Many young people idle and vulnerable to social vices-Chief Mapanza of Choma

Chief Mapanza of Choma District has called on the Government to establish a skills training centre in Mapanza Chiefdom to improve opportunities for out of school youths.

The Chief said the absence of training institutions has left many young people idle and vulnerable to social vices.

“Some of our children are indulging in alcohol and drug abuse because they have no skills to keep them productive,” he said.

He explained that the chiefdom has identified Dundwa Agricultural Camp as a suitable site for the proposed centre.

The facility previously operated as an agricultural training centre but has remained neglected for over 26 years.

“This place once empowered many people with agricultural skills, but it has been abandoned for a long time, we want it revived to serve our youths again.” He said.

Chief Mapanza further appealed for increased development in the chiefdom, which he said has a population of about 140,000 people.
He noted that the area has no mini hospital and continues to face poor road infrastructure.

“Our people walk long distances to access health services, and bad roads are affecting development,” he said.

The Chief, however, expressed optimism that the enactment of Act Number 13 of 2025 will accelerate development in the area.

“This law gives us hope that more resources will be brought closer to the people,” he said.

And Southern Province Permanent Secretary, Namani Monze, said the government is committed to revamping Dundwa Agricultural Camp into a sustainable chiefdom enterprise.

“The facility will promote skills training while integrating agricultural and livestock activities,” Dr Monze said.

Dr Monze said the initiative forms part of the government’s broader agenda to develop all chiefdoms across the country.

“No chiefdom will be left behind in development,” he said.

He added that Act Number 13 of 2025 will enable the government to channel more resources directly to communities.

“The law will help us send resources to areas that need them most,” Dr Monze said.

Meanwhile, Choma Mayor, Japan Simoloka said the local authority will support the development initiatives of the chiefdom.

“We are currently working on five bridges to enhance connectivity and open up the area for development,” Mr Simoloka said.