March | 2024

A Brighter Tomorrow: Grizzly Mining’s Investment in Education

in Community Development / CSR / Impact by CSRNZ Media March 27, 2024 0 comments

Amidst a vibrant atmosphere filled with cultural performances and heartfelt expressions of gratitude, Lumpuma Day Secondary School in Chief Lumpuma’s chiefdom, Lufwanyama district, stood as a beacon of hope and promise on the 25th of March 2024. This colorful occasion marked the official handover of a newly constructed secondary school by Grizzly Mining Limited, a momentous event witnessed by esteemed guests, community leaders, educators, parents and eager learners.

Grizzly Mining’s unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) was exemplified through the construction of this educational infrastructure, comprising a fully furnished 1-by-4 classroom block, modern computer facilities, an ablution block, and provision of clean drinking water through a solar-powered borehole feeding into the school water reticulation system. Through its CSR initiatives, the company has been helping build classroom blocks in other schools within Lufwanyama, in the hope of increasing learning space and improving the quality of education. Of note also is the aspect of children that cover long distances of between 5 to 10 Km to get to the nearest school.

During the opening stages of the handover ceremony, a poignant moment unfolded as a group of learners from the school stepped forward to share a heartfelt poem titled “For us to learn…” Their words resonated deeply with the audience, articulating the fundamental necessities they require for a conducive learning environment. “For us to learn, we need classrooms, desks, safe drinking water, we need toilets…” they recited. Their poignant verses underscored the transformative power of education and highlighted the aspirations of the youth to realize their full potential. As learners from nearby schools also showcased their talents through cultural dances and songs, the air was filled with optimism and the promise of a brighter future.

A representative from the office of the Area Member of Parliament commended Grizzly Mining for the work done, emphasizing the importance of school infrastructure in motivating learners, increasing enrollments and contributing to the provision of quality education. He assured the gathering that the MP is fully committed to seeing more of such developments in Lufwanyama, as a way of driving educational progress.

“The school represents more than just bricks and mortar; it symbolizes opportunity, empowerment and the promise of a brighter future,” stated Lee Muzala, Executive Director of CSR Network Zambia, emphasizing the profound impact of investing in education. “As we celebrate this milestone today, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to supporting initiatives that drive positive change and contribute towards sustainable development.”

Government representatives echoed this sentiment, highlighting the vital role of education in shaping the nation’s future and commending Grizzly Mining for its partnership in providing essential infrastructure. With increased learning space, there is optimism that Lumpuma Day Secondary School will nurture future leaders and contribute to the nation’s development.

Grizzly Mining reiterated its dedication to the community’s well-being, pledging to continue supporting educational initiatives and infrastructure development. Mr. Davy Phiri, the Group CSR Manager, reiterated, “Today, as we officially hand over this secondary school, let it be known that our commitment does not end here.” He outlined plans for future projects aimed at improving access to education and enhancing the quality of life for community members. The Lumpuma Day Secondary School project value is K6,500,000, underscoring Grizzly Mining’s substantial investment in the betterment of Chief Lumpuma’s chiefdom and beyond.

Acknowledging the collaborative effort between Grizzly Mining and the local community, the Guest of Honor, Mr. Justin Mwalikwa, emphasized the importance of partnerships in national development and pledged government support for similar initiatives. “Partnership is very key in national development, and thus we will continue to reinforce it in order to build a Zambia where education will thrive for improved living standards of our people,” stated the Guest of Honor.

Representing the Provincial Education Standards Officer (PESO), Mr. Nyambe Sefulo shared hopes that Lumpuma Day Secondary School would contribute to the emergence of future leaders. “With increased learning space, I hope that Lumpuma School will be one of those that will contribute to the emergence of another Levy Mwanawasa, another Lesley Mbula and many other sons and daughters of the Lamba-land that rose to national prominence in the past,” he remarked.

The Council Vice Chairperson of Lufwanyama District Council, Mr. Gilbert Mukobola commended Grizzly Mining for its unwavering commitment to social responsibility and emphasized the role of education in mitigating social ills such as early marriages and alcohol abuse among youths. “Investment in education is pivotal in shaping the future of our community,” remarked the Vice Chairperson.

As the ceremony drew to a close, His Royal Highness Chief Lumpuma reflected on the significance of the occasion, expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts that made the school’s construction possible. In his closing remarks, he urged the community to safeguard the infrastructure for future generations. “The ball has now been passed on to all those responsible, including the Lumpuma community, to ensure that the infrastructure is looked after well,” Chief Lumpuma emphasized. He further emphasized the importance of education in shaping the future of the chiefdom and warned against early marriages and encouraged parents to send the girl-child to school, reaffirming his commitment to ensuring access to quality education for all.

