The Chipego Self-Help Group was formed in October 2023 following training conducted under the Disability Inclusion Disaster Risk Reduction (DIDRR) Project. The training empowered two persons with disabilities from Bbondo Ward with knowledge and skills in leadership, inclusion, and community participation.
Today, the group operates in Bbondo Ward and consists of 27 members, including persons with different disabilities such as physical disabilities, visual impairment, hearing impairment, and albinism, as well as parents of children with disabilities.
From the beginning, the group focused on becoming formally registered under the Gwembe Council to strengthen its operations and access development opportunities. In 2024, after engaging with various community leaders, the group developed a business proposal and applied for funding through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). Although their application was unsuccessful that year, the setback did not discourage them.
In 2025, the group renewed its registration certificate, as required annually, and reapplied for the grant. This time, Chipego Self-Help Group was among the successful groups selected to receive K15,000 in funding for a goat-rearing project.
Today, the group proudly runs two income-generating activities: gardening and goat rearing. Through their gardening project, members generated a total income of K7,500 from the sale of okra. The initiative has significantly improved the livelihoods of members and their families.
Group members shared that their lives have changed positively. They are now able to contribute to the wellbeing of their households and community, unlike before when many people perceived persons with disabilities as incapable of providing for their families because of their conditions.
The group expressed sincere gratitude to ADRA Zambia and Christian Blind Mission through the DIDRR Project for empowering persons with disabilities with knowledge, skills, and confidence. The support has helped members become more independent, self-reliant, and active contributors to community development.
Story by: Cynthia Nyirenda
English