Successful Stakeholder Engagement Workshop on Building Effective Climate Action Interventions

[Lusaka, 14 December 2023] — The CSR Network Zambia is pleased to announce the successful hosting of the Stakeholder Engagement Workshop under the theme “Exploring Strategies for Building Effective Climate Action Interventions” which took place on December 13, 2023, at Sarovar Hotel and was sponsored by JTI Leaf Zambia.

The event saw a gathering of sixty participants, bringing together diverse stakeholders united by a shared goal: to protect the environment through collaborative and innovative initiatives.

Moderated by CSR Network Zambia, the workshop was officiated by a representative from the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, Mr. Victor Chiba who was accompanied by several ministry officials. Ms. Nachilala Nkombo, the Country Director of WWF Zambia, and her team also graced the occasion.

Mr. Victor Chiba – Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, deliverying the keynote speech.

The Ministry of Green Economy and Environment expressed happiness with the private sector’s keen interest in participating in the AFR100 project. Insights were shared on the Ministry’s efforts to identify degraded or deforested land in consultation with chiefs and collaborators like WWF Zambia.

WWF Zambia provided an update on the AFR100 project, focusing on the mapping exercise and the ROAM (Restoration Opportunities Assessment Methodology) approach. The next steps for the project were outlined, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required for successful implementation.

The workshop’s primary objective was to explore practical solutions for immediate adoption by those interested in engaging in Forest and Landscape Restoration (FLR) activities as part of the AFR100 initiative. Knowledge was shared, and various providers showcased available solutions:

  • Trees for Zambia: Growing a nursery of indigenous plants.
  • ZAFFICO: Outgrower scheme and distribution of seedlings (pine and eucalyptus).
  • Solidaridad: Distribution of plant seedlings.
  • ODI Cooperative: Active in apiculture, highlighting the importance of trees for honey production and as an alternative livelihood.
  • Lutewa Farms: Avocado nursery, marketing hass avocados as green gold.
  • Chilengedwe: Focus on environmental education and planned initiatives with a taxi-hailing company to extend environmental education.
  • Plant-A-Million Zambia: Distribution of a variety of seedlings in communities and schools, in partnership with organizations like ABSA, SES, among many.

It is the sincere desire of CSR Network Zambia that these engagements continue, moving towards the next step of implementation starting from January 2024.

We extend heartfelt gratitude to all the organizations that participated. Their presence added immense value to the discussions and we appreciate their commitment to continue exploring collaborative opportunities for the AFR100 initiative.

Contact Information:
For further information, please contact:

CSR Network Zambia
Plot No. 24 Lechwe Park
Joel Kapilikishya Road
Ibex Hill, Lusaka.
Tel: +260 977 843926
Email: info@csrzambia.org

JTI Leaf Zambia
Plot 16806 Trinity Office Park
Alick Nkhata Road
Massmedia Area, Lusaka.
Tel: 260 211 375004
Email: CorporateAffairsZambia@jti.com

Connecting Communities, Corporates and CSR: A Journey Towards Impact

For years, being part of the CSR Network Zambia has been more than just a professional role — it has become a personal commitment to driving change. At the heart of this journey lies the unwavering belief in the power of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to transform communities and drive impact. It has been a rewarding journey, steering this remarkable organization to promote CSR as a powerful tool for fostering positive change.The CSR network has been instrumental in recognising efforts by forward-thinking corporates and impact focused non-profits, igniting a flame of hope and transformation.

Since our inception, CSR Network Zambia has been on a steadfast mission to promote, advocate and facilitate CSR as a potent tool for positive change. Our endeavors have been marked by a series of impactful initiatives and events that have fostered community growth and sustainable development. It is not just about awards; it is about building a tapestry of connections and partnerships that weave together support, resources and opportunities for change.

We are thrilled to announce the upcoming release of the 3rd edition of the CSR Hub magazine. This collection is a treasure trove of inspiring stories, shedding light on the impact these partnerships and initiatives have had, providing a platform to showcase and learn from the remarkable CSR initiatives across Zambia.

As we gear up for the 5th CSR Awards to be held in Livingstone for the first time, our reflection on the journey so far speaks volumes. The Awards have become a celebration of the remarkable partnerships we have forged with local corporates, dedicated to supporting the social and economic growth of Zambia. These events serve as more than a mere recognition; they are a platform that highlights the collaborative efforts driving transformative change.

