In an effort to ensure coordination and effectiveness in programmes aimed at addressing climate change, the Zambian Government, through the Climate Change Facilitation Unit (CCFU) in the Ministry of Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources, has initiated a process aimed at formulating a comprehensive National Climate Change Response Strategy. The strategy will help the government determine whether there is need for a policy or legal framework on climate change, as well as provide a framework for a comprehensive and strategic approach on aspects of adaptation, mitigation, technology, financing as well as public education and awareness. The Ministry of Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Government of Norway, has since contracted CAMCO, an international consultancy firm that will spearhead the formulation of this strategy.

Speaking during the official opening of the National Inception Workshop for the development of the strategy on Tuesday, 15th June 2010 at Mulungushi International Conference Centre, Minister of Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources, Catherine Namugala in a speech read for her by the Deputy Minister responsible for Environment, Vera Chiluba, emphasized on inclusive nature of the process leading to the formulation of the strategy. “I take this opportunity to inform you that the process of formulating the national climate change response strategy will be based on a broad stakeholder consultation and active participation…”  She stated. As the country is in the process of developing the Sixth National Development Plan (SNDP) it is envisaged that the strategy will aid the process of climate proofing this plan and avoid future costs of climate change impacts as well ensure sustainable economic development towards the attainment of the country’s vision 2030.

In order to ensure wide participation of all stakeholders, consultative meetings have been undertaken in Southern and Copperbelt Provinces with the Copperbelt meeting involving participants from Notrth-Western, Northern and Luapula provinces, bringing together government representatives, traditional leaders, Civil Society Organisations/Non-Governmental Organisation, Youths, Academia and the media. The meetings are aimed at collecting views from different sections of society on people’s experiences in the face of climate change how the country could respond to its impacts while making use of the opportunities available for countries like Zambia. Consultations will continue as members of the public continue making the submissions. The first draft of the strategy is expected to be ready on 31st July 2010 while the final strategy will be out a month later.

Please click here to access all documents related to the NCCRS process.