Environmental Experts Urge Stronger Enforcement of Plastic Waste Laws

Environmentalists in Zambia have raised alarm over the ongoing lack of enforcement of key legislation aimed at reducing plastic waste in the country. The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Statutory Instrument 65 of 2018, which bans plastics below 30 microns, has yet to see robust implementation, leaving the country at a significant environmental disadvantage. Experts argue that while the legislation was a step in the right direction, the failure to enforce it has led to the persistence of plastic pollution, which continues to threaten Zambia’s environment and public health.

Eugene Kabilika, an environmental advocate and prominent figure in Zambia’s green movement, has been outspoken about the government’s failure to enforce the law. Kabilika has pointed out that despite the clear intentions behind the ban, the lack of effective monitoring and regulation has rendered the law ineffective. He expressed frustration at the government’s tendency to introduce legislation that lacks the necessary frameworks for enforcement and follow-up actions.

Kabilika emphasized that the situation is especially urgent given the increasing severity of climate change’s impacts on Zambia. From unpredictable weather patterns to increased flooding and droughts, the country is grappling with the consequences of a changing climate. In this context, managing plastic waste and enforcing the EPR law becomes not only a matter of environmental protection but also a crucial step toward addressing broader environmental challenges that are exacerbated by plastic pollution.

“It’s disappointing that we have a law that is designed to protect the environment, but the lack of enforcement means it remains largely ineffective,” Kabilika said. “Without effective enforcement, we will continue to see an increase in plastic pollution, which has a negative impact on our climate resilience efforts.”

Kabilika’s concerns are echoed by other environmental groups in Zambia, who argue that plastic pollution is among the most pressing environmental challenges facing the nation. The accumulation of plastic waste in urban centers and rural areas alike contributes to environmental degradation, clogging waterways, harming wildlife, and polluting the land. It is estimated that plastic waste makes up a significant portion of the country’s waste stream, with plastic bags, bottles, and packaging materials frequently being discarded improperly.

Conwell Hakapya, the Executive Director of Citizens Environmental and Social Concern, added to the conversation by calling for increased investment in high-tech recycling solutions. Hakapya emphasized that Zambia’s current waste management systems are overwhelmed by the volume of waste generated, and traditional methods of waste disposal and recycling are no longer sufficient to meet the growing demand.

“We need to attract high-tech solid waste recycling companies to Zambia,” Hakapya said. “The traditional methods of dealing with waste are simply not enough to address the scale of the problem. High-tech solutions will allow us to recycle more efficiently, reduce waste, and create green jobs in the process.”

According to Hakapya, the key to tackling Zambia’s growing solid waste crisis lies in adopting more modern, efficient recycling technologies. These technologies can transform plastic waste into valuable resources, such as recycled plastic materials or even energy. Moreover, such systems could help curb the volume of waste sent to landfills, reducing the environmental footprint of Zambia’s growing urban populations.

However, the challenges of addressing Zambia’s plastic pollution and waste management issues are not only technological but also systemic. Both Kabilika and Hakapya agree that a lack of comprehensive waste management policies, a fragmented recycling industry, and insufficient public awareness about the environmental impact of waste are contributing factors to the problem.

The absence of a clear strategy for waste reduction and management has allowed plastic waste to proliferate unchecked, despite the existence of laws and policies aimed at addressing the issue. It is clear that Zambia must not only strengthen enforcement of its plastic waste legislation but also develop an integrated approach that includes technological innovation, increased public awareness, and public-private partnerships.

To this end, government action is critical. It must establish a clear regulatory framework that incentivizes businesses to invest in sustainable packaging and recycling technologies while also ensuring that consumers are educated about the proper disposal of plastic waste. Without such efforts, Zambia risks continuing the cycle of environmental degradation.

In conclusion, environmental experts have called on the government to take decisive steps to enforce existing laws and introduce innovative solutions to tackle plastic pollution. By strengthening the enforcement of the EPR Statutory Instrument 65 of 2018 and promoting the use of high-tech recycling solutions, Zambia can take significant strides toward solving its growing waste crisis and improving its climate resilience.

