Zambia, World Bank US$30 Million Partnership to Improve Refugees and Host Communities’ Social-Economic Well- being
The Zambian government and the World Bank have unveiled a US$30 Million refugee project, that would economically and socially empower Zambian refugees and host communities.
The project, which is part of the World Bank’s efforts, to support Zambia’s refugee integration initiatives, will be carried out in Maheba Refugee Settlement, situated in the North-Western Province’ Kalumbila District.
The Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security In Zambia, says the project would enable deeper integration of the refugees in national systems.
Under the programme, these refugees and host communities, will have access to essential services, such as upgraded schools, health care facilities, water systems, and roads, while expanding economic opportunities, through climate-smart agriculture, market linkages and support for small businesses.
Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister, Jack Mwiimbu, who inaugurated the project, this week, believes, the potential for self reliance, economic development and social inclusion of the said communities will be unlocked. He states further, that, this would address long standing challenges:
” A key focus of the project is harmonising legal and administrative frameworks with the National Refugee Policy and the issuance of biometric national registration cards to refugees and former refugees, integrating them into Zambia’s digital civil registration system, ” says Mwiimbu, adding that the project represents more than just the beginning of a development initiative and is a testament to Zambia’s steadfast commitment to inclusive development, social cohesion and firm belief not to leave anyone behind.
For World Bank Country Manager for Zambia, Achim Fock, this project will strengthen the enabling environment, climate-resilient community infrastructure, and support to agribusiness and livelihoods.
And United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) Representative in Zambia, Helen Mebrahtu, hails the project, as a significant step forward, in supporting vulnerable populations.
Zambia, hosts about 112, 370 refugees, asylum-seekers and other displaced persons, according to UNHR reports, updated a month ago.
Of these, the majority, the organisation, reports, are from the Democratic Republic of Congo and wider Great Lakes region, as well as Angolan and Rwandan former refugees. The people of concern reside in Mantapala, Meheba, and Mayukwayukwa refugee settlements, as well as in Lusaka and other urban centres.’
By not only uplifting refugees, but also benefiting host communities, the project would promote peaceful coexistence. This, according to World Bank Country Manager, Fock, positions Zambia, as a model for inclusive development. Also, focusing on such key areas, as legal reforms and smart agriculture, would, in addition to fostering social cohesion, enhance economic growth, environmental sustainability and sustainable development.
