As Zambians, we are often guilty of sacralising our economic past. We look back at it nostalgically and with great reverence. This often holds us back from taking the appropriate risks to move the country forward today. We often imply that the years prior to 1991 were "the good old days!" Yes, much credit is owed to those early leaders but we are now living in different times, politically and economically. Fresh solutions are needed to tackle some of the fresh challenges we face, such as the future of the textile industry.
Despite the challenges, Muchanga is optimistic about the future. She is busy with other jobs too. She has recently been involved in launching "The Coupon Book", covering Zambia's food, retail and services industries. She is also the Creative Director of the Zambia Fashion Council which aims to bring together those in the fashion industry. This is promising given the challenges facing the industry. She is also working on her own fashion brand and has recently completed her design and pattern class with Charity Nyirongo, a local designer.
She concluded our conversation by saying: "I think we must look more at what we have in terms of culture, resource and skill, and adopt and embrace it. We must not wait for another culture to validate it or be amused by it before we start to appreciate its value. A lot of the industries here are young and now is the time to join the race as the competition is minimal. Being involved now gives us opportunity to rise as the economy rises."
Chipo Muwowo is a writer. He was born and raised in Kitwe, Zambia and is currently based on the south coast of England. He blogs at