service at the University, Patrick felt it was
time to move on, now that he had married and beginning a family. Before
the University realized it, Patrick was in the Congo working in the war torn
area with the UNHCR. From there, he was evacuated to Rwanda where he
works and soon plans to return back to Zambia, having saved enough, built
two houses and secured his family’s future. Patrick is an international
knowledge worker, sought after all over the world.
Where he goes next, only time will tell…
Lastly, begin each task with the end in view. Always have the vision clearly
before you and only then do you make your way to the starting line. If things
are hazy or unclear, little progress will be made and no benchmarks set by
that token. Covey advises that for you to be effective, you must have the end
product prototype clearly visible long before you set out. When we were
building our first house, our mental picture always kept us going until the
last fitting was in place, only then did we rest.
Bridges Charles, The Christian Ministry, Banner of Truth Trust, 1997 edition
Chapter 8
Life is full of surprises at every turn. There are twists and turns which we
have to pass through if we are to make head way. Some twists harbour
deadly booby traps lurking at every turn. Other twists have bouquets of
‘feasty’ flowers that make life really worthwhile. Whatever the case, we
need to meticulously watch because pitfalls about even in the midst of
success. The naïve usually get taken up by token success and fail to see
beyond the corner which eventually results in their undoing. At this stage in
our book, we take time to consider the common pitfalls that confront any
person. They appear so simple in some instances but do effect great harm or
cause unwarranted resource wastage. To achieve our objective, as has been
the practice throughout this book, we employ points to ‘hook’ our ideas into
your mind.
The first pitfall that many of us are guilty of is having too many ideas and
aims in life to the extent that we either fail to focus on one thing thus
spreading resources and energies too thinly or eventually get confused in the
process. We have multiple simultaneous aims. Often, those that have too
many things than they can handle usually fizzle out over the horizon because
they do not have a unique speciality for which they are known. In the quest
to get known in a short time or impress someone, or indeed prove something
to others, people often take on too much and end up with an over load. As an
Accounting student, I wanted to complete my Diploma in record time of 1.5
years and then move on to other professional courses. In keeping with my
target, I collected over loads and ended up failing all my subjects. I still did
not learn and repeated the same folly with same result. I took an over load
for two main reasons. The first is that I wanted to “catch up” with my class
mates who had advanced to the next year while I was rewriting some papers.
Secondly, I always convinced myself that Accounting courses were simply a
walk-over. I was wrong and paid dearly for this. As a result of this confusion
and panic, I started thinking of other seemingly ‘simpler’ programs like law,
social sciences and all, in a bid to escape the problem at hand. This made it
even worse as I did not concentrate on what I had on my plate. In such a
scenario, the mind is not fixed one thing at a time. The Apostle Paul left a
powerful trail blaze over the corridors of the centuries because he was
predominantly a person of ‘one thing’.
Greed comes in the third place as a serious pitfall that repeatedly plagues
many souls. Many ruin their prospects by trying to run before the gun, cross
the river before the get there or indeed ‘cut corners’ that swiftly lands them
behind bars. If they do not go to jail, then their image is irreparably
damaged. Greed has slain its thousands and yet people do not learn. It is
important to have a healthy appetite to succeed but if this is not watched, it
becomes an addiction which later rules your life destroying you in the
process. Greed is simply being egocentric regardless of what others think or
feel as long as you get the Lions’ share all the time. A greedy person rarely
works with others nor trusts them.
Once greed has matured, it gives birth to impatience which ultimately forces
you to act in ways which even surprise yourself! I have met many well
meaning young people who are impatient and want to get instant
gratification after sweating at the University or college. They often do not
want to waste time by starting in the remote areas of the country but want
instant results in the city where the big and famous firms are. In one sense,
they have a strategic point, but in another, they miss grand opportunities that
often go begging in the outlying areas. The patient man or woman who has
quietly taken the longer route often turns out more mature, fit and attractive
in the long run because they have demonstrated that they can hang in there
and still tick.
Sometimes we have too many attractive options at the same time, how do we
handle this? There is often chaos in many minds! This point focuses on the
tendency to take too many paths at a time. It may take the shape of many
divergent directions at the same time or using too many different ways
Bib li og rap hy
Price Stuart & Duah Agyeman Ivor, Koffi Annan: Back from the brink? New
African magazine, March 2005 # 438, pp 13
Chapter 9
Types and classes of labour
Many things no doubt but it is always good to be clear about the types of
jobs on offer and what you aspire after. You need to know what is on offer
before you take an informed choice. In life, always make right decisions and
live with the consequences. The blame shifting game does not help anyone
and is unacceptable today. Akin to Law, ‘ignorance is no defence’ or excuse.
As you probably know, some jobs are labour intensive while others are more
routine requiring repeated application to master and gain efficiency in the
long run. As the world goes global however, there is an emphasis on
‘knowledge work’ where the new currency for employability is ideas. If you
have a plethora of ideas, then the weightless economy is your domain and
will offer the biggest jobs. In other words, ideas, not actual tangible
“machines” or factories will get you the job. More than that, if your ideas are
fresh, new, innovative, flexible, relevant and eco-friendly you are in big
business! In addition to the ‘new currency’, the world has gone global. Time
was when one transaction across the Atlantic scarcely had any immediate
bearing on the Eastern coast of Africa but now that is past and gone. The
world is a ‘global village’ and thus every move immediately affects other
parts of the world since it is one cohesive whole. There is nothing that
happens in a corner and goes unnoticed by the world’s media, yea, satellite
technology can zoom into your very bedroom and tell you what is going on!
This implies that the way we do business and work has continued to
drastically change over the years. The successful business cadre of the 21st
century and beyond are those that are international and global in scope and
outlook. They must be comfortable to do business at any point on the globe.
1. Mental. The first is one that involves thinking, the brain or mind. This
has in many ways taken the centre stage in these dynamic times
because it involves certain mental skills translated into what we see. It
invokes more of the mental processes and skills. This includes
decision making jobs. Managers and leaders are constantly making
thousands of ethical decisions. Their responses emanate from what
they have learnt over the years, experienced, picked up along the way,
studied or been taught through formal education.
2. The second is manual or physical work. People have different callings
in life and feel comfortable in different settings. Some feel very good,
safe and secure behind a desk surrounded by four walls while others
Academic studies
As we noted earlier on in point # 3 above, academic and professional studies
are the ground and root for ones’ future prosperity. If they ignore this aspect,
then they soon become irrelevant or redundant. Chances are, they will be
Definition of study
The precise definition of study is elusive to come across but an attempt
would be: “Studying is the systematic, meticulous analysis and imbibing of
the substance under observation with a view to add to the body of
knowledge in the mind"∂ As can be seen from the definition given, study
involves a painstakingly disciplined and focused mind which desires to
update the information centre of the brain. Studies take place in various
spheres and modes. Among the modes available include the formal class
attendance, long distance/correspondence, personal and private or group
study. Sometimes, study takes research form where the studied objects are
observed under various environments with a view to draw an objective
conclusion. For the study of any discipline, students have to inevitably
deliberately put in a certain amount of directed study hours periodically.
Not all study is effective. People engage in all manner of diligent study and
expect the result be directly proportional to the amount of hours they put in.
