LUSAKA, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) -- In a world often filled with challenges and uncertainty, small acts of kindness can offer powerful moments of hope. For patients battling cancer in Zambia, one such source of comfort comes through music.
That hope is carried by renowned Zambian artist Brian Bwembya, 39, popularly known by his stage name B Flow. Over the years, he has earned widespread respect for his unwavering commitment to bring encouragement and compassion to patients at the Cancer Diseases Hospital, located within the University Teaching Hospital in the capital, Lusaka.
In the days leading up to Christmas, Bwembya teamed up with the local initiative Breakthrough Cancer Trust Zambia to visit the hospital, offering music, gifts, and words of encouragement.
As he began to sing, the hospital corridors came alive with melodies, laughter, and applause -- a tradition that has now become a cherished annual event.
Bwembya's music is widely known for its uplifting messages, but within the wards, it takes on even deeper meaning. Patients sang along, smiling through their hardships and briefly setting aside the realities of treatment.
For many, the music provides strength and comfort at a time when they need it most.
"I join hands with Breakthrough Cancer Trust Zambia to put a smile on the faces of patients at the Cancer Diseases Hospital through songs and gifts. We visited the children's ward, and then we proceeded to the adult female and male wards," he said.
He emphasized that the goal is to ensure that patients "do not feel left out even as Christmas celebrations take place around the month of December."
Bwembya's annual visits have drawn widespread public attention, with many praising his dedication and humanitarian spirit on social media.
"This is great diversional therapy," commented Facebook user Mildred Phiri, reacting to a video posted on Bwembya's page showing him performing for patients.
Another user, Sampa B. Jay, encouraged fellow artists to follow Bwembya, saying such efforts could "help a lot of patients recover quickly."
The Zambia Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Alliance noted that Bwembya's commitment not only brings comfort to patients but also helps raise awareness about cancer and other non-communicable diseases.
"The fact that he has been doing this consistently shows his genuine commitment to addressing cancer diseases," said Brenda Chitindi, a health advocate and representative of the Zambia NCD Alliance.
She added that cancer remains one of the most pressing NCDs worldwide, and that initiatives like Bwembya's demonstrate how individual action can inspire entire communities to spread love, support, and hope. ■
