By TROY MUKUPA
KATOMBORA, KAZUNGULA, ZAMBIA – The Lions Clubs International, District 413-Zambia, has donated essential items worth K25,000 to the Katombora Reformatory School, bringing hope to 174 juvenile inmates.
The donation, made on Saturday, includes clothing, footwear, foodstuff, and fruit trees, and is aimed at supporting the rehabilitation of the young offenders.
Speaking on behalf of the juveniles, a representative expressed gratitude for the donation, saying, “We promise to make the most of this opportunity.”
District 413-Zambia Governor, Maureen Bwalya, said the donation was part of the Lions’ efforts to support humanitarian aid, hunger, environment, and youth development, with a focus on mental health.
“We appeal that the Zambia Correctional Service underscores the challenge of mental health,” Governor Bwalya said, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health issues.
Katombora Centre representative, Superintendent Nyambe Nyambe, welcomed the donation, saying it was a milestone in the center’s efforts to rehabilitate the juveniles. He appealed for more support in providing starter packs for the youth when they leave the center.
The juveniles are being trained in various skills, including agriculture, bricklaying, carpentry, and tailoring, among others. The center has produced a University of Zambia graduate with a Bachelor of Laws degree, and many more are expected to follow.
The event was marked with a traditional dance performance by the juveniles, followed by a meal and the planting of over 20 fruit trees in the center’s orchard.