Every year, myriads of students pick up books and pound their way either to
success or failure. When someone who hardly touches a book performs
better than them in an examination, at least two reactions are bound to be
observed: Firstly, the hard worker feels discouraged, enraged and
Source: Author’s definition 2004
But study also needs strategy for success to result. Many mistakenly plunge
into studies without checking that all things are in place. The following
points summarise some marks of effective study:
a. It is directed study with a clear objective
b. It is regular and planned.
c. It is selective and knows where the important areas
lie.
d. It is comprehensive and has the whole picture in view
e. It is result based meaning that the student commences
with the goal in mind.
f. It always has the result in mind acting as the engine.
g. It is consistent
h. It is a diligent study
i. It is a resilient study
j. It learns from the past.
k. It is a highly observational study
l. It avoids too much or too little information
m. It focuses on one thing at a time.
n. It is time bound study
o. It has bench marks and indicators
p. It avoids analysis paralysis
q. It is systematic
Study/reading
Whilst studying involves a critical and systematic analysis and absorption of
new knowledge, reading refers to using the eyes either to scan, skim or
acquire factual knowledge upon which you make day to day choices and
decisions. Reading is not as concentred, fixed or painstaking as study is.
Study involves understanding the principles behind something and why
things work the way they do. At times, it may involve making observations
under specified conditions and then draw conclusions there from. Reading a
The formal refers to the regular eight to five job we are often accustomed to
in Zambia. This entails entering a formal contract stipulating the tenure,
conditions of service and mutual obligations expected from either party.
Usually, formally employed people observe certain rules and regulations and
once they violet or are not in agreement, they have to opt out. In addition,
these employees have some form of identity, work agreed hours and belong
to a workers’ union as the case may be, though some companies do not have
such. Quite often (although not exclusively), the formally employed have
some specialised formal training relating to the job. Thus, knowledge
workers of modern times fit into this mould but the post modern may not.
Past experience and competence are often key factors. In this time of formal
employment, always provide for any sudden redundancy as organisations
often do not guarantee lifelong employment any longer. David Thomas
captures this aspect even better when he states thus in the September 1991
Banking World magazine article, “This time redundancies are widespread,
including professionals who may have thought they had a job for life.” Take
heed and proactively prepare thy self.
Lastly under this head, we have the professional sector. This includes
individuals that have some form of expertise and technical skill that is
offered at a fee. These people specialise in offering unique services and are
regulated by some professional body which sets the ethical standards. If
these fail to comply, they are deregistered and their practicing licence
withdrawn. Lawyers, Accountants, Architects and other professionals fall
into this category.
I am sure I have kept you waiting for a long time to really touch on the
subject that warms your heart relating to popular careers on offer today as
Zambia further reforms economically. I have no doubt though that the route
we have taken has been the best as it has given you some ‘appetisers’ for
intelligent informed career choice selection. In the ensuing section, we
consider some of the sound careers on offer today. Note that this is not an
exhaustive list, so feel at liberty to add another profession which we may
have omitted. To achieve our goal, we shall say a few things on each career
as the professionals in the field told us themselves, here goes….
1. Accountancy
2. Aeronautics
3. Agriculture
4. Avionics
5. Banking
QUESTIONS.
7. Has the team work culture permeated into BP? How successful and
applicable has it been, if at all? (To what extent?).
Teamwork is applicable to every organisation and BP as an organisation
emphasizes so much on teamwork that when they are employing new staff,
there will be an assessment on their team work abilities. Teamwork hasn't
been in Zambia a long time but in European countries, it has been practiced
for a long time. In Africa, we still have a long way to go, as we still have
problems with it probably due to culture and background. And for that
reason, teamwork doesn't seem to be working too well. We still have a
group on top who can't be touched while the operatives in the middle to fix
while those below are forced to receive commands. As a result you have a
culture where people will not accept correction or advice but busy to please
the boss. As BP, we are trying to discourage it. Various efforts have been
made such as shared ideas to get the methods of best practice. I have
attended some in the region and they continue to take place, they come up
with really good ideas.
10. Now, we have already alluded to it, what in your own words is
TQM?
What I think is that TQM is the process of management where you affirm
that our processes and procedures guarantee almost that at the end of the
chain or production line we are going to be churning out high quality
products increasing performance defect reduced to zero. The emphasis of
TQM is really on procedure upon procedure not an individual people. In
other words, other than finding out who went wrong, TQM emphasizes that
we find out whether the processes are correct. The system must ensure that
no defect is introduced or allowed to exist.
15. Now, we are running short of time, but could you briefly tell us
some of the hurdles you have encountered in implementing TQM?
The problems are always on the attitude of people who think the procedures
are just too long and are tempted to use short cuts to achieve the same goals.
The problems are basically attitudes.
17. Finally, on a personal note, you have done both the ACCA and
CIMA, which one of the two emphasizes TQM more?
Objectively, CIMA leans towards management than ACCA and therefore by
the same token, you have more of TQM coming in CIMA. Although both of
them refer to TQM,
25.Teaching/lecturing
b. Advanced certificate
The advanced certificate is equally general but builds upon what was
covered in the certificate.
c. Diploma
The Diploma is a combination of the base and the advanced certificates
mentioned above and seeks to consolidate subjects in an equally general
but deeper way that the certificate study. In Zambia, a Diploma usually
takes three years to complete and is graduated into levels.
d. Advanced/higher diploma
This is not yet at Degree level but is certainly an advance on the
Diploma. In other words, the advanced Diploma is a progress on the
Diploma towards a degree.
f. Honours’ degree
One of the most popular graduate degrees today is the Master of Business
Administration (MBA) with a focus area such as Finance, Strategy,
Organisational Behaviour etc. The Masters of Business Leadership is a
fast emerging degree that deserves considering and may eclipse the MBA
some day.
I hope all is well with thee...I am doing well but seriously considering
pursuing a number of issues. Among them is the change of career from
Accounting to General Management. This has been necessitated by my
intended field of study. I am considering a PhD on either International
business or Sustainable development. I think that would be a better avenue
for me, as my strengths lie there. What do you think about the PhD pursuit,
are you in that school of thought that does not advocate for such?
Tell me, how far have you gone with respect to your theological studies,
Billy S
My dear brother,
Secondly, the PhD is very expensive in terms of time and money and one
should count the cost. Think carefully about this because you may find that
an MBA in management suits you better. It takes 1 or 2 years only. The PhD
takes at least 3 years if you have an excellent undergraduate record
otherwise it is 4 to 7 years. You should be quite sure you are ready to
commit yourself to a project for this long and prepared to be skint!
Shalom.
Allan
Hello Doc,
I need some advice, which is better, a PhD or Doctorate? Which one is
more
academic?
Billy S
=====================================================
Billy
Malan
What an interesting journey has been ours thus far! How many professional
areas we have looked into! I pray and trust that this effort to unveil the
popular careers has immensely opened your mind. I also do pray that you are
now better informed to take on higher challenges as well as intelligently
make bold decisions that will fly you to higher orbs. One caution is however
critical: Never rest on your present laurels or credentials. Always have an
eye to future security. In other ways, use the present privileges and sunshine
to prepare for the rainy day ahead. I say this with a heavy heart because
many get entangled and boxed in the “status trap” forgetting that tomorrow
needs to be prepared for today. Nothing is automatic, even the children of
Isreal had an end to their gracious manna days after which they had to sweat
it out (Exodus 5:10). In the next Chapter, we briefly consider the benefits
of labour before we hurtle along to look at the sad end and decay of the
sluggard in chapter eleven.