The handover of Lumpuma Day Secondary School represents more than just the inauguration of a new building; it embodies the collective aspirations and resilience of a community determined to break the cycle of poverty and transform its future through education. As the doors of opportunity swing open for the youth of Lumpuma, the path to a brighter tomorrow beckons, illuminated by the promise of knowledge, empowerment and social progress.

Greening Zambia: Seed Co’s Journey to Plant Half a Million Trees!

in CSR / Featured / Impact by CSRNZ Media March 21, 2024 0 comments

Seed Co Group, a leading pan-African seed company founded in 1940 and operating across almost twenty African countries, has embarked on a transformative tree planting initiative aimed at cultivating environmental conservation, employee motivation, community engagement and agricultural sustainability. With a target to plant 500,000 trees over the next five years, Seed Co is taking significant strides towards making a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

On the 20th of March 2024, in commemoration of the International Day of Forests that falls on 21st March every year, Seed Co took a momentous step forward by planting 1,000 pine trees at its Lusaka West location and another 3,000 at its Mkushi Farm. Led by the Managing Director (MD), Mrs. Grace Bwanali, and accompanied by key members of the management team, including Human Resource (HR) Manager Mr. Nyambe Mubita and Safety Health Environment and Quality (SHEQ) Manager Mr. Kerry Sankalimba, the Tree Planting Project was officially inaugurated.

CSR Network Zambia, represented by the Executive Director Mr. Lee Muzala and the Media Hub Team, was present to witness and cover the launch and document the planting process. In his remarks during a briefing with the MD and her management team, Mr. Muzala commended Seed Co for its ambitious tree planting initiative, emphasizing the significance of such projects in contributing to both national and global environmental targets. With Seed Co’s commitment to planting a variety of 500,000 trees over the next five years, it’s estimated that a considerable acreage of land will be covered. Using a spacing of 2.5 meters between plants and 3 meters between rows, the initiative is projected to encompass approximately 375 hectares of land. This scale of reforestation effort underscores Seed Co’s dedication to environmental conservation and underscores the potential impact of corporate-led initiatives in addressing pressing environmental challenges.

Seed Co’s tree planting initiative also aligns with broader regional and global commitments, such as the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative (AFR100), a pan-African effort to restore 100 million hectares of degraded and deforested landscapes by 2030. By participating in AFR100, corporates like Seed Co can play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable land management practices and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Moreover, AFR100 offers a framework for collaboration
between governments, civil society and the private sector, emphasizing the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in achieving landscape restoration goals.

Participation in AFR100 provides corporates with several benefits beyond environmental stewardship. By investing in reforestation and restoration efforts, companies can enhance their CSR profiles, build brand reputation, and strengthen stakeholder relationships. Furthermore, reforestation projects can create opportunities for community engagement, job creation and socio-economic development, contributing to shared prosperity and resilience in local communities. Ultimately, AFR100 offers a platform for corporates to demonstrate leadership in sustainability and contribute to broader efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable future for Africa and the world.

The Seed Co MD, in her address to the gathered employees, emphasized the significance of each individual’s role in nurturing the planted trees. She encouraged staff members to take ownership of the trees they were planting, underscoring the long-term benefits of tree planting for future generations. Trees, she emphasized, are vital for mitigating climate change, preserving biodiversity and enhancing the quality of life for communities.

The initiative extends beyond planting to encompass meaningful community engagement, with a focus on empowering local stakeholders and communities. In addition to its direct tree planting efforts, Seed Co Group has devised strategic approaches to engage farmers and traditional leaders in expanding the reach and impact of its tree planting initiative. One such strategy involves leveraging the company’s established 400 demo-plots, which attract an average of 100 farmers who visit to view the demo crops. Recognizing the potential of these interactions, Seed Co aims to encourage each visiting farmer to plant ten trees, thereby contributing to the overall target of 500,000 trees. By integrating tree planting into these agricultural demonstrations, Seed Co not only expands its reach but also builds a culture of environmental stewardship among farmers.

Furthermore, Seed Co plans to collaborate with traditional leaders in chiefdoms to leverage existing community structures and support networks. Traditional ceremonies held annually present opportune moments to engage community members in tree planting activities. By partnering with traditional leaders, Seed Co can tap into local knowledge and resources while creating a sense of collective responsibility for environmental conservation. Through these partnerships, Seed Co aims to mobilize communities to plant trees and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the importance of sustainable land management practices.

