• National parks, including the one in question, serve not only as habitats for wildlife but also as vital water recharge zones.
• The country continues to grapple with the repercussions of past transgressions such as the Forest 27 invasion.
• TI-Z remains committed to advocating for transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of natural resources.

Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) says it fully supports Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Elijah Muchima’s intention to initiate a thorough investigation on encroachment into Lusaka National Park, to ensure all involved parties are brought to justice.

TI-Z Executive Director, Maurice Nyambe said in a statement that the organization is concerned about recent reports detailing the encroachment into the National Park, allegedly facilitated by collusion between officials from Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and Lusaka City Council.

Mr. Nyambe noted that land is a critical resource essential for the survival of both humans and wildlife, hence without accountability for those who abuse their positions, the cycle of encroachments and mismanagement will persist, undermining the country’s environmental and societal well-being.

“National parks, including the one in question, serve not only as habitats for wildlife but also as vital water recharge zones.”

“Regrettably, we are witnessing a decline in citizen integrity and responsibility towards safeguarding our environment and natural habitats,” Mr. Nyambe stated.

He observed that the country has continued to grapple with the repercussions of past transgressions such as the Forest 27 invasion, which has adversely affected communities downstream in Chongwe and remains unresolved.

Mr. Nyambe attributed the alarming rise in encroachments to unchecked and irresponsible actions by ministries and agencies responsible for land administration and management.

“It has become evident that self-serving individuals and suspected political affiliates exploit systemic weaknesses to acquire land titles with impunity. As a country, we cannot afford to perpetuate destructive practices of land invasion without adherence to established laws and regulations.

“We urge the ministry to decisively address systemic issues in land administration and management and swiftly close loopholes that enable such malpractice,” he added.

He emphasized the need to ensure that investigations are conducted transparently and efficiently, exposing and addressing the individuals as well as institutions responsible for such actions.

“TI-Z remains committed to advocating for transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of our natural resources, and will not relent in ensuring our national heritage is preserved for the benefit of present and future generations,” Mr. Nyambe said.

Recently, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources Dr. Elijah Muchima warned of stern action against officers issuing title deeds in national parks, pledging to prosecute those found wanting.

His warning came in the wake of reports that senior government officials had invaded protected land in the Lusaka National Park.