The partnerships developed since 2019 are testament to the shared commitment to fostering community well-being and environmental sustainability. They have enabled us to not only recognize achievements but also advocate for more effective and inclusive ways to promote CSR initiatives in Zambia. It is through these partnerships that we have witnessed firsthand the far-reaching impact of combined efforts in driving real change.

CSR Network Zambia is more than just an entity — it is a narrative of hope, progress and collective impact. With the 5th CSR Awards on the horizon, we anticipate yet another chapter of recognition, inspiration and the celebration of efforts to uplift communities.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates and inspiring stories that showcase the power of collaboration, as we move forward, weaving together a tapestry of change through Corporate Social Responsibility. Together, let us continue to harness the potential of CSR, advancing a brighter future for our communities and Zambia at large.

Zambia’s Independence Day: Celebrating the Unity of Sustainability and Social Impact

By Lee Muzala.

As we come together to celebrate Zambia’s Independence Day, we reflect on the journey that has brought us to this moment of freedom and unity. It is a time not only to honor our nation’s history but also to recognize the connections between sustainability, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices and this important day.

Zambia’s independence, gained on October 24, 1964, is a reminder that when a nation comes together with a shared vision, remarkable progress can be achieved. Just as our forefathers worked together to free our nation from colonial rule, the principles of sustainability, CSR and ESG similarly highlight the power of unity and collective action to drive social and environmental change.

Sustainability and CSR initiatives aim to bring various stakeholders together to work toward a common goal: the betterment of society. By engaging with communities, investing in social programs and practicing responsible environmental stewardship, businesses can play a pivotal role in addressing societal and environmental challenges. When organizations and communities join forces, they can drive meaningful change, just as our nation did to achieve its independence.

Zambia’s independence was not only about gaining political freedom but also about improving the lives of its citizens. In the same vein, CSR activities are centered on creating positive social impacts. Companies that embrace CSR make meaningful contributions to the communities where they operate. These contributions can include initiatives that promote education, healthcare, infrastructure development and social well-being. Just as Zambia’s independence sought to elevate the standard of living for its people, CSR efforts aim to enhance the quality of life for communities across the nation.

As Zambia values its natural resources and beautiful landscapes, our nation recognizes the importance of environmental sustainability. ESG principles emphasize environmental responsibility, social equity and sound governance within organizations. By embracing these principles, companies in Zambia can work towards a cleaner, healthier environment for all.

As we commemorate Zambia’s Independence Day, as CSR Network Zambia, we find common ground between the values of unity, social impact, environmental responsibility and sustainability. Just as the struggle for independence brought our nation together, CSR, ESG and sustainability initiatives can bring together businesses, communities and individuals to drive positive change.

In our journey towards a more sustainable and equitable future, let’s take inspiration from Zambia’s history, remembering that our collective efforts can create a nation and world where social and environmental well-being are at the forefront of our shared vision.

Happy Independence Day, Zambia!

CSRNZ Announces Call for Nominations

CSR Network Zambia is thrilled to announce the official call for nominations for the 5th CSR Awards scheduled for February 2024, in Livingstone, to celebrate and honor the most innovative and impactful CSR initiatives across the nation.

In the dynamic world of CSR and sustainability, it’s not just about doing good; it’s about doing great! CSR Network Zambia invites organizations of all sizes and sectors to seize a remarkable opportunity to stand out, inspire change and celebrate their outstanding contributions at the 5th CSR Awards.

Nominations are Open from October 16, 2023, to November 30, 2023

Why Should You Nominate Your Organization?

  1. Recognition of Excellence: The 5th CSR Awards are your chance to shine a spotlight on your organization’s exceptional CSR initiatives. Gain the recognition your team deserves for making a real difference in your community and the world.
  2. Inspire Positive Change: Your story can be a powerful catalyst for change. By sharing your CSR journey, you inspire others to follow your lead, fostering a culture of responsibility, sustainability, and ethical business practices.
  3. Networking and Collaboration: The 5th CSR Awards bring together a diverse community of CSR and sustainability enthusiasts, including industry leaders, experts, and innovators. It’s the perfect platform to connect, collaborate, and build partnerships that can amplify your impact.
  4. Showcase Your Innovation: Whether it’s innovative eco-friendly practices, community development projects or cutting-edge sustainability initiatives, the 5th CSR Awards offer a stage to showcase your organization’s innovative solutions.
  5. Strengthen Your Brand: Winning or even being nominated for a CSR Award can significantly enhance your brand’s reputation. It’s a testament to your commitment to making a positive difference, which resonates with customers, partners, and stakeholders.
  6. Align with Global Goals: In an era where sustainability and social responsibility are intertwined with global development goals, the 5th CSR Awards offer a unique platform to align your organization’s efforts with these crucial objectives.

