Historically, Zambia has known more peace than many of its eight African neighbours who have suffered from ethnic, religious and political conflict. It did, however, suffer greatly from the crash of the world’s copper market in 1975, having been the world’s third largest copper producer when it became an independent republic in the 1960s.

Zambia is now on the list of the world’s poorest countries. Disease is one of Zambia’s greatest challenges and a constant threat to development- particularly HIV / AIDS and malaria.

One major aim of the Swansea- Siavonga Partnership is improved business planning, improved income generation and improved efficiency.  Practical skills include: jewellery, making clothes from wool / cotton, and art / craft making skills to make items to sell at the market. We provide training in adult literacy, numeracy and business skills, i.e. income generation / management from buying and selling fish and marketing skills. In the longer term we would like to incorporate financial management and accountancy skills.