December | 2023

Successful Stakeholder Engagement Workshop on Building Effective Climate Action Interventions

in Workshop by CSRNZ Media December 14, 2023December 14, 2023 0 comments

[Lusaka, 14 December 2023] — The CSR Network Zambia is pleased to announce the successful hosting of the Stakeholder Engagement Workshop under the theme “Exploring Strategies for Building Effective Climate Action Interventions” which took place on December 13, 2023, at Sarovar Hotel and was sponsored by JTI Leaf Zambia.

The event saw a gathering of sixty participants, bringing together diverse stakeholders united by a shared goal: to protect the environment through collaborative and innovative initiatives.

Moderated by CSR Network Zambia, the workshop was officiated by a representative from the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, Mr. Victor Chiba who was accompanied by several ministry officials. Ms. Nachilala Nkombo, the Country Director of WWF Zambia, and her team also graced the occasion.

Mr. Victor Chiba – Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, deliverying the keynote speech.

The Ministry of Green Economy and Environment expressed happiness with the private sector’s keen interest in participating in the AFR100 project. Insights were shared on the Ministry’s efforts to identify degraded or deforested land in consultation with chiefs and collaborators like WWF Zambia.

WWF Zambia provided an update on the AFR100 project, focusing on the mapping exercise and the ROAM (Restoration Opportunities Assessment Methodology) approach. The next steps for the project were outlined, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required for successful implementation.

The workshop’s primary objective was to explore practical solutions for immediate adoption by those interested in engaging in Forest and Landscape Restoration (FLR) activities as part of the AFR100 initiative. Knowledge was shared, and various providers showcased available solutions:

Trees for Zambia: Growing a nursery of indigenous plants.
ZAFFICO: Outgrower scheme and distribution of seedlings (pine and eucalyptus).
Solidaridad: Distribution of plant seedlings.
ODI Cooperative: Active in apiculture, highlighting the importance of trees for honey production and as an alternative livelihood.
Lutewa Farms: Avocado nursery, marketing hass avocados as green gold.
Chilengedwe: Focus on environmental education and planned initiatives with a taxi-hailing company to extend environmental education.
Plant-A-Million Zambia: Distribution of a variety of seedlings in communities and schools, in partnership with organizations like ABSA, SES, among many.

It is the sincere desire of CSR Network Zambia that these engagements continue, moving towards the next step of implementation starting from January 2024.

We extend heartfelt gratitude to all the organizations that participated. Their presence added immense value to the discussions and we appreciate their commitment to continue exploring collaborative opportunities for the AFR100 initiative.

Contact Information:
For further information, please contact:

CSR Network Zambia
Plot No. 24 Lechwe Park
Joel Kapilikishya Road
Ibex Hill, Lusaka.
Tel: +260 977 843926
Email: info@csrzambia.org

JTI Leaf Zambia
Plot 16806 Trinity Office Park
Alick Nkhata Road
Massmedia Area, Lusaka.
Tel: 260 211 375004
Email: CorporateAffairsZambia@jti.com

“Building Dreams, Bridging Futures: IHS Zambia’s CSR Triumph at Kanyanja Community School”

CSR Network Zambia had the privilege of witnessing a significant milestone in the history of Kakote Village – the official handover of a one by three classroom block at the only school in the area.

In the heart of the Chifwema area in Kafue district, Kanyanja Community School stands tall as a testament to resilience and unwavering commitment to education despite adversities faced along the way. The handover ceremony by IHS Zambia, on 7th December 2023, marked a monumental chapter in the school’s journey, unveiling the profound impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in shaping the future.

Amidst the joyous celebration, young voices stole the spotlight with a poignant poem titled “Education.” These children, the heartbeat of Kanyanja, reminded us that education is not just a building — it’s the foundation of dreams and the key to shaping identities. Their words resonated, emphasizing that the Kanyanja Community School project is a beacon of hope, offering the promise of a better future.

Mr. Augustin Phiri, the Acting CEO of IHS Zambia, emphasized the company’s dedication through four pillars that influence their CSR and sustainability activities – Education and Economic Growth, Environment and Climate Change, People and Communities, and Ethics and Governance. The school projects undertaken by the company align with community needs and national development goals, creating a ripple effect. Similar initiatives, by IHS Zambia, in Chainda, Kapete and Musolekeni Community Schools reveal a sustained commitment to uplifting communities, one school at a time. IHS Zambia’s commitment aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 4. Private sector engagement becomes pivotal in ensuring marginalized communities receive the educational infrastructure they deserve, contributing to national socio-economic development. Education, a cornerstone of development, was the star of the handover ceremony. IHS Zambia’s CSR initiatives exemplify a holistic approach to community development. Beyond structures, they invest in human capital, ensuring that no community is left behind.

The handover at Kanyanja Community School is a testament to CSR’s transformative potential. IHS Zambia is not just building structures; they are nurturing empowered communities where education inspires hope and sparks lasting change. As we weave through CSR, sustainability and education, let Kanyanja be our inspiration — a call to invest in the future, one school, one community and one child at a time.