Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa has reaffirmed government’s commitment to safeguarding Zambia’s natural resources, emphasising the need for stronger coordination and policy alignment to address environmental challenges.
Mr Kangwa says the long-term protection of forests, catchments, wetlands, and rivers is critical for the security of both present and future generations.
Mr Kangwa noted that addressing pressure on natural resources requires a coordinated and strategic response across all sectors.
The Secretary to the Cabinet said this in a speech read for him by Cabinet Office Permanent Secretary for Management Development Division, Alfred Sakwiya, during the official opening of the mandate alignment stakeholder’s validation one-day workshop in Lusaka.
The validation workshop that is supported by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) is intended to refine and come up with practical recommendations aimed at improving environmental governance.
Mr Kangwa stressed that strategic governance reform aligns with national and international frameworks, including the national development plan, the 2024 National Water Policy, Vision 2030, and Zambia’s Nationally Determined Contributions to improve institutional efficiency, reduce duplication, and strengthen environmental governance in Zambia.
He added that the workshop forms part of a broader governance review process aimed at addressing institutional overlaps, improving coordination, and enhancing service delivery in the water, environment, and landscape sectors.
Mr Kangwa assured stakeholders of government’s full commitment through the Cabinet Office to implement the outcomes of the process effectively.
Meanwhile, Programme Manager for Environment and Natural Resources at the Swedish Embassy, Antonia Gronvall highlighted the urgent need to address environmental degradation, climate change, deforestation, and unsustainable land use in Zambia.
Mrs Gronvall said strengthening integrated landscape governance is essential not only for environmental sustainability but also for economic growth, food security, energy security, and community resilience.
She noted that effective management of water resources, forests, and wetlands requires clear institutional mandates, strong coordination, and integrated planning across sectors.
She disclosed that the Swedish government remains committed to supporting Zambia’s efforts in sustainable natural resource management, climate action, and integrated water resource management through strengthened partnerships.
Protecting wetlands ?? absolte rubbish
Destroying more like it