Empowering Binga’s Youth: Vocational Training Ignites Self-Reliance and Economic Transformation
For too long, the women of Binga’s Saba area lived lives defined by waiting. They waited for husbands to return from distant fishing trips or sporadic piece jobs, waited for remittances that were often insufficient to cover basic necessities, and most importantly, waited for an opportunity to break free from the cycle of dependency. This period of stagnation has now given way to a new era of empowerment, thanks to a transformative vocational training programme.
Implemented under the Climate Adaptation, Water and Energy Programme (CAWEP), a joint initiative spearheaded by the government and supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the programme has equipped 207 young individuals in the Saba area with practical, in-demand skills. These skills span cutting and design (sewing), welding, building, cosmetology, and solar installation, and are already translating into tangible income, renewed dignity, and a profound sense of self-reliance.
From Dependence to Independence: Stories of Personal Triumph
The impact of the CAWEP programme is vividly illustrated by the personal journeys of its beneficiaries. Many women, previously confined to domestic roles with no independent source of income, now find themselves able to contribute significantly to their households.
Elie Mudhimba, 32, describes the training as a monumental turning point. “Before this training, I used to stay at home doing nothing, and when this programme came, I was empowered,” she shared. Trained in cutting and design, as well as building, Mudhimba can now create clothing for her family and generate income through sales. “I am now able to take care of my family and my parents,” she affirmed. Beyond her personal advancement, Mudhimba is actively extending the programme’s benefits. “I would like to thank the Government through UNDP’s CAWEP, as it has empowered us as youth in Binga,” she stated. “Now I am training other youths who did not qualify and other adults on how to sew clothes and earn money to take care of their families.” Her commitment to sharing her newfound expertise is already making waves in the community.
Fatima Sibanda, 33, another of Mudhimba’s trainees, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity and is equally dedicated to passing on her skills to other women.
Elizabeth Muleya highlighted how the training will enable her to better provide for her family and reduce their reliance on external support.
Prisca Munsaka, 29, a beneficiary in cosmetology, saw the programme not just as skill acquisition but as a catalyst for expanding her existing business into a more sustainable livelihood. “I used to do braiding and weaving before I was taught cosmetology,” she explained. “Now I can do make-ups, manicure, and pedicure, which has enhanced my business.” The inclusion of business management training was equally crucial. “I was also taught business management skills, so now I can properly manage my business and I hope to expand it and earn more money so that I can take care of my family,” Munsaka added. “This training in cosmetology has enhanced my skills in the beauty industry, and I hope to spread it in Binga.”
Technical Skills Fueling Economic Growth
The programme’s impact extends beyond the beauty and textile sectors, significantly boosting the prospects of those in technical trades. Young men who were previously engaged in survival-level work are now skilled producers capable of undertaking more lucrative projects.
- Khumbulani Muleya, a welder, explained how the training fundamentally altered his professional trajectory. “Before the training, I used to join and seal people’s broken products and get US$10-$15, but now I can make my own products like door and window frames, push and scotch carts which cost US$600, and steel boats which cost US$500, among others,” he detailed. “I was an amateur, but now I see myself as a pro in the game. This training has empowered not only me but other youths in Binga, and now we can make our own money through our newly acquired skills.” Muleya is also actively training young boys in welding and harbours ambitions of expanding his business to other communities. “I would like to thank the Government for this project, as it has empowered youths in this community,” he concluded.
Entrepreneurship and Financial Empowerment
The CAWEP programme also prioritizes the development of entrepreneurial capabilities, offering vital access to loans and financial management training.
Joyce Mwembe, 44, shared how financial and business management support enabled her to transform her modest trading activities into a fully established shop. “I started buying things for sale, going from one place to another, before I built my shop in 2023,” she said. “I was given a loan of US$2,000, which I used to boost my business. I was also trained in business management, and I managed to develop and expand my business. Now I am a proud owner of a shop. I would like to thank UNDP for this project, as it has greatly improved my life as a shop owner.”
Steven Muleya, 32, who received training in solar panel installation, highlighted the diversification of his skill set, although he noted that access to equipment remains a challenge. “I used to do cell phone repairs before I was trained on solar panel installation,” he stated. “The challenge I am facing is that, as much as I was taught to install solar systems, I do not have the equipment to do the job. I was also trained in business management skills, and I hope they will help in enhancing my business.”
Community Leadership Endorses Positive Change
Traditional leaders have recognized and lauded the profound positive impact of the CAWEP programme on the community, particularly among its youth.
- Chief Saba (Charles Mudenda) observed that the skills training has contributed to keeping young people engaged in productive activities, steering them away from potential substance abuse. “They have gained skills which will enable them to work for themselves and make a living out of it,” he remarked. Chief Mudenda urged beneficiaries to embrace the spirit of knowledge sharing. “I urge them to continue cascading their skills to other youths so that they empower each other,” he advised. “I am happy with the skills training project and hope the youth will take it seriously, as it can transform my community.”
The CAWEP programme stands as a testament to the power of targeted vocational training in fostering economic independence, enhancing individual dignity, and driving sustainable community development.
