In May 2025 we welcomed 25 women to a three-day Business Development Workshop, designed for women working in the construction sector and those aspiring to set up new ventures.
The event aimed to strengthen business skills, foster peer networks and support personal growth. Each participant brought a unique mix of experience, insight and ambition. It was a clear reflection of the value that comes from creating more inclusive participation in the construction sector.
The workshop was delivered in partnership with Nuttah – a Zambian platform that connects people in the construction industry, and offers training and support for growing businesses.
Build It Country Director Chilufya Kasutu opened the workshop:
“This is a valuable opportunity to build knowledge, confidence and practical skills. When women are equipped with the right tools and support, they not only grow their own businesses, but also contribute to a more inclusive and resilient economy.”
Workshop highlights
The workshop covered a range of key topics. The first day introduced entrepreneurial thinking, guiding women through business registration, legal compliance and identifying market opportunities in Zambia. There was the opportunity to begin developing business plans and models aligned with industry needs.
Day two turned to financial management with learnings around record keeping, tax compliance and banking systems. Participants worked in groups to explore the tendering process, grant proposals and pitching business ideas.
The final day covered project management essentials including client acquisition, quality control and risk mitigation. The group explored real-world case studies to discuss common industry pitfalls and practical ways to overcome them.
From ideas to action: Women leading change in construction
Reflections from participants
The training programme received overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants, who highlighted various aspects of the experience as both enriching and empowering:
“It was incredibly refreshing to be in a room full of women who are truly walking the talk – trailblazers making real strides in a male-dominated industry. Hearing their experiences and seeing their commitment reignited my own desire to return fully to the construction industry and take bolder steps forward. The energy was uplifting, and the network we built has immense potential for future collaboration and support. With access to this kind of community, it feels like there’s no room for failure – just opportunities to grow, be guided, and push forward even when the path isn’t clear.”
“This has been a great networking platform, sitting here with likeminded women who face similar struggles in our daily professional lives, sharing strategies and brainstorming how to better grow our businesses – it’s a real honour.”
“The training was amazing. I learned a lot that will help me in my work and business. I met so many amazing women in business, and learned a lot from them. Not to forget our amazing speaker Nuttah – she did a great job. This training was a success for me. I can’t wait to start my business, and spread the knowledge to my workmates as well.”
Building more opportunities for women
We were delighted to see the ideas and energy each participant brought to the programme. It is a powerful testament to what is possible when we invest in a more inclusive and diverse construction sector.
This workshop was delivered as part of our three-year Women in Construction project, supported by the Government of Ireland through the Embassy of Ireland in Zambia. It reflects our commitment to breaking down barriers and creating more space for women in the construction sector.
For more information about this initiative, please contact Project Officer Yolanta Mukupa via [email protected]