Residents of Chasefu District in Eastern Province have applauded the ongoing Cash for Work programme, which is providing support to the community.
One of the residents, Samuel Kondowe, says the intervention has offered members of the community an opportunity to earn income which will help mitigate the effects of the drought experienced in the previous rainy season.
The Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) reports that Mr. Kondowe acknowledged that the benefits of the programme extended beyond immediate financial assistance as it also promoted a sense of pride and accomplishment among beneficiaries for contributing to the improvement of their households.
“This programme has brought about so many changes. We feel empowered to work and change our district for the better, knowing that we will earn money to sustain our families,” he stated.
Another beneficiary of the programme, Tryness Nyirongo, observed that the initiative promoted inclusiveness and empowerment.
Ms Nyirongo said the programme encouraged the beneficiaries such as women and youths within the community to participate and get money to sustain themselves.
“We are proud to see women and youths participating in the cash for work programme. This reflects gender equality and inclusion which is vital in fostering development in our community,” she said.
Meanwhile, Chasefu District Commissioner, Jimmy Phiri expressed happiness at the progress made by the community during a tour of various cash for work project sites in the district.
Mr Phiri noted that accomplishments such as the construction of mud bridges in areas prone to flooding and the clearing of drainages would help facilitate connectivity and prevent blockages during the rainy season.
He urged members of the community to continue identifying projects that would bring about further development in the district.
“Let us build on this momentum and come together as a community to identify projects that will transform our lives as well as develop Chasefu district for generations to come,” he remarked.
