Katima Mulilo
Zambezi Regional Governor Lawrence Sampofu has commended a newly opened stationery shop in Katima Mulilo, saying that such a noble initiative has the potential not only to bridge the gap in stationery supplies in the region but also addresses the pressing problem of unemployment.
The stationery shop is owned by Cletius Mushaukwa, a native of the region who is also an author. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony on Wednesday, Sampofu noted that unemployment has become a serious challenge and therefore such an initiative came at the right time.
“I am told CKP Stationers employs four permanent employees and has subcontracted a security guard. This move should be embraced as a good step towards fighting unemployment in the region and the nation at large. Without this shop, these people would be looking for employment,” said Sampofu.
Sampofu said he was fascinated by the fact that the stationery shop is owned by a native of the region, adding that the shop adds to existing stationery shops that mostly face a supply deficit due to ever increasing demand.
“By working closely with suppliers or publishers of school textbooks, our schools will find it easy to acquire various textbooks they need in different subjects. They are bringing services closer to the people. I am glad to inaugurate a business of this type, owned by a local person.”
CKP Stationers is situated in the centre of town and stocks stationery as well as office/school furniture and equipment, among others. It also boasts ICT services such as printing, fax and Internet.
Mushaukwa who noted that his vision is to promote a reading culture also handed stationery vouchers valued at N$1 000 each to the two schools of Muzii and Ndoro at the event.