Zambia, DR Congo strengthen forestry cooperation

By BUUMBA CHIMBULU

ZAMBIA and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have agreed to deepen cooperation in sustainable forest management, climate change mitigation and investment in the forestry sector as the two neighbours seek to address shared environmental challenges.

The commitment was made during a visit by Katanga Province Provincial Minister for Economy, Commerce, Transport and Tourism George Mbau and his delegation to the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment pavilion at the 60th Zambia International Trade Fair (ZITF) in Ndola.

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral collaboration in forest conservation, promoting green investment and enhancing regional efforts to combat the growing impacts of climate change.

Mr Mbau said Zambia and the DRC share longstanding cordial relations and face common environmental threats, including deforestation and climate change, which require coordinated action.

“Stronger cross-border cooperation would help protect shared natural resources, promote sustainable forest management and improve the livelihoods of communities that depend on forests,” he said.

Mr Mbau also said the two countries have significant untapped economic potential that could be unlocked through closer collaboration, particularly in the forestry sector.

He described his visit to the ministry’s pavilion as a demonstration of the Katanga Provincial Government’s commitment to building partnerships that support environmental sustainability while creating green economic opportunities for citizens in both countries.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Green Economy and Environment acting Permanent Secretary Ranford Simumbwe said the visit had provided an opportunity to showcase the country’s environmental programmes, policies and investment opportunities to international delegates attending the trade fair.

“The engagement would be elevated to a higher level to strengthen cooperation between Zambia and the DRC,” Mr Simumbwe said.

He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to promoting regional partnerships in environmental protection, climate action and sustainable natural resource management.

Mr Simumbwe said collaboration with neighbouring countries is critical in addressing transboundary environmental challenges and unlocking opportunities for green growth and sustainable development across the region.

The Congolese delegation was received by Mr Simumbwe and senior Ministry officials, including Director of Green Economy and Climate Change Ephraim Shitima, Acting Director of Forestry Freddie Siangulube, Zambia Forestry College Principal Richard Banda and National Designated Authority National Coordinator Billy Katontoka.

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