Helping the people of Zambia through drought

^{Photo of Imelda and Maureen, farmers in Zambia, 2024}

For many people in Zambia, last year was looking extremely bleak. The worst drought since 1980 had hit the country and one million hectares of maize had been depleted.

At this time in Zambia, food was scarce, and the threat of more drought and a failed harvest loomed - leaving people frightened. Frightened of what was to come and if they would be able to feed themselves and their families. 

SCIAF responded to the drought through the Caritas network. We first targeted groups most in need: women, people with disabilities, child-headed households, and elderly people. 

With £310,000 from the Scottish Government's Humanitarian Emergency Fund, cash transfers were provided to nearly 4,500 families. These families used money to buy good, pay school fees and medical expenses, and others invested money in livestock. 

People who received our support greatly appreciate not only the money, but the way cash transfers honour an individual’s agency; this allows people to help themselves. 

Dorcus, who received support through this project, explained: 

“When you are hungry, sometimes you must accept whatever food is given, even if it's not what your family normally eats or needs. With cash, I could buy the food that was right for my family, including special food for my youngest, who has health problems. 

“The cash transfer respected our ability to make decisions for ourselves even during a crisis. This respect meant as much to me as the assistance itself.” 

Around 30,000 people received much-needed assistance at a great time of need. People supported through this project were extremely grateful for what they received. 

Marvis, whose family was supported by SCIAF’s partners, said:

“The cash came when we had nothing left. My children hadn't eaten a proper meal in days. I was losing hope, but then the transfer came. It was like rain after a long drought. It came precisely when we were at our breaking point.”

Recently, the rains have returned and harvests across Zambia have improved. Our partners continue to work with farmers and train them in agroecology to support them to diversify their crops. The drought has scarred the land; seeds have been lost, and soil quality has been affected, but overall, our partners in Zambia and the communities they work with are feeling more positive about the year ahead.