Six chiefdoms in Lumezi District are set to begin the formulation of Participatory Land Use Plans with support from the Eastern Province Jurisdictional Sustainable Landscape Programme(EP-JSLP). Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting, EP-JSLP Lumezi District Multisectoral Team Chairperson Malvin Malasha urged traditional leaders and community members to take ownership of the process by actively participating in the development of the plans. The Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) reports that Mr. Malasha said community involvement is essential in ensuring that the plans address local development needs while promoting the sustainable management of natural resources. He noted that participatory land use planning is critical in preventing disasters such as flooding, citing Kazembe Chiefdom where some households settled in flood-prone areas. “Land use planning is not just about allocating land; it is about safeguarding communities, protecting natural resources, and ensuring sustainable development for future generations,” he said. Mr. Malasha explained that the planning process will be community-driven, with technical experts providing guidance and support to facilitate the formulation of the plans. Meanwhile, EP-JSLP Lumezi District Program Officer Davison Kamuli said the programme will provide both technical and financial assistance throughout the planning process. Mr. Kamuli said the land use plans will help promote sustainable land management, reduce land-use conflicts, enhance environmental conservation and support socio-economic development in the district. The Eastern Province Jurisdictional Sustainable Landscape Programme is a US$63 million government-led initiative supported by the World Bank. The programme seeks to incentivize rural communities to reduce carbon emissions through sustainable agriculture and forestry practices while generating income through the international carbon market. The initiative is expected to contribute to improved environmental management and climate resilience in the district.