Lusaka, Zambia – June 2026
Mental health and psychosocial support received a major boost in communities in Zambia following a three-day Community Mentor Training conducted from 17th to 19th June 2026 under the AIM Zambia Project.
The training, facilitated by ADRA Zambia, brought together 26 Community-Based Volunteers (CBVs) and Lead Farmers from Shangombo, Sikongo, Kalomo, Namwala, Mumbwa, Chibombo, and Lusaka. They were joined by 8 health facility staff and 9 District Task Force representatives, creating a strong network of community actors committed to improving mental well-being at the grassroots level.
Implemented through a consortium comprising L’Africa Chiama Odv (LAC), Africa Call Organisation (ACO), Christian Blind Mission Italy (CBM Italy), Christian Blind Mission International (CBM International), People in Need (PIN), Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), and Keepers Zambia Foundation (KZF), the AIM Zambia Project continues to champion inclusive community development.
The training demonstrated inclusion in action, bringing together participants from diverse backgrounds, including a Community-Based Volunteer with a hearing disability. This reinforced the project’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in accessing knowledge and opportunities to support community well-being.
During the three days, participants gained practical skills in psychological first aid, stress management and coping strategies, leadership and active listening, early identification of psychosocial distress, and referral pathways to specialised services. Through interactive discussions, group work, and real-life scenarios, participants learned how to provide compassionate and effective support to individuals facing emotional and mental health challenges.
For Stella Lungu, a participant from Kanyama in Lusaka District, the training transformed her understanding of mental health support and the role communities can play in helping those in distress.
“Before this training, I thought mental health support was something only doctors and counsellors could provide. I have learned that even as a community mentor, I can make a difference by listening, encouraging people, and helping them access the right support. Many people in our communities suffer in silence, and now I feel empowered to help them find hope and assistance,” said Stella.
She added that the skills gained during the training will help her better support vulnerable individuals and families in Kanyama who may be struggling with stress, anxiety, trauma, and other psychosocial challenges.
With their newly acquired knowledge and skills, the trained mentors will work closely with health facility staff and under the oversight of District Task Forces to identify individuals experiencing psychosocial distress and provide basic psychosocial support while facilitating referrals to specialised services when necessary.
The initiative is expected to strengthen community-based mental health support systems, increase awareness about psychosocial well-being, and contribute to healthier, more resilient communities across the project implementation areas.
The AIM Zambia Project 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.
Article by Memory Musamba
Photos by: Bettina Szabo
English