ZNS shoe manufacturing at least 100 pairs per day

SANFROSSA MANYINDA writes @SunZambian THE Zambia National Service (ZNS) in Ndola has taken up the initiative of running a shoe-making factory in Ndola with plans to export the products. ZNS Officer Commanding for the shoe manufacturing factory, Bright Chanda, said the concept was birthed in the early 1990s but only got actualized six months ago after Government procured the shoe factory from Malar industries at a cost of K3.3 million. Major Chanda said the factory was able to produce about 100 pairs of shoes per day with eight working hours but had the potential to produce up about 2,000 pairs per day. He said plans to purchase modern machines were already underway to enhance productivity and further improve skills development for the workers. Major Chanda said the factory was aiming to become the major supplier of military, safety and school footwear in the country and possibly the region. Copperbelt Province Permanent Secretary, Bright Nundwe, hailed the ZNS for taking up the initiative. Mr Nundwe was impressed with the quality of shoes being manufactured when he toured the factory in the city’s industrial area. He commended ZNS for always being exceptional in works throughout the country, citing the areas of agriculture, security, and road works among others. “ZNS is always smarter in the manner they deal with things. They have ventured into several economic activities in the country and Copperbelt in particular,” Mr. Nundwe said. He added that such initiatives had a blessing from Government because they could help save a lot of money the country had been spending on the importation of footwear among other products. Mr Nundwe noted that the products had potential to increase foreign exchange in the country and help strengthen the local currency when exported.