Zambia Takes Significant Step in Climate Action with Launch of National Adaptation Plan
The Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu MP, marked a pivotal moment for Zambia’s environmental commitment with the official launch of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP).
Emphasizing the need for resource mobilization for effective implementation, Hon. Nzovu underscored Zambia’s dedication to addressing climate change under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
With this launch, Zambia joins the ranks of 16 African countries with national adaptation plans, signaling a concerted effort to combat climate change’s impacts.
The NAP, according to Hon. Nzovu, strategically outlines priority adaptation actions in the medium and long term across various sectors, including agriculture, forestry, energy, water, infrastructure, tourism, wildlife, mining, and health.
The Minister highlighted that the NAP goes beyond sectoral considerations, identifying specific adaptation actions tailored for each of Zambia’s 10 provinces and the three agro-ecological regions.
These regions, classified as regions i, ii (a and b), and iii, reflect the diverse environmental challenges faced by different parts of the country.
“I have no doubt these adaptation actions that were arrived at through rigorous analysis and stakeholder consultations will enhance the country’s resilience to the impacts of climate change,” remarked Hon. Nzovu.
Furthermore, the NAP strategically integrates adaptation actions into national, sectoral, and sub-national planning and budgeting processes.
It addresses capacity gaps and outlines areas for capacity building essential for successful plan implementation.
The plan also includes clear indicators and identifies responsible institutions to monitor and report progress in implementing proposed adaptation actions.
In urging the private sector to play an active role, Hon. Nzovu noted that, globally, the private sector accounts for 85% of all investments and represents close to 75% of global climate finance flow.
The involvement of the private sector is seen as crucial in achieving the ambitious goals outlined in the NAP.
Mr. Ephraim Shitima, Director of Climate Change and Green Economy Department at the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, emphasized that submitting the NAP to the UNFCCC is a milestone for Zambia.
He expressed optimism that the NAP would significantly contribute to the nation’s resilience against the adverse impacts of climate change.
Mr. Shitima said that the launch of Zambia’s National Adaptation Plan marks a significant stride towards sustainable environmental practices and positions the country as an active participant in the global fight against climate change.
