Lusaka: The government has spent over K14 million on start-up tools, which were handed over to 520 former str£et children who recently graduated from different Zambia National Service (ZNS) skills after being rehabilitated and trained.
The tools presented to the former stre£t children include sewing machines, food production equipment, shoe-making machines, and metal fabrication equipment, among others.
Lusaka Province Minister Sheal Mulyata, who handed over the tools and equipment, said the government remains keen on safeguarding the welfare of every youth, especially the vulnerable, including those on the streets, and helping them lead normal lives.
Mulyata said the government, through her ministry, is working with relevant stakeholders to address the problems of street children in the country.
Mulyata further urged the beneficiaries to ensure that they put the donated tools to good use, adding that the government will have routine monitoring of the utilisation of the tools.
The Minister also congratulated the graduates who gathered to receive tools in different disciplines.
She challenged them to partner with the government, traditional leaders, civic leaders, relevant stakeholders, and the social community in order to enhance their skills.
Speaking at the same event, Fidelis Mboma, the Child Development Officer, commended the government for providing the graduates with the right tools for their work.
Mboma believes that the gesture will motivate the youths and stimulate their ability to have a positive influence on society.
And Hatembo Sinyenda, a beneficiary of the tools, thanked the government for the provision of the necessary resources. Hatembo assured the government of the prudent utilisation of the donated items.
The handing over of tools and equipment is part of the Provincial administration’s partnership with the Ministry of Defense and community development and social services in a training and empowerment programme aimed at providing skills to vulnerable children and youths, especially those found on the streets.