How to Nominate:

Visit our website https://csrzambia.org to submit nominations online, access nomination guidelines and register to participate in the events lined-up from 15th to 17th February 2024.

For inquiries, please contact the Programmes Coordinator at awards@csrzambia.org or +260966379369.

It’s time to put your organization’s CSR achievements in the spotlight, inspire others, and be recognized for your commitment to creating positive change. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your impact and join a network of like-minded organizations making a difference. Let’s continue the journey of making a positive social and environmental impact through CSR, together!

Celebrating Women in CSR – Wezi Njovu

As part of International Women’s Month to celebrate the achievements of women, we continue our series to appreciate Women in CSR with another interview of Wezi Muyembe Njovu, the Head Marketing and Corporate Communications at UBA Zambia:

 

Briefly describe your role and responsibilities, and the number of years you have been CSR practitioner.

In my role as Head Marketing and Corporate Communications at UBA Zambia Limited, I am to ensure projection of the UBA brand as one of the top pan-African institution. My role also involves developing effective communication campaigns, managing stakeholder relations, media relations and network, brand visibility, impactful corporate events/ sponsorships and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

It feels like I have been in CSR since I was a toddler and this is because my mother has always believed in impacting the society through community goodwill.

Tell us about someone or something (mentor, friend, hero, incident) who or that affected or influenced your CSR journey, and how.

My mother, Mrs Tamara Chirembo Muyembe would be the first person who has influenced greatly on my CSR journey. My mother has always believed in changing lives of people in our communities especially women in the rural areas as well as disadvantaged women through different ways like teaching them skills such as knitting, sewing, cooking in order to help them generate income and being a teacher herself, she teaches these women how to read and write.

In my professional career, I would definitely owe my inspiration to the founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation and UBA Chairman, Mr Tony Elumelu who is a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist. Mr Elumelu also believes that we all can play a role in our communities in order to better the lives of our people in society.

 

How has CSR/CSI evolved at your organisation?

CSR has certainly evolved in UBA Zambia to a point that all staff members as well as the UBA Zambia board members have jumped on the bus with great interest and enthusiasm to make a difference in the community. Our main initiative which is the Read Africa Initiative under the UBA Foundation has had staff believe and participate more in the initiative. Read Africa is an initiative of UBA Foundation aimed at rekindling the dwindling reading culture amongst African youths. Our children no longer read; their passion for reading informative and educative books is fast eroding and this is part of the ills we want to correct in the continent’s educational sector.​

These children are also distracted and challenged by the presence of electronic social media — Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and others. There are other factors militating against the Zambian educational system as well as Africa as a whole. Having identified the need to curb the trend, especially in response to the declining culture of reading in post primary institutions across the continent, UBAF came up with the ‘Read Africa’ project, designed to resuscitate the reading culture amongst our youths across the African continent. Conceived and introduced in 2011 by the foundation, the project involves the provision of recommended English literature for junior and senior secondary schools students across Africa.

 

Can you share a recent accomplishment you are especially proud of?

This will definitely have to be the recognition/award presented to UBA Zambia by the CSR Network Zambia for outstanding achievements in corporate social responsibility and responsible leadership under Education support for the Read Africa Initiative.

Secondly, I would like to make mention that the Corona virus (COVID-19) pandemic has been a global health and societal emergency that has required effective immediate action by governments, businesses and the society at large.

To aid this collective effort and in line with our Corporate Social Responsibility, UBA Zambia partnered with the Government in dealing with this challenge with a donation of K2,650,000 to the Government Of The Republic Of Zambia for Covid-19 relief support.

UBA Zambia remains committed to working with the Government in other spheres of the economy. We have therefore, formed partnerships with different players in the ecosystem including Co-operatives and the Government; we are currently providing payment solutions to over 5,000 women beneficiaries under the Supporting Women Livelihood project by the Ministry of Community Development in partnership with World Bank.

