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CSR Network Zambia and Kafue Gorge Regional Training Centre Formalise Strategic Partnership

in News / Partnerships / Projects  by CSRNZ Media 0 comments

CSR Network Zambia (CSRNZ) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kafue Gorge Regional Training Centre (KGRTC), formalising a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening capacity building, professional training, and sustainability leadership in Zambia and the wider region.

The collaboration brings together CSRNZ’s expertise in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), and sustainability advocacy with KGRTC’s position as a SADC Centre of Excellence in energy and technical training.

The MOU establishes a framework for joint training programmes and structured knowledge exchange, with a focus on developing practical, market-ready solutions for corporates, institutions, and professionals. By leveraging complementary strengths, the partnership seeks to deliver both short-term impact through targeted programmes and long-term value through structured collaboration.

Speaking on the partnership, both institutions underscored the importance of moving beyond symbolic cooperation toward initiatives that are measurable, scalable and aligned with national and regional development priorities.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to building credible sustainability capacity and positioning Zambia as a hub for high-quality professional and technical training in Africa.

CSR Network Zambia and Z’Kidpreneur Academy Forge Strategic Alliance to Cultivate Zambia’s Future Sustainability Leaders

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LUSAKA, ZAMBIA – In a move that redefines the trajectory of corporate responsibility in the region, CSR Network Zambia (CSRNZ) has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Z’Kidpreneur Academy. This partnership marks the birth of the Eco-Fusion Project, a pioneering initiative designed to anchor sustainability and environmental innovation in the hearts and minds of Zambia’s youngest citizens.

The core of this partnership is the recognition that the transition to a Green Economy cannot be achieved through adult-led policy alone. By focusing on children aged 8–18, Eco-Fusion addresses environmental challenges—particularly waste management—at their educational roots.

Engaging children is not merely a social gesture; it is a strategic necessity for the following reasons:

  • Systemic Behavioral Change – Early engagement promotes a generation of “Sustainability Natives” who view environmental stewardship as a fundamental lifestyle, rather than a forced compliance.
  • Innovation Catalysts – Through “Challenge Workshops” and interactive learning, children are empowered to design localized solutions for climate and waste challenges, serving as active problem-solvers for their communities.
  • Institutional Legacy – Participating organizations are not just funding an event; they are building long-term capability and credibility before sustainability challenges become externally imposed regulatory obligations.

“Sustainability and waste management are no longer future considerations; they are immediate operational and reputational priorities,” says Lee Muzala, Executive Director of CSR Network Zambia. “This partnership reflects a deliberate shift toward proactive leadership. We are involving experts to translate abstract concepts into measurable outcomes that begin in the classroom and end in the boardroom.”

Chimfwembe Mulenga, Executive Director of Z’Kidpreneur Academy, echoed this sentiment, adding: “We’re excited to partner with CSR Network Zambia on the Eco-Fusion Project. At Z’Kidpreneur Academy, we’re passionate about empowering Zambia’s children with the skills and mindset to drive positive change. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to cultivate a generation of young leaders who can tackle pressing environmental challenges.

By joining forces with CSR Network Zambia, we’re taking a significant step towards integrating sustainability and entrepreneurship into the fabric of our education system. The Eco-Fusion Project will not only inspire young minds but also equip them with the tools to design innovative solutions for a greener future.”

Eco-Fusion is envisioned as a high-impact, one-day engagement featuring innovation challenges, panel discussions, and solution design. By integrating sustainability with entrepreneurship, the partnership aims to demonstrate that environmental stewardship, when approached strategically, generates tangible value for children, institutions, and the broader Zambian economy.