Calls for Term Limits in Zambia’s Parliament to Foster Fresh Leadership and Accountability

Governance Expert Sikwindi Situla has called for the introduction of laws to limit the tenure of Members of Parliament (MPs) in Zambia, suggesting that aligning MPs’ terms with the presidential tenure could bring about much-needed changes in the country’s political landscape. Situla’s proposal aims to revitalize governance by creating opportunities for new leadership and ensuring MPs remain motivated to effectively represent their constituencies.

In his remarks, Situla explained that long-serving MPs often lose their passion and drive for meaningful representation, leading to stagnation within constituencies. He noted that some MPs who have overstayed their welcome in office have become disconnected from the needs of their voters, thereby undermining the potential for real progress. By capping the number of terms an MP can serve, Zambia would allow for the introduction of fresh perspectives, which could bring about innovative solutions to the country’s challenges.

Situla’s proposal goes beyond the question of individual MPs’ longevity and touches on the wider democratic health of the country. He emphasized that term limits would not only allow for more dynamic leadership but also increase voter engagement by fostering a competitive political environment. By introducing term limits, Zambia could reduce the risk of entrenched political dynasties and the monopolization of power, which often leads to corruption and a lack of accountability. Regular turnover in parliament would ensure that MPs are continually evaluated by the electorate, creating a more responsive and accountable political system.

Implementing such changes, however, would require a constitutional amendment a process that Situla acknowledges as both complex and demanding. A constitutional amendment would involve a series of consultations and legal steps, requiring broad political and public support. Nevertheless, the potential benefits of such reforms particularly the infusion of new ideas into the political system could provide a much-needed boost to Zambia’s democratic governance.

While some critics argue that experienced MPs provide valuable institutional knowledge, Situla counters that such expertise can be maintained through proper systems of documentation and mentorship. He also stressed that limiting MPs’ terms would not preclude experienced leaders from contributing to public life in other ways, such as through advisory roles or by offering their insights in non-governmental capacities.

Moreover, limiting parliamentary terms could lead to a more inclusive and representative government. By opening up opportunities for new candidates, especially from marginalized groups, the system could encourage more youth and women to step into leadership roles. A more diverse parliament could bring with it a broader range of viewpoints, fostering policies that better represent Zambia’s changing demographics.

Situla’s call to action is not an attack on current leaders but rather a constructive proposal aimed at strengthening Zambia’s political institutions. If adopted, it could usher in a new era of governance that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and the continuous renewal of leadership. Though the road to implementing term limits may be challenging, the long-term benefits such as greater political diversity, a more engaged electorate, and a more vibrant democratic process—are undeniably worth pursuing.

As Zambia moves forward in strengthening its democracy, Situla’s proposal offers a timely and relevant discussion on how to ensure the country’s political system remains responsive to the needs of all its citizens. The conversation surrounding term limits, while complex, could ultimately shape the future of governance in Zambia for generations to come.

ESCO Moves Closer to Finalizing Zambia-Tanzania-Kenya Power Interconnector Deal

In a major development for Zambia’s energy sector, ZESCO has confirmed that negotiations for the construction of the Zambia-Tanzania-Kenya (ZTK) interconnector are in the advanced stages. The project, which is set to increase Zambia’s electricity import capacity, promises to ease the ongoing issue of load shedding while enhancing regional energy cooperation.

The Zambia-Tanzania-Kenya interconnector aims to import approximately 300 megawatts of electricity from Tanzania, a crucial step in addressing Zambia’s current energy deficits. Additionally, the project includes plans for two new transmission lines connecting Zambia to the Eastern Power Pool, which encompasses several neighboring countries, via Tanzania.

ZESCO’s Corporate Affairs Manager, Rose Sibisi, spoke about the significance of this initiative, stating that the company is in the final stages of negotiations with Tanzania to bring the project to fruition. According to Ms. Sibisi, the ZTK interconnector is expected to significantly mitigate power shortages and reduce load-shedding hours that have plagued the country in recent years.

“Once completed, the Zambia-Tanzania-Kenya power interconnector will be a game-changer for Zambia’s energy supply, helping to stabilize the grid and enhance the reliability of power delivery across the country,” Sibisi said. She emphasized that this collaborative project with Tanzania is part of ZESCO’s broader strategy to ensure a more resilient energy infrastructure for Zambia.

