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The government has launched the third phase of the GRZ–United Nations Joint Programme on Social Protection (UNJPSP III), aimed at strengthening support systems for vulnerable communities and improving resilience to economic and climate-related shocks.
The 2025–2028 programme is being implemented through the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services in partnership with United Nations agencies and cooperating partners.
Speaking during the launch in Lusaka on Friday, Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Permanent Secretary for Administration Angela Kawandami said the programme reflects government’s commitment to improving access to social services for vulnerable groups.
Kawandami said earlier phases of the programme contributed to strengthening Zambia’s social protection framework through policy support, technical assistance and institutional capacity building.
“Government remains focused on improving accountability and service delivery for women, children, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable populations,” she said.
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Speaking on behalf of the United Nations, Resident Coordinator, Saja Abdullah said social protection systems were important in reducing poverty and improving food security, health and education outcomes.
Abdullah said stronger support systems could also help reduce harmful coping mechanisms such as child labour and early marriages.
Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) Development Director, who is also Deputy British High Commissioner, Simon Ten-Brinke Jackson, said cooperating partners would continue supporting government efforts aimed at reducing poverty.
The programme focuses on three main areas: strengthening social protection systems, promoting climate resilience and food security, and improving gender-responsive and disability-inclusive programming.
Implementation will involve the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services working with UNICEF, Food and Agriculture Organization, World Food Programme, the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit and the Ministry of Agriculture.
Funding support is being provided by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
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