Day 1: Igniting Strategic Impact with Kansanshi Community Centre

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03 December 2025 – What a powerful start to our Strategic CSR, Measurable Impact, and Team Building workshop with the incredible team at Kansanshi Community Centre (KCC), the community investment arm of Kansanshi Mining Plc in Solwezi!
The day’s sessions marked a meaningful shift from doing good to driving strategic, sustainable impact. The KCC team engaged deeply in discussions that moved beyond traditional community support, focusing instead on aligning projects with global sustainability goals and strengthening trust within the communities they serve.
Through interactive clinics and hands-on exercises, participants explored how to embed purpose into every initiative—mapping current projects to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and mastering stakeholder engagement strategies tailored for North-Western Province.
The energy in the room was truly inspiring. It’s clear that KCC is not just participating in CSR—they are leading with intention and building a lasting legacy in Solwezi and beyond.
We’re excited to continue this journey tomorrow as we dive into Measuring & Communicating Impact with Integrity.
Here’s to building impact that matters, together.

DAY 2 – FQM Trident CSR Workshop – Sharpening Strategy for Authentic, Measurable Change.

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​[Kalumbila, Zambia] – Day Two (14 November 2025) of the intensive workshop, “Impact-driven and Measurable CSR: From Conception to Measurable Impact,” successfully concluded today, cementing the tools and frameworks needed for the FQM Trident Corporate Social Investment (CSI) Team to execute world-class, accountable initiatives.

​Hosted by CSR Network Zambia in partnership with Impact Visible, the session moved from foundational mindsets to advanced strategic planning and transparency.

​The focus of Day 2 was on equipping the team with methodologies to clearly articulate their impact pathway and ensure genuine accountability. Key sessions covered:

  • ​Theory of Change (ToC): Participants mastered how to map their CSI programs, establishing a clear, logical causal chain from Inputs -> Activities -> Outcomes -> Impact. This critical framework ensures every action is tied to a verifiable long-term goal.
  • ​5 Dimensions of Impact: The team adopted this comprehensive framework to holistically assess impact by asking the essential questions: What outcome is occurring, Who is experiencing it, How Much change is being created, the company’s Contribution, and the associated Risk.
  • ​Listening to Know What Works: A deep dive into authentic stakeholder engagement and needs analysis emphasized the importance of listening not just to confirm, but to know community priorities and co-design effective, locally relevant solutions.
    – ​Transparent Reporting: The final session provided practical guidance on reporting CSR with honesty and integrity, focusing on how to communicate results transparently while actively avoiding greenwashing—a commitment to truthful data and authentic progress.

​The two-day workshop has empowered the FQM Trident CSI team to redefine success, moving from outputs and activities to verifiable, sustainable community and business value.

DAY 1 – FQM Trident CSR Workshop – Impact-Driven and Measurable CSR: From Conception to Measurable Impact.

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[Kalumbila, Zambia] – The first day (13 November 2025) of the 2-day workshop, “Impact-driven and Measurable CSR: From Conception to Measurable Impact,” concluded with a powerful sense of energy and purpose. Hosted by CSR Network Zambia in partnership with Impact Visible for the FQM Trident CSI Team, the session laid a crucial foundation for redefining corporate social investment.

The day was dedicated to shifting mindsets and building a robust framework for creating lasting, measurable value for both the community and the business.

A Look Inside the Future: CSR Network Zambia Tours Chilanga Cement’s Eco Unit

in CSR / News  by CSRNZ Media 0 comments

Lusaka, Zambia – 24 September 2025 – The CSR Network Zambia, along with representatives from 20 leading corporates and civil society organizations, had the distinct privilege of touring the Eco Unit at Chilanga Cement.

Before embarking on the site tour, the event kicked off with insightful opening remarks that set the tone for the day. Delivering the opening address, Mr. Jonas Kaonga, Deputy Plant Manager, emphasized Chilanga Cement’s long-term vision for sustainable waste management.

“At Chilanga Cement, our environmental policy guides us to reduce the impact of climate change through the development, manufacture, and promotion of sustainable solutions. Last year alone, we invested K18 million into the ECO Unit, including the acquisition of a state-of-the-art shredder with a capacity of two tons per hour. This bold investment enhances our ability to manage non-recyclable plastic waste, one of the most persistent challenges in our communities, transforming it into valuable resources while keeping our environment clean,” he said.

