Smiles, gratitude, and hope!
Persons with disabilities in Chipata District, Eastern Province, are celebrating the life-changing support from Government and cooperating partners — a true testament that no one should be left behind.
In heartfelt interviews, beneficiaries expressed joy and appreciation for inclusive empowerment programs like the Social Cash Transfer, Constituency Development Fund (CDF), and support from the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC).
Many of them are using the funds to invest in businesses such as agriculture, general supply, and other income-generating activities — proving that given the right support, disability does not mean inability.
This timely support comes under the Government-UN Joint Social Protection Programme Phase II (GRZ-UNJPSP-II), bringing to life the vision of the Persons with Disabilities Act No. 6 of 2012 — which promotes equal opportunities and access to social protection for persons with disabilities.
It also echoes Zambia’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), which calls for social protection measures that empower persons with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in all aspects of life.
“We feel seen. We feel valued. And above all, we feel hopeful,” shared one of the beneficiaries.
Indeed, when inclusion meets action — lives change and communities thrive.