By employing these strategies, Seed Co Group demonstrates its commitment to engaging diverse stakeholders and maximizing the impact of its tree planting initiative. Through collaboration with farmers and traditional leaders, Seed Co seeks to create a ripple effect of environmental awareness and action, ultimately contributing to a greener and more sustainable future for all.

Through collaborations with local leaders and farmers, Seed Co aims to plant trees at its farms and through community initiatives. The company’s agroforestry approach integrates tree planting with agricultural activities, promoting resilient and sustainable farming systems. By strategically planting trees and engaging communities, Seed Co is working towards a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.

Through initiatives like the tree planting project, Seed Co is not only growing trees but also nurturing a brighter, more sustainable future for Africa and beyond.

Celebrating Women in CSR – Claire Chibesakunda

in Interviews / Women's Month by CSRNZ Media March 8, 2024 0 comments

In celebration of the remarkable contributions and unwavering dedication of women leaders in CSR, we are proud to launch our Women in CSR Spotlight Series for 2024. This series aims to shine a light on the achievements, experiences and insights of influential women who have made significant strides in driving positive change and sustainable impact within their organizations and communities.

Our inaugural spotlight for 2024 falls on Claire Chibesakunda, a seasoned chartered accountant with over 17 years of experience in accounting and 3 years in General Management. In 2021, Claire took on the pivotal role of heading the ECO Unit, a waste management brand for Chilanga Cement. Under her leadership, the ECO Unit has navigated complex environmental challenges, managing various types of waste with a strong focus on sustainability and regulatory compliance.

Claire’s journey exemplifies resilience, adaptability and a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship. As we tell her story, we uncover the lessons learned, the hurdles overcome, and the vision for a more sustainable future. Join us as we celebrate Claire and other remarkable women making a profound impact in the field of CSR.

Read her full interview below:

Tell us about your journey into the corporate world and what motivated you to focus on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

I am a Chartered accountant by profession with over 17 years experience in accounting and 3 years experience in General Management. I was appointed in 2021 to head a waste management brand for Chilanga Cement which included managing its P&L. The ECO Unit business deals with different types of waste, some attract a gate fee as prescribed by regulations around handling of hazardous waste. Due to our focus on the environment, most of the CSR projects that we undertake are environmental. My Journey keeps evolving as each year comes with new opportunities.

CSR has evolved from just being charity work but it is now focusing more on sustainability. This motivated me to take up this role to see how we could re-think waste for a sustainable future. It allowed me to make a difference. The innovation being used in co-processing this waste gives us the ability to maintain and support the process of waste management continuously and provide certainty for the future.

What inspired you to take on your current role, and how does it align with your values?

The fact that it’s a general management role, allowed me to freely drive my ambitions. With so much going on around the globe on waste management and Climate change, this was an opportunity for me to make a difference in my work and the community.

My values are to impact lives and this resonates well with the role I execute with so much passion especially in the area of awareness, impacting a positive mindset towards the environment. Waste should never be looked at as waste but as a resource, the way we manage it at a personal level can make a huge impact in our drive for a better environment.

Can you share a particularly rewarding CSR project or initiative you have led or been a part of? What made it successful?

The Corporate to Corporate partnership between Chilanga Cement’s ECO Unit department and Nestle Zambia was extremely rewarding. As you may know in a circular economy, materials and resources are used for as long as possible and what cannot be recycled is turned into energy.

A brief background to what the ECO Unit does – ECO Unit is a waste management brand of Chilanga Cement that disposes of waste with a view to energy recovery. ECO Unit partners with the government, organizations, companies, communities as well as individuals in cleaning up the environment by ensuring that waste generated is not taken to the landfill or dump sites.
Nestle partnered with the ECO Unit so that 160 tons of post-consumer plastic waste is collected from the community. After implementing the Nestle project, there has been a positive impact on the communities and a strong message to other corporations that generate waste, especially packaging waste.

Success story
During this partnership, we were able to impact livelihoods as the community through a recycling company that participated in the aggregation of post-consumer plastic waste, and what could not be recycled was channeled to Chilanga Cement for energy recovery. Over 70 tons of post-consumer plastics have been collected, while over 600 families have been empowered.

In summary, the success of CSR initiatives like the one described above lies in effective community engagement, environmental stewardship, economic empowerment, and thorough measurement of impact through both quantitative and qualitative means.

How do you measure the impact of your CSR initiatives, and can you share an example where you saw a significant positive change?

One of the ways we measure the impact of our CSR initiatives is through outcomes in society. e.g. The Nestle project managed to empower over 600 families, while the landfill was spared with over 70 tons of waste that was diverted to Chilanga Cement. This impacted positively families in the community. As ECO Unit we are also looking towards implementing measures to effectively measure reduction in the carbon footprint.