==================================================
Bib lio graphy
Chapter 10
Doubtless, when we meet people that are ‘successful’ as the world defines
them, we often wonder how they got there. Many times, we gravitate
towards them, unknown to us because we have a natural tendency towards
what tickles our ego. But if you were to enquire into many of these people’s
backgrounds, you will most likely discover that they invested heavily in the
past and are merely reaping what they sowed then. A little sacrifice here,
some risky move there all add up to what you now see. Risk averse people
generally do not feature prominently on the “successful people” list. They
usually end up in the peripherals scarcely surviving or scrounging for
droppings from other people’s tables. In their hey days as chief executives,
they never cast an eye towards the stormy day ahead and spent all their
energies making a name for themselves at the expense of growing a young
business or investing into the future. Now it is too late and they are
depressed. But there is always hope for the young, discerning, wise and
prudent professionals that walk the hall of fame. It is possible to own a flat
on rent in Rome, New York, London or Sydney while you live in the
outskirts of Lusaka. It is equally possible to remain a global consultant while
you reside in “pauper” Zambia. All this is possible if you put your energies
in the right place at the right time or else you will come out of life bitter,
defeated, disillusioned and depressed. In this chapter, our task is to briefly
point out the benefits of a life well spent in investing in the right places. Our
trip will cover some points earlier alluded to but in this instance, these will
also act as bench marks and hooks to our consciences.
The first benefit is obviously prosperity and wealth. This translates into a
higher and better quality of life which the lazy can only dream of. Wealth
generation and prosperity are the mark of the hard worker. Admittedly, other
crooks do make lots of money illegally and appear happy when infact they
fear their own shadow. Not so the genuine hard worker. They walk through
life confidently and proud of their achievements. By the sweat of their
brawl, they have generated wealth not only for themselves but for their
children’s children. In old age or when out of formal employment, they
never bother their children or relations for money. Hard workers are a joy to
be with because they show you the way of life much better.
In the third place, the hard worker who has proudly and sincerely generated
wealth has the pleasure of being able to help the weak. They do this out of a
kind gracious heart rather than from a pompous proud heart that blows its
own trumpet. In fact, I have noted that the actual hard workers and true
owners of wealth rarely are boastful or proud, but rather, it is their parasitic
relatives.
Fourthly, the hard worker pleases the Lord because s/he obeys the command
to work hard with a view to help the genuinely weak and needy. The fourth
Commandment positively talks about doing ALL our work in six days and
rest in one. By implication, you and I must exert all our energies in the
allotted six days and then rest to “recharge” our brain cells.
Furthermore, hard work has great benefit to the nation in a number of ways.
Firstly, hard workers generally produce more and tend to be self reliant.
Because of this higher production and self reliance, they create jobs which in
turn build the economy. How does this come about? Well, those employed
Hard work also brings about sustainability presently and in future. If you do
not work hard today, tomorrow will most likely be a night mare. But hard
workers have a long range thinking mindset and work in such a way as to
avert or forestall any future disaster. Their children also will rest secure for
many generations because of the seed they planted. I am of the view that life
before and after formal employment should not be very different because
you will have laid a comfortable mattress upon which to recline after the
productive years working away. But not only after you retire, you must be
ready as early as possible and be able to survive without a job for many
months without noticing a marked difference.
The other good jewel that comes out of hard work is that you have peace of
mind at all times. This is because you will know where you stand exactly
and how to wiggle your way round sharp corners in life. The foolish do not
notice the sharp turn from afar and proceed to crash into the wall, coming
out badly wounded. Peace of mind even makes you more efficient as well as
work better.
Closely connected to the previous point is confidence and self esteem built.
Once you know your way round and how to sort out complex issues, you are
generally more confident than the person that has not yet tried. They may
have the mental aspects neatly tacked away in the brain but will be shaky
when they first encounter the issue. Hard and smart workers are generally
more confident because their competence levels far outstrip everyone else. I
am sure Daniel in the Bible was a very confident man and yet he wholly
depended upon God.
Dependant people are simply not confident about anything they do. They
always need a second person to approve their intended move. Only then will
their reluctance and doubt cease. Solid hard workers do not tolerate
dependence. They actually consider it a taboo to depend on another. They
ensure they learn as much and practice often to perfect their skills such that
when they appear in the public domain, they are often miles ahead. Hard
Like I mentioned earlier on, genuine hard workers are very simple and have
a realistic out look to life. They are never complex but live by simple rules
that guides them all the way to prosperity land.
Hard work viewed from another perspective is a launch pad to the next level
of usefulness. I once worked with an astute Manager earlier on in my career.
He said something intriguing that has never left me. I was once complaining
about not being recognised enough in the organisation but he simply advised
me to “do a good job and it would speak for me” He was right and today I
stand on a far higher podium because of that simple rule. Your present job
will get you the next best depending on how well you handle what you have
in hand today.
It is said that after doing something repeatedly for five years, a person
becomes an expert in that area. It therefore means that every five years,
ideally, you and I should be moving to the next higher level where we face
fresh challenges. Interestingly, most of us prefer to remain hidden in the
comfort zone because of our risk averse culture. But there is need to move
on. However, the point here is that you can become your own boss once you
have mastered something. As people recognise you, offer consultancy
services and become your own boss.
Yet another benefit of hard work is you soon discover your other previously
hidden strengths, weaknesses and skills. If you sit idle all day, whining,
complaining or just munching, chances are that you will not k now your
strengths and thus not maximise your potential.
We hardly need to mention that hard work brings about tremendous progress
for all that would sustainably work hard. Do you see a successful person?
Chances are that they work extremely hard behind the scenes.
Well, our path has been somewhat smoother than what we are about to in the
next chapter. It is always refreshing to meet an old colleague making steady
progress up the career ladder just like yourself. You can see the freshness,
the warmth and pulse that attends them. But it is equally heart breaking to
meet a colleague who cannot keep body and soul together because they
made lethal mistakes along the way for which they are paying dearly at the
time you meet them. I would strongly urge you to pursue the good road
highlighted in this chapter because it brings about the best life you can ever
imagine. Fasten your seat belt as we enter the dark tunnel in the next chapter.
Holy Bible, New International version (NIV), The Bible Society, 1973
Chapter 11
In life, time often tells the consequences of our actions earlier on. If we
chose to sit and idle away when opportunity came knocking on our door, we
are certainly reaping what we sowed back then. On the other hand, if we
were vigilant, diligent and worked hard leaving no stone unturned, we
should not be surprised if today we seem to be floating in cloud nine. Yet in
another breathe, we should not lose heart if, despite making the right
decisions and world class moves do not seem to get anywhere near the
headlines. We need to press on further because life is funny and full of
surprises. In this chapter however, our story is an extremely sad one because
it paints a very dark and gloomy picture of what turns out to be people’s lot
in the fullness of time. I must admit, I struggled to write this chapter because
I have seen very close colleagues and relatives fall over the precipice due to
the bad and self destructive decisions they made earlier on in their lives. If
only they had listened, their lot would have vastly been different today.