Mr. Lee Muzala, CSR Network Zambia Executive Director, highlighted the social dimension of waste management, noting that waste should be viewed not as a problem but as an opportunity:
“Waste comes from every sector; households, offices, markets, and today it is becoming a valuable resource. For us in the CSR space, it presents an opportunity to innovate, collaborate, and contribute to building resilient communities and a sustainable country. Chilanga Cement, through the ECO Unit, has the machinery and processes in place to make this possible,” he said.

Partner organizations also shared testimonials, reaffirming the impact of Chilanga Cement’s waste management solutions. Zambia Sugar Plc, represented by Mr. Wiza Chaibela, commended the Chilanga Cement through ECO Unit partnership, which has enabled the safe disposal of over 60 tonnes of waste: “This collaboration reflects shared values for a greener Zambia. What matters is not just disposal but the assurance that our waste is treated in line with circular economy principles.”

The site visit offered participants a first-hand appreciation of Chilanga Cement’s innovative approach to waste disposal and energy recovery. Stakeholders were particularly impressed by the company’s significant investment in a state-of-the-art Shredder, valued at K18 million, with the capacity to shred 2 tonnes of waste per hour. This specialized equipment focuses solely on non-recyclable plastics, contaminated hazardous containers, and sensitive materials such as packaging waste and old uniforms from various companies, ensuring safe and efficient processing. The Eco Unit utilizes co-processing solutions, converting this waste into an alternative energy source for cement production.

This demonstration was a powerful testament to Chilanga Cement’s deep commitment to contributing to a cleaner, greener, and sustainable Zambia. Participants gained valuable insight into the rigorous, behind-the-scenes processes that make every bag of their cement a step towards a more sustainable industrial future.

The tour not only showcased environmental responsibility in action but also emphasized how industry leaders are tackling waste management challenges through innovation.

A huge thank you to the Eco Unit and the entire team at Chilanga Cement for hosting us and for sharing their vision for a circular economy in Zambia!

CSRNZ and CEEC Collaborate to Amplify Social, Economic, and Environmental Impact

in Impact / Partnerships  by CSRNZ Media 0 comments

On February 24, 2025, CSR Network Zambia (CSRNZ) held a consultative and productive meeting with the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) to explore potential collaborations aimed at maximizing the impact of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Corporate Social Investment (CSI), and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives in Zambian communities. The meeting marked a significant step toward promoting stronger partnerships between key stakeholders in driving sustainable development across the country.

The discussions focused on leveraging the strengths of both organizations to enhance corporate engagement in delivering meaningful social, economic and environmental outcomes. Both parties acknowledged the critical role that businesses play in contributing to national development goals, including Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By aligning efforts, CSR Network Zambia and CEEC aim to create synergies that amplify the positive impact of CSR, CSI, and ESG programs.

As an immediate outcome of the meeting, it was agreed to host a stakeholder engagement meeting involving select corporates identified for their commitment to impactful community development. This session will provide a platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration, encouraging companies to deepen their involvement in initiatives that address pressing societal challenges. The goal is to heighten corporate engagement and promote innovative solutions that drive lasting change in areas such as education, health, environmental conservation, and economic empowerment.

“This partnership represents a shared vision for creating transformative change,” said Lee Muzala, Executive Director of CSR Network Zambia. “By working together with CEEC, we can ensure that CSR, CSI and ESG efforts are more strategic, inclusive, and aligned with the needs of our communities.”

Hachombwa N’gandu, representing CEEC, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “Our mandate to empower citizens economically aligns closely with the objectives of CSR and ESG. Together, we can unlock greater opportunities for Zambians through well-coordinated and impactful interventions.”

The upcoming stakeholder engagement meeting will serve as a launchpad for this partnership, setting the stage for future joint initiatives that prioritize sustainability, inclusivity, and shared value creation. With a focus on strengthening corporate-community ties, CSR Network Zambia and CEEC are committed to building a brighter future for all Zambians.

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