Minister Highlights Climate Investment Successes at COP28
During a captivating presentation at the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Dubai, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu, MP, the Minister of Green Economy and Environment for Zambia, highlighted the notable successes of Zambia’s Nature, People, and Climate Investment Programme.
During a Climate Investment Funds (CIF)-organized side-event titled “How Smart Finance Can Empower Indigenous Peoples for Climate and Nature,” Minister Nzovu outlined significant milestones accomplished through the program.
These successes include the US$91 million Pilot Programme on Climate Resilience (PPCR), which supported climate-resilient development planning and investments to climate-proof the country.
Zambia is also actively participating in the Scaling Up Renewable Energy Programme (SREP), with substantial investments aimed at expanding renewable energy sources, demonstrating the country’s commitment to sustainable development.
A notable announcement came from Hon. Nzovu regarding Zambia’s involvement in the Nature, People, and Climate (NPC) Programme.
The country will collaborate with Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, and Tanzania to develop and implement the Zambezi Region Nature, People, and Climate Investment Plan. This initiative aims to restore 30,000 hectares of degraded wetlands along the Zambezi River Basin.
Specifically, Zambia will craft a country-specific nature, people, and climate investment plan focusing on the restoration and protection of ecosystems in the Lower Kafue Sub-Basin.
Minister Nzovu emphasized the vulnerability of communities and farmers along the Zambezi River to climate change impacts, such as devastating floods and droughts leading to low crop yields.
Acknowledging these challenges, Hon. Nzovu highlighted the significance of the CIF’s catalytic investment and the expertise of partner multilateral development banks. With their support, Zambia intends to invest in nature-based solutions to address these issues.
Through the Zambezi Region Nature, People, and Climate Programme, Zambia aims to reduce soil erosion, enhance soil quality and fertility, expand afforestation and agroforestry initiatives, train 20,000 farmers in conservation agriculture, and preserve 30,000 hectares of wetlands.
In a call for action, the Minister urged direct involvement of local communities to actively participate in efforts to reduce the degradation of ecosystems, protect biodiversity, and preserve natural resources.
The commitment and initiatives showcased by Zambia at COP28 underscore the nation’s dedication to sustainable development and addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change.
