Wikimedia Community User Group Zambia/Reports/2023-24
This is the annual report of the Wikimedia Community User Group Zambia, supported by the group. It includes all activities of the user group from October 2023 to Novmber 2024. We are a new user group recognized in November 2023, and we have grown to 55 members, both online and offline. The Wikimedia Community User Group Zambia (WUGZA) has continued to grow and contribute to the broader Wikimedia movement through a variety of impactful activities, partnerships, and initiatives. This report highlights our key activities, achievements, and challenges for the period 2023-2024.
Major Activities and Projects
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WikiIndaba 2024 Preparation WUGZA actively prepared for and participated in WikiIndaba 2024. Three representatives from Zambia—User:Icem4k, User:ChaloNiZambia, and User:Edward Phiri Jnr—were selected to attend the conference, ensuring the group’s perspectives and initiatives were shared with the broader African Wikimedia community.
Partnerships and Collaborations WUGZA established a collaborative relationship with Wikimedia Botswana. This partnership facilitated capacity-building training sessions and knowledge-sharing opportunities.
Launch of Official Website In 2024, WUGZA launched its official website, www.wikimedia.org.zm, to enhance its online presence, provide updates on activities, and serve as a resource hub for members and the public.
Wiki Loves Folklore 2024
Wiki Loves Earth (WLE) is an annual international photographic competition held throughout February. The WLF 2024 helped us to build even stronger relations with the National Hertiage Conservation Commission (NHCC) and Kawbata Cultural Village .
Wiki Loves Earth 2024
Wiki Loves Earth (WLE) is an annual international photographic competition held throughout May and June. The WLE 2024 ended in Zambia with an unprecedented result with a record high of 400+ images uploaded to Wikimedia commons. The group partnered with Local Knowledge Mappers.
Wiki Loves Monuments 2024
Wiki Loves Monuments (WLM) is an international photo contest for monuments.It is driving by Wikimedia communities across the globe. In 2024, Wikimedia User Group participated for the 2nd time in the contest. The group premiered in 2023 and then followed by 2024. The Group is working handed in hand with the NHCC.
Celebrated Wikimedian Recognition The group’s efforts were highlighted during the WikiCelebrate segment for the Afrika Baraza , where Chabota was recognized as a Celebrated Wikimedian for the month of November. This acknowledgment included a Diff blog post, social media mentions, and a WikiCelebrate barnstar, showcasing the impact of WUGZA’s work.
Challenges
[edit]Limited Resources: The group faced resource constraints in terms of funding and equipment, which affected the scale of its activities.
Awareness and Outreach: Despite efforts, awareness about Wikimedia projects remains low in some communities, requiring continuous outreach and engagement.
Connectivity Issues: Internet access remains a significant barrier, especially in rural areas, limiting participation in online Wikimedia activities.
Achievements and Impact
[edit]- Represented Zambia at WikiIndaba 2024 for first time since 2019.
- Strengthened partnerships with regional Wikimedia communities.
- Launched the official website, www.wikimedia.org.zm.
- Planned and participated in Wiki Loves Folklore 2024, Wiki Loves Earth 2024, and Wiki Loves Monuments 2024.
- Celebrated our very own Wikimedian for November's WikiCelebrate.
Recommendations and Future Plans
[edit]Strengthening Partnerships Continue building relationships with regional and international Wikimedia affiliates to leverage resources and expertise.
Expanding Outreach Focus on outreach programs in rural areas to bridge the digital divide and encourage participation in Wikimedia projects.
Resource Mobilization Seek additional funding opportunities to scale up activities and acquire necessary equipment.
Scaling Fan Clubs Launch and expand the Wikimedia Zambia Fan Clubs project in 2024 to schools and universities across Zambia.
Conclusion
[edit]The 2023-2024 period has been a transformative year for the Wikimedia Community User Group Zambia. Despite challenges, the group has made significant strides in promoting free knowledge and empowering communities through Wikimedia projects.