Zambia

In partnership with Project Concern International (PCI) and local NGOs, Pact provided technical assistance for a WORTH program in Zambia to respond to the growing HIV/AIDS crisis and the ever-increasing number of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC). The program targeted caregivers who were single mothers or women who have taken children orphaned by AIDS into their home. HIV/AIDS has placed particular strain on women who are the most likely group to take responsibility for orphans. For this reason, strengthening the ability of women to provide for their essential needs is an integral part of the strategy to reduce the vulnerability of children affected by poverty or HIV/AIDS.

Results:

• In February 2008, 210 formal WORTH groups were active with 5.101 women, surpassing the goal of reaching 4,000 caregivers in rural or peri-urban areas.
• At the close of the implementation, the women had saved up to $46,666, and started over 860 new micro-enterprises.
• Over 13,000 OVC benefited from the program, demonstrating that strengthening the social and economic capabilities of families through savings-led village banks resulted in better protection and caring of OVC.
  • During the program, improved income resulted in improved access to health facilities for nearly all the women’s households (4,915) and to education for children in 4,415 households.
• In addition to their focus on OVC, the women also discussed good health practices, and tackled social issues, such as women’s legal rights, spousal abuse and alcoholism, and child marriage
• Groups created dynamic networks to tackle challenges in their communities, such as construction of pre-schools, markets and shelters for their meeting places. Women also participated in community initiatives for school expansions, rural health centers and collection of sand and stone for bridge construction.