KCC Spends K325,000 On PPE For Cash For Work Beneficiaries

Kitwe City Council (KCC) says it has procured 718 reflective jackets and 117 sets of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Cash For Work beneficiaries at a cost of K325,000.

Council Public Relations Officer, Emmanuel Lupikisha said as the rainy season begins, there is an increased need to protect individuals working in hazardous conditions, particularly those exposed to storm water while clearing drainages.

Mr. Lupikisha stated that procurement of the PPE, which includes gumboots, work suits, and gloves, will be an ongoing exercise with new supplies purchased each time the administrative allocation for the program is received, to ensure a continuous supply of protective gear for all beneficiaries.

“Priority for receiving this PPE has therefore been given to beneficiaries involved in drainage clearing and the removal of illegal community dump sites.”

“Distribution of the essential equipment has started with beneficiaries in Wusakile and Kamfinsa Constituencies,” Mr. Lupikisha stated.

He added that under the Cash for Work program, K150,000 is allocated to cover fuel, lubricants, hand tools, and PPE, among other administrative costs.

“In August 2024, a total of 1,770 beneficiaries were engaged, and an estimated 8,852 people are expected to benefit from the September allocation under Cash for Work.”

“A total of K5,311,067.22 was allocated under cash for work to carter for the district for the month of September,” he said.

The Cash for Work program is a government initiative led by Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, and implemented through local authorities to support community development and employment to help community members access some relief funding in exchange of labour.

The Cash for Work program also covers road maintenance, public infrastructure rehabilitation, environmental restoration, and the cleaning of public spaces such as markets and clinics.