Field Visit to Lumezi Discrict, Eastern Province to Tour UNICEF Project to Respond to Humanitarian Needs Emanating from the Impact of Climate Hazards on Cholera and Malnutrition amongst Vulnerable Communities, Women and Children (Japan’s FY2023 Supplementary Budget)

From 20^th to 22^nd November 2024, Mr. OMINATO Satoshi, Deputy Cheif of Mission, visited Lumezi District in Zambia’s Eastern Province, one of the sites of the UNICEF project titled "Responding to Humanitarian Needs Emanating from the Impact of Climate Hazards on Cholera and Malnutrition amongst Vulnerable Communities, Women and Children in Eastern and Muchinga Provinces", funded by Japanese government’s FY2023 Supplementary Budget (maximum amount: US$ 488,981).
 
This project, implemented from January 2024 to January 2025, aims to mitigate the health and nutritional impacts of flooding on vulnerable communities affected by the heavy rains during the 2022/23 rainy season. It also seeks to prevent cholera and other waterborne diseases. The project includes activities such as the early detection and treatment of malnourished children, the provision of nutritional supplements, and improvements in infant and young child feeding practices to prevent malnutrition. Additionally, it promotes hygiene practices and awareness-raising efforts within communities and healthcare facilities to reduce infection risks. The project further strengthens the capacity of nutrition stakeholders, coordinates emergency responses, and evaluates the nutritional status of the targeted areas, aiming to establish a comprehensive support system.
 
Prior to the site visit, Mr. Ominato paid courtesy calls on Dr. Lewis Mwape, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Provincial Administration, Eastern Province, and Mr. Lufeyo Ngoma, District Commissioner of Lumezi District. During these meetings, he expressed gratitude for their cooperation in implementing the project and requested their continued support. Both officials conveyed their appreciation for Japan’s assistance, which has enabled UNICEF to carry out its activities.
 
During the site visit, Mr. Ominato toured a health facility in Katube to observe child growth monitoring and the distribution of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF). These activities were found to be well-rooted in the community, highlighting the project’s tangible achievements. Moreover, during discussions with residents of Thomas Village within the same area, serious challenges came to light, including the difficulty of accessing the Katube health facility, which requires a two-hour walk; reliance on a single borehole for water; and severe food shortages due to the 2023/24 drought, reportedly the worst on record, leaving nuts and mangoes as the primary food sources.
 
Through this project, the Government of Japan remains committed to providing continued support, including cholera prevention, contributing to the health and well-being of vulnerable communities in Zambia.