Sadly, it is too late now.
The signs are very clear for all to see and we do not need to look far to see
the ravaging effects of laziness and imprudence. We consider each point in
summary form and then hurtle along in keeping with our resolve to remain
brisk and pointed as we wrap up this book.
But then, some of this poverty is deliberately caused. I say this without
reservations. My hypothesis is based on the assumption that people in power
scheme to keep as many people as possible in the citizenry ignorant and
poor so that they can comfortably steal and enrich themselves. At other
times, it is a question of bad governance as well as lack of exposure, though
we cannot rule out the deliberate strategy. Finally, the rich and powerful can
deliberately cultivate a dependence syndrome that keeps the vulnerable
powerless and weak. For instance, have you noted that countries with the
least donor aid and hand outs have some of the best, vibrant and resilient
economies? Consider Botswana and Tunisia for example. What has made
them greater nations economically then their neighbours Zambia and Egypt?
I suspect the answer lies in their attitudes towards work and self reliance. I
support Trevor Johns’ conclusions in his 2005 letter to the March New
African magazine. He was right on the dot. On an individual level, I am sure
you have seen how some of your family members have excelled while others
have plummeted from bad to worse and yet you all had the same
opportunities in life. The decisions we make today will show effects in
future, it is just a matter of time.
The next in the roll of sad endings is lack of progress. Poor people who
made wrong choices live to regret bearing the consequences of their actions.
No matter what they try, they either achieve modest success or end up losing
everything that they work for. They might have grand plans quite alright but
when the implementation stage arrives, a thousand and one impeding
horrible problems suddenly crop up to eat away at their ‘capital’. If it’s not
endless funerals, then it is chronic family sicknesses, school fees, hunger or
someone dribbling them out of their meagre capital. I often marvel and
almost break down in tears when such misfortunes strike needy people. But
then, some of them are merely reaping what they sowed. What do I mean?
Well, I mean that because they did not build a solid financial and moral
foundation, they will not have risen up Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and as
such are always hovering around the basic survival needs as opposed to
heading towards self actualisation. Therefore, when they get a little cash, all
the problems suddenly pop up and invade the pocket! Thus, if the survival
needs remain unresolved, no amount of “investment” will change their
fortunes, unless of course a miracle occurs.
The fourth calamity is that people plagued with many ills have an extremely
difficult time learning and implementing new skills. They may learn the new
survival skills but find it especially difficult to concentrate on one thing at a
time because the bread and butter issues still harass their minds. It is even
worse if no one is ready to train them. Be that as it may, things learnt
hurriedly to solve an immediate pressing problem rarely last long or stick.
That in part explains why people abandon fund raising projects they begun
shortly before their weddings.
The fifth ravaging effect that comes as a result is that the people in the thick
of things rarely are content and for a good reason. They often feel they
deserve better and spend considerable time fantasizing about what could be
until their dream bubble is pricked by reality. When they are exposed to a
potential poverty alleviating opportunity, they grasp it with both hands but
often go to another extreme where they mess up everything with abuse. They
thus blow up their chances once again. In short, we can say that they are not
realistic and have an impaired sense of judgement sometimes.
The sixth tragedy, though closely connected to the fifth is that of wishful
thinking at the expense of any sustained real hard work. Many lazy people
invest a lot in their unrealistic day dreaming to the extent that they are
literary paralysed to do anything. Such people love movies, the finer things
of life or the best and latest clothing in town without stopping to consider
what it takes to generate the cash they begged from some slave working
relative or friend. Because of this wishful thinking mentality, these people
The next outcome in the series is those people turning out to be time wasters
either by default or consequence of earlier actions. They soon are viewed as
menaces who stick to your skin like glue once you give them a hearing. In
their minds, any friend ought to help and owes them a living and will not
understand why you are suddenly too busy to attend to them. In one sense,
they have a point but in another, they fail to accept and adjust to the present
new realities of the inequalities that have developed over time. On your part
(that is if you are the one on the prosperous side), these people are avoided
like a plague. Once or twice you may tolerate them at your home, business
or office but once you discover that they are fast becoming dependant, you
swiftly change gears and begin to view them as inconveniencing time
wasters. This happens all too often. I once recall an old friend visiting me at
my office. At first I was very excited to see him, although shocked at his
pitiful state. I soon forked out some kwachas and wished him well as he
went around making ends meet. I was shocked when less than two weeks
later the scruffy gentleman showed up with another hair raising story of his
hair raising story of misfortune and how he desperately needed to be helped.
Interestingly, I was the only “saviour” they knew in that town! so he
claimed. Again I forked out some coins, though a bit reluctant this time. He
excitedly dashed off only to return the next week! I was not at the office that
day but somehow the chap enquired and located my home and came! I was
For another thing, sluggards often end up mere event observers rather than
headliners. They spend most of their time wondering why things happen the
way they do and how unfair life is, always moving in the wrong direction for
them while very good for others. As they watch TV or read news papers,
they often wonder how their peers have moved on to become event movers
and critical influential decision makers at national and international level
while they remain in the corner of the world complaining, whining and
regretting. They wonder why their contemporaries live in mansions and fly
the world at will while they live in cave like huts or in ‘Mu komboni’ packed
like sardines. Nothing wrong with living in a shanty compound but we
should never wilfully love to dwell there if we can avoid it. If you are
economically weak, then you will be susceptible to manipulation, abuse and
torture, not worth listening to by anyone in the corridors of power. This is
not desirable but unfortunately, that is how things are in the world today,
including in the so-called most developed, free countries. Endeavour to
leave a mark on your generation right from infancy.
The pre-requisite to poverty is to sit still. If you idly sit around hoping food
will automatically come on the table, you are badly mistaken. In fact you are
on the right track to poverty. Lazy bones are often wedded to idleness. They
often feel too lazy to do anything and often times jump on the pessimistic
side of things to justify their idleness. They always look for the easiest way
out as well as anything that will foster their undisturbed idle state. The Bible
tells a story of a lazy chap who remained idle when it was planting time and
ended up in poverty. Many of us are idle in many senses and want to wake
up to blame someone else when hunger strikes. I find it terribly
embarrassing when politicians, chiefs and government officials annually cry
for relief food because “people are hungry and will die if government and
NGOs do not respond” At first, I used to feel honoured and privileged to
As a consequence of being idles and a busy body, people often fall into the
trap of being malicious, slanderous and destructive in their tendencies.
Because they have developed “itching ears” for the latest rumours on the
block, they naturally turn out to be conduits and transmissions stations of
gossip to other organisational centres. Being reliable transmitters, they soon
ascend to the throne of gossip originators that send regular broadcasts at a
certain high frequency. You have to be connected to the “server” to capture
that gossip. Those that have not signed up or bought the special ‘decoder’
will not capture or detect anything and go home thinking all is well. Home
and dry. Malicious people can be very destructive and generate a very hostile
antagonistic and suspicious atmosphere. Their malice often cripples some or
unduly raises others where they ought not to be. Lazy people often have time
for this kind of life.
