For years, 29-year-old Kumwendabai Sitali has served as a mentor in his community in Shangombo District, guiding and encouraging people facing various life challenges. However, after participating in a Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) training under the AIM Zambia Project, he now feels better equipped to support individuals and families struggling with mental health issues and social challenges.

A training, conducted from 17th to 19th June 2026, brought together community members and leaders to strengthen their capacity to provide psychosocial support and promote mental well-being within their communities. Implemented by ADRA Zambia under the AIM Zambia Project, the initiative aims to build more resilient and inclusive communities across Zambia.

For Kumwendabai a person with a disability (a person with hearing impairment) the experience was eye-opening.

“By attending this training organised, I have realised the importance of supporting people with disabilities in different settings. The knowledge and skills I have gained will help me support people in my community including persons with disability who face various mental health challenges,” he said.

As a mentor, Kumwendabai regularly interacts with community members who face emotional, social, and family-related difficulties. Before attending the training, he often wanted to help but lacked the knowledge and confidence to effectively respond to mental health concerns.

The training changed that.

Through practical sessions on mental health awareness, psychosocial support, disability inclusion, and community care, Kumwendabai learned how to identify signs of distress, provide emotional support, and connect people to appropriate services when needed.

“Being a mentor, I can now better encourage and uplift people who may be struggling. Many people face challenges that affect their mental well-being, and sometimes they do not know where to turn for help,” he explained.

The lessons extended beyond individuals to families and the wider community.

“I have learned ways to support not only those experiencing mental health challenges but also their families. When families are supported, it becomes easier for people to overcome the difficulties they are facing and find hope again,” he added.

Kumwendabai believes the knowledge gained through the training will have a lasting impact in Shangombo District. By sharing what he has learned and applying it in his mentorship work, he hopes to contribute to a community where people feel supported, understood, and empowered to seek help when needed.

The AIM Zambia Project implemented by ADRA Zambia is led by Italian Lay Centre for the Missions (CELIM) and funded by the Government of Italy, with implementation support from consortium partners working together to improve the lives and well-being of vulnerable populations across Zambia.

Story by Memory Musamba

Photos by Memory Musamba