The National Assembly of Zambia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the African Group of Negotiators Experts Support (AGNES) to strengthen parliamentary oversight on climate change.

The agreement is aimed at empowering Parliamentarians to track, assess and verify climate-related projects on the ground using the Climate Monitoring and Accountability Tool (CMAT), a digital platform designed to monitor climate change and related actions, ensuring transparency and accountability in resource utilization.

The MoU was signed by the Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Roy Ngulube, following a meeting between the AGNES delegation and the First Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Honorable Malungo Chisangano, MP, on Wednesday, 19^th March, 2025, at Parliament Buildings.

Speaking during the meeting, First Deputy Speaker Honourable Chisangano said the partnership with AGNES would help Members of Parliament (MPs) to come up with climate policies backed by scientific research and strengthen their role as policy watchdogs in ensuring the effective implementation of climate-related commitments.

Hon. Chsangano stated that climate change has affected many communities in Zambia and MPs need reliable data and tools to assess the progress made in addressing these challenges. She further noted that the MoU will also provide significant benefits to the Parliamentary Caucus on Environment and Climate Change.

“We need to ensure that resources allocated for climate adaptation and mitigation are used effectively. This collaboration will help Parliamentarians engage more meaningfully in climate governance,” she said.

Mr. Ngulube said that Parliament has a responsibility to oversee the implementation of climate policies and ensure that Zambia meets its national and international commitments. He noted that, as a result, the tool will enable MPs to carry out their oversight role with greater accuracy and efficiency.

Leader of the AGNES delegation, Dr. George Wamukoya, said the MOU marks a significant step in strengthening parliamentary involvement in climate action. He stated that African countries need strong legislative oversight to ensure that climate policies translate into tangible action.

The agreement is expected to build the capacity of Zambian Parliamentarians on climate governance, improve their ability to scrutinize policies and promote informed decision-making on environmental issues.