Swedish Ambassador to Zambia, Johan Hallenborg ,has assured that his Government will support Zambia overcome the negative impact of climate change-induced drought and increase funding to Social cash Transfer programme.
Ambassador Hallenborg made the assurances when he paid a courtesy Call on Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Mike Mposha, at his office in Lusaka on Wednesday.
He said both Zambia and Sweden are experiencing the effects of climate change.
“We have assisted through the EU. We have donated US$ 1 million to the World Food Programme for humanitarian assistance; that is through a programme that I recently visited in Monze District where we could see the devastating effects of drought but also see that the funding we are providing now helps people,” said Ambassador Hallenborg.
He said the support goes in the emergency cash transfer programme.
Ambassador Hallenborg called for close working relationship with Zambia at multilateral fora such as United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP).
And Hon. Mposha said the Zambian Government is working tirelessly to develop climate-resilient infrastructure, enhance disaster preparedness, and support climate-smart agriculture practices.
He said the Ministry is committed to promoting economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability.
“Our goal is to transition Zambia into a low-carbon and resource-efficient economy that benefits all citizens.As such, initiatives focusing on renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-tourism are important to us as we aim to reduce our carbon footprint, protect our natural resources, and build resilience for our people,” said Mr. Mposha.
By Eva Hatontola
