Switzerland has injected over $55 Million into Social Cash Transfer and other social protection programmes in Zambia.
Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Ms Doreen Mwamba was at hand to receive the Head of Cooperation from the Embassy of Switzerland, Mr Manuel Thurnhofer who paid a courtesy call on her to announce the huge cooperation support for the period 2023-2026.
Ms Mwamba is happy that the support has come at a time when the Zambian Government under the New Dawn Administration, is in a hurry to address the high vulnerability levels in many parts of the country.
“It is gratifying to note that the government of Switzerland has committed to render support towards social cash transfer programmes as well as the United Nations and GRZ joint programme on social protection” Ms Mwamba further said with an assurance of continued transparency and accountability by ensuring that every cent goes to the intended beneficiaries.
Ms Mwamba is happy that the government has made a lot of notable progress with regards to social protection programmes, especially for women and the youth, adding that an opportunity to expand its scope to other vulnerable groups such as those with disabilities has come to fruition, as a result of the support due to the long-standing relationship with Switzerland
And Mr Manuel Thurnhofer said expected outcomes from the long-term partnership will result in improved climate-resilient agricultural production and value chains of nutritious crops.
More economic opportunities through system strengthening in areas of health, social protection, food security, agriculture, private sector partnerships and employment creation, especially in food systems, is key according to other expected outcomes.
Mr Thurnhofer is happy that the Republican President, Mr Hakainde Hichilema has placed priority on accountability, transparency and the fight against corruption.
He, therefore, assured that Switzerland remains equally committed to fully supporting the vulnerable Zambian people with such commitment shown by the government.
“This particular programme under your Ministry, the Social Cash Transfer is an excellent opportunity to work for both ends” Mr Thurnhofer noted with an assurance that very soon, a framework agreement for a bilateral agreement will be signed soon.
