Govt Calls For Collaboration Between Zambia, Australia On Renewable Energy, Other projects
Minister of Green Economy and Environment has called for enhanced collaboration between Zambia and Australia on environmental initiatives, particularly in the areas of climate change mitigation and adaptation, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and forestry, and biodiversity conservation.
Speaking when Australian High Commissioner to Zambia, Minoli Perera paid a courtesy call on him, Mike Mposha said the Ministry has embarked on various programmes and projects aimed at reforestation, smart agriculture, renewable energy, pollution management and expansion of weather and climate infrastructure and services.
Mr. Mposha added that Ministry is also reviewing and developing various policies and legislation to strengthen the legal framework in this sector.
He said there is need for enhanced collaboration between the two countries because effective implementation of these programs, requires adequate resources, and adoption of modern technologies in climate sensitive sectors.
Mr. Mposha noted that Australia has a wealth of experience and expertise in addressing environmental challenges, therefore a partnership between the two parties can provide valuable support to Zambia in developing sustainable solutions.
“One key area of collaboration is climate change, as Zambia and Australia can jointly research climate change impacts, develop adaptation strategies, and share green technologies. Capacity building programs can also help Zambia implement effective climate mitigation and adaptation measures.”
“In addition, the two countries can collaborate on renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind power which promote energy efficiency measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Another important area of cooperation is sustainable agriculture and forestry,” Mr. Mposha stated.
He said by promoting climate-smart agricultural practices and supporting sustainable forest management, Zambia and Australia can enhance resilience to climate change and protect biodiversity.
“Joint efforts could include restoring degraded ecosystems through reforestation and afforestation program, strengthening early warning systems to improve disaster preparedness and response, investing in climate change adaptation and mitigation to build resilience to future droughts and extreme weather events, developing drought-resistant crops and promoting sustainable agriculture practices to ensure food security,” he added.
Meanwhile, Australian High Commissioner to Zambia Ms. Minoli Perera has acknowledged the long outstanding bilateral relationship that has been in existence and continues to exist between the two countries.
Ms. Perera is looking forward to working with the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment in relation to climate change mitigation.
