The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and Stanbic Bank Zambia have joined forces to plant 10,000 trees at the Zambezi River’s source, a key initiative unveiled in a recent statement.
This collaboration is an extension of the ongoing “Let’s Secure the Zambezi” campaign, which has actively addressed the profound impacts of climate change for the past two years. The project’s focal point is the Ikelenge district in northwestern Zambia, situated at the genesis of Africa’s fourth-longest river.
Expressing enthusiasm for the partnership, Nachilala Nkombo, WWF’s Zambia country director, emphasized the significance of safeguarding the Zambezi River, emphasizing its critical role as the nation’s primary water source. She emphasized the campaign’s intent to curb deforestation in the Ikelenge district, promoting environmental preservation.
Nkombo highlighted the broader implications of this campaign, underscoring its positive ramifications not only for locals but also for the millions reliant on the Zambezi River across Zambia, Angola, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
The upcoming phase of the initiative aims to involve a diverse array of stakeholders, featuring engaging activities to bolster environmental conservation. Nkombo emphasized the essential role played by the local community in actualizing the planting of 10,000 trees.
Mwindwa Siakalima, CEO of Stanbic Bank, stressed the vital role trees play in mitigating climate change, citing their ability to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and augment oxygen supply within ecosystems. Additionally, the bank plans to launch a documentary to heighten awareness about preserving and revitalizing the Zambezi River’s ecosystem, illustrating the grave threats facing its origin.
Siakalima emphasized the collective impact of human activities and climate change, underlining their adverse effects on the region’s rich biodiversity.
Overall, the partnership between WWF and Stanbic Bank Zambia aims to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability along the Zambezi River, calling for concerted efforts to protect this invaluable natural resource.
