The Extractive Industry Transparency Alliance (EITA) recently held its monthly stakeholder dialogue forum in Solwezi District, North-western Province, with a focus on education. The dialogue forum, attended by over 230 participants, included authorities from the Ministry of Education, Solwezi Municipal Council, Social Welfare, Kansanshi Mining PLC, and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).
The objective of the forum was to foster a conducive environment for stakeholders to share achievements and challenges and to collectively seek solutions. Solwezi Mayor Lemmy Kalepa emphasised the importance of community engagement and urged citizens to stay informed about developmental initiatives within the district, advocating for a sense of ownership among residents.
Solwezi District Education Board Secretary Jonathan Kayuka delivered a comprehensive presentation detailing successes, plans, and existing challenges within the education sector. His insights provided attendees with a deeper understanding of the multifaceted issues facing education in the district.
Kansanshi Mining PLC (KMP) Head of Education, Dr Sylvia Mwanza-Kabaghe, outlined the company’s significant contributions to the education sector. Dr Mwanza-Kabaghe expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in fruitful discussions with fellow stakeholders, emphasising the importance of collaborative efforts in driving meaningful change.
The event also saw the participation of various community-based organisations, including the Provincial Administration Planning Unit, the Pastors Fellowship, the Council of Elders, Ward Development Committees, Civil Society Organisations, and local community members.