ILO Donates Land Cruiser to Boost Safari Guide Training and Jobs in Zambia

Chibebe urged partners to ensure the vehicle’s purposeful use: “Let this Land Cruiser help open doors to decent work and sustainable livelihoods.”

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 College. The donation represents a targeted investment in Zambia’s tourism sector, aimed at improving practical training, boosting youth employability, and supporting sustainable economic growth.

Situated in Mambwe District in Eastern Province—near the Lower Lupande Game Management Area and adjacent to the world-renowned South Luangwa National Park—Nyamaluma College is one of Zambia’s key training institutions for professional safari guides. Its proximity to major wildlife destinations makes real-world training essential, placing the new Land Cruiser at the heart of efforts to raise guiding standards.

A Tool for Transformation in Tourism Training

At the handover ceremony, attended by government officials, development partners, wildlife authorities, and community leaders, ILO Country Director for Zambia and Malawi, Mr. Wellington Chibebe, stressed the significance of the donation.

“This vehicle is more than transport—it is a tool for transformation,” he said. “By equipping young people with practical skills, we are building a skilled workforce that drives economic growth and creates opportunities for all.”

Chibebe highlighted that the customised Land Cruiser will support hands-on field training for Safari Guide Certificate students—an essential component of Zambia’s thriving tourism sector. He added that SDEP aims to strengthen the Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training (TEVET) system so that young people gain industry-ready skills in a diversifying economy.

Aligning With the ILO’s Global Mandate

The initiative supports the ILO’s broader mission of promoting decent work, social justice, and equitable livelihood opportunities. By providing modern training equipment, the programme helps ensure that learners—particularly youth and women—acquire competencies needed to access quality jobs in tourism and wildlife conservation.

Chibebe urged partners to ensure the vehicle’s purposeful use: “Let this Land Cruiser help open doors to decent work and sustainable livelihoods.”

Government and Wildlife Authorities Welcome the Investment

Representing the Ministry of Technology and Science, Ms. Khadija Sakala, Assistant Director for Vocational and Education Training, praised the donation for expanding the college’s capacity.

“This strategic investment will deliver practical lessons in safari guide training—boosting skills and jobs in tourism,” she said.

Senior Wildlife Warden Mr. Francis Samalumo highlighted the broader benefits for wildlife conservation: “The Land Cruiser reflects a commitment to strengthening human capital, empowering communities, and raising professional standards in guiding.”

Nyamaluma is one of only two wildlife training institutions operated by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, making the vehicle an essential asset for field-based instruction.

Community Leaders Emphasise Local Impact

Speaking on behalf of local communities, Chief Malama welcomed the donation and emphasised the link between skills training and livelihoods. He stressed that improved mobility will help the college produce professional guides who protect wildlife, maintain cultural heritage, and uplift household incomes.

“This Land Cruiser is more than a vehicle—it brings training closer to our communities,” he said, calling for sustained investment in infrastructure, trainer development, and equitable access for youth and women.

Strengthening Training Capacity at Nyamaluma College

College Principal Mr. Clement Sililo highlighted that the Land Cruiser will significantly enhance field-based education.

“This vehicle strengthens our ability to produce graduates who meet industry standards and contribute to Zambia’s tourism growth,” he said. “We are committed to using this resource effectively to empower learners and communities.”

Supporting Zambia’s Long-Term Skills Development Goals

The donation is part of the EU-funded SDEP initiative, implemented by the ILO in partnership with the Government of Zambia and the Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training Authority (TEVETA). The programme aims to enhance Zambia’s TEVET system, ensuring that young women and men gain skills aligned with labour market needs, particularly in high-potential growth sectors like tourism.

With the support of SDEP, Nyamaluma College is better equipped to deliver practical, industry-relevant training that can open pathways to employment, entrepreneurship, and community development.