Luampa District in Western Province plans to implement an Emergency Cash Transfer programme in response to the recent declaration of a national disaster by the President due severe drought. 

This initiative aims to address the pressing issue of hunger that has gripped the region.

During a Welfare Assistance Committee meeting held yesterday, Luampa District Social Welfare Officer, Anita Masaiti disclosed the details of the programme.

Ms. Masaiti highlighted the gravity of the hunger situation in the district, noting that an increasing number of individuals are seeking assistance at Social Welfare offices.

She said that the emergency cash transfer programme will cater for both social cash transfer beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries. 

“This inclusive approach is intended to reach a wider population in need of support,” Ms. Masaiti said.

She said the implementation of the emergency cash transfer programme is a vital step towards addressing the pressing needs of the community in Luampa district. 

“It is hoped that this initiative will provide immediate relief and help mitigate the impact of the drought on the livelihoods of the people,” Ms. Masaiti said.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Agriculture in the district reported that a significant portion of the maize crop has been severely affected by the drought with 13,000 hectares extensively damaged out of the 19,000 hectares of maize planted.