Who We Are
Three decades of dedicated service to the visually impaired community of Zambia — advancing literacy, independence and cultural participation for all.
Our Story
Founded in 1993, Rooted in Dignity
The Zambia Library, Cultural and Skills Center for the Visually Impaired (ZLCSCVI) was established in 1993 through a generous founding donation from the Finnish Federation of the Visually Impaired. Created to address the critical absence of accessible literacy, cultural and vocational resources for persons who are blind or partially sighted, ZLCSCVI operates as a quasi-governmental institution in collaboration with the Government of the Republic of Zambia.
What began as a modest transcription effort has grown into a comprehensive institution comprising eight departments and more than 110 staff positions, serving communities across six compounds in Lusaka. Our work spans Braille and audio transcription, community radio broadcasting, rehabilitation and skills development, and administrative excellence — all directed toward one outcome: genuine independence for the people we serve.
Today, ZLCSCVI is recognised as one of Zambia’s most trusted institutions in disability-inclusive development, working closely with government agencies, cooperating partners and the communities themselves to ensure that every visually impaired citizen has access to the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.
Our Vision
A Zambia where every visually impaired person enjoys full literacy, cultural participation and economic independence, free from barriers to opportunity.
Our Mission
To provide accessible library and transcription services, vocational skills training, cultural programming and rehabilitation support that empower visually impaired Zambians to live with dignity and self-reliance.
Main Objectives
To expand access to Braille literacy; deliver relevant vocational and life-skills training; promote awareness through broadcasting; and strengthen institutional capacity for sustainable, community-driven impact.
Library and Assistive Technology
Three Decades of Impact, By the Numbers
Leadership & Governance
Guided by Experience, Held to Account
ZLCSCVI is led by Fredrick Chibale Lungu, Executive Director, whose stewardship has guided the organisation’s growth into a multi-departmental institution serving thousands across Lusaka’s compounds. Under his leadership, the Centre has strengthened its programmes, expanded its reach and deepened its collaboration with government partners.
The organisation is governed by an independent Board of Trustees, which provides strategic oversight, ensures sound financial management, and safeguards the mission and values upon which ZLCSCVI was founded. This governance structure ensures accountability, transparency and alignment with both community needs and national development priorities.
Fredrick Chibale Lungu
Executive Director
Our Founding Partners
A Legacy of International & National Collaboration
Finnish Federation of the Visually Impaired
ZLCSCVI owes its establishment to the generous founding contribution of the Finnish Federation of the Visually Impaired. Their early investment in infrastructure, training and Braille production capacity laid the foundation upon which the Centre has built more than three decades of service. We remain profoundly grateful for this partnership, which exemplifies the power of international solidarity in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.
Government of the Republic of Zambia
As a quasi-governmental institution, ZLCSCVI works in close collaboration with the Government of the Republic of Zambia to deliver its mandate. This partnership ensures that the Centre’s programmes are aligned with national disability policy, that our staff are supported through public-sector frameworks, and that the visually impaired community receives the sustained, institutional commitment they deserve. We are honoured by this ongoing relationship and the confidence it represents.
Be Part of Our Continuing Story
Explore our departments to see how ZLCSCVI translates its mission into everyday impact, or reach out to learn how you can contribute.