Hichilema's Drought Relief Efforts Earn Widespread Praise in Mambwe District

Levy Ngoma, Special Assistant to the President for Political Affairs, praises President Hakainde Hichilema’s efforts to address the ongoing drought crisis. Speaking on arrival at Mfuwe International Airport in Mambwe District in Eastern Province, Ngoma highlighted that Hichilema’s quick and proactive interventions over the drought have ensured that no one has died from lack of food.  

In an interview with ZNBC News Today, Ngoma emphasised that the initiatives implemented by the government have alleviated people's suffering and improved livelihoods. He specifically pointed to the effectiveness of the Emergency Social Cash Transfer and the Cash for Work Programme in providing much-needed relief to affected citizens. “The government has introduced enhanced social cash transfer to support drought-hit areas”, he explained.

Ncheka Ward Councillor Benson Phiri echoed Ngoma’s sentiments, noting that people in Mambwe are now able to buy food due to the Cash for Work Programme. “The government provided money to the people through Cash for Work. Our people are working on various community projects in the district, and in exchange, they can feed their families,” Phiri stated.

Senior Chief NSEFU also praised the Cash for Work Programme, describing it as being timely and impactful. However, he urged those responsible for disbursing funds to ensure beneficiaries are paid promptly.

The government's swift and targeted drought relief measures, led by President Hakainde Hichilema, have acquired widespread praise from both local leaders and community members. Initiatives like the Emergency Social Cash Transfer and Cash for Work Programme have not only alleviated immediate hunger but also empowered communities to sustain themselves.