Government has honoured volunteers across the country for their tireless efforts in contributing to human development in various sectors.

Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Ms. Doreen Mwamba has acknowledged the contributions of volunteers in driving change, especially in times of crisis.

She has admitted that government alone cannot achieve socio-economic development without the efforts of men and women who sacrifice their time and efforts in making a change in society.

The Minister said this in a speech read on her behalf by Western Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Mr. Richard Mulwanda during the commemoration of the 2024 International Volunteers Day themed, “Harnessing Volunteerism in Achieving Sustainable Growth in Times of Crisis”.

With various volunteers being honoured during the commemoration, Ms. Mwamba recognized their efforts during crises such as cholera, Covid-19, and the current drought, and further encouraged individuals to continue offering themselves to enhance service delivery across all sectors.

And Zambia Volunteers Coordinating Committee acting Chairperson, Mr. Guess Nyirenda appreciated the government for considering volunteers in various job recruitment processes and called for constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening the volunteerism legal framework.