ENHANCING COMMUNITY RESILIENCE THROUGH FOOD SECURITY AND LIVELIHOODS INITIATIVE

On September 3, 2025, Zambia Red Cross Society, in collaboration with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, met with communities in Sichikali and Mapanza in Choma District of Southern Province. The purpose of the meeting was to develop and design an initiative focused on Food Security and Livelihoods Innovation, aimed at tailoring humanitarian responses to better meet community needs and priorities.

During this meeting, Zambia Red Cross Society engaged with community members to understand their priorities and aspirations on Food Security and Livelihoods Innovation. 

The initiative featured two main models. The first model aimed to support women in working collaboratively to enhance their farming productivity and incomes. The second model addressed the significant challenges posed by climate-induced hazards, which were exacerbated by farmers' lack of access to timely and actionable information.

The program was spearheaded by Dr. Jack BbaBbi, who is ZRCS Director of Programs; Tawona Matenda, who is IFRC Senior Livelihoods Officer; Gilbert Phiri, Senior Coordinator for the Africa Zero Hunger Initiative; and Neil Townsend, IFRC Innovation Consultant, along with various Managers and Officers from Zambia Red Cross Society.