Zambia and Canada through the World-Wide Fund for Nature have launched a project dubbed climate adaptation in protected areas valued at 4.2 million Canadian Dollars.
Speaking during the launch this afternoon, Tourism Minister Rodney Sikumba says the project will contribute significantly to protected areas in Zambia by strengthening resilience to the impact of climate change.
He said the innovative way of thinking shows that the initiative designers are already thinking of climate resilience in terms of communities, ecosystems and wildlife. As you will agree with me ladies and gentlemen, communities are at the center of inclusive conservation and are, the custodians of the natural resources and conservation process for our own benefit, in rural and urban areas.
The Minister said This initiative is therefore a testament to the power of collaboration and partnership. It brings together various stakeholders, including the Canadian Government, through Global Affairs Canada (GAC), the Ministry of Tourism, the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture, the private sector entities, traditional leaders, local authorities and community stakeholders. Additionally, the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the Civil society partners will be responsible for the ground implementation in the KAZA TFCA. This is a reflection of the value of partnerships.
Mr.Sikumba said the project will restock wildlife species in Sioma Ngwezi National Park and Mosi O tunya National Park.
And Canadian Minister of International Development Ahmed Hussein said his country has been hit by the worst wild fires and heat waves, hence signifying the need to address the effects of climate change.
