Mpika, August 22, 2024, ZANIS—The Government has launched the Cash for Work (CFW) programme in Mpika district in Muchinga Province.

Speaking to the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) shortly after the launch, Mpika District Commissioner David Siame said the programme aims to empower individuals with cash for essential items in exchange for their Labour.

Mr Siame added that the programme is meant to provide temporary financial relief to vulnerable individuals affected by the 2023/2024 drought.

“As you may be aware, the country was affected by drought. In order to relieve our people, the government has come up with this very important programme,” Mr Siame said.

The District commissioner has thanked President Hakainde Hichilema for coming up with an initiative meant to assist the local people.

Mr Siame further said that the programme has started with residents cleaning the drainages at Total Filling Station on the Great North Road in Mpika.

Road Development Agency (RDA) Muchinga Provincial Roads Engineer Peter Sinkonde said the scope of work will include cleaning of drainages, road maintenance, clearing culverts and working on public infrastructure.

“As RDA Muchinga, we have received funds towards the Cash for Work programme which targets to reach out to all the districts in Muchinga province and we have started with Mpika,” Mr Sinkonde said.

Mr Sinkonde added that 100 people from vulnerable communities have been recruited to undertake the task in Mpika district.

He said to actualise the goal of this programme, the RDA will work with the district administrations, local authorities, Ministry of Community Development and Social Services and the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU).

Mr Sinkonde further said that the programme will help in the maintenance of roads and drainages which have been blocked due to solid waste.

He mentioned that the program will also help extend the lifespan of the roads and improve safety for road users.

Meanwhile, a beneficiary of the programme Sarah Zimba has thanked President Hakainde Hichilema for empowering the community, especially women.

Ms Zimba said she will be able to use the money to start up a business that will help provide for her family.

“I will use the funds to start up a business that will help me take care of the children, we are thankful for this gesture by the President,” Ms Zimba said.

Speaking on behalf of youths, Sharon Chipulu said the programme will empower the youth with funds for basic needs instead of engaging in illicit activities.

“This money will help us with basic needs instead of going out there to engage in illicit activities, we have been empowered and are thankful to President Hakainde Hichilema,” Ms Chipulu said.

ZANIS/