Location	Kawama, Ndola, Zambia
Project start	May 2009
Project finish	May 2010
Partners	Kawama Widows and Orphans Project, COINS Foundation
Trainees	16
Beneficiaries	8,400
Key Details	Resource centre, offices and two-classroom block

Full Project details

Kawama is a peri-urban community on the edge of Ndola, close to the border with the Congo. In this poor community, few enjoy electricity and running water and there are not enough school places. This project involved the construction of a much needed new school and resource centre for local community group Kawama Widows and Orphans Project (KWOP). The project was funded by the COINS Foundation.

The School building uses our unique Cool School design and is made from Parry roof tiles and soil blocks. One additional innovation is the use of Parry waffle flooring that gives a 40% saving in the volume of concrete used.

Since opening, the school has increased attendance from 212 to over 260. The new facility is proving to be an important part of the community. In 2012 we will begin our second Secondary School near Kawama Community School, enabling children to continue their education.

Project Trainees

All 16 trainees passed their trades test exams and gained valuable experience in building skills. Since completion five trainees have undertaken further work for Build It and are moving up the skills ladder. Others have secured their own building and materials contracts.

After finishing training James Phiri, has been able to use his training practically, telling Build It, ‘I am able to find small contracts and ‘piece work’ to sustain my family’.