In January last year, CIDRZ, through its Empowered Children and Adolescents Program (ECAP III) funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), distributed over 111 sewing machines and accessories to 184 beneficiaries across six districts in Zambia: Chilanga, Kafue, Chongwe, Lusaka, Petauke, and Chipata. This initiative aimed to enhance community livelihoods by equipping participants with the tools to create sustainable income sources.

Among the recipients were Rita Mupukuta, a widow with five children, and Ireen Mpande, a mother of four, both from  Kafue district. Rita, who faced significant challenges after her husband’s passing in 2016, found renewed hope through the program.

 “When Ireen and I received the sewing machine, I felt a huge relief, knowing it would improve our lives. My life has indeed transformed today, and I can now provide for my family,” said Rita.

Ireen, who shares the sewing machine with Rita, had no prior sewing experience, but now has learnt the skill and can now make various types of clothing. “Now, I can support our families by selling the clothes we make and buying essential items like mealie meal,” Ireen  happily narrated.

Both Rita and Ireen have expressed their gratitude to CIDRZ’s USAID ECAP III for empowering them with the sewing machines. This support has enabled them to generate income, thereby sustaining their households and improving their quality of life.