From ‘Junkies’ Den’ to Graduation Glory: Limpha’s 211 Pioneers Forge a New Path

In a stunning community transformation, the Limpha Training Institute (LTI), a place that once served as a hidden haunt for junkies,and  known as ‘African 2000,’ has erupted in celebration, graduating its inaugural class of 211 students and turning a former place of despair into a “beacon of knowledge and hope".

The historic ceremony, held on Friday , October 31st, 2025, saw 44 graduands in Computer Studies and 167 in Food Production cross the stage, marking a 100% pass rate for the institute which only opened its doors in 2023.

An elated Principal, Mr. Evans Katele explained that authorities had since accredited Limpha Training Institute with a latitude to offer more courses.

The event was charged with emotion and ambition, underscored by a powerful theme: “From Matero to the Nation – Equipping Hands and Minds for Tomorrow.” The symbolism was not lost on the community; the institute’s very name, ‘Limpha,’ from the Latin language for ‘clear water’ and an ancient deity of fresh water, signifies a profound cleansing and healing of the location’s troubled past.

“What was once an area known for despair and neglect — a place many described as a haven for wrong activities — has now become a centre of excellence,” declared the Guest of Honour, representing the government, none other than Ms. Rosa Kayuni-Zulu, the Lusaka District Commissioner. 

In a speech read on her behalf by Lusaka District Administrative Officer, Mr. O'Neill Chiiya, Ms. Kayuni-Zulu hailed the institute as a “powerful example of what visionary leadership, community support, and government partnership can achieve".

The ceremony was not just a look back at past triumphs but a launchpad for future demands. In a passionate vote of thanks, overall best graduate and student president, Ms. O'Brien Chanda issued acknowledged Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TEVETA), for rendering effective guidance to Limpha Training Institute.

Echoing this forward-looking drive, Limpha’s leadership, during a guided tour of the premises, pressed the government and cooperating partners to assist in completing the institute’s building phase. This expansion is critical for introducing new courses in Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Engineering.

Board Member Reverend Dr. Penias Mbewe revealed the institute’s core mission: to transform the informal, often illegal industrious knowledge of Matero’s youth into “legal, recognized, and professional skills.” Rev. Dr. Mbewe credited the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) for making this possible for hundreds, while also appealing for more timely disbursements of funds to ensure smooth operations.

The government, through its representative, reaffirmed its commitment to skills development, promising to review CDF systems and lauding Limpha’s 100% pass rate as “truly commendable.”

As the 211 new ambassadors for Limpha received their certificates, the message from the podium was clear, as summarized by graduate Chanda: “Soar high and be great ambassadors.” The clear waters of Limpha have indeed begun to flow, washing away a legacy of neglect and nurturing a new wave of skilled, hopeful youth for Zambia.In a speech read on her behalf by Lusaka District Administrative Officer, Mr. O'Neill Chiiya, Ms. Kayuni-Zulu hailed the institute as a “powerful example of what visionary leadership, community support, and government partnership can achieve".

The ceremony was not just a look back at past triumphs but a launchpad for future demands. In a passionate vote of thanks, overall best graduate and student president, Ms. O'Brien Chanda issued acknowledged Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TEVETA), for rendering effective guidance to Limpha Training Institute.

Echoing this forward-looking drive, Limpha’s leadership, during a guided tour of the premises, pressed the government and cooperating partners to assist in completing the institute’s building phase. This expansion is critical for introducing new courses in Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Engineering.

Board Member Reverend Dr. Penias Mbewe revealed the institute’s core mission: to transform the informal, often illegal industrious knowledge of Matero’s youth into “legal, recognized, and professional skills.” Rev. Dr. Mbewe credited the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) for making this possible for hundreds, while also appealing for more timely disbursements of funds to ensure smooth operations.

The government, through its representative, reaffirmed its commitment to skills development, promising to review CDF systems and lauding Limpha’s 100% pass rate as “truly commendable.”