Our work would be half done if we did not mention that lazy people love the
finer things of life and by that token are very envious of anyone who
happens to have the things they do not have. Consequently, they will do
anything to match up, if not excel the person who has outdone them. Envy
has to do with feeling rotten and bad within when others prosper before you
do. That explains why many Zambians do not support each other. The root is
envy. They cannot stand another person enjoying a smooth palatable life
while they languish in poverty, despite their laziness. Before you get
inflamed with envy, take stock of your own life, have you worked hard
The last point has two pointed ends. The first is that lazy people end up
being impatient because they crave instant gratification. If that is not
forthcoming, they throw tantrums, steal or quit. The second pointed end is
cutting corners or short circuiting processes to get immediate results.
Sluggards often feel the world should revolve around their small world
while they move around at snails’ pace. They expect the world come to a
standstill when they are sleeping or give them what they wish at any time
they claim. Like a spoilt child, they expect to be given what they want
because they ‘deserve it’. Sometimes, religious people behave like spoilt
children who want something without working for it. The sooner they
realise, the better for them then we shall avert some of the foolishness we so
often see from certain religious circles.
Well, I guess we have taken slightly longer than we expected but it was
necessary to outline exactly what the consequences of laziness are. Just take
time to peruse through the book of Proverbs in the Bible and I am sure you
will come away much more instructed than we have attempted in this entire
book. The divinely inspire book has much more to say in a few sentences. I
guess it is time to hurtle towards closure but before we do that, we need to
briefly touch two short parts and then we call it a day.
=================================================
Bib lio graphy
Chapter 12
Exhortations to resolved labour
Imagine the Presidents’ child found wearing tatters when his/her parents are
in State house? It is beats logic. In case our readers do not appreciate what
we are saying, let us recount and name our blessings one by one and then
end with a powerful exhortation.
Thirdly, Zambia has super abundant largely untapped resources. What don’t
we have as a nation? We have Uranium (over which the richer nations are
indirectly squabbling over: USA, Russia, China etc, hence the talk about not
setting up a military base on Zambian soil! Why all the sudden interest and
visits by Mrs Bush, Clinton, Chinese President and Russian?), we have
Copper, Zinc, Iron, Gold, Diamonds, Lead, Silver, precious stones (e.g.
Amethyst, emeralds etc) and oil among many others. But who has access to
all these apart from foreigners or uninspiring Government? The archaic laws
expressly inhibit natives from freely mining these in favour of other people.
Fourthly, the nation is littered with a wide variety of untamed wild animals
that freely roam the African parks, practically unheard off in the developed
world. These animals are I their large numbers and could rake in billions of
kwacha if properly managed. What happens, very little investment is
encouraged or the little that is there is owned by exotic people who
externalise the little they earn. What lost opportunities!
Fifthly, the nation has some of the richest and perennial bio divest fresh
water bodies. Think of the Zambezi, the Kafue, the Luangwa, the Lukanga
Swamps, the Luapula river, the Bangweulu swamps, the countless
waterfalls, all going begging. Estimations are that the country harbours close
to 40% of the continent’s fresh water bodies and yet nearly 97% of this
water from rivers goes flows wastefully to the ocean! That total waste. In
addition, there is very little irrigation and other uses of the water which our
friends in the Sahara desert covert after. Imagine what could come out of the
water apart from irrigation; fishing and hydro electricity which are
neglected.
Seventhly, the nation potentially has some of the best brains on the planet.
Granted, the literacy levels have plummeted over the years, the nation still
has some great minds all over the globe doing amazing things. Many of
them have done might exploits but fear returning home lest they be reduced
to rags. They have a point but all efforts must and can be put in place to plug
the senseless brain drain that we are now accustomed to. In a sense, these
friends in Diaspora also significantly contribute to national economic
Eighthly, the country has one of the environmentally cleanest places on the
planet. Granted, the country lags far behind in development terms relative to
the rich North but this in itself is a major plus somehow. How? Well, the
amount of undisturbed green forests, vegetation, fewer contaminated soils
and all are increasingly becoming rare and golden! Where do you find such
clean fresh air in the western world? Comparatively, we are far better off and
potentially should live healthier lifestyles. In addition, this green business is
a potential money spinner for us! There is need therefore to jealously guard
what we have than to heedlessly rush for industrialisation. I would rather we
skipped one stage of development to the weightless economy, if that were
possible. This would mean that we become the hub and oasis of fresh eco
sensitive new ideas which are sought after by the world.
Ninthly, Zambians are known all over the world to be all embracing and
welcoming. This attracts people to repeatedly come or send others to come
to this beautiful land. In a sense, this is a major plus unlike some xenophobic
nations that are uninviting and people stick to themselves for fear of the
unknown. In another sense, this overly friendliness is what shoots us in the
leg, people take advantage of us and rip us off. That is why we keep being
dribbled by different crooks over the same issues. I have in mind the many
mineral exploration expeditions that have suddenly wound up and vanished
after they have taken “samples for testing” when the chaps were exporting
actual minerals abroad! We are a naïve sort of people.
The list could go on but surely, in the light of what we have just highlighted,
why should we content ourselves with these rags? Why should our children
and their progeny starve even before they are born? Why should we consign
them to a perpetual night mare? Away with this kind of mindset!
================================================
Bibliography
Kaunda D, Kenneth, Mining and Zambia, Post news paper, September 23rd,
2007, pp iv
Chapter 13
W e have traced the root cause of why many people do not excel. We have
also safely navigated through and established why myriads of people remain
firmly clutched in the poverty grip. Indeed, we do not need to mention why a
potentially rich country like Zambia remains paralysed in abject poverty
amidst one of the rarest natural resources on this planet. The question that
begs answering at this stage is, what ought we to do to redeem ourselves
both as individuals and as a nation? Who shall come to our rescue, for
certainly the United Nations cannot and neither can any other global body
like the World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF) or indeed the super
power of the day, the USA. Raking our brains perhaps more vigorously may
yield some answers. The answer lies within us at whatever stage. We have to
arise and possess our destiny and shrug of the past. We must give ourselves
no rest until we see a change in our generation before we pass on are no
more.
Some of the suggested ways are given below:
On an individual level, I have not much to say than to implore you my dear
friend that always remember that the time is really short (I Corinthians 7:29)
and what remains to be accomplished in this short lives of ours is too much.
Already, we have lost time on many unprofitable issues. The best we can do
is to make the most of the remaining time before we are buried and
forgotten. A number of words though will be handy to turbo us on…
1. Resolve never to be a time waster any more.
2. Resolve to be your best at all times.
3. Resolve to unflinchingly pursue your set goals whether you do it
alone or not.
4. Resolve to be a world class motivator to your peers.
5. Resolve to be uniquely passionate about your cause.
6. Resolve to discover yourself and apply yourself to the best ends.
7. Resolve to make a difference in whatever you do before you die.
Deming-Famous quality movement leader of the mid 20th Century, changed Japanese product and service
quality with his teaching
Chapter 15
“Adieu!”
