Zambia has launched the GEWEL 2 project, which aims to empower women and girls with a funding of $157 million.

.The Zambian government, along with the World Bank and other partners, kicked off the second phase of the Girls’ Education and Women’s Empowerment and Livelihoods (GEWEL 2) project. This initiative targets poverty reduction and improving the lives of vulnerable women and girls across the country.

GEWEL 2 will roll out in all 116 districts and is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, and the Gender Division under the Office of the President. The project focuses on promoting sustainable development by increasing access to education, economic opportunities, and social protection for those in need.

At the launch event in Chisamba District, Noriana Mseteka Muneku, the Permanent Secretary for Administration in the Ministry of Education, emphasized the government’s dedication to inclusive development. She stated, “GEWEL 2 will continue to empower vulnerable women and girls across Zambia, with the help of our partners in achieving sustainable development.”

Swedish Ambassador to Zambia, His Excellency Johan Hallenborg, praised GEWEL as a transformative partnership model. He said, “The GEWEL project shows how working together can foster inclusive growth and resilience for Zambia’s women and girls. It’s not just an initiative; it’s a symbol of hope for many.”

Mr. Nathan Belete, the World Bank Division Director for Human Development, echoed this sentiment, applauding the Zambian Government for its leadership. He noted, “GEWEL 2 focuses on improving human capital and building resilience for the most vulnerable Zambians. It envisions long-term, sustainable pathways out of poverty.”

During the event, participants shared their success stories. Esther Phiri, who took part in the Supporting Women’s Livelihoods (SWL) program from Chisamba District, highlighted how the program restored her financial independence. She shared, “Before joining SWL, I faced low income and struggled with self-esteem. Now, I run a small business selling fruit and farm produce. I feel confident and have a renewed sense of purpose.”

Twambo Siandindi, a beneficiary of the Keeping Girls in School (KGS) program, also discussed how the initiative helped her avoid early marriage and return to school.

Building on the success of its first phase, GEWEL 2 introduces new focuses such as climate adaptation, digital transformation, and cost-effective service delivery. The project aims to improve access to education and nutrition, promote women’s economic empowerment, and strengthen Zambia’s adaptive social protection systems.