Empowering Communities

...  Lusaka Residents Earn Certificates in Emergency Preparedness

By Francis Maingaila 

Lusaka, Zambia24 –  (22-10-2024) - Hundreds of Lusaka residents received certificates of attendance today after participating in a free training program aimed at equipping them with First Aid, Mental Health Management, and Emergency Evacuation techniques.

The training, held in Lusaka, was organized by the Africa Safety Awards for Excellence (AfriSAFE) in collaboration with SMTS and approved by the New Dawn administration. It was launched to address the growing need for emergency response skills among Zambians. 

Professionals across various fields, including teachers, gatekeepers, and other critical service workers, participated in the event, which was sponsored by Zambia Sugar.

AfriSAFE CEO Femi Da Silva said that the lack of timely first aid intervention and proper emergency response remains a leading cause of preventable deaths in the country.

"Many lives could be saved if people are equipped with the right skills. This initiative is aimed at bridging that gap by providing essential knowledge in emergency response," Da Silva said.

Helen Mwamba, SMTS Founder and ManagingDirector, said the training initiative is a significant step toward improving Zambia’s safety culture and emergency preparedness. 

She explained that the program was designed not only to offer basic first aid but also to equip participants with skills to manage mental health crises and safely evacuate people during emergencies.

“Our goal is to create a more resilient community that can respond swiftly and effectively in any emergency situation. By equipping ordinary citizens with these skills, we are taking proactive steps to reduce fatalities and improve overall public safety,” Mwamba said.

She further emphasized that the program aligns with the New Dawn government's vision of empowering citizens with life-saving skills, which would, in turn, contribute to national development.

“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to supporting the government's agenda of building safer and healthier communities. It is not just about saving lives in the moment, but also about fostering a mindset of preparedness and care for one another in our day-to-day lives,” Mwamba added.

The SMTS CEO expressed confidence that the knowledge imparted through this training would not only benefit participants in their professional environments but also in their homes and communities, enhancing the general well-being of the population.

Representing the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Cyprian Mayamba commended the organizers for their initiative in empowering citizens with essential life-saving skills. 

"This training is crucial for every Zambian. It equips us with the skills to save lives and handle emergencies effectively. I commend AfriSAFE, SMTS, and the government for making such training accessible to ordinary citizens,” Mayamba said.