The centre at Kaliyangile has been very busy – it is tempting to say that it has been a hive of activity!
It is hoped to start the bee-keeping course very early in the new year. The carpenter has been very busy making the bee-hives and the tailoring students have produced some more bee-keeping suits ready for when the course begins. A citrus orchard has been planted and discussions have been taking place with the Zambian Honey Council, who will provide the tuition.
On the poultry side, the layers are now past their prime and the egg production has reduced. The 232 chickens will be sold, however 498 chickens have been reared to take over the egg production and will start laying very soon. An incubator provided through Hands Around the World has been successfully used to hatch some guinea fowl and quail chicks.
Construction work has been going on in earnest to construct a piggery. This should be in operation very soon.
The various projects at the centre help the students to gain skills, in addition to the tailoring and carpentry courses. We have a keen group of tailoring students who are now producing useful garments – some are being sold to provide extra income which is a testament to the standard of the work produced. There have been some technical problems which have delayed the examination of these students, but they hope to qualify soon.
The increased activity at the centre encourages the people in the local community to visit the centre and become more involved with the project. We particularly look forward to the new bee-keeping course – there are already 20 students signed up and eager to start.
