Improved healthcare
Expanding equitable access to health services for members of forest and farm producer organisations.
A member of the Tubuleke Women’s Club, many of whom are now enrolled for health insurance (Photo: Emmanuel Kabila/FAO)
Forest and farm producer organisations (FFPOs) in remote areas of Zambia struggle to provide adequate healthcare for their members. Many producers technically have access to local health facilities, but essential services often remain out of reach because they require out-of-pocket payment costs that many rural households cannot afford. There is often no formalised way of assessing which members can or cannot afford access.
Among the many FFPOs supported by the Forest and Farm Facility (FFF) in Zambia, eight producer groups requested support with access to social protection services: Givens Savings Women’s Club, Chisangalalo Group, Kampamule Group, Masopo Women’s Club, Tubeleke Women’s Club, Muzungula Women’s Club, Tilimbe Women’s Group and Chuunga Women’s Club.
Forest and Farm Facility activities
FFF approved a grant to each of these organisations, which had each identified low health insurance coverage among members as a critical constraint affecting wellbeing. The FFPOs formally proposed enrolment with the National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA) as a means of addressing this shortfall.
Through coordinated facilitation by network organisations such as the Zambia National Forest Commodities Association (ZNFCA) and the Forestry Department, and with support from FFF, the FFPOs were linked to local NHIMA offices, which conducted targeted awareness and sensitisation sessions within the producer groups and directly supported onsite registration of members.
This integrated approach reduced administrative barriers, improved understanding of health insurance benefits and ensured inclusive participation, particularly for women and vulnerable members.
Significance of impact
The impact of these activities has been significant because over 320 FFPO members are now enrolled in NHIMA and have access to essential health services, contributing to improved social protection and long-term sustainability of the members’ livelihoods. This in turn enables the members to play a more active role in the economic activities of their respective FFPOs.
Conclusion
This shift translates into tangible improvements in health access and financial protection. By leveraging the organisational strength of FFPOs, FFF has enabled more equitable access to social services and contributed to stronger, healthier rural communities.
Further reading
Forest and Farm Facility 2023 annual report: climate resilient landscapes and improved livelihoods, Forest and Farm Facility (2024)
The diversified climate-resilient business model of the Tubeleke Club, Zambia National Forest Commodities Association (ZNFCA) and IIED (2020)