By ALICE NACHILEMBE
Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Africa Leather and Leather Institute (ALLPI) worth $120,000 to support the Chingola Leather Cluster (CLC).
The partnership aims to provide training and equipment to the CLC, enabling youth to produce high-quality leather products for the mining industry and other sectors in Zambia and the Southern African region.
At the cheque presentation in Chingola, KCM Manager Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Brian Siatubi expressed delight at the initiative. “This project will equip youths with valuable skills, benefiting them individually and collectively. Our partnership with ALLPI, a continental-level institution, ensures market linkage for CLC products.”
ALLPI Executive Director Nicholas Mudungwe emphasized that his organization supports the leather sector in Zambia and other African countries through training programs in footwear, technology, and capacity building for small and medium-sized enterprises. “Our mission is to facilitate value addition, sustainability, and competitiveness in the leather sector through knowledge sharing and innovation. KCM’s support will help achieve our goals in Chingola and beyond, producing export-quality products.”
Chingola Leather Cluster Chairperson Alex Mukupa thanked KCM, stating that the timely funding would enhance life skills among young people, contributing to the local economy’s growth.
The CLC will establish a fully operational workshop, providing training and production facilities for leather products. This initiative is expected to contribute significantly to the growth of the local economy.
The partnership between KCM, ALLPI, and CLC demonstrates a commitment to empowering youth and promoting sustainable development in Zambia.