The construction of the interconnector will not only improve Zambia’s electricity supply but also strengthen regional energy security by facilitating power exchanges between the three countries. This initiative is part of a larger effort by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to improve regional energy connectivity, which is seen as vital for economic growth and development in the region.

The ZTK project also underscores Zambia’s ongoing commitment to diversifying its energy sources and ensuring long-term energy sustainability. The move to import electricity from Tanzania, in particular, is seen as a strategic solution to the country’s current reliance on domestic hydropower generation, which has been vulnerable to fluctuating water levels in recent years.

The interconnector is expected to bring economic benefits beyond just the reduction of load-shedding. It is anticipated to lower energy costs for consumers in Zambia, as it will provide access to a more stable and diversified energy mix. Furthermore, the project is expected to spur job creation in the construction and energy sectors, as well as attract further investments into Zambia’s energy infrastructure.

In the broader context, the Zambia-Tanzania-Kenya interconnector represents a crucial step toward realizing the goals of the African Union’s Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), which seeks to integrate the continent’s energy markets and enhance access to reliable and affordable power.

With the negotiations nearing completion, all eyes are now on the successful implementation of the interconnector project. ZESCO’s progress in finalizing the agreements with Tanzania could set the stage for a transformative shift in Zambia’s energy landscape, offering hope to millions of citizens who have endured frequent power outages in recent years.

The interconnector will also reinforce the strategic energy partnership between Zambia, Tanzania, and Kenya, and could potentially pave the way for further regional collaborations in the energy sector, making energy more accessible, affordable, and reliable across East and Southern Africa.

As the project progresses, the region and Zambia’s energy consumers will undoubtedly be looking forward to the full benefits of this important infrastructure development.

The State has officially taken over a farm belonging to former President Edgar Lungu’s daughter, Tasila Lungu, located in Sinda District, Eastern Province.

The seizure follows a judgment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Court, which ruled that Ms. Lungu failed to justify her source of income to warrant the purchase of the property.

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Gilbert Phiri, announced that the government is drafting a bill for the management of forfeited properties. He noted that law enforcement agencies have recovered and forfeited numerous properties suspected to be proceeds of crime, which are now benefiting the Zambian people.

Speaking in Sinda District during a visit by law enforcement officials to the forfeited Kumawa Ranch, Mr. Phiri emphasized that asset recovery and the fight against corruption are not targeted at specific individuals. Instead, the efforts are aimed at ensuring that the country’s resources benefit all citizens.

Drug Enforcement Commission Director-General Nason Banda revealed that the 614-hectare farm is valued at over 8.8 million Kwacha.

The government remains resolute in its commitment to combating corruption and ensuring transparency in the management of national resources.

An Economist in Luapula Province has expressed confidence that the prices of goods and services will stabilize following the increase in the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) by the Bank of Zambia (BOZ).

The Bank of Zambia announced a 50-basis-point increase in the monetary policy rate, raising it to 14 percent. The adjustment, made by the Monetary Policy Committee, is intended to address inflationary pressures.
Reacting to the decision by BOZ, economist Danny Mpasa notes that while the higher MPR will lead to increased borrowing costs from commercial banks, it remains the most effective way to control inflation and stabilize prices.
“The increase in the MPR will help keep inflation under control and stabilize prices,” said Mr Mpasa.

“Although higher interest rates and reduced borrowing might limit liquidity in the economy, this measure will ease the pressure on the kwacha and provide relief.” He added.

Mr Mpasa adds that despite the restricted liquidity in the economy, the move is likely to slow the depreciation of the kwacha against major international currencies, bringing some financial stability.
Meanwhile, Business and Development Expert Emmanuel Munsanje has urged civil servants to avoid taking high-interest loans in light of the adjusted MPR but rather adopt a savings culture.

Mr. Munsanje warned that relying on expensive loans could lead to financial difficulties and frustration among government workers.
“With commercial bank loans becoming more costly, I urge government workers to explore alternative financing options provided by government programmes such as the CEEC and CDF, which have more affordable lending rates,” said Mr. Munsanje.
Mr. Munsanje also commended the government for awarding civil servants a pay rise of K500 across the board.