As designated by United Nations that the 1st Monday of October every year as World Habitat Day (WHD) to reflect on the state of Human settlements and the basic right to adequate shelter for all. Unlike previous years in Zambia, the WHD was organised by the Civic Forum on Housing & Habitat (CFHH), of which Habitat for Humanity Zambia is a member.
The WHD event was commemorated by showcasing a community housing project in Kawama site & service which is being undertaken by Peoples Process on Housing and Poverty in Zambia (PPHPZ) and the Local Authorities including the private sector in Kitwe. During the event the Ministry of Local Government and Housing Minister Dr. Brian Chituwo who handed over 10 low cost housing units built using low cost technology to well deserving PPHPZ members. Showcasing that the project has been successful as a result of the strong relationship established between the local authorities in Kitwe and ZHPPF, and provided a learning opportunity for other stakeholders on what role communities can play in their own development if provided with an opportunity to do so.
Speaking on behalf of the CFHH, Petronella Shiaka, National Director for Habitat for Humanity Zambia (HFH Zambia) had the opportunity bring to light land and housing issues affecting low income communities.
‘A lack of housing and access to land for low income communities means increased vulnerability to poverty, social instability, disease, death and economic duress. When low income communities lack the legal rights to own or control property, they lack access to wealth and therefore enjoy neither personal nor economic autonomy’. Shiaka said
HFH Zambia - WHD
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In Lusaka, National Office staff also took time out to commemorate WHD by giving psychosocial support to Rose Mpalila a 74 year old widow of Chazanga Township who has not been spared of the effects of poverty and HIV and AIDS which has claimed the lives of all her 5 children. Rose looks after 2 grandsons; Lawrence Sakala (16years) in 8th grade and Peter Mwewa (10years) in 3rd grade, at Chazanga Basic School. Rose and her two grandson’s used to live in a one room mud house until this year in August 2010 that Habitat for Humanity Zambia through the OVC project gifted a new and decent home for Rose and her family. |
Despite the fact that Rose’s economic situation has not improved she says her life has changed enormously. Rose quietly says that she is at peace and comforted at the fact that she will no longer have to worry about the upcoming rains or being flooded out of her house. Rose says, her new home is her pride and joy and is happy to have lived long enough to own her own home.
The HFH Zambia team spent the day cleaning out Rose’s house, giving spiritual encouragement and support.
‘I am at loss of words. God is truly great. Today, I woke up not feeling well and I had been just sitting all alone and God has sent to me angels. You have brightened my day. May God continue to bless the work of Habitat’ said Rose
HFH Zambia staff member Charity Chileshe was also overwhelmed by being in the community and helping Rose.
‘Charity begins at home. God lead us to this house today. I feel so fulfilled and humbled that such this small gesture is much. I am happy to have been able to do this today’. Charity |
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Left: Charity and Kennedy cleaning Rose’s house |
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