The bank through the Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship programme has also been supporting young Zambian entrepreneurs by providing them with an opportunity to have access to funding for their start-up businesses. Since 2015, 142 Zambian entrepreneurs have each been given $5000 non-refundable seed capital for their businesses.

 

If you had the power to make one major change at your company or in your industry, what would it be, in line with CSR?

I wouldn’t really say I would like to change anything, instead I would say I would like to enhance and push our current initiatives with focus on the Read Africa initiative in order to have more Zambian schools and youths benefit from this. I would like to see more partnerships among businesses with the goal of improving the lives of our people in various ways possible.

 

What is the best advice you have ever received in your career?

Believe! Just Believe!

 

How can CSR activities be used to empower women?

As the saying goes, when you empower a woman, you empower a generation. CSR activities are like gifts that go exactly where they are needed. We need to continue protecting and empowering women by equipping them with skills and offering training, education, counseling, love, medical care and financial literacy. Women can rise from grass to grace, from zero to hero and from nothing to something.

 

Describe your perfect day.

My perfect day is when I know I have made a positive impact and a difference in another woman’s life, and this can be through a positive compliment, encouragement, offering a shoulder, offering guidance and just letting her know that we are on this journey together.

2021 World CSR Day

Zambia, on 18th Feb 2021 joined 130 other countries to commemorate the World CSR Day. The commemoration was celebrated via a virtual meeting, officiated by Director of Community Development, Mr. Cosmas Lukupulo, standing in on behalf of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services and moderated by Mulemwa Moongwa. Other panelists included Denise Clarke-Reeves, the Chief of Party USAID Let’s Read project, Brian Moonga the Country Director of World Bicycle Relief and Buffalo Bicycles Zambia, as well as Lee Muzala, the Executive Director of CSR Network Zambia.

The World CSR Day was launched on 18th February, 2012 in Mumbai at Taj Lands End by His Excellency Shri. Veerappa Moily, Honourable Minister of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, who inaugurated the program.

The Objectives of the World CSR Day are:

  • To provide a common platform to the corporate, government agencies, NGOs, civil society, academics and the other groups to share their expectations, aspirations and responsibilities.
  • To bring together representatives from various parts of the globe to share their experiences, challenges and opportunities.
  • To spread the message of CSR, that which makes a difference to the community at large.

Mrs. Clarke-Reeves opened the session with a presentation of the Let’s Read Project, highlighting their work with the Ministry of General Education (MOGE) aimed at improving reading outcomes for approximately 1.4 million children in pre-primary (kindergarten) through Grade 3 in public and community schools. The ultimate goal of the project is to ensure that students read with comprehension and fluency in one of Zambia’s seven official local languages of instruction. USAID Let’s Read is implemented in over half of all public primary and community schools in Zambia.

Learning to read in the early grades is the foundation for learning in all subjects. The MOGE recognizes that improving the overall quality of primary education requires improving basic reading skills in early grades. Over the past decade, reading assessments for early grades consistently show that over 70 percent of children are unable to read or write at the end of their second year of learning according to the 2014 Early Grade Reading Assessment.

Brian Moonga revealed that at the end of 2019, World Bicycle Relief (WBR) celebrated the 500,000th bicycle in the
field as part of the 1 million bicycles target. An outstanding achievement for the organization. He furthered shared on how beneficiaries are selected and how the communities benefit through transfer of skills in some individuals to offer maintenance services and repairs.

Director Lukupulo, in his keynote speech reminded the corporates on the important role they play in uplifting the lives of people in the communities they operate in. He explained that It is common practice nowadays to find commemorative or Important days that are observed in and around the world. Such days each year have a particular meaning or national or international significance. And World CSR Day is such a day, when we join other countries to remember, to celebrate and to appreciate efforts by companies in accounting for their actions and for making our communities a better place. It is also a day when we remind each other not to stop doing good, a day to encourage each other to continue being good corporate citizens.

Mr. Lukupulo stressed the fact that in the context of Community Development, we need to strive to improve access to education because through education, we will realise poverty reduction in the community, promote equality, peace and security, and ultimately reduce exploitation as education will help people to know more about their rights and responsibilities as well as the law in general.

Beene leaves home at 6.30am to ride to school on her new bike. Before she received her bike, Beene would have to begin walking the 8km to school at 4.30am in order to arrive before lessons started at 7.15am. She would arrive exhausted.

