Norwegian and Danish Church Aid Launch Joint Programme to Tackle Poverty and Inequality in Zambia
The Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) and the DanChurchAid (DCA) have launched a new five-year Joint Country Programme for Zambia, aimed at lifting communities out of poverty and building resilience across the country.
The integrated programme, unveiled in Lusaka today, will support Zambia’s social and economic development through expanded collaboration, improved access to essential services, and stronger community empowerment.
Speaking at the launch, Ms Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, Permanent Secretary for International Relations and Cooperation, unveiled the new logo for the Lift Zambia programme.
She said the initiative embodies a bold commitment to tackling inequality, strengthening food security and economic growth, improving access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services, advancing climate and environmental stewardship, and ending gender-based violence.
Ms Gundersen commended the Norwegian Church Aid’s longstanding work in Zambia, spanning more than 50 years, in sectors such as health, education, WASH, climate change, and prevention of gender-based violence.
She further acknowledged the recent emergency support provided by NCA and DCA in response to the drought, following the Government’s appeal for assistance.
The Permanent Secretary also welcomed the launch of the 2025 Zambia Country Profile of the Commitment to Reducing Inequality Index, describing it as a key tool for data-driven policymaking in the fight against poverty and inequality.
“The launch of Lift Zambia resonates strongly with Government priorities,” Ms Gundersen noted, citing President Hakainde Hichilema’s address to the Fifth Session of the 13th National Assembly on 12 September, in which the President underscored the importance of social development and reducing inequality through initiatives such as free education and the Constituency Development Fund.
Ms Gundersen further emphasised the importance of continued engagement between civil society and the Government, stressing that deeper collaboration among stakeholders is vital for Zambia’s progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
