BENEFICIARIES of the Cash for Work programme in Nalolo District of Western Province, have expressed gratitude to the government for the initiative which has significantly improved their livelihoods.

Nawa Nawa, a 38-year-old beneficiary, shared how the programme has enabled him to provide food for his family and purchase school supplies for his children, taking full advantage of the Free Education Policy. 

“The work we do is not strenuous, it is simple and can be completed in a short time,” Mr Nawa explained. 

Mr Nawa emphasised the importance of the programme, especially with the effects of the dry spell, stating that many lives would have been at risk without it.

Another beneficiary, Kamuti Mubanga, praised the government for allowing individuals not enrolled in other social programmes to access empowerment funds. 

“I thank President Hakainde Hichilema for giving everyone, regardless of their political affiliation, the opportunity to earn money to feed their families,” Mr Mubanga said. 

He urged the government to continue with the programme, highlighting its positive impact on the community.

Mwiya Saloba, a 21-year-old youth, noted that the programme has helped many young people steer clear of illicit activities by keeping them engaged. 

“Many youths are now less dependent on their parents for support as they can purchase their own necessities with the money earned from the Cash-for-Work programme,” Mr Saloba stated. 

He encouraged other young adults over 18 years to participate, emphasising the importance of becoming productive members of society.

Fridah Wamumona, a 60-year-old community member who is among those who supervises the Cash for Work programme, commended the youth benefiting from it, noting that they often feel overlooked in various initiatives.

“As parents, we are grateful that our children can now buy their own clothes and essentials, relieving us of some financial burdens,” she said. 

Ms Wamumona also urged other women to engage in social service programmes which can contribute to the district’s development and help reduce poverty levels.

The government launched the Cash for Work programme last year in August to provide temporary financial relief to vulnerable individuals affected by the 2023/2024 drought. 

The initiative aims to empower participants by offering cash in exchange for their labor, enabling them to purchase essential food items.