MANY people complain of busy schedules that sometimes they even to miss appointments. But others, workloads have never been a problem. They seem to work well when having several tasks to fulfil and they fulfil them all.
One such individual is Christopher Linenga, alias Chris Aka who is a Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD) Councillor for Katuba ward in Katuba constituency of Chibombo district. He is also an Ambassador of goodwill for Malaria and orphaned children, a Professional Zambian Afro-fusion and reggae Musician.
Added to his already full plate, is his part time job as a Disc Joker (DJ) for a recently launched popular radio station, Komboni Radio.
Chris Aka, 42, started his music career as a young boy. The popular and talented artiste has released four hot albums with titles ‘Tikondane’, Pays Slow, ‘Kuzionesa’, and Africa.
Apart from these albums, Chris has produced a single DVD on malaria entitled 'I want to be there'. He is currently working on his new album titled 'Freedom'.
Throughout his music career which spans over 18 years, he has collaborated with musicians such as Senegalese Diallo, Zimbabwe`s Q Montana, Oliver Mutukudzi and Chiwoniso. Others are Skeffa Chimoto and Ben Mankamba from Malawi, Werrason, Awillo Longomba, Felix Wazekwa and Ferre Golla from the Republic of Congo, and Eric Wanaina from Kenya to mention just a few.
He has also performed in Senegal, Tanzania, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Swaziland and Lesotho.
The artist believes in community work and promotion. Chris has worked with several partners such as Plan International, World Vision, Action Aid and CHILD Fund on the promotion of good hygiene in densely populated communities of Chawama, Kuku, and John Laing within Lusaka.
Chris includes both males and females in his band. They perform live music which was almost completely overshadowed by the play back performances in Zambia.
As a politician, Chris proudly said that his intention was to be a servant of the people.
“As a councillor, I am a civic leader, and therefore I regard everyone in my ward as my child. In fact, I am closer to the people,” he said.
Chris Aka said in working closely with area Member of Parliament Dr. Patrick Chikusu, he will ensure that the part of the K1.3 million constituency development fund that has been allocated is put to good use.
He says he intends to use the funds to improve water and sanitation at all markets in Katuba Ward.
“By the time I complete my tenure of office, I want to see a changed ward, with improved health for the people, water and sanitation and more children attending schools,” said Chris.
On his political ambition, he said he will not limit himself. He says one day he should be in a position that is higher than being a councillor.
On his role as an Goodwill Ambassador, Chris Aka says wherever he is conducting a live music show, he makes sure that he sensitises people on the importance of writing a Will, on Malaria and other issues that affect the community.
On his added responsibility as Komboni radio, DJ, he said “It’s something that is making me happy. It is an adventure for me, I like talking to people through radio.”
Chris Aka, whose hair has grown to more than a meter, concluded that what makes him tick is his originality in music, simple life and his passion for community work.
Chris Aka, Musician with Four Hats