As part of CSR Network Zambia’s commitment to strengthening the CSR ecosystem in Zambia, the focus for 2021 is “Access to Education”. Education in every sense is one of the fundamental factors of development. No country can achieve sustainable economic development without substantial investment in human capital development at all levels. Education is indispensable to economic development and Zambia needs a balanced education system if Vision 2030 is to be realised.

Through the pledge to Leave No One Behind, Zambia, like other developing countries has committed to fast-track progress for those furthest behind first through the 2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Education has been described as one of the greatest equalizers of our time , however, for rural children, education may be an equalizer but distance is a barrier! How do we work towards ensuring poverty alleviation in order to achieve the Vision 2030 and ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all in line with Sustainable Development Goal number four with all its seven targets?

It against this background that CSR Network Zambia has partnered with World Bicycle Relief and Buffalo Bicycles Zambia, to increase awareness of the plight of Zambian learners in rural places across the country by providing bicycles to eliminate the challenges relating to accessing education. Having identified distance as the greatest barrier to education for those living in rural areas, giving the learner a bicycle could reduce commute time by up to 75% between home and school. In the short term, bicycles help children attend school regularly and arrive better rested. In the long term, bicycles help children complete their education, preparing them for better jobs and reducing the likelihood of extreme poverty. On average, each additional year of education a child receives increases her or his adult earnings by 10%. And for each additional year of schooling completed by young adults, the country’s poverty rate falls by 9%. Some of the highest returns of all are associated with educating girls. This being the case, education must be available to all people to enable them survive and develop to their maximum potential.

This is the basis of the project that was launched by CSR Network Zambia during the meeting – Ride-2-School Cycling Challenges. The Ride-2-School Challenge is a call to stakeholders to participate by sponsoring bicycles to be donated to learners in (five) locations across the country. CSR network Zambia, in partnership with Buffalo Bicycles Limited and World Bicycle Relief is organizing the “Ride-2-School” Bicycle Challenge in the following regions:

  1. Livingstone dubbed “The Mosi-o-Tunya Challenge” (3rd April 2021)
  2. Lusaka dubbed as “Ba Lusaka Challenge” (1st May 2021)
  3. Siavonga dubbed “The Kariba Challenge” (5th June 2021)
  4. Solwezi dubbed “The Mabanga Challenge” (Aug/Sept 2021)
  5. Chingola dubbed “The Kopala Challenge” (Nov/Dec 2021)

Participation the Cycling Challenges is open to all – individuals and organiations. Cycling is a sport with minimal participant contact and therefore will adhere to set health and safety guidelines for participants. Companies can participate by financing the bicycles. Participation in the Cycling Challenge is open to teams sponsored by corporates as well as individual cyclists.

For more details, contact the CSR Network Zambia Secretariat by sending an email to projects(a)csrzambia.org or calling +260 977 843926.

Zambia’s Largest Independent Power Producer Transforming Face Of Maamba

Contributing around 10% of the nation’s electricity generation capacity has a huge impact on the nation’s energy security and the economy in general, but for Maamba Collieries Limited (MCL), its endeavours do not stop there.

The sponsors and management of MCL understand that no business can be successful, unless the community around it shares in that success. Towards this vision, the company has set up the Maamba Development Trust (MDT), whose motto is, “Making a Difference…”

The objective is to spearhead social and economic development in Maamba, Sinazongwe District, and in other areas where Maamba Collieries operates. MCL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives are part of the company’s social investment policy, centered on community development and improving the living conditions of the people. The initiative is built on four pillars – education, health, infrastructure development and sports, apart from conserving the environment as well as assisting with other needs of the community.

On the education front, MCL runs the Maamba Private School with over 500 local students and a Nursery for around 160 toddlers, while also providing regular support to the GRZ-run school for differently abled children.

Towards improving health facilities, MCL partnering with the Ministry of Health, is setting up a state of the art eye care unit in Maamba General Hospital to provide eye care to the needy in the district and beyond.  MCL is also in the final stages of building a clinic near Lake Kariba which will provide access to medical facilities for around 10 remote villages and fishing camps.

The cornerstone of MCL’s CSR interventions has been laying new roads in the Maamba Township – roads which had not seen any work for over four decades – thereby providing dust free and safe roads to travel.

On the sports and fitness front, the company sponsors the First Division Maamba Energy Stars F.C., and provides access to the sporting facilities including golf, tennis, squash and badminton to the local community of Maamba Township.

