28/05/2026
MOPANI COPPER MINES COMMITS $81.879.65 TO STEM BODY 360 CATALYZER PROGRAM
By: Evelyn Ngoma
Mopani Copper Mines (MCM) has committed $81,879.65 to its STEM Body 360 Catalyzer Program, a flagship initiative aimed at keeping girls in school and expanding their pathways into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, while addressing menstrual health challenges.
The program will cover 25 schools in Kitwe and Mufulira, targeting 10,000 girls in the communities of the two districts. MCM is also supporting women’s cooperatives engaged in the production of over 20,000 reusable sanitary pads to tackle menstrual poverty and create local economic opportunities.
Speaking at the launch earlier today, Mopani Chief Services Officer Oscar Matebele, speaking on behalf of MCM Chief Executive Officer Charles Sakanya, said the project seeks to bridge the gender gap in STEM-related fields by creating opportunities for girls to develop interest and confidence in science and innovation.
Mr. Matebele highlighted that one component of the program is menstrual hygiene, incorporated to ensure no girl child is denied the opportunity to acquire quality education, which is often hindered by menstrual poverty.
He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting education and community development through strategic partnerships that uplift learners and equip them with practical knowledge.
Women’s Entrepreneurship Access Centre (WEAC), the implementers of the STEM Body 360 Catalyzer Program, welcomed the initiative. Executive Director Nambula Kachumi said it was gratifying to see the program launched at a time when girls continue to face severe challenges in accessing education due to factors that hinder their effective participation.
Ms. Kachumi emphasized the need for stakeholders to build on Mopani’s gesture by addressing key social challenges, especially in menstrual hygiene and STEM education.
Zambia’s first woman civil engineer, Lucie Kasanga, who served as the guest of honor, urged the girl child to remain focused and take advantage of initiatives being rolled out to promote their wellbeing.
Meanwhile, Kitwe District Commissioner Oncemore Ngonomo reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring the initiative reaches its intended beneficiaries.