Barrick Lumwana Mining Company and Zambeef Products PLC have donated 800 pairs of school shoes to Early Childhood Education (ECE) learners at Masulwila and Shinda Primary Schools in Kalumbila District under the “Walk a Mile in My Shoes” initiative. The initiative, implemented…

 Barrick Lumwana Mining Company and Zambeef Products PLC have donated 800 pairs of school shoes to Early Childhood Education (ECE) learners at Masulwila and Shinda Primary Schools in Kalumbila District under the “Walk a Mile in My Shoes” initiative.

The initiative, implemented in partnership with the Government through the Ministry of Education, seeks to promote school attendance, restore dignity and improve learning conditions for vulnerable children as part of efforts to support the Grow Zambia Agenda.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, District Education Board Secretary, Thompson Lungu, said the donation will boost learners’ confidence and encourage them to attend school regularly.

Mr Lungu said many children from vulnerable households walk long distances to school barefoot, exposing them to harsh weather conditions and potential health risks.

He commended the two corporate entities for complementing the Government’s Free Education Policy, which seeks to ensure that no child is left behind regardless of their social or economic status.

Mr Lungu said education remains a key equaliser and that investing in learners is an investment in Zambia’s future human resource.

He disclosed that the district’s school-going population has increased to 72,000 over the past five years, placing additional demands on education infrastructure and support services.

Mr Lungu also urged teachers to ensure that the donated shoes are properly cared for, while encouraging learners to wear them with pride, attend school consistently and work hard to achieve their aspirations.

Meanwhile, Barrick Lumwana Country Manager, Anthony Malenga, said education remains a key pillar of national development and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting communities in its area of operation.

Mr Malenga said the “Walk a Mile in My Shoes” initiative is part of Barrick’s efforts to improve the welfare of vulnerable children and complement Government’s education programmes.

He said the company will continue partnering with Zambeef and other stakeholders to support education in Kalumbila and beyond.

And Zambeef Chief Executive Officer, Faith Mukutu, said the initiative is aimed at removing barriers to education, while promoting the dignity and safety of learners.

Ms Mukutu said children who walk long distances barefoot face potential injuries and exposure to contaminated environments, particularly during the rainy season.

She said the partnership with Barrick Lumwana demonstrated the importance of collaboration between the private sector and other stakeholders in delivering sustainable community benefits.

Ms Mukutu encouraged learners to remain focused on their education, saying some of them can become doctors, nurses and future leaders of the country.

Speaking on behalf of the learners, Masulwila Primary School Grade Seven pupil, Anna Kangwanda, thanked Barrick Lumwana and Zambeef for the donation, describing it as timely as the rainy season approaches.

Ms Kangwanda also appealed for additional school infrastructure, including classroom blocks, teachers’ houses and waterborne toilets.

Shinda Primary School pupil, Abigail Sanakumba, also thanked the two companies and urged fellow learners to take good care of the shoes to ensure they last longer.