This year, CampbellReith is thrilled to have sponsored the ACE2Zambia team’s 2024 project. The team, consisting of seven talented Architects and Civil Engineers from the University of Bath’s ACE department, embarked on an incredible journey to Zambia in July 2024. Over eight weeks, they collaborated with Sport in Action and Volunteer Zambia Foundation to design and construct two new basketball and netball courts at Chinika Secondary School in Kanyama, one of Lusaka’s more deprived neighbourhoods.
The team’s efforts included designing and producing technical drawings, negotiating contracts, and supervising the construction of the courts. They worked closely with the contractor and teams to ensure the highest quality of work, supervising and participating in the excavation, drainage, concrete slab construction, asphalting and even in production of new basketball and netball posts. Despite facing challenges like power supply issues, the team gained invaluable experience and developed new skills while forming lasting friendships with the local community.
One of the team members, Sami Mustafa, reflected on the experience:
“My time in Zambia has been an incredible experience, from planning and working on-site to seeing our project on national news. I have learnt so much and developed both my engineering abilities but also as a person. Working throughout the frequent load shedding was a major challenge and is something I will never forget. I would like to say a huge thank you on behalf of our team to all our sponsors, none of this would’ve been possible without your support.“
The impact of this project extends beyond the team, employing and training 20 workers and members of the local community. Above all the new courts will benefit over 600 young people from the local area each week, providing a safe space for sports and community activities. Silverous Chibale, the Head of Department at Chinika Secondary School, highlighted the positive effects:
“The new basketball and netball courts will be a big help for both the school and the community. At the school, students will get healthier, with less risk of diseases linked to obesity and better heart health. The courts will also encourage more students to join physical education and boost the confidence of players. In the community, the courts will give people a place to train and keep them out of trouble. The new court will provide a place for competitive tournaments and create jobs for local coaches and referees. We used to travel a long distance for training, but now, thanks to [the team], we can hold sport sessions right here for both the school and the community.“
CampbellReith is delighted to have supported the team’s funding and contributed technical input during their time in Zambia. We congratulate the ACE2Zambia team, and everyone involved for this successful and impactful project.
We look forward to supporting the 2025 team on their next adventure.
