Hon. Sikumba Commissions K3 Million Office Block at Blue Lagoon National Park
Minister of Tourism, Honourable Rodney Sikumba, has called on traditional leaders to take a leading role in the protection and sustainable management of wetlands, underscoring their importance as custodians of customary land and natural resources.
Speaking during the official commissioning of a K3 million office block at Naleza Wildlife Camp in Blue Lagoon National Park, Honourable Sikumba said traditional leaders’ deep-rooted connection to the environment positions them to guide communities in the sustainable use of wetlands.
“Traditional leaders preserve indigenous knowledge and promote environmental awareness by teaching communities about the ecological and cultural importance of wetlands. They are key partners to Government and conservation organisations, ensuring that local voices are heard and respected in decision-making,” he said.
The Minister reaffirmed Government’s commitment to environmental sustainability, noting that under the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP), biodiversity conservation and natural resource management remain central to Zambia’s development agenda.
He further revealed that President Hakainde Hichilema has reiterated Zambia’s dedication to protecting its water bodies through collaboration with the Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar Convention).
“Zambia aims to raise compliance with environmental standards from 43 percent to 65 percent and reduce the annual deforestation rate from 172,000 hectares to 120,000 hectares by 2026,” Honourable Sikumba stated.
He added that these targets demonstrate Government’s firm commitment to safeguarding Zambia’s natural heritage, strengthening climate resilience, and ensuring that wildlife and ecosystems continue to sustain livelihoods and promote sustainable tourism for generations to come.
Also speaking at the event, Minister of Water and Sanitation and Area Member of Parliament, Honourable Eng. Collins Nzovu, reaffirmed Government’s commitment to improving tourism infrastructure nationwide, including within his constituency.
He pointed to ongoing road infrastructure projects as a clear sign of the Government’s determination to attract investors and tourists. However, he expressed concern over rising incidents of poaching, urging traditional leaders and local communities to work closely with relevant authorities to combat illegal wildlife activities.
Representing the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Director of National Parks and Wildlife, Mr Dominic Chiinda, said the project aligns with Government’s policy direction, which prioritises conservation infrastructure, community participation, and public-private partnerships as key to sustainable resource management.
Mr Chiinda added that the new office block represents tangible progress towards achieving the objectives of Vision 2030 by enhancing park management, biodiversity monitoring, anti-poaching operations, and community engagement in and around Blue Lagoon National Park.
Vice President for Africa at the International Crane Foundation, Ms Kerryn Morrison, described the commissioning as a reaffirmation of the collective commitment to conserving one of Africa’s most ecologically vital landscapes — the Kafue Flats.
Ms Morrison noted that the region faces continued threats from wetland degradation, illegal trade, poisoning, and the impacts of climate change. She expressed optimism that the newly established facility would serve as a central hub for coordination, research, and field operations under the Kafue Flats Restoration Partnership.
