ILO, EU Team Up to Enhance Zambia Safari Guide Skills

The International Labour Organization (ILO), through the European Union-funded Skills Development for Increased Employability Programme (SDEP), has handed over a Land Cruiser vehicle valued at USD 46,000 to the African College for Community-Based Natural Resource Management - Nyamaluma.

This strategic investment marks a significant step toward strengthening Zambia's tourism sector and creating sustainable employment opportunities for young people.

Nyamaluma College is located in Mambwe District, Eastern Province, near the Lower Lupande Game Management Area and close to South Luangwa National Park, one of Africa's premier safari destinations. This proximity makes Nyamaluma a critical institution for training professional safari guides who support Zambia's thriving tourism industry.

The handover ceremony, attended by government officials, development partners, and stakeholders, underscored the importance of equipping training institutions with modern tools to deliver industry-relevant skills.

Speaking at the event, ILO Country Director for Zambia and Malawi, Mr. Wellington Chibebe, emphasized the transformative nature of the donation: "This vehicle is more than transport-it is a tool for transformation. By equipping young people with practical skills, we are building a skilled workforce that drives economic growth and creates opportunities for all."

He explained that the customised Land Cruiser will enable Nyamaluma College to deliver hands-on training for safari guides, a critical skill set for Zambia's growing tourism industry.

"Through SDEP, the ILO aims to strengthen Zambia's Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training (TEVET) system so that young women and men acquire industry-relevant skills and improve their employability in a diversifying economy," Mr. Chibebe added.

Mr. Chibebe reiterated that this initiative aligns with the ILO's global mandate: "Our mission is to promote decent work for all through social justice, employment creation, and skills development. By investing in modern training tools, we are equipping Zambian youth with the competencies needed to access quality jobs and contribute to sustainable economic growth."

He further called on partners and the college to ensure the vehicle serves its intended purpose: "I urge our partners and Nyamaluma to put this vehicle to good use-to empower learners and open doors to decent work and sustainable livelihoods."

Representing the Ministry of Technology and Science, Ms. Khadija Sakala, Assistant Director for Vocational and Education Training, expressed gratitude to ILO and the EU: "This strategic investment will expand the college's reach and deliver practical lessons in Safari guide training-boosting skills and jobs in tourism."

Meanwhile, Mr. Francis Samalumo, Senior Wildlife Warden for the Eastern Region, Department of National Parks and Wildlife, highlighted the broader impact: "The Land Cruiser reflects a commitment to strengthening human capital, empowering communities, and raising professional standards in guiding. Nyamaluma is one of only two training institutions operated by our department."

Speaking on behalf of local communities, Chief Malama of Mambwe District welcomed the donation and underscored the importance of partnerships that translate training into livelihoods.

He noted that enhanced field training and mobility for Nyamaluma will help produce professional safari guides who protect wildlife, respect cultural heritage, and support household incomes through tourism.

The traditional leader called for continued investments in infrastructure, trainer development, and community outreach to ensure youth and women benefit equitably from new opportunities.

Chief Malama also stressed that staff, including the principal, should remain present at the college to ensure the premises and facilities are properly maintained.

"This Land Cruiser is more than a vehicle-it brings training closer to our communities. It will help Nyamaluma produce professional guides who protect our wildlife, uphold our culture, and earn honest livelihoods through tourism. We welcome this partnership and urge continued investment in skills and opportunities for our youth", he said.

Nyamaluma College Principal, Mr. Clement Sililo, welcomed the donation and stressed its practical benefits: "This Land Cruiser will enable our instructors and students to access real-world environments for practical lessons in safari guiding. It strengthens our ability to produce graduates who meet industry standards and contribute to Zambia's tourism growth. We are committed to using this resource effectively to empower learners and communities."

The handover aligns with the objectives of the Skills Development for Increased Employability Programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by the ILO in partnership with the Government of Zambia and Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training Authority (TEVETA). Its goal is to strengthen Zambia's TEVET system, ensuring young women and men acquire industry-relevant skills for better employability.