Govt. calls for partnerships in planting trees to mitigate climate change

Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Collins Nzovu, has called for concerted efforts from various Stakeholders to partner with the government to plant trees in order to fight the negative impact of climate change.

Mr Nzovu says the effects of climate change have impacted negatively on the country's gross domestic product and food security, and that there is a need to continuously plant trees to promote environmental sustainability.

He said this when he officiated at the tree planting exercise at Lusaka national Park where 1, 200 trees were planted spearheaded by Worldview Institute, an Organisation which promotes environmental sustainability.

The Minister has noted that forests have the capacity to generate revenue for the country if well harnessed and has since urged the people to stop deforestation.

He commended Worldview Institute, Zanaco and other stakeholders for championing the fight against climate change by planting trees to promote environmental sustainability.

Mr Nzovu observed that the country is witnessing flooding and high temperature as well as water borne diseases such as cholera due to unsustainable use of the environment and failure to manage waste which in turn clog drainage systems.

He said to this effect, the Government will soon stiffen the law to deter people that harm the environment because the environment promotes tourism for the country through animals and other biodiversity.

He explained that the Government is poised to start generating revenue from forests through carbon trading which has the potential to grow the economy significantly.

And Worldview Institute Chief Executive Officer, Isaac Chitibwi encouraged people to become stewards of the environment because it is a source bioversity.

He explained that the Worldview Institute with support from stakeholders such as Zanaco among others is resolved to plant trees as part of the one million trees projected to be planted by 2030 to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Meanwhile, Zanaco Chief Executive Officer, Mukwandi Chibesakunda said the bank has contributed 1,000 trees to the think green project and has committed to provide additional 3000 trees to be planted in other areas.

She noted that the move is a significant step in the journey towards a greener and more sustainable future for Zambia.

Ms Chibesakunda observed that the importance of conserving nature in the wake of climate change cannot be overstated.

She said deforestation is a pressing issue in Zambia which has widespread impact on the environment, biodiversity and climate.