The government has signed a Nested Emission Reduction Performance Agreement (NERPA) under the Eastern Province Jurisdictional Sustainable Landscape Programme (EP-JLSP) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Community Markets for Conservation (COMACO).
Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Mike Elton Mposha, who officiated at the signing of the two major agreements and the launch of a honey processing plant for COMACO in Chipata, said the signing of the NERPA will help government work directly with the private sector in the carbon market.
The Minister emphasized that the singing of the MOU with COMACO would contribute to joint initiative for tackling key drivers of deforestation by promoting market opportunities that reward community efforts to reduce emission and protect biodiversity
He added that the signing of the NERPA follows the earlier signing of 55 Chiefdom Emission Reduction Performance Agreements (CERPAs) by traditional leaders in the province.
“The income from carbon trading will be shared fairly among local communities, traditional chiefdoms, and private partners, based on a Benefit Sharing Plan created through consultations.”
He emphasized the government’s commitment under President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership to make Eastern Province a model for low-carbon development.
Also speaking at the event, World Bank Country Manager Achim Fock praised traditional leaders for their efforts in protecting natural resources.
He commended the government’s strong leadership in sustainable environmental management and pledged continued World Bank support for these efforts.
And COMACO CEO Dale Lewis said the MoU with the ministry aims to uplift rural communities, support small-scale farmers, and promote environmental conservation.
He said COMACO and the MGEE will work closely to expand conservation farming, restore degraded lands, and reward farmers.
ENDS