CfW Programme Gains Bilateral Support from the UK
The British government has pledged technical support to help Zambia enhance the implementation of its Cash for Work (CfW) programme, a key social protection initiative aimed at alleviating the impact of the 2023/2024 drought.
The CfW programme provides immediate financial relief to vulnerable individuals by offering short-term employment in public works projects, with participants earning K60 per day for 10 days each month.
The CfW initiative is part of the Zambian government’s broader drought emergency response and targets households not covered by other social protection schemes like the Social Cash Transfer (SCT) and the Drought Emergency Cash Transfer.
Administered through the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD) in 87 districts, the programme aims to empower vulnerable populations by creating income-generating opportunities.
Acting British High Commissioner to Zambia, Mr. Sam Waldock, expressed his government’s strong interest in supporting the CfW initiative, commending its positive impact on beneficiaries.
Speaking during a recent courtesy call on MLGRD Permanent Secretary (Administration) Mr. Maambo Haamaundu, Waldock noted that CfW, alongside other social protection programmes, is playing a vital role in boosting household food security and alleviating poverty.
“We are keen to provide technical assistance to help Zambia enhance the implementation of this important social protection programme,” Waldock stated. He also highlighted the success of the Social Cash Transfer Scheme, which has significantly improved the livelihoods of vulnerable communities during the drought.
The British government remains committed to fostering social protection partnerships with Zambia, Waldock added, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in building food security at the household level.
He also praised the impact of the Constituency Development Fund, which has empowered communities to drive their own development agendas.
Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamaundu welcomed the UK’s support, emphasizing that the government remains committed to improving the social and economic well-being of vulnerable citizens.
He noted that the ongoing drought has exacerbated food insecurity, and additional support from cooperating partners like the UK is essential to expanding social protection programmes.
Haamaundu encouraged other international stakeholders to collaborate with Zambia to create more income-generating opportunities and provide vital assistance to the country’s most vulnerable populations.
