‘We can’t eat food raw’, local chief seeks govt’s quick response to providing alternatives to charcoal

Paramount Chief Mwata Kazembe of the Lunda People has told government to find alternative energy for his people to use as they cannot eat raw food.

In the wake of adverse climate change, Kazembe observed the need to find alternative energy for people in Zambia.

He said this when Green Economy and Environment Minister Collins Nzovu and his team paid a courtesy call on him at his Palace in Mwansabombwe District on Monday.

“Trees are used for construction, trees are also used for energy. But when it comes to energy do not expect my people to be eating raw food. Can we find alternatives to charcoal? Let us think about the future. What country will I leave for my children,” Kazembe said.

Kazembe also pledged to support the government in matters of environmental protection.

His Royal Highness said he had seen the damage done to the forests as well as the effects of droughts and floods.
Kazembe stated that the rate at which the environment was being destroyed was not so pleasing.

He observed that the streams and rivers were drying up and there was rampant cutting of trees.

He applauded government for the positive things done so far, but warned Government against being complacent.

“We appreciate the positive things that government is doing but I am not saying you should be complacent. Let the people see the benefits of change.”

He said the minister had a huge task ahead of him.

“Yours is a mammoth one. The country expects a lot from you in terms of environmental protection,” Kazembe said.

In response, Nzovu thanked the traditional leader for the support and counsel.

He said the government wanted to see how it could partner with traditional leaders to bring investment in the forest sector.

Nzovu said there was need to sensitise the people not only in Luapula but all over the country.

He appealed to Kazembe to be an ambassador of climate change and forest protection.

“Your Royal Highness, we appreciate what you are doing as far as Environmental protection is concerned. We also thank you for your support to government,” Nzovu said.

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