Farewell note
General bibliography
Carson Ben, GIFTED HANDS: The Ben Carson story, Zondervan, Grand
Rapids, Michigan, 1990
Price Stuart & Duah Agyeman Ivor, Koffi Annan: Back from the brink? New
African magazine, March 2005 # 438, pp 13
The Arbinger Institute Leadership and self deception-getting out of the box
BK Publishers, Inc, San Francisco 2002
Trump Donald J, HOW TO GET RICH: The secret of business success from
the star of the APPRENTICE, BBC books, 2004
Ω
Labour! A letter to my fellow Zambians Billy C Sichone 183
Appendices
Refer to the Preface addressed to the reader in the booklet “A NEW INTERNATIONAL ECONMIC
ORDER” by Valentin Shcetinin etal pp5
Check write up in appendix C for a full write up on Ghali’s ordeal with the Americans.
Damage extent
If the alleged marginalisation is indeed real, to what extent then has this
situation affected Africa? In generally, we can safely assert that Africa
has been marginalized in all areas and as far as possible but the following
points immediately come to the fore:
1. The African continent is left out in the major decisions that affect
global trade/economics. For instance, no African country is represented
Infact, D.R.F Taylor has asserted that here ever these bodies have gone, there is either nil growth or
negative growth. Where growth has been recorded as a result of their intervention, the parameters are
questioned. Refer to “Development from within” by Taylor & Mackenzie 1992 edition pp 217-20.
The future of Africa in tomorrow’s global village, its role and position.
In future, Africa is likely to arise, given the present realization that it is
lagging behind. The increased use of IT in many countries is commendable
because this leads to quicker decision-making, planning and development.
However, let it be known that competing with the USA for example is like a
rat playing a tag of war match with an elephant, it just won’t work! The best
Africa can do for now is to work with the USA, learn the ropes and improve
on those. Further, Africa holds a lot of promise for service industry such as
tourism. The vast stretches of land with it unique species of animals should
African Time
Reading through an article in the Post news paper of Tuesday October 28,
2003 entitled “Can Africa Keep time?” set my mind thinking once again. I
thought I should put pen to paper on this subject because I feel, to a larger
extent than we realize, we fail to develop as a continent due to our attitude
towards time. The article was drawn from a discussion on the BBC and how
that the African is perceived as one who cannot keep time. This view has
been strengthened by the recent happenings in the UK when a Ghanaian
King arrived many hours late for a meeting, and I would imagine, saw
nothing wrong with that. Indeed, from what I have read and observed over
Having said the above, I venture to submit that the so-called time keeping
problem is not limited to Africa alone, no! The Middle East and the rest of
the eastern world have historically been the same as African, if not worse.
According to what I have read and observed in some of these our friends,
they are equally in the same pit, if we can call it thus. For instance, Philip R
Coteora in his monumental work “International Marketing”, (pp 124-126,
9th edition), high lights a number of helpful insights. In that book, he states
the different attitudes to time. For instance, he brings the idea to bear on the
international traveller that one shock a person encounters is the amount of
relativity of many things. As one ascends the international ladder, absolutes
become less pronounced and among them is the view of things, which are
clearly wrong in the one country as well as the corporate ethics. For
instance, we note that people view the commodity “time” differently due to
hind cultural orientation. The people from the Middle East and Asia are not
really “time bound” i.e. time conscious whereas the people from the west are
It should be further noted that the typically time bound western business
person is in for a shock if he/she went to the middle east hoping to complete
business as per schedule. Then jet out of the country the next day having
clinched an arms sale deal for instance because time is not treated as scarce a
commodity as perceived by the westerner, unless of course they are dealing
with highly exposed people.
Having asserted the above let me hasten to deal with the merits and demerits
of valuing time.
The article asks the question, “Is poor time keeping Africa’s worst enemy?”
I venture to think that the question is good and worth exploring by some
other fertile mind. For now, let us centre our thoughts on advantages or
disadvantages of keeping time.
Advantages
1. If time is observed much more is achieved in a timorous and
harmonious manner. There will be fewer frustrations and people will
be progressive. Where time is kept, there you shall see more
constructive informed decisions made there by leading to more
legendary feats. With the advent of IT, decisions that once took a year
can be made within minutes. How many developmental decisions will
have been made in the same period in this Technological world?
2. There will be more development as opposed to what obtains in a
nation like Zambia today. Politicians spend all their time bickering
and wrestling power from each other rather than focusing on the way
forward. While some are questioning those that got political office via
a forged ID, others spend all their time scheming ways to hit the
opponent under the belt. Meanwhile, time is ticking away and rests
not. Granted, some degree of controversy is essential, but let us be
mindful of time bane.
3. Individuals will achieve more both for their personal and corporate
good. If one person for instance establishes a business empire at 27,
this will spur others to do the same at a younger age. Thus, people will
be focused and direct. As at now, procrastination cripples us BAD!
4. There will be less time wasting. People will spend less time idling
away on Fantasy Island expecting manna to fall from the skies. As the
But what are the disadvantages of keeping time? It is hard to capture any
demerits as most of the things related to good time keeping are positive.
However, let us briefly state that time keeping, as perceived from the
Developed world standpoint, has some demerits. The following come to
mind:
1. The world becomes more stressful when too much attention is given
to time.
2. The World becomes the slave of time rather than vice versa. This is
akin to what Christ said to those that attacked his disciples regarding
the Sabbath keeping (Mark 2:27). I believe the so-called Developed
world is a hopeless slave to time.
3. The time madness is largely responsible for the breakdown of the
natural African system. The western culture of time has squeezed into
our vocabulary words such as “appointment”! Originally, Africans
valued each other above all things but now, deadlines and all the rest
of it have destroyed the natural union we once knew. Now what
matters is TIME and not people. I am aware that in the Natural
African setting, abuses were there such as time wasters and lazy
slothful gluttons who patronized their hard working folks even at
awkward hours, but this has robbed us of the quality time we spent
with each other. These funny fellows move like Target odourless
leaving you no room to take cover when you see them. They move
like headless chickens, to summon some violent language from Prof J
Kab or like misguided scud missiles. I fear that part of the high
The following reasons come to mind as to why time must be kept and
redeemed:
1. Time is precious. Recall those days when essential commodities were
scarce? Recall those long queues? Then a tablet of soap was like gold.
Not so today.
We should treasure time like in those days, it is a rare and scarce
commodity. Once it is lost or trifled with, we will have ourselves to
blame.
2. Closely connected to # 1 above, once time is lost, it cannot be
recovered. It is gone forever into the irretrievable past. It is archived as it
were. If you mess around with time now, you are digging your own
grave. In the end, it will be your master rather than the reverse.
3. The time is short. There are too many things to be achieved in this life
in relation to the time allotted to us. Seventy or eighty, if we have the
strength and we are gone! In fact, in Africa, the average life expectancy is
around 35 or 37, if not 30! As such, time must be treated more delicately.
Already, I am beginning to feel like a grandfather as I approach the mid
thirties, how much more for those that are well over fifty. Look at the
plans you have and then budget your time life, how much disposable time
will be left? If you are discerning enough, you will agree with me that
time is indeed in short supply. For the politician, time means a lot though
sadly, they actually work a week before the elections! See how the road
network has improved even in once remote places. Look at Lusaka and
the Copperbelt. In Mongu for instance, the roads were patched up in
record time but now two years have passed after the elections, it’s all a
forgotten story. Sometimes, I wish we had elections every day, and then
Before we conclude the subject before us, how can we corporately and
individually improve on time keeping?
