Rotary Projects In Zambia

Over the last few years, Cranleigh Rotarian James Phiri has been actively involved in a number of Rotary projects in Zambia. James has made contact with leading figures in the Zambian government, as well as local charities and Rotary Clubs.

During James’s most recent trip to Lusaka, Zambia, he had the privilege of being warmly received when he attended meetings at the Rotary Clubs of Maluba, Lusaka Central, and Nkwazi, and the Rotaract Club of Lusaka. In the photograph, James is presenting the Lusaka Central Rotary Club pennant to the Cranleigh Club's Past President, David Hall.

James was invited to speak at the Rotary District 9210 conference held at the Lakeside town of Siavonga, which was a wonderful event with Rotarians from Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Mozambique.

He said, “I am grateful to all the Rotarians who were very welcoming and accommodating, especially now Past President John Kanenungo of the Nkwazi Club who, because of my unannounced attendance, graciously deferred a business meeting agenda and turned the meeting into a fellowship meeting!”

Whilst in Zambia, James attempted to make some progress on various embryonic, potential projects:

Rotary Eye Hospital – Global Sight Solutions

Several meetings were held with government officials and Rotarians to explore whether such a project would be viable in Zambia.

Rotary Jaipur Limb

He made enquiries and had a meeting with senior Ministry of Health officials to establish the needs in this area and the history behind the RJL clinic that used to be in the Copperbelt province.

The Virtual Doctors Project

James is a Trustee for the charity, which links clinicians in rural health centres in Africa to volunteer doctors in the UK, who provide diagnostic and treatment advice. The service continues to expand in Zambia under the guidance of the Ministry of Health. They are also currently working with the Rotary Club of Livingstone in Zambia.