On 23 and 24 September, we took part in the National Council of Construction (NCC) Build Zambia Expo for the second consecutive year, joining industry leaders, partners and innovators from across the construction sector.
We were delighted to welcome to our exhibition stand Guest of Honour, Professor Albert Malama, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Infrastructure and Urban Development.
Professor Albert Malama engaging with the Build It team at our exhibition booth
Sharing our work and inspiring conversations
As one of Zambia’s leading construction industry events, the expo provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with potential partners and employers from across the construction industry.
These conversations are vital to our work, helping us build relationships with contractors and companies that can offer work placements to our young trainees. Visitors to our stand had the opportunity to learn more about our training programme, and the impact it has on young people and their families.
There was also considerable interest in our new initiative featuring a manual cement mixer and a block-making machine. The equipment provides a low-cost, electricity-free solution that can create income-generating opportunities, and encourage more sustainable construction practices. Visitors were interested in the potential to reduce the use of concrete while making quality building materials more accessible within local communities.
Construction equipment designed for use in a range of community and training settings
Showcasing impact through industry dialogue
The conversations extended beyond our exhibition stand. Our Student Services Coordinator, Praise Luwaile, and Project Manager, Dingase Sampa, took part in panel discussions where they shared Build It’s approach to skills development and creating opportunities for young people. The sessions provided a valuable platform for partners across the sector to share experiences, exchange insights, and explore opportunities for colloboration.
Praise Luwaile pictured alongside fellow panellists following a panel discussion
Building new partnerships
We were delighted to welcome Micmar, the founding member of our Building Futures Network, to our stand. As the first organisation to join the network, Micmar is helping to lay the foundations for stronger collaboration with businesses, united by a shared commitment to creating more opportunities for young people.
Micmar CEO Michael Kroupnik spent time with our team learning more about our programmes, discussing shared priorities, and exploring ways we can work together to help more young people build brighter futures.
Build It Business Development Manager Clayton Kachamba showcasing our block samples to Micmar CEO Michael Kroupnik
Championing inclusion in construction
The event helped to raise awareness of our national Build It With Her campaign. Through this initiative, we are working to increase opportunities for women to train, progress and thrive within Zambia’s construction industry, challenging perceptions and helping to create a sector where talent can succeed regardless of gender.
We were honoured to sponsor awards in the Special Awards category, recognising organisations that are taking meaningful steps towards creating a more inclusive construction sector. Congratulations to the deserving winners:
- Family Pillar Vocational and Skills Training Centre
- Dzitandizeni Trust Trade School
- Cretech Construction Limited
These awards were made possible through the generous support of the Government of Ireland, via the Irish Embassy in Zambia.
Family Pillar Principal receiving an award from Build It Board members Lucie Kasanga and Clara Silubonde Theu during the awards dinner
Thank you
A big thank you to everyone who visited our stand, participated in activities, and joined the conversation. Your enthusiasm and support made this year’s event truly special. We greatly value the connections made and look forward to building on them in the months ahead.