I do not have a magical answer but here are some of the tips from my
experience:
1. Set your short and long-term goals clearly and begin to work towards
them.
2. Strategise on how to achieve the said goals. It would be helpful to break
down your goals into smaller “packets” and monitor them periodically. In
that way, you will watch your progress. Personally, I already have long and
short-term plans on paper and live each year without much ado.
3. Set some benchmarks and indicators that will tell you whether you are on
course timorously or note.
4. Keep a diary and plan it preferably a week in advance. Read books like
Stephen Covey’s “Seven habits of highly effective people” and “Principle
centred leadership”. These books once well read will help you.
5. Make time keeping a habit. This begins slowly and grows into a natural
thing. Refuse to rest on your laurels or on what obtains ordinarily. The fact
that everyone is slothful does not make the thing right. Embarrass your team
leader by arriving early all the time. Who knows, you may just encourage
him/her to pull up their socks.
Well, well, well what shall we do at this stage? Only one thing, let us redeem
the time that remains. Away with the lazy old mentality! We must and can do
it! No longer will the west dub Africa the timeless continent!
I fear, as FTJ of old once observed when he stood as prefect at
Government offices entrances years ago, it is a question of attitude not
primarily money. Rationalise as much as you like, the bottom line is
attitude and lack of sense of destiny.
Oh that Africa may arise! We can make it!
Questions:
Q. World Vision Zambia has been embarking on Leadership, team and total
quality changes in the past few years, could you shed some light on this.
Ans: Yes indeed, World Vision has been undergoing rapid changes and re
engineering so as to get to the best operational levels. Thus, TQM, teamwork
and leadership are all efforts towards that end. We have reached a stage
when organisational fluidity is essential. As I have often said at other fora,
“The only thing that is constant is change”, World Vision is no exception.
Ans: As I have intimated, the dynamic times demand that we move with the
times. Like any other organisation of the past, World vision found serious
operational problems with the orthodox hierarchical management structure
that proved inefficient. Therefore, in 1995, the organisation embarked on a
major re-engineering exercise so as to re-align the organisation towards the
best ministry delivery routes. This was a result of the realisation that the
organisation had inherited a rigid bureaucratic structure where most of the
individuals were either underutilized or over worked. A way had to be found
which would provide the best delivery avenues at minimum cost yet at high
quality, thus, from 1995, we have had Management structural changes in a
bid to arrive at the most efficient structure. In some cases, we have had to
scrap some positions and thus, scaling down on number of staff. We have not
yet arrived as this is process is ongoing. In a nut shell, we have to change in
keeping with the trends in the partnership worldwide or else risk being
obsolete and in efficient.
Q. How applicable is this ethos to World Vision and how sure are you?
Ans: Talking about the way we are to achieve the aforementioned goals,
The organisation is determined to hire the best trained Christians around
who have the Knowledge and skills. That is why we have the Personnel
Manager who handles the welfare of staff while the Human resource
Manager handles the hiring, training and motivation of the current staff. In a
way, the HR is strategic while the PM is operational although the functions
will obviously overlap frequently. Thus, the burden is on these two
departments to coordinate and come up with ways to develop a team kind of
environment. Our present goal is to train the extant staff so as to help
sharpen some individuals that are potential achievers.
Q. What are some of the hurdles you envision will and have buffeted the
organisation in the quest towards that goal?
Ans: To say that we have no hiccups would be telling a half-truth. The path
to organisational transformation is fraught with many hurdles, the chief of
which is Finance. Many plans hinge on the availability of funds. We have
planned many marvellous training sessions but alas, we have failed to
implement them. We think continuous and consistent training of staff is the
only way forward. One way we are trying to get over this issue by writing
project proposals about capacity building. For example, recently we wrote
and sourced funds from the US office to train facilitators in leadership. It is
about $ 10,000γ but I trust this will help. In days that lie ahead, we shall
continue to write, for the ADP budgets cannot meet the demands.
The second hurdle we have faced is opposition from certain quarters because
the proposed changes threaten some positions. Some hold on to the old
classical bureaucratic set up and will not willingly change. Thus, some have
developed “cold feet” because, once fully implemented, some will not
survive.
The third hurdle has been the simple lack of the right staff. By this I mean
that Christian people who are qualified, experienced, team players and open
minded are exceedingly few and far between. In cases like this, we are
compelled to hire people who may be merely religious but have the right
stuff and acumen. One wishes that the saints would be more available.
Q. How do you assess/gauge the progress, are you satisfied with the
pace?
Ans: We are pleased to note that there has been a tremendous improvement
in the quality of reports. In the past, the reports were either scanty or too
detailed but now we have adopted the “methods of best practice”. Also, we
have ensured that we have a standard report format. In addition, we make
sure that we respond to our partners in the stipulated time. Proactively is
now normal. Generally then, the progress has been good but we need to keep
up the tempo and infuse a sustainable system that will guarantee timely and
quality responses to all stakeholders. In addition, the advent of Information
technology has been a tremendous help to the organisation because it has
ensured that we move faster while keeping in step with the outside world.
We now turn to Total Quality Management (TQM) and what place it has in
WVI.
Ans: For some time now, TQM has been a buzz word because management
circles have perceived it as the “silver bullet” that has suddenly transformed
organisations from being inefficient, rigid, inflexible and cripplingly
These were under ground places of refuge and worship for the primitive Christians as they escaped the
brutal and murderous persecutions by the Roman emperor Nero. These catacombs are in Italy, below the
city of Rome. Six Million Saints are believed to have been buried there.
Ans: The objectives of TQM are to have the best products and services at a
low cost and yet high quality that satisfies customers. Furthermore, TQM
aims at eliminating defects in products and services by avoiding defects
within the system. Thus, the goods and services are of the highest quality,
low cost and yet what is in keeping with present consumer taste.
Ans: True as it may be, we are determined to ensure that this in not just
another abstract program where we just make a noise, clamour and then
fizzle out. To avoid this pit fall, we will ensure that we implement the
changes slowly, but properly focused while armed with the right human
resource at hand. Change is inevitable, no matter what form it takes.
Q. What mechanisms have you put in place that you achieve your
objectives?
Q. In the light of the other NGOs with the same goals as WVI (E.g. CARE
International, PLAN International, Christian aid etc), how do you ensure that
you keep a competitive edge considering that you get donors from the same
pool?
Ans: Like I said earlier, it has been ongoing for some time and will continue.
Ans: I am not ashamed to assert that Bwalya Melu and Sheldon Rankin
inspire me the most because they have a very clear vision, are articulate and
excellent team players. Bwalya is particularly is my mentor, having worked
with him closely over 4 years. He has a way of helping you unleash the
hidden potential within you.
Q. What about current books on these trends, who is/are your most preferred
author(s)
Ans: I like many authors but none like Max De Preeφ, Osward Saunders and
Stephen Covey. The best books I find are Servant leadership, Spiritual
leadership, AutoBiography of BC Montgomery, the Bible and Green leaf.
