Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 28th March, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The Government of Zambia is set to conclude its Drought Emergency Response Programme in April 2025, having successfully provided critical financial relief to vulnerable households affected by the 2023/2024 farming season drought.
The initiative, which included a K200 top-up to 2.2 million Social Cash Transfer (SCT) beneficiaries, has played a pivotal role in cushioning small-scale farmers and other at-risk groups from economic shocks caused by prolonged dry conditions.
Hon. Doreen Mwamba, MP, Minister of Community Development and Social Services, has confirmed that the Price Shock and Drought Emergency Response programme has met its primary objectives. The intervention ensured that Zambia’s most vulnerable populations—particularly those dependent on subsistence farming—were able to navigate the economic strain caused by the drought.
Of the 2.2 million beneficiaries:
1.3 million were existing recipients of the regular Social Cash Transfer Programme
952,570 were additional beneficiaries included under the 12-month emergency response initiative
With relief measures now successfully delivered, the government will phase out these temporary financial interventions.
As part of this phase-out:
The K200 top-up on SCT payments will end in April 2025.
Regular Social Cash Transfer (SCT) payments will continue as part of the government’s long-term social protection strategy.
Households that only received assistance under the drought emergency response will no longer receive additional financial support under this programme.
Minister Mwamba has expressed gratitude to all stakeholders and cooperating partners for their role in ensuring the programme’s success. She reiterated the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening social protection and economic empowerment initiatives.
“While the emergency response programme comes to an end, our work continues. We encourage beneficiaries to engage in other government-led initiatives that promote long-term resilience and economic sustainability,” she stated.
As Zambia transitions from emergency support to sustainable development strategies, the government remains focused on strengthening social safety nets, enhancing agricultural resilience, and promoting economic empowerment for vulnerable communities.
Beneficiaries and affected households are encouraged to explore alternative government support programmes, ensuring continued progress toward poverty reduction and long-term economic stability.
The Agency Media.