Examining Effectiveness of CDF Youth Empowerment Schemes in Reducing Unemployment: A Case Study of the Lusaka Urban Carpentry Projects

The study aimed at examining the effectiveness of youth empowerment schemes funded through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in addressing unemployment through urban carpentry projects in Lusaka. The specific objectives were to assess the types of carpentry activities implemented, to analyze the effectiveness of the Lusaka urban carpentry projects, and to identify the challenges and limitations experienced by youths in implementing these projects. A descriptive case study design was adopted, combining both quantitative and qualitative Approaches. The target population consisted of youths participating in the projects, with a sample size of 100 respondents selected through purposive and stratified sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, and document analysis, and analyzed using statistical and thematic techniques. Triangulation was employed to enhance reliability and validity, while ethical considerations such as informed consent, confidentiality, and voluntary participation were observed. Limitations included time and resource constraints affecting generalizability. The study revealed that youth carpentry activities under the CDF schemes in Lusaka, particularly at Buseko Market include furniture making, door and window fabrication, and small-scale renovations. Quantitative results showed a significant relationship between production method and raw material sourcing (χ² (9) = 18.26, p = 0.032; Cramér’s V = 0.247). Participation in carpentry projects modestly improved skills, income, and employability, with mean socioeconomic impact scores around 2.56–2.69. Qualitative findings highlighted Buseko Market as a central hub for practical skill development, mentorship, and client engagement. However, production outcomes were minimally influenced by training, project duration, or furniture focus, emphasizing the role of market access and resources. Major challenges included limited tools, raw materials, market access, competition, and socio-cultural expectations, which constrained overall project effectiveness. The recommendations made were to improve access to tools and raw materials, provide ongoing mentorship and business training, and strengthen market linkages to ensure sustainable income and employment opportunities for youth participants.