The government has been advised to develop long-term strategies and forge partnerships with other Southern African countries to address the challenges of climate change.
Prof. Jacob Malungo of the University of Zambia (UNZA) says expanding partnerships at all levels remains a key component of combating climate change, as collaborations can extend knowledge, technologies, and best practices, which are essential for ensuring Zambia’s food security and sustainable development.
Malungo, a professor of demography and Dean of UNZA’s School of Humanities and Social Sciences has emphasized that the phenomenon of climate change demands comprehensive strategies that include developing solutions and policies for the country to survive economic challenges.
He has also warned that climate change might negatively affect the country’s progress unless a central system to coordinate efforts across different sectors is quickly established.
“Forging partnerships at global, national, and sub-national levels is important because it helps to extend knowledge, technologies, and best practices for water and food security in Africa,” said Malungo.
The UNZA don added that technological integration is crucial. Hence, he advocates for the adoption of drought and flood-resistant technologies and the expansion of agricultural systems, especially in the northern parts of the country, which have more favorable weather.
“There is a need for huge investments in climate-resilient technologies, the development of drought-resistant crops and livestock, and the enhancement of food and water storage facilities targeting a mid-term period of two to five years, among others,” he stated.
On the current electricity challenges, Malungo emphasized the need to diversify energy sources by moving away from hydropower dependency and adopting solar, wind energy and Liquefied Petroleum Gas for cooking.
While quantified data on the impact of climate change on Zambia’s economy may not be readily available, there is plenty of evidence of negative effects.
These include the ever-receding levels of precipitation south of the country, where the majority of power generating stations are located. Coupled with the El Nino-induced drought the past rainy season, Zambia has been hit by debilitating energy insufficiency and food insecurity, leading to the country’s economic projections being revised downwards to 2.3% – nearly half the initial forecast.
