Social Cash Transfer Beneficiaries Rise to 1.5 Million as Zambia Launches Inclusive Social Protection Week
Zambia has expanded its Social Cash Transfer Programme from 1.3 million beneficiaries to 1.5 million beneficiaries, marking a significant milestone in Government’s efforts to strengthen social protection and improve the welfare of vulnerable households across the country.
The increase was highlighted during the official launch of the 2026 Zambia Social Protection Week by the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services (MCDSS).
Speaking at the launch, MCDSS Permanent Secretary Ms. Angela Kawandami said the annual commemoration provides an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on progress made, assess emerging challenges, and share experiences aimed at strengthening social protection service delivery.
Held under the theme, “Inclusive Social Protection for Dignity, Security and Development,” the event brought together government officials, cooperating partners, civil society organisations, development agencies and other stakeholders committed to poverty reduction and social welfare.
Ms. Kawandami described social protection as a critical tool for building resilience among vulnerable populations and promoting inclusive national development.
She called for continued collaboration among Government, cooperating partners, the private sector, civil society organisations and local communities, noting that poverty reduction requires collective action from all sectors of society.
The Permanent Secretary further highlighted achievements recorded since the launch of the Revised National Social Protection Policy in 2025, which guides the implementation of programmes aimed at improving the welfare and livelihoods of poor and vulnerable households.
Beyond the expansion of the Social Cash Transfer Programme, Government has significantly increased support under the Food Security Pack Programme.
The wetland farming component now supports 120,000 households, up from 40,000 households in 2025, while 200,000 beneficiaries are receiving assistance under the rain-fed cropping component.
Ms. Kawandami also announced the commencement of payments under the Emergency Cash Transfer Programme and the Food Security Pack Emergency Programme.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Labour and Social Security Permanent Secretary Mr. Zechariah Luhanga emphasized the importance of collective action and strong partnerships in advancing a multi-sectoral approach to social protection and delivering sustainable interventions.
Reflecting the theme, “Inclusive Social Protection for Dignity, Security and Development,” ZAPD conducted disability registration during the event at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre.
The exercise attracted a number of persons with disabilities who were successfully registered, highlighting ongoing efforts to promote inclusion and facilitate access to social protection programmes and other services for persons with disabilities.