Rural livelihoods in Zambia largely depend on environmental conditions, with income-generating activities such as livestock rearing and crop farming relying heavily on rainfall. However, the increasing effects of climate change—particularly droughts and floods—have put these livelihoods under serious threat.
As a result, communities are being forced to find alternative ways to sustain their lives, either by working individually or by forming community-based groups.
In MalangaCommunity, located in Kazungula District of Southern Province, the Malanga Self Help Group was formed as a response to these challenges. The group consists of 15 members who came together to promote savings and self-reliance. Initially,the group faced several challenges, including limited financial literacy, poor record keeping, and the absence of income-generating activities.
Through theResponse Networks Community Education Program, the group received capacity-building support in financial literacy, record keeping, and group management. This support significantly strengthened the group’s operations and confidence.
Mostimportantly, the group has now successfully engaged in income-generating activities (IGAs), which have greatly improved its financial base. Beyond saving and lending money among members, the group has invested in poultry production and currently has 210 broiler chickens in their second production cycle.
The MalangaSaving Group has had a positive impact at the household level. Members are now
able to borrow funds to start or expand individual businesses, enabling them to meet essential family needs such as food, education, and healthcare. Overall, the group has become a strong example of how community savings groups can build resilience and promote self-reliance in the face of climate change.