NAMPUNDWE, 29 July 2016, Konkola Copper Mines Plc (KCM) has given 40 cows to women’s groups in Nampundwe in a step aimed at helping the country to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which focus on enhancing social economic development and reducing poverty.

The offer of the animals brings to 680 the number of cattle given to communities in three of KCM’s areas of operation since the launch of the Sustainable Livelihood Enhancement Project in collaboration with the NGO, Village Water Zambia. KCM has set aside United States $2.5 million for the five-year project which started in 2012. The company has also placed over 2,000 goats in communities.

The project aims to increase livestock and agricultural productivity to enhance wealth creation through promotion of alternative and sustainable livelihoods for mainly rural communities in Nampundwe, Chingola and Chililabombwe.

Commenting on the award of the 40 animals to 20 women in Nampundwe, KCM General Manager Energy & Power Howard Chilundika says: “the impact being made at community level demonstrates the effectiveness of the value–based development model being promoted by KCM in achieving holistic and sustainable community development.”

“KCM has a 50-year vision to continue mining in Zambia. This commitment also covers the uplifting of the lives of the people in communities that support us in our undertakings. KCM is committed to continue to finance projects like this one,” says Mr Chilundika, who is also in charge of the company’s CSR unit.

The project is focused on empowering 70% female-headed households. Village Water Zambia provides two representatives from each of the 20 farmer groups participating in the project with basic veterinary training as community health workers for project sustainability.

Elisha Ng’onomo, the Director of Village Water Zambia commented, “we as an organisation are thrilled with the accomplishments of this Project. So far the project has already directly supported 260 households with draft cattle heifers and dairy heifers. This project is focusing on improving and promoting alternative livelihoods in the mining communities.”

“The greatest gift that KCM is bringing to this area is therefore a reminder to all of us in our own personal social conscience that blessed as we are, we owe something back,” Mr Ng’onomo said.