Environmental group, CEJ, backs lawmaker Chanda’s push for specialised court

The Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) has endorsed a parliamentary motion by Sunday Chanda calling for the establishment of a specialised Environmental Court in Zambia.

Chanda announced that he will formally present the motion in Parliament of Zambia this week to push for the creation of the court, which would handle complex environmental cases.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Monday, CEJ Executive Director, Maggie Mwape, described the proposal as timely and vital for national sustainability.

Mwape said Zambia continued to face severe environmental degradation, particularly in mining regions where pollution had negatively affected communities and ecosystems. She cited cases of manganese poisoning in Serenje and tailings collapses in Mwense, Kasempa, and Chingola as examples that require judicial attention.

“A specialised court will strengthen the enforcement of environmental laws and ensure accountability for polluters,” Mwape said.

She explained that environmental disputes were often technical and complex, requiring judges with specialised expertise to deliver fair and timely judgments. She further stressed that affected communities deserved accessible justice and protection from environmental harm.

“The court will also promote sustainable development by balancing economic growth with ecological preservation,” she noted.

Mwape added that environmental justice was closely tied to economic justice, as livelihoods and public health rely on a healthy environment. She recalled that the Environmental Protection Dialogue in 2024 had already recommended stronger regulatory and legal mechanisms.

“CEJ and its partners will continue engaging stakeholders, including the Judiciary, to address challenges and opportunities,” she said.

Mwape urged leaders and citizens to support the motion, emphasising that protecting Zambia’s environment was crucial for both current and future generations.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.