Lusaka, Wednesday (May 22, 2024)Family Development Initiatives (FDI) Team Leader, Sheikh Yusuf Ayami, has expressed gratitude towards countries like Britain for their swift response to Zambia’s call for disaster relief. Sheikh Ayami said the British Government’s announcement of a Seven Million Pound aid package to Zambia’s Social Cash Transfer scheme deserves appreciation.During a press event, British High Commissioner to Zambia, Nicholas Wooley, revealed that the generous contribution is part of a broader emergency relief effort aimed at alleviating the impact of the severe drought that has gripped Zambia. Sheikh Ayami said FDI is happy to note that the British support is expected to expand the reach of the Social Cash Transfer program, enabling it to assist up to six million beneficiaries across Zambia.The FDI Team Leader said the British aid is important because Zambia is grappling with a dire hunger crisis, which has seen its situation declared a national disaster by President Hakainde Hichilema, who has appealed for international assistance. Sheikh Ayami said the Social Cash Transfer initiative is a lifeline for countless families, providing them with the financial means to navigate through challenging times. “It ensures that the most vulnerable segments of society, particularly children, the elderly, and the disabled, receive the support they need to secure food, healthcare, and other essential services,” he said. Sheikh Ayami highlighted the significance of the British Government’s commitment, not only through direct financial aid but also via support channelled through the United Nations Emergency Relief Fund. “This multifaceted approach to disaster response underscores the critical role of international solidarity and cooperation in times of crisis. The Social Cash Transfer program, a cornerstone of Zambia’s social safety net, has been instrumental in fostering resilience among families affected by the drought. By providing regular cash payments, it empowers individuals to make their own choices in addressing their immediate needs, thereby promoting dignity and self-sufficiency. As Zambia navigates through this period of hardship, the support from the international community, exemplified by Britain’s recent pledge, serves as a beacon of hope, reinforcing the importance of global partnerships in the pursuit of sustainable development and human well-being,” he said.
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