Sweden Lauds Progress of Women’s Livelihoods Programme in Zambia
Zambia’s Kamvuma community in Chongwe district recently hosted a high-profile delegation from Sweden to appreciate the impact of the Supporting Women’s Livelihoods programme.
The Swedish State Secretary, Ms. Diana Janse, along with Ambassador H.E. Johan Hallenborg and World Bank Senior Social Policy Specialist, Ms. Nadia Selim, visited the area to engage with members of the Chikondi Women’s Savings Group.
The delegation toured the group’s activities, which include savings and loan management. The women were encouraged to digitize their operations to enhance efficiency and prevent risks such as theft, which are associated with cash handling.
Ms. Janse praised the women’s ongoing efforts to improve their livelihoods and encouraged them to dream big, expand income-generating activities, and share business skills with their families for long-term sustainable development.
“I encourage you, dear women, to pass on the business knowledge and skills to your children and family members to ensure continued sustainable development,” she said.
Chongwe District Commissioner Dr. Evans Lupiya highlighted that empowering women through initiatives like these helps reduce inequalities and tackles issues such as Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and poverty, which disproportionately affect vulnerable groups.
He emphasized that women’s empowerment yields better outcomes, as women often bear the societal burden.
The visit concluded with remarks from Acting Director for Community Development, Mr. Aaron Phiri, who thanked the Swedish Government for their continued partnership and support.
He acknowledged that the programme was a powerful testament to the importance of collaboration in advancing women’s empowerment.
