By Plight Chapusha, aka Plight Intellect
My recent visit to Moscow, Russia, sponsored by the Moscow government, was an eye-opening journey that held profound lessons for me and for the people of Lusaka. The trip, with a layover in the bustling city of Doha, was more than just a tour; it was a firsthand look at how strategic vision and determination can transform a city.
In Moscow, I was struck by the incredible progress in their public transport system. It’s hard to believe that as recently as 2010, the city’s transport resembled what we have in Lusaka today—a system of small, on-demand buses. Fast forward 15 years, and Moscow is a global leader with an intelligent traffic management system that detects accidents in real-time and coordinates emergency responses.
The most impressive part? All the software and hardware are developed right in Russia, a testament to their success in localizing goods and services. The introduction of the “Troika” card and the ongoing development of its virtual version shows their commitment to innovation.
These are invaluable lessons for Lusaka. Moscow’s journey shows us that with the right investment in research and development and a focus on building local capacity, we can overcome our own urban challenges. We don’t have to be dependent on foreign solutions; wecan develop our own.
Beyond the technological marvels, the most powerful lesson for me was a personal one. Before my trip, I had heard that Russians were cold and unapproachable. However, my experience was the complete opposite. I was met with incredible warmth and hospitality.
The people of Moscow are wonderful, and I was able to engage with the city freely and without reservation. This experience reinforced a simple yet profound truth: at our core, we are all human and we are all the same. It is our choices, actions, and collective culture that truly make a difference. If we, as a people in Lusaka, can cultivate a culture of ambition, a positive attitude, and a shared vision, we can achieve what Russia has in its transport sector and so much more.
It is also important to note the potential that lies untapped. Many Zambian students aresponsored by the Russian Federation for their studies, yet when they return, their knowledge is not fully utilized. Russia has shown it is ready for more collaboration and partnership, and we should seize this opportunity for an information exchange. By leveraging the skills of these returning students and fostering a strong partnership with Russia, we can make a real and lasting difference for our society here in Zambia.
A big thank you to the government of Moscow for this incredible opportunity. This trip was truly.