How do you stay informed and inspired about the latest trends and practices in CSR?

Through academic research, industry reports, and publications from reputable sources. Chilanga Cement has continued to engage with stakeholders and participate in CSR-focused conferences, workshops, and industry events. We are keen on following CSR-related news, updates, and discussions on social media platforms and other relevant online communities.

In your opinion, what is the biggest misconception about CSR in the corporate sector?

Companies need to understand that CSR is not only driven by the moral or ethical motivations of the business but also by the legal, regulatory, and market pressures, thus all companies should be encouraged to incorporate CSR in their sustainability profile.

As a woman in a leadership position, how do you advocate for and promote CSR within your organization and to external stakeholders?

Through leading by Example – demonstrating a personal commitment to CSR principles and practices. Integration into Business Strategy – Aligning CSR initiatives with the organization’s mission, values, and business objectives helps position CSR as a strategic priority rather than an add-on or afterthought.
Engagements – Building relationships and fostering dialogue with external stakeholders, customers, investors, and community members. Staying informed about emerging trends, best practices, and stakeholder expectations through ongoing education and research. Engagement ensures that CSR efforts remain relevant and impactful.

And finally, being part of the discussions and meetings that take place in the board room. I use this opportunity to lobby for sponsorship of projects impacting the environment.

Can you discuss a time when you had to advocate for a CSR initiative? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?

I have not faced any major challenge considering that Chilanga Cement is a seasoned supporter of CSR and every year there is a deliberate budget that is put aside for such works.

However, as an individual you always want more and so we keep pushing for more. The greatest challenge is having enough resources. The other challenge is around measuring impact and providing evidence-based data and metrics to demonstrate the potential benefits and return on investment of the CSR initiative. At times can be a challenge thus allocation of resources and prioritizing implementation can be a challenge.

How do you mentor or support other women in your organization to take an active role in CSR?

My support to women in the workplace has been around involving them every time we have an initiative. I involved women, especially from Finance those that I worked with to be ambassadors of the ECO Unit. Where possible I promote visibility and recognition by recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women leaders in my team through awards, speaking opportunities, and thought leadership platforms to help raise their visibility and inspire others to follow suit.

Looking forward, what emerging CSR trends do you think will shape the future of CSR?

The future of CSR will place a strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion within organizations. Companies will need to prioritize creating inclusive work in leadership.
Environmental Sustainability: With growing concerns about climate change and environmental degradation, businesses are likely to focus more on reducing their carbon footprint, embracing renewable energy, and adopting circular economy principles.

How do you envision the evolution of CSR in Zambia, and what role do you see women playing in this transformation?

Overall, the future of CSR in Zambia will depend on the collective efforts of various stakeholders to promote sustainable development, address social inequalities, and empower marginalized groups, including women, to participate fully in the country’s economic and social progress.

Collaborative efforts between businesses, civil society organizations, government agencies, and international donors can amplify the impact of CSR initiatives in Zambia, fostering innovation, sharing resources, and leveraging expertise to address shared challenges.

Personal Reflections:
What has been the most profound lesson you have learned through your work in CSR?

I have learned a lot in CSR but what stands out most for me is the collaboration and working together with different sectors of the economy while taking advantage of the value that SMEs bring, large corporates, the government, the manufacturing industries, and a lot of others. In this Circular economy, we need everyone to come on board.

How do you balance the demands of your professional life with your commitment to social responsibility?

Throughout my work experience, the one thing I have learned is how to have a work-life balance, being a wife and a mother of four children, I have come to understand that family and the community around us are what push us to the next level for it is always a joy to see smiles on those faces whenever you go out of your way to do something good.

Is there anything else you would like to share about your CSR journey that we haven’t covered?

ECO Unit has been working very closely with schools to try and enhance environmental awareness. We realize that children grasp concepts easily thus we have deliberately focused on working with schools. Last year we ran a campaign with Chilanga Primary School on the importance of plastic waste separation at source this impacted many households as they were asked to separate plastic waste from domestic waste and bring the plastic from their homes to school which was later collected by the Chilanga cement ECO Unit. This has proved very impactful as waste management requires a lifestyle change. This program will continue in 2024

In addition, I must mention through these initiatives we won the grand prize at last year’s CSR Awards. Chairpersons Award- CSR Innovation of the Year. We also won 1st prize in environmental awareness at last year’s Agricultural and Commercial show and many others too numerous to mention.

What message would you like to leave for young women aspiring to make a difference through their careers, particularly in CSR?

My message to the women out there is that never wait until you have a lot before you can render support, in the little that you have you can change lives. Let us use our God-given talents, the grace is sufficient only to those that take a step of faith.

March 2024