Chilenje - A Vibrant Township in Lusaka, Zambia

Chilenje is a distinctive township located within Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia, situated in the Lusaka Province. This vibrant area is divided into two main sections, known as New Chilenje and Chilenje South, each offering a unique residential landscape.

New Chilenje

New Chilenje is characterized by its British Colonial low-cost houses, which have historically been considered well-suited for bachelors. One of the notable landmarks in this section is Chilenje House 394, which has been preserved as a museum. This historical house holds great significance in Zambia's history as it served as the residence of Dr. Kenneth Kaunda from January 1960 to December 1962. Dr. Kaunda later became the first president of Zambia, and the house now stands as a testament to this crucial period in the country's history.

Chilenje South

Chilenje South presents a different residential landscape, consisting of middle-cost houses in accordance with Zambian housing standards. These houses cater to a diverse range of residents in terms of housing size and amenities.

Community and Socioeconomic Landscape

Chilenje is described by Africa Directions as a peri-urban township that boasts slightly higher levels of education and income per household in comparison to nearby areas like Mtendere. While this means that families in Chilenje are often better equipped to meet their basic needs, it has also led to some socioeconomic challenges. Notably, higher disposable incomes have contributed to the proliferation of bars and taverns that cater to a youthful clientele. These establishments often feature loud music, TVs, and games, which, in turn, have led to the repurposing of spaces that were formerly open for youth to play.

The PAMO Youth Centre

To address the challenges related to youth and leisure activities, the PAMO Youth Centre was established in Chilenje in 2004. This initiative received support from organizations such as UNICEF and Norwegian Church Aid and aims to provide constructive and engaging recreational and educational activities for local youth. The center serves as a positive alternative to the potentially negative influences present in the community.

Local Concerns and Developments

In 2012, residents of Chilenje actively voiced their concerns regarding the need for improvements in sanitation and increased medical staffing at the Chilenje Clinic health center. Long queues and limited medical resources were pressing issues that the community sought to address. To enhance the connectivity and infrastructure in the area, the construction of the Chilimbulu Road was extended from the Kamwala shopping area to Chilenje Township, and this project resumed in April 2014. The aim was to improve transportation and accessibility for both residents and businesses in the Chilenje area. In summary, Chilenje is a dynamic and evolving township in Lusaka, offering a blend of housing options, a rich historical legacy, and an active community striving to address its unique challenges while making positive developments for its residents.