FoCaSS is committed to addressing poverty among women and girls living with HIV in Chipata, Zambia, through sustainable economic empowerment and gender transformative approaches.
Driving transformative change through community-led initiatives that uplift marginalized women and girls living with HIV.
FoCaSS is committed to addressing poverty among women and girls living with HIV through economic empowerment and gender inequality in all the work that we do.
Based in Chipata, the capital of Zambia's Eastern Province, FoCaSS works across bustling urban townships and vast, surrounding rural chiefdoms — reaching the most marginalized and vulnerable women and girls.
Our approach goes beyond responding to gender differences. We aim to transform social and cultural norms, address discriminatory laws, policies and practices that contribute to gender inequalities and increase vulnerabilities to HIV and poverty.
We implement evidence-driven and community-led projects addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality.
Strengthening access to financial services through SACCOs and VSLAs, providing women with resources to start businesses and build livelihoods.
Gender-responsive financial programs with literacy training, entrepreneurship support, and access to credit for economic independence.
Teaching money management and entrepreneurship from an early age, fostering future economic independence for girls and young women.
Promoting regenerative agriculture, crafts, and small businesses while building skills for income diversification and economic stability.
Discover our transformative projects that are driving real change in communities across Chipata and Zambia.
Actions for Community Transformation — A community-driven initiative developed by women living with HIV and managed by them. With FoCaSS providing technical and financial support, ACT addresses deep-rooted causes of poverty, inequality, discrimination, and gender-based violence.
A global solidarity movement for gender equality — engaging men and boys as allies in dismantling patriarchal norms and promoting positive masculinity. Using barbershops, markets, and taverns as safe spaces for dialogue.
From the bustling city center to remote rural chiefdoms, we reach women and girls where they are.
Through community-led interventions and cross-sector collaboration, we're achieving measurable progress.
"Currently violence against women and girls has reduced because of different groups. HeForShe acts when there is a report that a woman or a girl has been violated. So, I can say now VAWG has reduced compared with the past."
FoCaSS has contributed to the development of gender equality policies through evidence-based advocacy, including the launch of the National Male Engagement Strategy on Gender Equality, GBV, SRHR and HIV (2023–2030).
Together, we can build a future where gender equality and health equity are a reality for all. Reach out to learn more, partner with us, or support our mission.