Meet Daniel Manyepa from Hacibubba Village, a determined young man turning opportunity into progress. As the firstborn in a family of seven, Daniel carries both responsibility and ambition. After completing secondary school, he has been actively seeking ways to raise funds for further education.
Through the Youth Integrated Livelihoods and WASH (YILWASH) Project implemented by ADRA Zambia with support from German Cooperation and Stiftung Kinderzukunft, Daniel was among 58 youths trained in chicken rearing. The hands-on experience he gained at the community chicken center built by the project ignited a passion that would soon translate into action.
“The training opened my eyes. I realized I could use the skills to start something on my own and raise money for my education,” Daniel shares.
In September 2025, Daniel took a bold step and purchased his first batch of 25 chicks. With dedication and care, he successfully raised and sold them after three months, earning K2,500.
“When I sold my first chickens and made K2,500, I felt proud. It showed me that I can achieve something if I stay focused,” he says.
However, the journey was not without challenges. His second batch of 39 chicks was lost, wiping out his investment.
“Losing all the chicks was very painful. I almost gave up, but I remembered what I learned and decided to try again,” Daniel recalls.
Determined to move forward, he returned to the village chicken center and procured 20 teen birds, which he is currently raising at his parents’ home.
“I am not giving up. I want to grow this and use the income to continue my education and support my family,” he adds.
Daniel’s story reflects the resilience and determination of young people empowered through the YILWASH project. With practical skills and continued support, he is steadily building a sustainable livelihood and moving closer to achieving his educational goals.
Story by Joyce Mubanga
English