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Norwegian Church Aid Introduce New Operating Model in Zambia
Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) has announced a new operating model for its work in Zambia, ensuring continued engagement in the country while adapting to changes in partnerships and funding.
Photo from Zambia/NCA.
NCA has been present in Zambia since 2003 and has operated a Joint Country Programme together with DanChurchAid (DCA) since 2011. Following DCA’s decision to withdraw from the programme from 1 January 2027 due to shifts in external funding priorities, NCA has assessed how best to sustain its work in the country going forward.
A regional approach to sustain impact
After a thorough review, NCA has decided to organise its future presence in Zambia under a regional structure led from Malawi. This approach will integrate Zambia into a Malawi-led area office model while maintaining core programme delivery and key partnerships within the country.
Maintaining a presence in Zambia remains strategically important. The new model allows NCA to continue supporting long-standing partners and ongoing programmes, while ensuring flexibility to respond to future opportunities and changing needs.
Several options were considered before selecting the regional model. The chosen approach reflects a balance between financial sustainability, programme quality, and long-term strategic positioning.
At the same time, NCA recognises that the model will require strong coordination, clear governance, and sufficient in-country capacity to manage risks linked to a reduced physical presence.
Transition process underway
A dedicated transition taskforce will be established to guide the process across Malawi, Zambia, and NCA’s Head Office. The transition will take place during 2026, with the new model coming into effect from 1 January 2027.
NCA emphasises that the transition represents a significant organisational change. The organisation is committed to managing it in a responsible, transparent, and supportive way, with opportunities for dialogue and engagement throughout the process.
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