Kafue Flats to Benefit from Climate Adaptation and Wildlife Conservation Projects
The Kafue Flats ecosystem is set to receive a major boost through two climate adaptation and conservation projects valued at approximately USD 9 million, aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability and community resilience.
Speaking at the validation meeting held at The Urban Hotel in Lusaka, Acting Permanent Secretary Mr. Ranford Simumbwe expressed gratitude for the initiative, highlighting the increasing threats posed by droughts and floods on rural livelihoods and ecosystems.
“To address these challenges, the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, has partnered with WWF Zambia and the International Crane Foundation to develop sustainable interventions,” said Mr. Simumbwe.
The two projects under the 8th Global Environment Facility (GEF) replenishment cycle include:
- Kafue Flats Climate Resilience and Adaptation Project (KaF-Adapt) – Funded through the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF), valued at USD 2,760,000.
- Kafue Flats Wildlife, Habitat, Health, and Livelihoods Project (KaF-Wild) – Funded through the GEF Trust Fund, under the Global Wildlife Conservation for Development (WCD) integrated program, amounting to USD 6,666,665.
“These projects will not only conserve the Kafue Flats’ ecosystem and wildlife but also enhance community resilience, ensuring sustainable coexistence of people, livestock, and wildlife,” added Mr. Simumbwe.
WWF Zambia Country Director, Mrs. Nalucha Ziba, acknowledged the government’s commitment to securing funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), with WWF Zambia serving as the implementing agency.
The validation meeting was attended by Senior Chief Nalubamba of Namwala, officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Lands, and Natural Resources, and Namwala Town Council representatives.
These initiatives reinforce the Zambian government’s commitment to biodiversity conservation, sustainable land management, and climate adaptation, ensuring “development without destruction” for present and future generations.