The Ministry of Community Development and Social Services has officially commissioned newly constructed District Community Development and Social Welfare offices and a multipurpose hall in Mwansabombwe District.

Built at a cost of K1.89 million using recoveries from the Food Security Pack (FSP) Programme,the facility is expected to enhance service delivery and accelerate development in the district.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Permanent Secretary Ms. Beatrice Chilomo said the project demonstrates how accountability, community participation and responsible utilisation of government support can drive sustainable development.

She noted that the facilities were constructed using repayments made by FSP beneficiaries from the 2023, 2024 and part of the 2025 farming seasons.

Ms. Chilomo reaffirmed Government’s commitment under President Hakainde Hichilema to reducing poverty, improving livelihoods and strengthening food security through people-centred social protection programmes.

She described the Food Security Pack Programme as an investment that empowers vulnerable households to become productive and self-reliant rather than a handout.

She further highlighted Government’s decision to expand the wetland component of the Food Security Pack Programme to benefit 120,000 households nationwide, including 12,400 beneficiaries in Luapula Province, to boost agricultural production and household incomes.

The Permanent Secretary said the new offices and multipurpose hall, constructed with the full participation of local communities, will improve service delivery, support decentralisation and serve as an income-generating asset for further community investments and job creation.

She commended traditional leaders, community committees, local authorities, district officials, Community Development staff and FSP beneficiaries for their commitment, saying their collective efforts continue to transform communities and contribute to Zambia’s socio-economic development.