Govt Commends CEJ for Empowering Savings Groups with Business Seed Grants in Serenje
The Zambian Government has paid tribute to the Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) for empowering eight savings groups with business seed grants in Serenje District, Central Province. Serenje District Commissioner Paul Masuwa praised the initiative, emphasizing the importance of economic empowerment and financial inclusion for community development.
Mr. Masuwa highlighted that financial inclusion is a vital tool for improving living conditions for marginalized groups, thereby promoting their economic empowerment.
He noted that the Savings Group Support Program addresses a critical need by providing essential capital to these groups. Access to capital is often a significant barrier for small business ventures and income-generating activities, he said.
“By empowering the community with financial resources and training, CEJ is taking a significant step toward reducing poverty and improving living standards. The program’s comprehensive approach includes continuous training to enhance financial literacy and business management skills. Regular monitoring and evaluation will ensure effective utilization of funds and measure positive impacts on livelihoods,” Mr. Masuwa stated.
He added that the anticipated outcomes include increased financial inclusion, enhanced entrepreneurship and business growth, and improved household incomes and livelihoods. The disbursement of support loans to each of the eight savings groups in Serenje lays a solid foundation for sustainable economic development and poverty reduction.
Mr. Masuwa commended CEJ’s commitment to uplifting socio-economic status and promoting sustainable development, noting that it complements Government efforts in alleviating poverty.
Meanwhile, CEJ Executive Director Maggie Mwape attributed the success of the initiative to the generous support from Bread for the World.
“This financial assistance represents an investment in the dreams and aspirations of our community members. These groups, comprised of low-income earners, have demonstrated remarkable dedication to improving their lives. In less than three months of establishing these self-led village banks, they have collectively saved over ZMW 40,000. Their hard work inspires us to bolster their group businesses through this grant,” she said.
Ms. Mwape explained that the CEJ Savings Group Loans Support Program operates as a community revolving fund. Once the groups repay the loan, the funds are reinvested in another community, creating a sustainable cycle of empowerment and growth.
She shared that the program, initially successful in Sinazongwe, has enabled groups to evolve into business owners, fostering economic resilience and community development.
“Today’s empowered savings groups exemplify what determination and collective action can achieve. They have embraced the opportunity to save, manage, and grow their finances, demonstrating the transformative power of community-driven efforts,” Ms. Mwape added.
Serenje Council Secretary Stan Mwanakayaya urged CEJ to expand the empowerment exercise to more communities within the district, recognizing the positive impact and potential for broader community development.
