A Heart-Wrenching Message That Changed Everything

On a warm July afternoon in 2024, a TikTok video stopped me in my tracks. Chomba Nakazwe, a vibrant woman with an inspiring spirit, shared her heartbreaking story of being diagnosed with cervical cancer. "This is my fight..." she said, and I felt my stomach drop. Chomba was someone I could easily have known—a friend, a sister, a neighbor.

A Tragic Reality: The High Toll of Cervical Cancer

As the months passed, Chomba’s story spread like wildfire, unearthing the frightening truth: over 60% of cervical cancer patients in Zambia die from the disease. Chomba, just 32 years old and a mother of three, lost her battle in April 2025. Her death was a wake-up call, highlighting a crisis that many Zambians remain unaware of despite the staggering statistics.

Raising Awareness and Inspiring Change

Chomba’s passing sparked a national conversation, even catching the attention of influential figures like First Lady Mutinta Hichilema. She praised Chomba for inspiring countless women to take charge of their health. Suddenly, cervical cancer wasn't just a statistic; it became a personal fight for many.

Facing Fear: My Journey to a Screening

As a 33-year-old Zambian woman, I too had been complacent, never getting screened for cervical cancer. Zambia’s national HPV vaccination campaign offers girls aged 9 to 14 a protective shot against cervical cancer, a chance I somewhat envied. Yet, when I first saw Chomba’s video, I instinctively turned it off, reluctant to confront my own risk.

Taking the Plunge: Researching My Options

In May 2025, motivated by Chomba’s story, I began researching screening options. After careful consideration, I opted for the Planned Parenthood Association of Zambia (PPAZ) clinic in Lusaka, which was reputed for its respectful and patient-centered approach.

The Day of the Appointment: Anxiety and Relief

I arrived for my appointment in August, filled with nerves but determined. My worries faded as I was welcomed warmly. The nurse, Olivia, guided me through the process, explaining that screenings should ideally occur every two years for better survival odds. The procedure itself was quick and mildly uncomfortable, but the wait for my results was filled with both anxiety and gratitude.

Celebrating Empowerment: Results and the Future

When my results came back normal, immense relief washed over me. I realized that this small step was significant not just for me, but for all women in Zambia. The HPV vaccine could drastically change the future landscape of cervical cancer, with hope for lower rates among the younger generation.

A Call to Action: Prioritizing Our Health

Cervical cancer screening is more than just a medical procedure; it’s an act of self-preservation. With services like walk-in screenings becoming more accessible, it’s time for Zambian women to take control of their health. As we remember Chomba Nakazwe-Mwape, let’s transform mourning into action and encourage open discussions about cervical health.