Lusaka

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Zambia).

Lusaka is situated in the east of the country, near the border with Zimbabwe. About 3.3 million people live in the province.

Since 1999, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Lusaka.

4,8%
Is the growth rate of the city of Lusaka

Rapid urban expansion

The city of Lusaka is growing fast as people move here in search of a better life. Many people arrive from rural areas but there are also many internally displaced people and refugees from other countries. Despite government efforts, many families live in inadequate housing and have no access to safe sanitation or clean drinking water. Living in such conditions makes them vulnerable to other diseases and health care is not always easily accessible.

1 in 5
Children do not go to primary school

Education

In some ways, children in Lusaka have a better life than children in other areas of the country. However, even though the number of children attending primary school is higher than in other areas, 1 in 5 children do not go to school. Girls are particularly disadvantaged and are at higher risk of dropping out of school to work or marry early. In the past, SOS Children's Villages ran kindergartens and schools in Lusaka - today they are run locally.

Your support makes a difference for children in Lusaka

SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
2,110
Adults and children
Are supported in the community
350
Families
Can stay together
140
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
50
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Learning is important and is also fun. SOS Children's Villages supports children and young adults in school and then with further training. (photo: SOS Children's Villages Zambia).

How your support helps in Lusaka

Strengthening vulnerable families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.