By Samuel Mbewe
In the heart of Lusaka’s Kalingalinga Compound, 22-year-old Jenipher Mwewa is defying gender norms and setting a bold example for young women across Zambia.
Against all odds, she is training to become a professional
bricklayer a trade traditionally seen as a man’s domain.
Jenipher completed her Grade 12 three years ago, with dreams
of pursuing tertiary education. However, financial difficulties stood in her way.
“My parents passed away, and I have been living with my
aunt,” she explains. “Unfortunately, she couldn’t manage to support me further
in school.”
Despite the hardships, Jenipher held onto her aspirations.
She recognized a growing demand in the construction industry and saw an
opportunity.
“I wanted to be a bricklayer because I saw the potential to
earn money,” she says. “People also seem to trust women more than men
sometimes, especially when it comes to quality and reliability.”
Her breakthrough came through the Constituency Development
Fund (CDF), which provided her with a skills development bursary. This allowed
her to enroll at the Kalingalinga Resource Training Centre, where she is now
actively pursuing her dream.
Jenipher urges other young women not to limit themselves or
shy away from fields perceived as male-dominated.
“Don’t look down on yourself. If men can do it, so can we,”
she encourages. “There are no jobs meant only for men.”
She also expressed deep gratitude to the government for
introducing the CDF Skills Development Bursaries, which are opening doors for
many vulnerable youths who cannot afford tertiary education.
According to Michael Nkosi, Executive Director of the Future
Youth Foundation, such bursaries are changing lives — but more still needs to
be done.
“Skills development is one of the most effective ways to
empower youth,” he said. “But many newly established training centers lack
essential tools and equipment, which limits the quality of training.”
Nkosi emphasized that well-equipped institutions are crucial in ensuring graduates are competent and competitive in the job market.
He also
highlighted the importance of supporting vulnerable girls, who are often more
at risk due to poverty and social inequalities.
“Providing young women with technical skills not only gives
them economic freedom, but also protects them from being taken advantage of,”
he said.
Jenipher’s story is mirrored by Anita Kaunda, a young woman
who recently graduated as a Heavy Equipment Operator from the Kitwe Vocational
Training Centre. She was among 33 students who completed the rigorous program.
Anita is proud to have succeeded in a male-dominated field
and hopes to inspire other girls to follow suit.
“Being female doesn’t mean you’re less capable,” she said. “We
can shine even in jobs where we’re outnumbered.”
Meanwhile, Changano Ngoi, Director of Community Development
at the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, has encouraged
more youth to take advantage of CDF bursaries.
“These bursaries are a lifeline,” Ngoi said. “Government is
committed to producing competent workers who will serve the nation whether as
social workers, builders, or machine operators.”
He urged young people to explore various skill paths,
regardless of gender, and assured them that government remains steadfast in
creating opportunities for all.
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