Zambia Launches $157M GEWEL 2 Project to Empower Women and Girls
The Zambian Government, in partnership with the World Bank and cooperating partners, has officially launched the second phase of the Girls’ Education and Women’s Empowerment and Livelihoods for Human Capital (GEWEL 2) project—a US$157 million initiative aimed at reducing poverty and uplifting vulnerable women and girls nationwide.
Unveiled in Chisamba District, GEWEL 2 will be implemented across all of Zambia’s 116 districts through a coordinated effort by the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, and the Gender Division under the Office of the President.
Speaking at the launch, Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary for Administration, Noriana Mseteka Muneku, said the project will continue to transform lives.
“GEWEL 2 will continue to empower vulnerable women and girls across Zambia, in collaboration with our partners who are helping us achieve sustainable development,” she said.
Representing cooperating partners, Swedish Ambassador to Zambia Johan Hallenborg praised the collaborative model.
“The GEWEL project is a powerful example of how collective efforts can drive inclusive growth and resilience for Zambia’s women and girls,” he noted.
World Bank Division Director Nathan Belete also commended Zambia’s leadership.
“GEWEL 2 is about deepening human capital outcomes and building resilience for the most vulnerable Zambians. It’s a vision for long-term, sustainable pathways out of poverty,” Belete said.
Beneficiaries also shared their testimonies. Esther Phiri, a participant in the Supporting Women’s Livelihoods (SWL) component, said the program helped her achieve financial independence through her fruit and farm produce business.
“I feel confident and have a renewed sense of purpose,” she said.
Meanwhile, Twambo Siandindi, a Keeping Girls in School (KGS) beneficiary who was rescued from early marriage, expressed gratitude for being given a second chance to pursue her education.
Building on the successes of the first phase, GEWEL 2 introduces new focus areas including climate adaptation, digital systems, and efficient service delivery. The initiative will enhance access to education and nutrition services, promote economic inclusion for women, and strengthen Zambia’s adaptive social protection systems.
