Vedanta Resources Limited has donated 8,000 sanitary towels to ten schools in Kitwe and 6,000 to Non-governmental organizations, as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in pursuit of the advancement of girls’ education.
Speaking during the donation ceremony held at Rokana Combined School, Vedanta Resources Zambia, Director Corporate Communication, Mr Masuzyo Ndhlovu said the donated sanitary towels are part of the “End-period poverty campaign” embarked on two years ago.
He said under the campaign, over 40,000 sanitary towels have been donated so far, to support young girls’ education by addressing menstrual hygiene challenges, which often hinder their school attendance, resulting in delayed completion of their education.
Mr Ndhlovu further said Vedanta has partnered with like-minded institutions, such as Non-governmental organizations that promote the welfare of the girl child, with a target to donate 6000 sanitary towels through them in Chingola and Ndola apart from donations already done in Chililabombwe and at Shibuyunji Secondary School in Central Province.
He underscored the mining firm’s commitment to empowering girls with education through such initiatives and to demystifying negative narratives surrounding girls’ menstruation by raising awareness and creating an environment where girls can get an education and thrive
He emphasized the company’s dedication to social development and improving community welfare in areas of education, sport, and health, among others, to empower people with decent lives.
Mr Ndhlovu said this in a speech read on his behalf by Vedanta’s corporate communication strategist, Ms Kalaluka Mushaukwa.
He reiterated that Vedanta Resources is undergoing a transition process before taking full control of the board and management at Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) with the Creditor Scheme of Arrangement meetings scheduled for the 24th and 30th of May 2024 marking the final stages of the transition process.
Mr Ndhlovu said the company remains positive of a speedy and successful transition process which will result in $1.3 Billion in investment comprising $20 million for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), $250 million as payment to small creditors,20% salary increment to all employees and K2,500 once off payment to all employees of KCM.
And Kitwe District Education Board Secretary (DEBS) representative, Ms Zyambo Noreen appreciated Vedanta for such a gesture and said girls’ education is paramount and should be prioritized at every level.
Meanwhile, Rokana Combined School headteacher, Ms Namwinga Mwalila, assured that the donation will go to the intended recipients.