OVER 5,800 HOUSEHOLDS GET CASH IN CHIKANKATA

Over 5,800 households in Chikankata District have begun receiving financial support the through emergency cash assistance program from Zambia Red Cross Society (ZRCS) to help them cope with livelihood challenges brought on by this year’s severe drought.

The distribution program, launched yesterday at Nansenga Primary School, aims to provide K600 per month to 5,872 households for four months, helping families secure basic needs amid ongoing climate hardships.

Speaking at the launch, Southern Province Permanent Secretary Dr. Norman Monze, represented by Deputy Permanent Secretary Mrs. Yolanta Malunga, thanked Zambia Red Cross Society for its efforts in responding to humanitarian crises across the country.

“Zambia Red Cross Society’s timely support is crucial for many families facing hardship in Chikankata. We encourage the beneficiaries to use this assistance to address their immediate needs and improve their well-being,” he said.

He added that government is committed to protecting citizens’ lives and enhancing collaboration with organizations like ZRCS. She urged the recipients to make the most of the support to strengthen their resilience during these challenging months.

ZRCS National President Mr. Frackson Ngosa, represented by National Information Chairperson Mrs. Ruth Kamwi, emphasized ZRCS’s role as a key partner to the government, highlighting its efforts to build resilience in drought-affected areas.

“This cash assistance program reaffirms our role as an auxiliary to public authorities and our dedication to our people’s welfare. By joining forces with local leaders, NGOs, and traditional authorities, we can make a stronger, lasting impact,” he said.

Ngosa also noted ZRCS’s recent efforts in Sinazongwe District, where 5,232 households received cash assistance earlier this year. This initiative aligns with ZRCS’s 2021-2025 Strategic Plan to help communities respond to and recover from crises. The ZRCS is also involved in health crisis management and providing clean water and sanitation.

Chikankata District Commissioner Mr. Timothy Chipolyonga, speaking through District Administrative Officer, expressed sincere thanks to ZRCS for its support at a critical time. He noted that hunger is now a serious issue in the area due to the prolonged drought, and the cash support will help families access essential goods.

Funded by the European Union, Netherlands Red Cross, and Czech Republic through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), this program supports ZRCS’s strategic goal to empower communities to lead safe and dignified lives. By addressing the immediate needs of over 5,800 households, ZRCS’s initiative provides hope and stability to communities facing severe hardship. The program also aligns with Zambia’s National Development Plan, which prioritizes disaster risk reduction to safeguard livelihoods and build community resilience.