Environmental and Economic perspectives of Katima Mulilo Metal Fabrication Roadside Works, in Garden Compound of Lusaka, Zambia

Abstract

Katima Mulilo roadside is the hub of informal metal fabrication works in the city of Lusaka, arising from the mass retrenchment of artisans and craftsmen from light steel fabrication manufacturing industries. The study investigated the environmental and economic consequences of this development. It examined the current policy frameworks which delineates some skills as acceptable and others not for employment purposes. The objective of the study was to examine the environmental and economic perspectives of Katima Mulilo Metal Fabrication Roadside Works (KMFW). The study population included all out of school youths and all metal fabrication artisans in Garden Compound. The sample comprised 40 participants (20 out of school youths and 20 artisans). The study was an intrinsic qualitative which used interview and participant observations to collect data. The data was transcribed and analysed using the thematic analysis tool. The study revealed that there are several environmental and economic problems in Zambia ascribed to the roadside apprenticeship activities, such as poor sanitation, lack of occupational health and safety considerations, environmental pollution, economic exploitation of the youths and uncontrolled rowed behaviour. The current scenario in Garden Compound has also witnessed massive immigration and emigration of traders in search of business opportunities. The study recommends the need to incorporate apprenticeship activities in the national qualification framework to give the youths an avenue to sustainable livelihoods.