Meanwhile, the Company has been contributing to the development of the youth and less privileged by running TEVETA approved welding & metal fabrication & power electric courses in its modern, well-equipped Training Centre. Towards sustaining the livelihood needs of the people, the Company runs tailoring and carpentry classes for local women and menfolk, skills which they can use for supplementing their meagre income.

“In order for us to mitigate the impact of mining and thermal power generation operations, environmental conservation remains a key focus area. We endeavor to plant over 30,000 trees every year and continuously undertake rehabilitation of waste dumps in order for us to preserve our environment,” said Head Corporate Affairs PJ Sudhir.

Meanwhile, MDT Manager, Mr. Jethro Sikalunda highlights that, “MCL also provides much needed access to water for the people of Sinazongwe, by pumping water through a 28-km pipeline from Lake Kariba to SWASCO – to meet the community needs for potable water”.

He added that, “The company also provides support to the three chiefs in its area of operations”.

With the support of all stakeholders, MCL has been transforming the face of Maamba, bringing much-needed social and economic empowerment, and essentially, MAKING A DIFFERENCE by improving the lives of the community in Maamba and the district of Sinazongwe.

By Chris Phiri
Zambia Reports, 14 Feb 2020.

Inaugural CSR Awards

The Corporate Social Responsibility Network Zambia (CSRNZ) organised and hosted the national Responsible Businesses and CSR Awards, to recognise and honor Zambian companies implementing CSR in Zambia. Running under the theme – Shaping Responsible Businesses Towards the Attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, (Vision 2030). The awards Gala dinner was held at the Golden Peacock Hotel, along Kasangula Road, in Roma Township, on 29th November 2019.

The Guest of Honor at the awards was the Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Hon. Christopher Yaluma, represented by Director of Cooperatives, Mr. Shadreck Mungalaba.

The following companies were honored:

  1. Airtel Zambia
  2. Kashikoto Conservancy Ltd
  3. Natural Valley Ltd
  4. Konkola Copper Mines (KCM)
  5. Lubambe Copper Mines
  6. First Quantum Minerals Ltd (FQML)
  7. Barrick Lumwana
  8. HLB Zambia
  9. FINCA
  10. Stanbic Zambia
  11. Ecobank
  12. Access Bank
  13. DHL Zambia
  14. Zambia Airports Corporation Ltd
  15. Zambia Railways
  16. IHS Towers
  17. Betway
  18. NECOR
  19. Cashbuild
  20. Maamba Collieries
  21. Zambia Sugar
  22. Sun FM
  23. Pick N Pay
  24. Action Aid
  25. G4S
  26. Madison Financial Services
  27. Trade Kings
  28. Tongabezi
  29. Dangote Cement
  30. Royal Air Charters
  31. Vision Care

These Annual CSR Awards are intended to be Zambia’s prestigious CSR and Sustainability accolades, recognising the contributions being made by individuals, the Private and Public sectors towards community development. Winners are mobilized from the diverse sectors and industries which have created positive impact towards Zambia’s sustainable development and the promotion of Sustainable Development Goals.

Zambia Partners with Huawei in ICT Development

Huawei and Zambia have continued to enhance cooperation in the Information Communication Technology (ICT) sector aimed at promoting ICT access across the country in line with the China-Africa Cooperation Beijing Action Plan 2019-2021.

Zambia’s Consular General in Guangzhou, China Daniel Chisenga noted that the Zambian government realises that ICT has the potential to contribute to the overall economic growth of the country as it is an enabler of the growth of several other sectors of the economy such as agriculture, agro processing, education, manufacturing, health, tourism among others.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2019 Seeds for the Future Program, Chisenga said the Zambian government has identified Information and Communication Technology as a catalyst for socio-economic development by promoting competitiveness as well as being an enabler of good governance.

The Seeds for the Future program is a major CSR Huawei initiative designed to help ICT professionals fill the gap between theory and practice and master the required skills.

He noted that it is so gratifying that Zambia is part of the program and disclosed that so far, 40 Zambian students have benefited in just fou4 years and congratulated them for being among the most outstanding university students in the world.

“The Huawei Seeds for the Future program has created a platform for Zambian students to learn from the best in the ICT sector.  The program gives hope for the future development of the ICT sector in Zambia and the win-win cooperation between the two countries,” said Mr. Chisenga observed.

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