Government releases K1.4 billion for Social Cash Transfer Programme

LUSAKA – The Zambian government has reaffirmed its commitment to social protection initiatives, announcing the release of a substantial K1.4 billion for the May-June 2026 payment cycle of the Social Cash Transfer (SCT) Programme. This significant financial injection is poised to provide vital support to hundreds of thousands of vulnerable households across the nation, underscoring the government's dedication to poverty alleviation and enhancing the welfare of its most susceptible citizens. The announcement, made by the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Permanent Secretary for Administration, Mrs. Angela Kawandami, highlights the continuous efforts to ensure timely and consistent support to beneficiaries. The SCT programme, a flagship social safety net, targets households facing extreme poverty, including those with elderly members, persons with severe disabilities, child-headed households, and those chronically ill. The timely disbursement is critical, especially in the face of ongoing economic challenges and the need to bolster resilience within communities. This K1.4 billion allocation is not merely a financial transaction but a lifeline for many Zambian families. It enables beneficiaries to meet basic needs such as food, healthcare, and education for children, thereby breaking cycles of intergenerational poverty. The programme has been lauded by various stakeholders, including international organisations and civil society groups, for its effectiveness in reducing extreme poverty and improving human development indicators in beneficiary households. The government's consistent funding demonstrates its understanding of the programme's profound impact on national development. The Ministry of Community Development and Social Services has put in place robust mechanisms to ensure that the funds reach the intended recipients efficiently and transparently. These include partnerships with financial institutions and mobile money service providers to f