Women in Zambia Vulnerable to Exploitation Amid USAID Funding Cuts

Severe droughts in Zambia have led to the sexual exploitation of women in fishing villages, exacerbated by cuts to USAID funding for protective programs. The RISE initiative was crucial for addressing these issues but has been abruptly halted, leaving women vulnerable to coercive relationships. ActionAid warns that restoring aid is essential to prevent further harm and combat gender-based violence in the region.

Women and girls in Zambian fishing villages are facing escalating exploitation due to severe droughts and cuts in foreign aid. As these communities struggle with poverty, many women are coerced into sexual relationships with fishermen in exchange for fish, a vital resource for survival. This issue has been exacerbated by USAID’s termination of funding for programs designed to protect these vulnerable populations.

The RISE (Resilient Inclusive Sustainable Environment) program, formerly supported by USAID, received a $400,000 grant but was abruptly halted following changes in U.S. foreign aid policy under President Trump. Faides TembaTemba, ActionAid Zambia’s Country Director, noted that this program provided essential protection for women suffering from gender-based violence, and its cessation has led to increased distrust and the inability to implement necessary measures for the future.

Fishing has become a critical livelihood for families in the Western Province of Zambia due to recent droughts that have made farming unsustainable. As the fish supply dwindles, women face coercion from fishermen who increase fish prices artificially or demand sexual favors. Many women, like Palekelo, have been forced into exploitative situations because they lack bargaining power.

The stigma surrounding sexual exploitation further complicates matters for women in these villages, whom often face ridicule if they come forward. TembaTemba emphasized that many women end up hiding their experiences to avoid shame, leading to a culture of silence. Moreover, the repercussions extend to their families, particularly husbands who may abandon their wives over societal perceptions of infidelity resulting from exploitation.

Martha, an advocate for awareness in the fishing community, remarked on the prevalence of these exploitative practices, indicating that they remain largely unspoken. To combat this, ActionAid initiated community engagement, creating watch groups and training sessions to empower women and educate men about harmful gender norms. However, the cessation of the RISE project leaves the community vulnerable and without constructive means to address these challenges.

In 2024, Zambia reported over 42,000 cases of gender-based violence, reflecting the urgency of the situation. Proposed cuts to USAID funding are deemed detrimental by ActionAid officials, as they threaten necessary assistance for the world’s most vulnerable populations. The authority calls for immediate restoration of aid, stressing that these funding decisions result from political maneuvers rather than a genuine concern for those in need.

The exploitation of women in Zambian fishing villages has worsened due to devastating droughts and cuts in USAID funding for protective programs. The termination of the RISE project has left vulnerable women without crucial support, increasing the risk of sexual exploitation. ActionAid highlights the urgent need for restored funding to combat gender-based violence and support those affected by these predatory practices. Immediate action is vital to safeguard the health and dignity of women in these communities.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk