News
Farmers in Chiyabi, Sinazongwe District, are practicing climate-resilient farming by intercropping winter maize with watermelons and pumpkins. This method helps in moisture conservation and contributes to better land utilisation. Photo courtesy of CJC Media.
Scottish Government officials recently visited Zambia to see the transformative work of the Climate Just Communities (CJC) project, which is providing a lifeline to communities grappling with the harsh impacts of climate change. The NIRAS-organised visit marks a significant moment in the ongoing partnership between the Scottish Government and local organisations, who are working together to build climate resilience and foster sustainable development.
Upon their arrival, the delegation held high-level meetings with Zambian officials, including Mr. Ephraim Shitima, Director of Climate Change at the Ministry of Green Economy & Environment. The discussions emphasised a shared commitment to addressing climate challenges and strengthening the resilience of Zambia’s most vulnerable communities. The delegation also met with CJC delivery partners, which include the Council of Churches in Zambia, the Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia, the Green Living Movement, Disability Rights Watch, Tearfund and the Civil Society for Poverty Reduction. These partnerships are at the heart of the project’s success, ensuring that a diverse range of stakeholders contributes to climate adaptation efforts.
The officials then visited Sinazongwe, a district where CJC interventions are making a tangible difference. During a meeting with Sinazongwe District Commissioner, Mr. Nchimunya Siakole, and Her Royal Highness, Chieftainess Sinazongwe, the visitors heard firsthand about the positive changes the project has brought. Her Royal Highness praised the programme’s inclusive nature, stating, "Your input has not left anyone out, including people living with disabilities, and that makes me happy. It is heartening to see that this project considers everyone in our community."
The CJC team paying a visit to her Royal Highness,
Chieftainess Sinazongwe
During a stop in Chiyabi Ward, local farmers shared stories of how CJC has positively impacted this rural community. The primary livelihood is rainfed maize farming, and climate change has brought relentless challenges—droughts, high temperatures, and reduced crop yields. Yet, thanks to the CJC project, these farmers now have new tools to secure their future.
The Scottish officials observed firsthand how interventions like winter maize seed production on wetlands utilising residual soil moisture − the seed is being distributed to those who lost seeds during drought emergencies − improved small-scale irrigation systems, and village savings and loan associations (VSLAs) are turning the tide for the people of Chiyabi. The project’s efforts have increased food and income security by introducing drought-tolerant seeds and enabling year-round vegetable farming, primarily led by women. Boreholes have been drilled to provide reliable access to water, and VSLAs are empowering local women with financial literacy and business skills, allowing them to engage in small enterprises and support their families. VSLAs also serve as sources of loans for other business cooperatives in the ward, further strengthening the local economy.
Christopher Siabenzu, a local headman and member of the Community Management Committee expressed his gratitude to the Scottish Government, saying, "These interventions are making a huge difference in the lives of my people. We are now able to achieve much more and build a brighter future for our village."
This visit underscores the vital importance of international collaboration in addressing the global climate crisis. The CJC project, a flagship initiative under the Scottish Government’s Climate Justice Fund, exemplifies how partnerships can create sustainable, inclusive solutions in regions where climate change is felt most acutely. For the communities of Zambia, this initiative offers more than just resilience—it offers hope.
Learn more about the CJC here.
