Mwape Chimpampa Lighting Zambia’s Path With Innovation

BY LUYANDO MOOYA

Gratitude and Beginnings

First and foremost, I would like to say thank you to Excel Magazine for featuring my story in Issue 13 of their magazine and also for awarding me a sum of K7,500 as seed fund. This recognition has been a great encouragement in my journey as a young innovator.

My name is Mwape Chimpampa, a sixteen-year-old Zambian innovator from Naboye Secondary School in Kafue District, Lusaka Province. I am most popularly known for inventing an organic sunscreen, an innovation that earned me national recognition, including my appearance on The Zambian Genius.

At just fourteen years old, I participated in the Junior Engineers Technicians Scientists (JETS) fair in 2024 under the “Medicine and Health” category, where I emerged first at national level.

A Personal Motivation

The inspiration behind my invention was deeply personal. Sunscreen is not produced locally in Zambia, yet it is a vital product especially for people with albinism who are most vulnerable to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.

My father, who did not have access to sunscreen growing up, developed skin cancer and sadly passed away in 2017. My sister, who also has albinism, and I needed protection. Out of this need, I developed an organic sunscreen that could serve as a safeguard for us and, hopefully, for the nation at large.

Overcoming Skepticism

Sunscreen is not widely known in Zambia, and albinism is often not recognized as a disability deserving support. Many doubted my project, but I learned to love what I do and to stay focused on my mission.

My organic sunscreen is made from indigenous materials, making it affordable and accessible. It has an SPF of 22, above the recommended SPF 15 for persons with albinism, and was carefully formulated to suit different skin types.

Recognition and Growth

My journey has taken unexpected turns. From being interviewed at the National Science Centre to featuring on The Zambian Genius, each step opened new doors.

I later joined the Zambia Research and Development Centre (ZRDC), where my project was incubated. This gave me opportunities to meet brilliant young minds, explore challenging fields, and learn cooperation.

I was interviewed by the British Broadcasting Corporation and, in 2025, joined the Sakura Science Club after attending their program in Japan.

Impact and Vision

Zambia has nearly 30,000 people with albinism, with 17,000 living in rural areas where sunscreen is hardest to find. My organic sunscreen could help solve this problem because it can be made anywhere, allowing more people to benefit.

Early tests have shown positive feedback, with 86% success among participants. The challenge now is to improve its shelf life and durability.

Beyond sunscreen, I believe Zambia must embrace innovations that support minority groups not only in medicine but also in technology, environment, and entrepreneurship.

Support should go beyond funding to include training, guidance, and recognition. Education about albinism is also crucial to reduce skepticism and foster inclusiveness.

Looking Ahead

Initially, I hoped my project would reach the market within a year of recognition. I now realize more time is needed.

In the next five years, I envision Zambia becoming one of the few sunscreen-producing countries in Africa. I already consider myself a junior CEO, determined to upgrade my innovation for the betterment of the albinism community.

Words of Inspiration

Success is never given on a silver platter. Hard work, determination, and dedication are needed to reach your goals.

Challenges should be used as ladders, not obstacles. Make your own miracles and keep your spark lit. With persistence, it is only a matter of time before you unleash your full potential.