Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date: 19th February, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
Lusaka Central Constituency Member of Parliament, Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, has officially handed over the 2025 empowerment grants, marking a significant milestone in the government’s continued commitment to fostering economic growth and social development.
The initiative aims to support various cooperatives by providing essential financial assistance to drive sustainable entrepreneurship and job creation.
During the handover ceremony, Hon. Haimbe congratulated the beneficiaries who successfully navigated a rigorous selection process.
Acknowledging the overwhelming number of applications received annually through the Ward Development Committees (WDCS) for consideration by the Constituency Development Fund Committee (CDFC), he emphasized the responsibility that comes with accessing these funds.
He urged recipients to remain dedicated to personal and community development, ensuring that the grants are utilized effectively.
“These grants are designed to empower women and youth, providing financial support for projects that uplift their social and economic status,” Hon. Haimbe stated.
“By promoting gender equality, youth empowerment, and social inclusion, we are driving meaningful change, particularly for marginalized groups in Lusaka Central. This initiative is a critical step toward improving access to resources, opportunities, and essential services for socio-economic advancement.”
This year, a total of 63 cooperatives have been awarded funding, amounting to a collective sum of K2,490,000 (Two million, four hundred and ninety thousand kwacha).
The initiative has supported various businesses, including fish farming, chicken rearing, and agribusiness ventures, which play a vital role in job creation for women and youth while also contributing to national food security.
The funding is particularly crucial as Zambia recovers from last year’s drought, highlighting the government’s strategic approach to economic resilience and agricultural sustainability.
Hon. Haimbe urged all beneficiaries to prudently and productively utilize the resources, emphasizing that the funds should improve their financial standing and enhance their social well-being. He also called on local authorities to ensure that the grants achieve their intended impact.
Despite the program’s successes, concerns have been raised regarding mismanagement and misuse of resources in certain instances.
The government has expressed disappointment over isolated cases of fund misallocation, reinforcing its stance on accountability.
Hon. Haimbe implored stakeholders and community leaders to safeguard the integrity of these programs, ensuring that funds serve their rightful purpose.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Haimbe reaffirmed the New Dawn Government’s commitment to investing in women and youth as key drivers of economic growth.
He emphasized that by addressing implementation challenges, enhancing transparency, and promoting accountability, the empowerment grants will continue to uplift marginalized communities.
“This initiative aligns with the vision of the New Dawn Government—a vision centered on empowering vulnerable groups, advancing gender equality, and fostering sustainable development,” he concluded.
The 2025 empowerment grants stand as a testament to the government’s proactive approach in driving inclusive economic progress, ensuring that Lusaka Central remains a model of community-driven development.
The Agency
