January 4, 2024
News
In 2023, Caritas Czech Republic celebrated 10 years of work in Zambia. This year was again a special one for us. We helped farmers adapt to climate change, supported refugees on their path to self-sufficiency or university studies, and much more. What all did Caritas Czech Republic in Zambia accomplish last year?
1. Caritas Czech Republic celebrates 10 years of transformative work in Zambia
The year 2023 was a year to remember as we celebrated our 10th anniversary in Zambia. Over the past decade, we have made significant achievements in improving the lives of communities in various parts of the country. We focused on sustainable development, climate resilience, or empowering marginalised groups, such as women and youth, through various projects and initiatives. “Sustainability is a crucial focus for us. We are supporting local communities to ensure they can continue with the activities independently,” says Martina Havlíková, the Country Director at Caritas Czech Republic in Zambia about our work in the country.
2. We introduced green solutions for sustainable development and growth
One of our flagship initiatives in 2023 was launching the Green Solutions for Sustainable Development and Growth in the Monze district of Southern Province. We aim to to enhance the participation of small and medium-scale farmers, particularly women and youth, in functional and market-oriented diversified, resilient, and green value chains in food production systems. By increasing investment in green value chains, established companies and start-ups will be encouraged to adopt sustainable practices, contributing to the overall development and growth of the region.
3. We organised a market day in the Meheba refugee settlement
There are not many livelihood opportunities in refugee settlements. Caritas Czech Republic has long supported refugees to set up their own businesses and supported refugee farmers to grow and harvest successful crops. But getting their products to market can be difficult for refugees. That is why last year Caritas Czech Republic together with UNHCR and other partners organised the first-ever market day in Meheba Refugee Settlement. This event provided sustainable market solutions to persons of concern (POCs) and host communities, promoting economic empowerment and self-reliance. The market day brought together farmers and small businesses from Meheba and the surrounding community, allowing them to showcase their agricultural produce and products. This initiative fostered economic opportunities and promoted social cohesion and integration among communities.
4. We focused on facilitating linkages to markets and financial services
Last year, we have provided training and capacity-sharing to government officers and farmers in six districts of Western Province. This initiative aims to create seed growers among small-holder farmers and promote climate-resilient practices. We already helped facilitate linkages between farmers and market actors, such as Shais Foods, Kagezi Seeds, and Mwembezi Holding Ltd, providing the supported farmers with capital seed and market access. This integration of farmers into the out-grower scheme has opened up new opportunities for income generation and improved livelihoods. So far, Shais Foods has registered 2000 farmers from Sioma, Sesheke and Mulobezi into the out-grower scheme, where farmers are supported with millet and sorghum seed.
5. We supported refugee students through the DAFI Scholarship programme
Caritas Czech Republic, in partnership with UNHCR and the German government, has supported refugee students in Zambia through the DAFI scholarship programme since 2019. This transformative initiative has empowered over 70 refugee students, with 11 graduating in the past year. The programme has provided access to higher education and equipped students with the skills and knowledge to contribute to their communities actively. Many graduates have represented Zambia in global forums, secured employment opportunities, and initiated community projects, showcasing the long-term impact of the DAFI scholarship programme.
Our work in Zambia demonstrates a commitment to creating lasting change
In 2023, we have made significant achievements in sustainable development, climate resilience, and empoweringt marginalised communities. Through our various projects and initiatives, we have demonstrated our commitment to creating lasting change and improving the lives of vulnerable populations. As we continue our work in Zambia, we remain a vital partner in promoting inclusive and sustainable development in the country.
