Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Ms. Doreen Mwamba has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to integrating climate action into social protection programmes.

Speaking during the launch of a pilot micro-filling station in Lusaka’s Kanyama Township and the handover of gas stoves and cylinders to 200 Social Cash Transfer beneficiary households identified by her Ministry, Ms. Mwamba said climate change related shocks such as droughts and floods are eroding gains made in poverty reduction and increasing the vulnerability of poor and marginalised families.

She emphasised that social protection cannot be implemented in isolation from climate change interventions, noting that the initiative represents a “Cash-Plus” approach under the life-cycle social protection framework.

Ms. Mwamba said while the Social Cash Transfer programme provides critical support, it must be complemented by sustainable initiatives such as access to clean energy to fully address multiple vulnerabilities.

The Minister observed that indiscriminate tree cutting and heavy reliance on charcoal contribute to environmental degradation, adding that the adoption of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) will therefore reduce dependence on firewood and charcoal while promoting environmental sustainability.

The micro-filling station, piloted by the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment in partnership with the Saudi Arabian government through Afrox, will allow consumers to purchase gas according to their affordability rather than cylinder size, making LPG more accessible to low-income households.

Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Zambia, Mr Saad Alkahtani said his country is committed to supporting innovative solutions that improve livelihoods.

Meanwwhile Afrox Director for Emerging Africa, Ms. Sanjay Misra described the initiative as a practical model that enhances affordability, safety and community empowerment, with plans for possible expansion to other communities.