Zambia: Good Governance
For the past 30 years, Zambia has been a regional model of peaceful and multi-party political transitions. Despite its impressive economic growth, there is still a lot to do in terms of positive socio-economic conditions for the majority of Zambians. Moreover, recent climate-related disasters and epidemic outbreaks create more pressure and the need to react quickly and work collaboratively across the whole spectrum of society. This is an opportunity for the creation of a transparent, equal, and effective partnership of civil society organizations advocating for change and raising their voices and government institutions able to respond and value its citizens' engagement.
Therefore, People in Need supports active citizen participation and involvement in a decision-making process on a national and provincial level. We empower citizens to voice their needs, advocate local issues, and influence policymaking processes. In parallel, we strengthen the capacity of local authorities to enhance their transparency and accountability and development participatory policymaking processes. Finally, these programs support active citizenship and accountable government and thus contribute to the foundations of good governance and democratic principles.
Past aid programmes
Empowerment of civil societies and democratic governance in Luapula Province and Western Province
Thirty civil-society organizations participate in the project. Members of these organizations receive trainings on various topics, including political engagement, human rights, gender issues, social and decentralization. Trainees also receive briefings on project writing and grant administration. Through these trainings, civil society organizations gain skills to help them reach the political representatives and promote the interests of local people more effectively. Particular attention is paid to helping women develop their leadership and managerial skills.
The project also includes an ongoing information campaign aimed at educating the public. For example, through radio programs, people learn about opportunities for citizens to participate in political decisions. Other programs deal with government responsibilities toward their citizens and citizens’ rights. The main objective of this information campaign is to empower civil society, enable grassroots political participation, and promote political decisions in the field of poverty reduction and regional development.