Southern
Our work In Southern Province
Southern Province is one of the most deprived in Zambia and one of the most vulnerable to climatic disasters. 75% of its population live in rural communities, with most reliant on agriculture to make their living.
Zambia’s biggest attraction, the colossal Victoria Falls, is located in the province bordering its neighbour, Zimbabwe. Although there is usually good access to water, the province experiences low rainfall and is particularly affected during periods of drought.
Our Work
Through our grassroots partners in Southern Province we support primary and secondary pupils with uniforms, books, stationary and school fees as well as providing daily nutritious school meals for pupils.
Chibolya Community School was established in 2012 by Chibolya Education and Health Organisation (CEHOZ) because there was only one oversubscribed state primary school in the area and no secondary school for a population of approximately 10,000. From its humble beginnings in a dark, cramped disused beer hall 600 pupils from pre-school to Grade 12 are now educated in light, airy classrooms and a dedicated nursery block.
This was made possible thanks to the generosity of the Savannah Charitable Trust, who funded the development of the new school in 2012 and the addition of new classrooms in 2018 and continue to make generous contributions towards its running costs.
From 2024 we are working with a new partner in Pemba District, Chibozu Community School.
Changing children's futures
Children without access to a quality education are trapped in a cycle of poverty, and orphaned or other vulnerable children are more likely to end up in child labour, suffering abuse and early marriage.
ZOA provides a holistic approach to breaking the cycle of poverty, not only enabling orphans and other vulnerable children to go to school but crucially keeping them there by providing nutritious school meals, mental health support and looking at other reasons why children, particularly girls, drop out of school or are unable to reach their potential.
Our partner, Chibolya, is especially ambitious in becoming a sustainable community and becoming self-sufficient. They have established a fish farm and the proceeds from fish sales support the most vulnerable pupils. The fish also provides essential nutrition for the pupil’s school lunches.
We are delighted that an increasing number of children we started supporting ten years ago are now qualifying for tertiary college.
Inclusive education
Joseph, 7 Years Old
“My mum and dad died when I was young so I live alone with my grandmother. Growing up without a parent is a challenge. I walk eight kilometres to and from school and when there’s no food at home it makes it hard to concentrate in class. I only had one pair of trousers but now I’m supported with uniform, shoes and socks and I look like my friends at school. I’m no longer worried about school fees because they’re paid for and even if there’s no food at home I can eat at school. School is important because I’ll get a job and I’ll be able to help myself and my grandmother. I want to become a teacher.”
Changing futures
Emmanuel Mwape, 20 Years Old
“I personally thank ZOA for being very supportive since 2010. You are the one who sponsored me through school. Without your help I wouldn’t be this far in terms of education. Thank you very much for continuing to support us so that one day we’ll finish our education and become bright and productive citizens.”
[Emmanuel is now studying at Eden University. The photo is of him was taken ten years ago when ZOA first started supporting him.]
Help change a child's future
Your help can support children through primary and secondary school, provide nutritious school meals so pupils aren’t learning on an empty stomach and support those that can through tertiary vocational training. We provide a holistic approach so also provide mental health support and other inputs where needed.