THE giving spirit of former Chilanga lawmaker Keith Mukata was on full display yesterday as he and his wife Charmaine Musonda hosted hundreds of children as well as few adults to a Christmas party at his mother-in-law’s residence in Lusaka’s Kalundu area.
What has now become a familiar annual gathering saw more than 200 children from about seven to eight wards in Chilanga troop into the compound to eat, laugh and receive Christmas gifts, as Mukata once again lived out his belief that life only finds meaning when one lives for others.
The event, which has been running uninterrupted for the past six years, turned the quiet Kalundu neighbourhood into a hive of excitement as children queued patiently for food and festive treats.
Mukata said the idea behind the yearly Christmas party goes beyond filling stomachs, explaining that the bigger goal is to shape the mindset of children and instil in them the culture of sharing and caring for others.
“Life is meaningless if your purpose is just yourself; it makes more sense when you impact others positively,” Mukata told #Kalemba.
The once-upon-a-time deputy justice minister explained that the initiative also helps relieve parents who may be struggling due to illness or other challenges, allowing their children to still experience the joy of Christmas like everyone else.
Mukata, who drew inspiration from his own childhood Christmas memories, said the fulfilment that comes with seeing children happy is what gives him and his family the energy to keep the tradition alive year after year.
Support for the event came from family members, ordinary citizens and corporate partners.
Although the celebration is currently held in Kalundu for logistical reasons, Mukata expressed hope that similar events would eventually be rolled out to other areas.
By George Musonda
Kalemba December 25, 2025
