Sharleen Mohammed
A high-level conference of Southern African lawmakers ended yesterday with a urgent call to prioritize climate resilience and sustainable natural resource management in the region.
Claude Kabemba, Executive Director of the Southern Africa Resource Watch, said: “The time for action is now.”
“We cannot continue to exploit our natural resources without considering the long-term consequences for our planet and our people. We need to prioritize environmental protection and sustainable development,” said Kabemba.
He added: “”We need to equip governments and citizens with scientific knowledge to ensure transparency in resource extraction and utilization.”
Speaking at the same event, Zimbabwean speaker of national assembly, advocate Jacob Mudenda, said the region’s economic development and environmental sustainability are under threat from climate change and unsustainable resource extraction practices.
“We need to work together to promote sustainable development and environmental protection. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and future generations,” said advocate Mudenda.
“We need to create a win-win scenario for all Southern region countries and the citizenry at the community level,” he added.
The conference featured presentations and discussions on various aspects of climate resilience and sustainable natural resource management.
Lawmakers committed to enact laws and policies that promote climate resilience and sustainable natural resource management.
Namibian Parliamentarian, Hon. Emma Kantema said this conference has been an eye-opener.
“We have learned a lot and we are committed to taking action. We will work together to ensure that our region is sustainable and resilient to climate change,” explained Hon Kantema.
The event was attended by lawmakers, policymakers, experts, and representatives from civil society organizations from across Southern Africa. The conference was supported by the SADC-PF, the African Union, and international partners.
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