Government through the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit has received the 2023 /2024 Drought pay out of 10 million United States Dollars from the African Capacity Limited (ARC) Group.

Minister of Finance and National Planning, Situmbeko Musokotwane says the payout by ARC includes a 3.3 million United States Dollars to the World Food Programme to help in the mitigation of drought effects in the eight affected districts in the country.

Dr Musokotwane said the Zambian government is obligated to continue paying the premium yearly to ARC Group in order to continue benefiting from the insurance.

Speaking during the 2023/2024 Drought Insurance Payout ceremony in Lusaka, the Minister expressed commitment by the government to become ambassadors to the scheme to encourage other member countries to join the ARC Group.
“Paying of the premium makes sense because we are the ones at risk. As we can see, the scheme works when faced with a disaster, there is a payout hence the need to be prepared and the government is ready to pay the full premium so that we benefit in the future. Obviously, there will be years when we will pay the premium and we won’t have droughts but that’s fine because that’s how insurance works,” he said.

He further thanked ARC Group and other stakeholders for their support t
owards complimenting the government’s efforts in ensuring that no Zambian dies of hunger due to the drought.
And speaking at the same event, African Risk Capacity Group Board Chairperson, Anthony Maruping commended the Zambian government for collaborating with ARC following the drought that the country recently faced.
Dr Maruping said the collective goal of the ARC Group is to enhance Africa’s resilience by providing African Union States services through diverse solutions to cover risks like droughts, floods, disease outbreaks and other disasters.

He expressed ARC Group’s commitment to continue providing new solutions in response to its member states apart from the drought insurance

Meanwhile, World Food Programme Country Director for Zambia, Cissy Kabasuunga expressed gratitude to ARC Group and the Zambian government for their efforts in responding to the impacts of the El Nino induced drought.
Ms Kabasuunga said WFP is excited to be part of the ARC Group innovative Disaster Risk Financing Instrument to mitigate the impact of climate shocks on the most vulnerable populations in the country.
She noted that the organisation’s participation in the ARC Group insurance risk pool for the first time in Zambia, demonstrates its dedication to leveraging innovative strategies to address food insecurity and advance sustainable development goals.

Among those present at the event, included the African Development Bank (AfDB) Chief Country Economist, Nathaniel Agola, Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit National Coordinator, Gabriel Polllen, European Union Delegation to Zambia, Head of Sector, Bogdan Stefanescu, Nerthalands Ambassador to Zambia, Margret Verwijk and Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) Deputy Head of Mission, Stefano Berti.

Tree Planting Exercise and Legal Support for Environmental Growth

The Forestry Advocacy for Communities Communication Transparency Accountability and Research- F(A+C+T+A+R) extends its commendation to the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) for their proactive approach in addressing climate change and promoting environmental sustainability. The recent tree planting exercise at LAZ House underscores the commitment of legal professionals to leverage the law for societal growth, acknowledging that environmental challenges like climate change are pivotal to our nation’s development. This initiative symbolizes the intersection of law and environmental stewardship, demonstrating how legal frameworks can support ecological sustainability.

Promoting Foresters’ Employment and Entrepreneurship through Legislation

Forestry is a critical sector in Zambia’s green economy agenda. It is heartening to see the law profession taking steps to support environmental sustainability. However, addressing climate change also necessitates promoting foresters’ employment and entrepreneurship through effective legislation. Currently, it has been revealed that foresters listed as working in forest concession areas are actually not on-site and not employed. The Government has been informed, and the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment has shown a commitment to taking affirmative action to correct the situation. This initiative aims to create 2,850 jobs for local community members in forest concession areas and 207 professional forester positions. These efforts are timely and essential for tackling unemployment among trained professionals, who often face recruitment processes marred by what is perceived as nepotism and lack of transparency.

Ensuring Accountability in Foresters’ Employment

The reality in our forestry sector reveals a gap between legislation and implementation. While forestry laws support the employment of foresters, many positions remain vacant, creating a false impression of job creation. We advocate for the government, particularly the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment and the Forestry Department, to enforce the employment of professional foresters in concession areas. This measure will not only ensure sustainability but also enhance tax revenue for the government. Moreover, implementing stringent accountability mechanisms will bridge the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that employment opportunities are not just on paper but also reflected in reality.

