Zambia, Saudi Arabia partner to integrate climate action into social protection programmes

Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to integrating climate action into social protection programmes following the launch of a pilot micro-filling station in Kanyama Township, implemented in partnership with the Saudi Arabia government.

Green Economy and Environment Minister, Mike Mposha, said climate-related shocks such as droughts and floods were undermining progress in poverty reduction and increasing the vulnerability of poor and marginalised families.

He said this on Tuesday during the launch of the pilot micro-filling station and the handover of gas stoves and cylinders to 200 Social Cash Transfer beneficiary households identified by his ministry in Kanyama Township.

His speech was delivered on his behalf by Doreen Mwamba, Minister of Community Development and Social Services.

Mposha stressed that social protection could not be implemented in isolation from climate change interventions, noting that the initiative embodied a “Cash-Plus” approach under the life-cycle social protection framework.

“While the Social Cash Transfer programme provides critical support, it must be complemented by sustainable initiatives such as access to clean energy to fully address multiple vulnerabilities,” Mposha said.

He added that indiscriminate tree-cutting and dependence on charcoal were contributing to environmental degradation. Increased use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), he said, would reduce pressure on forests while promoting sustainability.

“The micro-filling station, piloted by the Ministry in partnership with the Saudi Arabian government through Afrox, will allow consumers to purchase gas according to their affordability rather than cylinder size, making LPG more accessible to low-income households,” Mposha said.

Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Zambia, Saad Alkahtani, said his country remained committed to supporting innovative solutions that improve livelihoods.

Meanwhile, Afrox Director for Emerging Africa, Sanjay Misra, described the initiative as a practical model that enhances affordability, safety and community empowerment, adding that there were plans to potentially expand it to other communities.

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