The First Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, Honourable Malungo Chisangano, MP, said the 2000 trees donated by Infratel Zambia to be planted in all the ten provinces is an important step towards addressing environmental challenges. She said the initiative aligns with the National Assembly’s commitment to combat climate change and its adverse effects, such as recurring droughts.
She said this during the launch of the Tree Planting Initiative organised by Infratel Zambia in collaboration with the Zambia Institute of Public Relations and Communications (ZIPRC), on Wednesday, 20th November, 2024, at Chalimbana University in Chongwe.
The First Deputy noted that the donated trees to be planted by Infratel across all 10 provinces of Zambia, with a goal of planting 10 trees at each of 200 facilities, including schools, hospitals and shared spaces near Infratel tower sites with high energy consumption, is a truly noble gesture as it demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to promoting a sustainable Zambia.
Speaking on behalf of the Green Economy and Environment Minister, Mike Mposha, Director of Forestry Department, Mr. Sitwala Wamunyima, said Government has put in place forest management measures that will help to address climate change. He said the high rate of deforestation in Zambia due to high reliance on charcoal remains a crucial challenge and implementing such mitigation measures are the only way to overcome the problem.
Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Sylvia Masebo, Chongwe District Commissioner, Mr. Evans Lupiya, urged Chalimbana University students to take an active role in climate action. “Planting trees at this institution and in your communities can make a significant difference in fighting climate change,” he said.
Infratel Zambia Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Evans Silavwe, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to alleviating the displacement of trees caused by their network towers. “This initiative represents a shared commitment to safeguarding natural resources, empowering communities, and nurturing Zambia’s rich landscapes for generations to come,” he said.
ZIPRC CEO and Registrar, Mr. Nimon Muleya, reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to creating a greener Zambia by encouraging its members to champion environmental sustainability initiatives.
