CEJ Unveils Comprehensive Strategy and Implementation Framework for Environmental Protection Dialogue
The Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) has launched a groundbreaking Strategy and Implementation Framework for the Environmental Protection Dialogue (EPD), marking a significant step in addressing Zambia’s environmental challenges.
The announcement was made by CEJ Board Chairperson, Vincent Ziba, during an event in Lusaka co-hosted with the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment.
Mr. Ziba emphasized CEJ’s commitment to collaborating with the government to find innovative solutions to environmental issues through the EPD. He acknowledged the impactful journey of the EPD since its inception in 2020, evolving into the largest forum for environmental engagement in Zambia.
Over the past four years, the EPD has grown into a multistakeholder platform, attracting participants from government bodies, foreign embassies, traditional leaders, civil society organizations, academia, and grassroots communities.
Themes ranging from sustainable mining and ecosystem restoration to environmental equity and equal protection underscore the breadth of the commitment to finding holistic solutions.
The EPD has not only served as a platform for dialogue but has acted as a catalyst for tangible action. Discussions on environmental policy, plans, and mechanisms have actively contributed to the implementation of actions across sectors, involving diverse stakeholders, including traditional leaders.
The newly launched Strategy and Implementation Framework serve as a guiding beacon, translating dialogue into impactful actions.
The framework outlines a clear path forward based on resolutions from EPDs and Traditional Leaders Caucuses. It sets strategic objectives, outcomes, outputs, and activities that will guide efforts in the years to come.
In a speech delivered by CEJ Board Member Boniface Mumba, Mr. Ziba highlighted the collective commitment to turning words into actions, recognizing the support of partners and the pivotal role played by the Government of the Republic of Zambia in hosting and facilitating the EPD.
Chief Ishima of the Lunda people of Zambezi District commended CEJ for orchestrating pivotal EPDs. He emphasized the importance of the EPD, particularly in including Traditional Leaders through the establishment of the Traditional Leader Caucus (TLC).
This dedicated space has facilitated discussions on vital issues such as land laws, environmental governance, conservation, and mineral resource management.
The EPD resolutions encompass critical aspects of ecosystem restoration, climate financing and policy, environmental rights and justice, and environmental protection.
Chief Ishima acknowledged the escalating costs of climate adaptation and mitigation, underscoring the need for increased accessibility to climate finance, particularly for small-scale farmers.
The CEJ’s EPD Strategy and Implementation Framework are poised to be a roadmap guiding Zambia toward a future where environmental challenges are met with resilience, innovation, and sustainable solutions.
