The Zambian Drivers Vendors and Marketeers Association (DRIVEMA) has joined forces with the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIMA) in a collaborative effort to raise awareness and enroll market vendors for health insurance. This initiative seeks to broaden health coverage to a significant portion of Zambian society, with a specific focus on vendors and marketeers, who often face heightened vulnerabilities concerning health-related challenges.
DRIVEMA Secretary-General William Sitali disclosed to Flava News that the registration process commenced at Kapalala Market in Masala, Ndola. Mr. Sitali elaborated that Kapalala Market was strategically chosen for its high foot traffic, presenting an opportune setting for disseminating information and enrolling new members.
On 18th April, 2024, NHIMA authorities successfully conducted a registration drive from morning until noon. Despite its success, the programme was prematurely halted due to resource constraints, underscoring the obstacles DRIVEMA encounters in sustaining such endeavours.
Mr. Sitali highlighted the deficiency in corporate social responsibility in Zambia, noting that while businesses readily support government-led initiatives, they are less forthcoming in backing association-led programmes.
He expressed optimism regarding the expansion of the programme to encompass all markets within Ndola District and eventually extending to markets nationwide. Mr. Sitali has called upon companies and business leaders to exhibit greater interest in supporting market vendors and drivers through partnerships and social responsibility endeavours.
