Since 2021, the Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR), with support from Diakonia, has been implementing the Activating Women and Youth-led Accountability for Social Justice project in Mansa, Monze, and Choma. As this important initiative nears its conclusion this year, we reflect on its objectives and achievements. The project’s primary aim has been to empower women and youth in advocating for social justice by enhancing their participation in local governance and promoting accountability at various levels.

This week, CSPR, in collaboration with its CIVSAM Consortium partners, the Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ) and the Zambia National Women’s Lobby (ZNWL), conducted a joint monitoring and learning visit in Kalomo, Sinazongwe, and Monze Districts in Southern Province. The visit provided an opportunity to assess the impact that each partner’s project has had on both the community members and key stakeholders, including local Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), duty bearers, and community structures such as traditional leaders, civic leaders, and Ward Development Committees (WDCs).

The purpose of the visit was to assess the project’s impact, draw out lessons learned, identify challenges, and gather recommendations for future interventions. One of the key findings from the visit is that the project has significantly built the capacity of communities especially women and youth. This enhanced capacity is evident in how women and youth are now actively participating in local governance and leadership, as well as advocating for improved service delivery.

Additionally, many women and youth-led cooperatives have benefited from women and youth empowerment programs under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

As the project comes to a close, the insights gained will inform future efforts to ensure sustainable community empowerment and continued advocacy for social justice.