Zambia, EU join forces to boost early childhood development, protect adolescents from gender-based violence in Luapula

Government has pledged to ensure the swift and effective implementation of the Equal Chances for Human Development (EC4HD) Programme, supported by the European Union (EU) in Luapula Province.

The pledge was made when the European Union Delegation, led by EU Education Programme Manager, Sonia Godinho, paid a courtesy call at the Luapula Provincial Administration in Mansa on Monday, according to statement issued on Tuesday.

Luapula Province Minister, Nason Musonda, said the UPND government under President Hakainde Hichilema was in a hurry to deliver development and improve the lives of citizens, especially children in rural areas.

“Government will closely monitor progress to ensure the programme’s objectives are achieved without delay,” Musonda assured.

He also thanked the EU for selecting Luapula as one of only two provinces in Zambia to benefit from the initiative.

Musonda assured the delegation of the Provincial Administration’s full support, saying the programme must be taken with the seriousness it deserves and expressing optimism that it will transform the lives of children and young girls in Luapula.

Speaking during the visit, Godinho, said the programme was closely aligned with Zambia’s National Development Plan.

“The initiative targets children under eight and adolescent girls, and focuses on early childhood education, health, nutrition, and protection from gender-based violence,” she said.

Godinho emphasized that the EU was committed to working alongside Government and local partners to strengthen service delivery in rural districts.

Similary, Marta Palmarola, EU Social Sectors and Governance Team Leader, said the programme would address key social issues including sexual and reproductive health, family planning, and protection against gender-based violence.

She noted that supporting adolescent girls and young children was crucial to breaking cycles of malnutrition, early pregnancy, and social vulnerability.

“The programme is currently being implemented in five districts—Chienge, Chifunabuli, Kawambwa, Mwansabombwe, and Nchelenge. So far, 19 Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) satellite centres have been completed, with 44 more under construction through World Bank support,” Palmarola stated.

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