Masebo sparks controversy with statement that it’s better to die hungry than from contaminated food

Sylvia Masebo, has sparked a debate with her statement that “it’s better to die hungry than from contaminated food.” The statement, made in a recent National Assembly session, highlights the importance of food safety and the risks associated with consuming contaminated food.

Speaking to the National Assembly, Masebo said that the country was facing a range of epidemics, and there was a need to discourage street vending, which could be a source of contaminated food.

“It’s true we are faced with a lot of epidemics, and we must be worried as a country. Currently, we have many different diseases that are spreading, and we need to take steps to prevent them. One of the ways we can do this is by discouraging the whole concept of street vending,” Masebo said.

Masebo’s statement has sparked a debate in Zambia, with some supporting her stance, while others argue that it is not feasible for people to go hungry, especially in a country where poverty is a significant issue.

Food contamination is a serious issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by a range of factors, such as improper handling, storage, or preparation of food, contamination with harmful chemicals or toxins, or the presence of harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

In this context, Masebo’s statement is a call to action for individuals and authorities to prioritize food safety measures and to avoid taking unnecessary risks with their health. It highlights the importance of avoiding food that may have been exposed to contamination, even if it means going hungry.

The statement underscores the need to address the issue of street vending, which can be a source of contaminated food. Street vending is a common practice in many countries, and it provides a livelihood for many people. However, it can also pose a risk to public health if the food is not prepared or stored correctly.

To address this issue, the government and other stakeholders must work together to develop policies and regulations that ensure that food sold on the streets is safe for consumption. This may involve training vendors on proper food handling and storage, providing access to clean water and sanitation facilities, and conducting regular inspections to ensure that food sold on the streets is safe.

The debate sparked by Masebo’s statement is an opportunity for the government and other stakeholders to take a closer look at food safety measures in Zambia. It is essential to ensure that the food consumed by the population is safe and free from contamination.

While it is important to prioritize food safety, it is also essential to address the issue of poverty in the country. Many Zambians rely on street vending as a source of income, and it is not feasible to expect them to go hungry. The government must work to provide alternative sources of income and to address the root causes of poverty in the country.

Masebo’s statement highlights the importance of food safety and the risks associated with consuming contaminated food. It is a call to action for individuals and authorities to prioritize food safety measures and to take steps to prevent foodborne illnesses. However, it is also essential to address the issue of poverty in the country and to provide alternative sources of income for those who rely on street vending