The International Labour Organization (ILO), under the European Union-funded Skills Development for Increased Employability Programme (SDEP), has donated a Toyota Land Cruiser worth USD 46,000 to the African College for Community-Based Natural Resource Management, Nyamaluma. The investment aims to strengthen safari guide training and boost youth employment opportunities in Zambia’s growing tourism sector.
Located in Mambwe District in Eastern Province, near the Lower Lupande Game Management Area and close to South Luangwa National Park — one of Africa’s leading wildlife destinations — Nyamaluma College plays a key role in training professional safari guides who support the country’s thriving tourism industry. The newly donated vehicle will be used for field-based, practical training to equip students with hands-on experience in wildlife tracking, navigation and tourism operations.
The handover event was attended by government representatives, development partners and local leaders, highlighting the importance of strengthening training institutions with modern resources. Speaking at the ceremony, ILO Country Director for Zambia and Malawi, Mr. Wellington Chibebe, described the vehicle as a transformative tool that will expand access to practical, industry-relevant skills. He emphasized that strengthening the Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training (TEVET) system is essential for equipping young people with market-ready skills and supporting decent work and economic growth.
Representing the Ministry of Technology and Science, Ms. Khadija Sakala commended the ILO and EU for the investment, noting its expected impact on skills development and job creation in tourism. Senior Wildlife Warden for the Eastern Region, Mr. Francis Samalumo, highlighted that the donation demonstrates a strong commitment to human capital development and professional standards within the guiding industry.
Local traditional leader, Chief Malama, welcomed the partnership and underscored the importance of practical training that leads to sustainable livelihoods. He urged continued investment in infrastructure and training resources to ensure young people, especially women, benefit from new employment opportunities.
Nyamaluma Principal, Mr. Clement Sililo, affirmed the college’s commitment to putting the Land Cruiser to effective use, ensuring instructors and students gain real-world field exposure necessary to meet industry requirements and support Zambia’s tourism development.
The initiative aligns with the objectives of the EU-funded SDEP programme, implemented by the ILO in collaboration with the Government of Zambia and the Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training Authority (TEVETA). Its overarching goal is to enhance employability for young women and men by strengthening Zambia’s skills training ecosystem and promoting decent work and sustainable livelihoods.
