By IREEN MULENGA
Solwezi Municipal Council has coordinated training of community members in various skills for both men and women in the district with a view of fostering self-reliance through creation of self-employment.
Solwezi Municipal Council Director of Housing and Social Services Evelyn Phiri said that the Local Authority has commenced a two weeks Skills training program of Bukwasho Community Club members comprising 9 women and a man from Tumvwanganai ward in Hand Knitting, Sewing and Doormat Making.
Ms Phiri said another group comprising 10 women from Lusekelo Women Club in Kimasala Ward is being trained for a month in knitting using a Knitting Machine donated by a UK based Christian Organization known as Tools with a Mission (TWAM).
She said the organization aims at providing various equipment and material that will aid the vulnerable in various parts of the world improve their livelihood.
Ms Phiri has encouraged women to fully apply themselves during the trainings as the skills that will be acquired will improve their living standards and enable them start their own businesses; eventually becoming self-reliant.
She said the entrepreneurial expertise is cardinal especially amidst the pandemic where employment opportunities have reduced.
“Am confident that the knowledge that will be acquired will result in having quality entrepreneurs who be relevant to the current and emerging employment needs in Solwezi and the nation at large, “she said.
Ms Phiri has reaffirmed Council’s commitment in training community members in Solwezi regardless of their gender in various skills intended to ensure that they are self-reliant and able to improve their living standards.
She said the Local Authority is working together with various partners such as Tools with A Mission (TWAM) who has been supporting Cooperatives and Community Clubs in Solwezi district.
