Zambia, Japan and UNDP Launch $5.9M Resettlement Project in Western Province
The Government of the Republic of Zambia, in partnership with the Government of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has officially launched the second phase of a landmark infrastructure development project aimed at improving the lives of forcibly displaced persons and their host communities in Meheba and Mayukwayukwa Resettlement Schemes.
The launch was marked by a groundbreaking ceremony held yesterday in Mayukwayukwa, signifying the start of construction works under the Project for the Development of Basic Infrastructure in Settlements for Displaced Persons and Their Host Communities.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Ominato Satoshi, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Japan, reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s long-standing efforts in sustainably integrating refugees and host communities.
He announced that Japan has provided a grant of US$5.9 million through UNDP to implement the second phase of the project, which aims to enhance social services, expand economic opportunities, and improve living conditions in the resettlement areas by 2028.
He praised Zambia for being a safe haven for displaced persons since 1953 and for its progressive approach to refugee protection.
Representing the Government of Zambia, Western Province Minister Hon. Kapelwa Mbangweta, MP, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Japan and UNDP for prioritising Western Province in this crucial initiative.
He said the project builds on the progress made under the Sustainable Resettlement Programme (SRP), which was implemented from 2017 to 2023. The SRP achieved significant milestones, including the provision of clean water to over 2,000 people, the construction of 18.5 kilometres of roads, 10 crossing points, and 18 staff houses.
Minister Mbangweta emphasized that the new phase is poised to deliver even greater impact, with over 42,000 people expected to directly benefit. The key components of the project include the provision of water supply for irrigation and domestic use to 30 farmer groups and 800 households, improved sanitation facilities for 1,000 women and 1,500 girls, and enhanced access to health, education, and social services for 5,000 individuals.
Ms. Mavis Nkomeshya, Permanent Secretary for Resettlement in the Office of the Vice President, noted that the project is closely aligned with Zambia’s long-term development priorities and commitment to inclusive growth.
She highlighted the importance of restoring dignity and building resilience among communities that have lived with the burdens of displacement for decades, thanking partners for their continued investment in Zambia’s development agenda.
Also present at the event was Mr. Laurent Rudasingwa, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP Zambia, who underscored UNDP’s commitment to supporting integrated solutions that combine humanitarian response with long-term development.
He described the partnership as a powerful example of how sustainable development can address both immediate and structural challenges faced by displaced populations.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Mbangweta reiterated that the initiative is in line with the Government’s broader infrastructure and empowerment goals under President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership.
The groundbreaking ceremony, he said, is not just the start of construction, but the beginning of renewed hope for thousands of families.
