World Vision and the Ministry of Green Economy Sign MoU on Climate Action

In a significant step towards advancing climate resilience and sustainable development in Zambia, World Vision Zambia and the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment have formalised their partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The ceremony, held in Lusaka, brought together key government officials and representatives from World Vision to mark the start of a shared commitment to address climate change and environmental challenges facing the country.

The event was officially opened by World Vision Zambia’s Enhanced Livelihood and Resilience Technical Programme manager, Mr Sam Tembo. In his brief opening presentation, Mr Tembo said World Vision’s aim is to support communities by ensuring that communities are participating in climate and environmental issues awareness programmes. 

And Minstry of Green Economy and Environment Permanent secretary (PS), Dr. Douty Chibamba expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration. "It gives me great pleasure to be here today to announce that the Ministry of Green Economy & Environment and World Vision are partnering on issues of climate change and the environment," the Permanent Secretary said. 

As the Ministry’s mandate is to promote the sustainable use of natural resources and to support climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts, the PS emphasised the critical role that the partnership with World Vision will play in advancing these goals. “As you might be aware, the Ministry is mandated to promote the effective and sustainable use of the environment, while at the same time facilitating support for adaptation to and mitigation of the effects of climate change. This MoU is a demonstration of World Vision Zambia’s commitment to supplementing government efforts in addressing the climate change challenge,” he said. 

Dr. Chibamba further highlighted the Ministry's already successful collaboration with World Vision, particularly on projects like the Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) program. "We are already working closely with World Vision on various projects, but today, we wanted to formalise this important partnership," he said.

World Vision’s Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) initiative has become a key focus for both the Ministry and World Vision as part of their shared efforts to reduce land degradation in Zambia. The PS highlighted the recent launch of the FMNR Business Plan, which was developed by World Vision to support Zambia’s climate goals. "More recently, my office launched the FMNR Business Plan, developed by World Vision, to support our plans of reducing land degradation from 172,000 hectares annually to 120,000 hectares, as targeted in our Nationally Determined Contribution."

Recognising the impact of World Vision's work, the PS commended World Vision’s dedication to training local experts and community leaders. “I wish to assure you that the Government of the Republic of Zambia is fully aware of World Vision’s commendable work. 

World Vision Zambia National Director, Mr Marc Nosbach, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, expressing his gratitude for the collaboration and reaffirming World Vision’s commitment to the partnership. “We are honoured to work alongside the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment. This MoU strengthens our shared resolve to promote sustainable environmental practices and build resilience against the impacts of climate change, particularly in vulnerable communities.”

The signing ceremony concluded with a sense of optimism for the future. Both organisations are committed to working together to ensure that Zambia’s environmental future is one of sustainability, resilience, and opportunity for future generations. The MoU represents a shared commitment to addressing climate change through innovation, community-driven solutions, and collaborative action.

“As we move forward with this partnership, we are confident that we will create a lasting impact for Zambia’s communities, especially those who are most affected by climate change,” said Mr. Nosbach.