Govt hands over start-up tools worth K14 million to 520 youths across Zambia

Government has handed over start-up tools worth K14 million to 520 youths countrywide who graduated from the Zambia National Service (ZNS) Skills Training in 2022.

The tools included industrial sewing machines, food production equipment, shoe-making machines and metal fabrication equipment among others.

They were handed over through the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services on Saturday.

This was part of the Ministry’s partnership with the Ministry of Defence in a training and empowerment programme aimed at providing skills to vulnerable children and youths especially those found on the streets.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Community Development and Social Services Minister, Doreen Mwamba, reaffirmed government’s commitment to removing children from the streets and helping them lead normal lives.

Mwamba stated that government through her ministry was working with relevant stakeholders to address the problem of street children in the country.

“The increasing number of children living on the streets is a time bomb. This situation, if left unchecked will result in the number of hardcore criminals increasing the potential to threaten the peace of the country,” she said.

Mwamba further urged the beneficiaries to ensure that they put the tools to good use.

At the same event, Lusaka Province Minister, Sheal Mulyata, applauded the Ministry for empowering the youths as the skills and tools given to them would go a long way in bettering their lives.

“The lives of these young people will never be the same again. It is pleasing to note that my Province contributed the biggest number of trainees that is 317,” Mulyata said.

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