Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata in BINGA
A VOCATIONAL skills initiative under the Climate Adaptation, Water and Energy Programme (CAWEP) is creating new economic opportunities for young people in Binga District, with 207 youths receiving training.
The programme, implemented by the Government in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), equipped beneficiaries in the Saba area under Chief Saba with skills in cutting and design, welding, building, cosmetology, and solar installation.
One of the beneficiaries, Ms Early Mudhimba (32) said the training had changed her life.
“Before this training, I used to stay at home doing nothing, but when this programme came, I was empowered,” she said.
“I was trained in cutting and design and building, and now I can make clothes for myself, my children and for sale,” she said.
Ms Mudhimba said she was now able to take care of her family and parents and has begun training other youths and adults in sewing to help them earn an income.
One of her trainees, Mrs Fatima Sibanda (33), said she was grateful for the opportunity and pledged to cascade the skills to other women in her community.
Another trainee, Mrs Elizabeth Muleya, said the training would go a long way in helping her fend for her family.
Miss Prisca Munsaka (29), who received cosmetology training said the programme had expanded her business.
“I used to do braiding and weaving, but now I can also do make-ups, manicure and pedicure. This has enhanced my business,” she said, adding that the business management lessons she received would help her expand further and support her family.
A welding trainee, Mr Khumbulani Muleya, said the programme transformed him from an amateur into a skilled artisan.
“Before the training, I used to join and seal broken products, but now I can make door and window frames, push and scotch carts and steel boats. I now see myself as a professional,” he said.
Mr Muleya said he is also training young boys in welding and hopes to expand his business.
Some beneficiaries also accessed financial support to grow their enterprises.
Mrs Joyce Mwembe (44) said a US$2 000 loan enabled her to expand her business into a fully-fledged shop selling clothes, groceries and hardware.
“I was also trained in business management, which helped me develop and expand my business. Now I am a proud shop owner,” she said.
However, challenges remain.
Mr Steven Muleya (32), who was trained in solar installation, said the lack of equipment was limiting his ability to utilise his skills fully.
“I was trained to install solar systems, but I do not yet have the equipment to do the job,” he said.
Mr Muleya expressed hope that the business management skills he acquired would help him grow his enterprise.
Chief Saba, Mr Charles Mudenda welcomed the initiative and said it had positively transformed the community.
“These skills have helped youths to work for themselves and stay away from drugs and substance abuse. I urge them to continue cascading their skills to empower others,” he said.
Chief Saba said the project has the potential to bring lasting development to the area.
