European Union awards €110,000/ZMW 3 million in grants to strengthen Zambian Civil Society Organizations

The Civil Society LEADS Project, implemented by People in Need and JCTR is designed to strengthen the internal capacity of selected civil society organizations (CSOs) in Zambia. As part of the project, selected CSOs have been awarded grants through a competitive process ranging from €3,500/K98,000 to €7,500/K209,000, to fill a critical gap in funding for institutional development. This investment enables organizations to improve governance frameworks, enhance management skills, and implement strategic planning.

Implemented in Luapula, Lusaka, North-Western, Western and Southern provinces, the CSO LEADs project focuses on enhancing capacities of community-based actors working directly with women, youth, and marginalized communities to promote development. This first round of funding is the initial phase of three planned disbursements, highlighting the vital role of CSOs to effectively engage in policy dialogue, public sector governance and promote local development processes.

Speaking at the ceremony, Petra Gašpárová, Chargée d'Affaires a.i., EU Delegation to Zambia and COMESA, said: "Today, we celebrate the award of the first phase of the three sub-grants, where 20 community organisations are receiving a combined total of EUR 110,000 or ZMW 3 Million. By cascading EU funding to grassroots levels, we are not only promoting democracy, the rule of law, human rights and reducing inequalities, but we are also investing in long-term community resilience, reinforcing local networks and building organisational capacity from the ground up."

She added: "Civil society helps democracy to thrive and society to become more inclusive and more resilient. You play a key role – in holding elected bodies and state institutions accountable, pushing for transparency, justice, empowerment of citizen voices."

Photos from the ceremony

Date: Jul 22, 2025   Place: Zambia   Author: Misozi Dambo   

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The EU official emphasized the Union's commitment to civil society globally, stating: "The European Union is proud to be the largest supporters and donors to civil society worldwide."

This 36-month project, i.e. from June 2024 until May 2027 amounting to EUR 2 million or ZMW 58 million represents the EU's continued commitment to supporting democratic governance and civil society development in Zambia.

Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Justice Mrs. Mwenya Bwalya, Vivian Chikoti, Director of Planning and Governance, said: "As the Ministry of Justice, we recognise our responsibility in creating an enabling governance and legal environment where civil society can thrive. We are committed to upholding the legal and policy frameworks that empower you to fulfil your mission."

Stefania Lagonigro, PIN Country Director, emphasized the critical role of civil society: "Civil society organizations are not only service providers---they are the voice of communities. They defend rights, promote accountability, and help ensure that development is inclusive and rooted in local realities. Today, more than ever, their role is essential in shaping a democratic and resilient Zambia."

She added: "For People in Need, supporting civil society is not a side initiative---it is central to our mission. Your work ensures that the investments Zambia makes and benefits from are truly people-centred, transparent, and responsive to the needs of all---especially women, youth, and marginalised communities."

Rev. Dr. Fr. Daniel Mutale, SJ, JCTR Executive Director, encouraged CSOs that did not receive grants in this first phase, reassuring them that this was only the first disbursement and they would not be left behind in future opportunities.

The project underscores the European Union’s commitment to investing in civil society as a key driver of inclusive governance, citizen participation, and the promotion of democracy, accountability, and human rights in Zambia.