Zambia and JICA Sign Agreement for HOPE Phase 2 Refugee Integration Project

Zambia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to launch the second phase of the HOPE Project, aimed at deepening the integration of former refugees in the Mayukwayukwa and Meheba settlements over the next three years.

The project builds on the success of its first phase, which ran from 2020 to 2025. That phase supported the government in relocating former refugees from camps to designated integration areas, with a focus on social inclusion and economic empowerment. It helped equip individuals with skills to contribute meaningfully to their new communities.

Phase Two will continue this work, placing greater emphasis on creating “productive, integrated and inclusive communities.”

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mavis Nkomeshya, Permanent Secretary for Resettlement in the Office of the Vice President, stressed the importance of collaboration between all stakeholders.

“It will also recognise refugees, former refugees, settlers, and host communities as equal partners in development,” she said. “If these communities [are] supported meaningfully, [they] can become powerful examples of social cohesion, resilience and shared prosperity.”

JICA Chief Representative Jotaro Tateyama noted that Phase Two has been shaped by lessons learned during the initial stage of the project. “The project shall implement various activities aimed at addressing specific challenges that limit the integration and productivity of the people living in Meheba and Mayukwayukwa,” he said.