There are other books, magazines and periodicals of course such as the
‘Executive excellence’ magazine.
Ans: My goal is to hire the best-trained and motivated staff on the market.
Also, I would like to see a Team work culture take root where there will be
less of the “Bossy” attitude but rather a work environment where we view
each other as colleagues, akin to a football team.
Leadership
Leadership has now taken the centre stage in Management circles as this has
proved to be more effective mode to unleash the latent potential within
fellow team members. As opposed to the now obsolete way of the traditional
“Bossy” kind of management, the latest trends of leadership permeate the
organisation with a fresh fragrance of new pragmatic motivational ethics.
This is what the book, “effective leadership” by Robert Heller seeks to
address.
Without much ado, this small book of only 70 pages summarises what one
needs to know about effective ways of leadership. The said book, divided
into three sections, presupposes that one is already a leader and seeks to
====================================================
Dear Billy,
From your email, I gather that you were more surprised by my revelations
than I was by the revelation of the Zamtrop account. This clearly indicates
Concerning your relationship with your parents, don't you think it’s time you
started patching up. I understand where you are coming from. I experienced
the same from my dad. My mum was soft on me, probably because she
agreed with me. However, she couldn't come out in the open. My
relationship with dad has not been good since 1988 when I became a
Christian and the situation has deteriorated following my mum's passing.
Mum was a unifying factor in my relationship with dad. I have tried to bring
things back to where they used to be but I must admit it hasn't been easy.
My integrity is at stake here. Either I go ahead and pretend that she's the
one and remain unhappy with integrity, or I tell her the truth and be happy
without integrity. So you see, Like Chiluba, I am caught up in my own
'political' engineering.
If I could turn back the hands of time I could make sure I never fall in
such an arrangement, ever. If per adventure I got a job out of Kitwe, I
would promptly break the news to her and leave. By the time the news
would be spreading, I would be miles away. Moreover, there are those, who
hold me in very high esteem who wouldn't believe her story, anyway.
I have set a tentative program. In the next one year, I will be saving some
money as well as studying for the same tax qualification. I hope to go half
way at the end of this period. After which I'll travel to UK to finish this
course. A visa will not be a problem as the course is not offered locally.
Upon arrival in the UK I would attend school in the evenings and work
during the day. Attending of the evening classes will be just to meet my visa
requirements as I strongly believe that if I have a manual I can study on my
own without the help of lecturers. But still attending class helps to get
contacts with lecturers who would act as a referee if at all you prove to be
a very good student. This is one thing I'm eager to do. Remember, how
good we were at Jacaranda. Beating the class in all activities be it in class,
on the pitch (100 metres race) and even drawing. Such genius straits should
be stirred up.
Later,
Andrew
----- ---------------------------------------
To: Andrew
Bro Andrew,
I finally had time to analyse your letter and my, wasn't I alarmed! You
want to ditch her again!! no, not again!!
My hairs stood on end went I read this development. Indeed, you and I need
to exchange views on how to maintain a sustained interest of women in our
lives. I have suffered at the grisly hands of 3 women that walked out on me.
This time round, I am resolved to keep this one alive to the end. Looking
back through the eye of providence, I think those breakages, though painful
at the time, worked out for good. (Romans 8:28) The knowledge of God's
providence, not in a fatalistic sense, has much helped me in times of
discouragement and disillusionment. Andrew! Let’s be real, let us live in the
real world!! "bika bola panshi" as one fellow said to me once. That
notwithstanding, we must be worried and sad that women should walk out
on us or we flee from them. Remember, we are growing up and will not
remain young for long. I turned 32 two weeks ago and I am still not
married!! Thankfully, my present girlfriend seems pretty focused than the
rest. Lord willing, we may tie the knot December 2003. I suppose by then I
will have completed my PhD or significantly made headway. I wonder how
old I will be when our first-born comes along. I would like my kids to grow
up in a secure environment, where both my wife and I will be around to
support them. Oh that God would grant us that favour! Talking about the
strong bond to our parents, that is natural but must be mortified before one
Well brother, what sayest thou about these things? I would really love to
visit you when I am on leave so that we can talk. Probably in August or
September, Lord willing, I may pitch around that place if the coming
internal audit does not derail things.
Update me on your latest find.
Billy S
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Andrew Sampa
07/04/02 04:56 PM Subject: RE: Hi there!
It was nice to hear from you though it took me some time reply to your
mail. I must say that I'm fine getting used to living without mum, even
though it is very difficult. Mum was my best friend and we would talk on
phone on a daily basis. It’s sad she'd have loved to see me marry. However,
I'm happy that she left me single. I think this thing of leaving and cleaving
would have been very difficult for me. I would have felt like betraying my
mum.
It’s sad that you broke up with Ruth. I must suggest that we should sit down
and see why we cannot keep a relationship. I broke up with Mwaka as well. I
later dated another gorgeous lady by the name of Julien. She was so fine
that I could see myself walk down the awl with her to say "I do". Sadly she
didn't see it that way. I'm now seeing someone who is so much in love with
me. However, my heart is far away and very soon I may have to break up
with her as well. I still believe that what I been looking for is yet to come.
However, lately I have been thinking that perhaps I'm living in a fool's
paradise and what I'm searching for only exists in dreams perhaps in films
and novels and not in the real world. I pray that this is wrong because I
do not intend to settle for anything less than what I 've always dreamed of.
Andrew
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: andrews@kt.deloitte.co.zm
Subject: Hi there!
Wow!
Wasn't it a surprise to get a call from you!! I was very elated indeed. I
am doing well both ways and determined to achieve higher heights of
excellence. Sad to have heard about mum's demise. Like I said, I felt as
though my own mum had been taken. Take heart brother, Christ is still on
the throne. We need to sit and hear each other out what's been happening to
the both of us in the last few years. How is that sister your courted whilst we
lodged together at Evan's palace?... Is it Nanyangwe or Lenganji or none of
the above? I broke up with Ruth about a year ago. Seeing somebody even
more interesting!
Acknowledge this mail!
Warmest regards
John 16:33
Billy S
Stray thoughts…
“The average Zambian abhors another’s success”-Billy
“Think for tomorrow but live a day at a time”-Billy
“Think long term but live short term”-Billy
President
Wife
Position Fin Agric Security Commerce F. Aff Mines Health Def
Minster Traditional Cousin Brother Business Cousin Remot Cousin Tradi
Cousin associate e Cou
Bibliography
1. Effective leadership. Robert Heller, 1999 Dorling
Kindersley. London. New York. Sydney. Moscow
2. Cox Frank Psychology WM. C.BROWN company
publishers 1970
Index
A Academic trials.................................85
Abraham Lincoln.........................61, 85 accelerate.................................68, 181
academic......15, 27, 64, 66, 72, 75, 85, Accountant. .49, 66, 111, 134, 150, 224
130, 140, 144, 145, 154, 155, 156, achievements......................44, 81, 160
157, 158 Acumen.................................. .........127
He is married to Jane and they have two daughters together. He has held
several portfolios in the formal working world.
Visit his SCRIBD site to view some of his other works on BILLYSICHONE
You could also view some of his video presentations on his u tube site:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2vu-QE0Oj4