The Role of Trees in Hydroelectric Power Generation

The conversation between F(A+C+T+A+R) and the Director of Forestry highlighted the crucial role of trees in the hydrological cycle, essential for hydroelectric power generation. Trees contribute to water retention and precipitation, directly impacting water levels in dams like Kariba. The current drought, exacerbated by deforestation, underscores the need for sustainable land and forest management to prevent power shortages. This ecological insight stresses the interconnectedness of forestry and energy sectors, advocating for integrated policies that ensure the health of both forests and hydroelectric resources.

Addressing the Charcoal Conundrum

Charcoal production poses a significant threat to our forests. While some argue for sustainable charcoal production, the practical challenges often make it untenable. A shift towards renewable energy sources is crucial to mitigate environmental degradation and ensure a sustainable future. By exploring alternatives such as solar, wind, and biogas, we can reduce reliance on charcoal, preserving our forests and promoting greener energy solutions. This transition not only addresses deforestation but also opens new avenues for economic growth and energy security.

Prioritizing Service Delivery Enthusiasts Over Salary Mongers

The address by the Secretary to the Cabinet is comforting. In a press briefing at Mulungushi International Conference Center, Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa emphasized the critical role of the public service in promoting national unity and efficient governance. He highlighted initiatives such as recruiting based on competence to reflect the nation’s diversity, enforcing fair human resource policies, and managing resources prudently by mandating government vehicles be parked by 18:00 hours. In response to the national drought disaster, he urged efficient distribution of relief food and personal contributions to national food security. Kangwa also addressed combating corruption, improving communication, supporting sustainability through alternative energy sources, and fostering national unity and lawfulness among public service workers. These measures aim to enhance efficiency, accountability, and inclusivity within the public service to foster a more prosperous Zambia.

F(A+C+T+A+R) echoes the sentiment that public service positions should be filled by qualified individuals dedicated to service delivery rather than personal gain. Nepotism and connections have led to a workforce ill-equipped to handle their roles effectively. This culture undermines the potential for optimal public service and economic development. We call for bold steps to stabilize the civil service, promoting meritocracy and patriotism over self-interest. A civil service driven by dedication and professionalism is crucial for implementing sustainable development policies and ensuring the public sector’s responsiveness to environmental challenges.

In conclusion,

F(A+C+T+A+R) supports LAZ’s initiatives and urges a collaborative approach towards environmental sustainability and job creation in the forestry sector. Addressing climate change and promoting a green economy require concerted efforts across all sectors, including legal, governmental, and environmental advocacy groups. By prioritizing sustainability, transparency, and accountability, we can ensure a robust and resilient future for Zambia. The collective action of diverse stakeholders is essential for building a sustainable and prosperous nation, capable of tackling environmental challenges and promoting economic growth.

By Chaliafya Katungula
Forestry Advocacy for Communities Communication Transparency Accountability and Research -F(A+C+T+A+R)

The Yango Driver who was murdered by unknown people on June 6th, 2024 in Lusaka was put to rest at Mutumbi Cemetery.
Lusaka District Commissioner, Rosa Zulu joined a multitude of Lusaka residents who paid their last respects to the 30-year-old Aaron Katongo.

Speaking during the burial procession, Ms. Zulu said the government is saddened by the killings of drivers, especially Yango Drivers who are fending for their families through Yango business.

She sympathized with the family and the mourners, and assured Yango Drivers of the government’s commitment in ensuring that their lives are protected as they conduct their operations.

“It is sad that a human being can take the life of another person without feeling any remorse and we pray that justice prevails in the murder case of Aaron Katongo,” Ms. Zulu said.

The District Commissioner further informed the drivers that their concern of security will be looked into with the relevant authorities including the Minister of Transport and Logistics.

“I am inviting the leadership of Yango to a meeting at my office so that we can discuss this matter and find solutions to the prevailing situation,” Ms. Zulu said.

She has also called on the public to respect the law by not taking the law into their hands but allow the police to continue with their investigations peacefully.

Meanwhile, former Lusaka Yango Drivers spokesperson, Sibeso Mate, has appealed to the government to consider the plea of the drivers for security of their lives as they serve the public.

Mr. Mate explained that the Yango App has not favored their security as it leads them to places they wish they would not go to if they had a choice.

“This is the seventh death we are recording as Yango Drivers. We are forced to go to places that we are not comfortable with by the App, because we are penalized if we refuse to take a client to the places we are not familiar with and therefore, that puts our lives in danger,” he explained.

Mr. Mate thanked the District Commissioner for mourning with the family and Yango drivers and for her words of hope that the government will look into the security of these drivers.

Aaron Katongo leaves behind a son below 5 years and a wife who has just been employed by the government as a nurse.