The National Assembly of Zambia with the support of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) undertook a two-day capacity building and information sharing training workshop at Lake Safari Lodge in Siavonga. The objective of the training was among other things to build the capacity of Parliamentary Researchers so that they can appreciate the extent of child, early and forced marriages, health and nutrition and educational outcomes for children in the wake of the severe drought instigated by climate change in the country.

In her opening remarks, Ms Elsie Simpamba, Director - Research, thanked the IPU forthe financial and technical support rendered not just to the Research Department, but, the National Assembly as a whole meant to build capacity to staff. She called upon all Parliamentary Researchers to ensure that they used evidence at all time during the provision of information to Members.
Meanwhile, in her virtual remarks, Aleksandra Blagojevic, IPU Programme Manager expressed her happiness towards the National Assembly through the Research Department for the timely initiative undertaken to consider building capacity to its staff on this topical issue. She pledged full support of the IPU towards future activities of the Department meant to build capacity to both MPs and staff.
The workshop which was facilitated by Ms Womba Wanki and Ms Nachela Kawimbe from Generation Alive and Population Council, respectively was attended by all Parliamentary Researchers and selected staff from the Parliamentary Reforms and Monitoring and Evaluation Departments.