50 Forest Officers Graduate to Protect Upper Luangwa Catchment

The Upper Luangwa Catchment in Muchinga Province is one of Zambia's most important natural ecosystems. The vast forested landscape feeds the Luangwa River, supports diverse wildlife, stores carbon and provides water and livelihoods for surrounding communities, making its protection increasingly important as the country faces growing environmental pressures.

To strengthen conservation efforts, 50 community volunteers have graduated as Honorary Forest Officers under the Sustainable Luangwa Project, an initiative implemented by the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment.

The newly trained officers will work alongside the Forestry Department to promote sustainable forest management, enforce environmental regulations and strengthen community participation in protecting natural resources.

Speaking during the pass-out ceremony in Isoka, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Muchinga Province Brian Sichande, representing Permanent Secretary Dr. Tuesday Bwalya, said Government alone cannot protect Zambia's forests.

"Government alone cannot overcome these challenges. Protecting Zambia's forests requires the active participation of communities," he said, urging the graduates to serve with integrity and professionalism.

The Ministry of Green Economy and Environment also praised traditional leaders, development partners and local communities for their role in advancing conservation through community forestry.

Director of Environment Management Richard Lungu, speaking on behalf of Permanent Secretary Dr. Douty Chibamba, commended Chief Mweniwisi and Chief Mwenichifungwe for placing more than 7,000 hectares of land under community forest management.

He described the move as a demonstration of visionary leadership and a strong commitment to protecting Zambia's natural resources for future generations.

Meanwhile, World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Conservation Director Agness Kalaluka-Chinyama said community-led conservation efforts have already exceeded expectations.

She revealed that five Community Forest Management Groups are now managing nearly 29,000 hectares of forest, more than double the project's original target. In addition, 2,640 farmers have been trained in climate-smart agriculture to improve food security while reducing pressure on forests.

The Honorary Forest Officers, drawn from Manjelemwa, Makombe, Lighton, Chipungu and Luamafinga Community Forest Management Groups, will serve as a vital link between local communities and the Forestry Department, helping to protect one of Zambia's most valuable forest landscapes through community-led conservation.