In a move that is being hailed as a major boost to Zambia’s environmental efforts, COMACO has donated two vehicles worth $102,000 to the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, a move which is expected to enhance the ministry’s operations, particularly in the areas of forest protection and conservation.
Speaking during the official handover ceremony attended by the Zambian Business Times – ZBT, Minister of Green Economy and Environment Mike Mposha expressed gratitude to COMACO, stating that the vehicles (2 Toyota Hilux) will go a long way in ensuring that the forest is protected and that the ministry’s operations are enhanced.
Mposha recognized COMACO as a valuable partner in the effort to sustainably manage and conserve our natural resources. He also praised COMACO’s commitment to supporting colleagues in need and boosting worker morale and mobility.
He emphasized the importance of responsible vehicle use, encouraging officers to take good care of the gifts to inspire more partnerships.
“As a Ministry, one of the significant challenges we’ve faced has been the lack of proper working tools, particularly vehicles. The support we’ve received will greatly enhance our capability to protect our forests and improve mobility for our officers.” He remarked.
Mposha who is also member of Parliament for Munali constituency added that it would be disappointing to see the generous contributions received being misused. “If we want to encourage more partnerships like the one with COMACO, we need to demonstrate responsibility in managing what has been given to us.”
“Thank you very much, COMACO, for this incredible gesture. It exemplifies what a strong partnership looks like, stepping in to support colleagues who are struggling. This assistance will not only boost the morale of our workforce but also improve our overall operations as a Ministry, particularly within the forestry department and beyond.” He added. “Please we convey our heartfelt thanks to the management team. We truly value this partnership and appreciate your support.”
Speaking at the same event the Director of Forestry at the Ministry of Green Economy & Environment, Sitwala Wamunyima noted that the donation is a symbol of COMACO’s commitment to supporting forestry management in Zambia.
“The receiving of these vehicles by the Minister signifies yet another milestone which will require us to put in more efforts in ensuring that illegal activities that are taking place such as illegal charcoal production, illegal timber production and encroachment in our forest reserves are brought to a halt so it’s a very good gesture by COMACO.”
Meanwhile, COMACO’s Chief Operations Officer, Richard Mumba, emphasized the importance of complementing government efforts to ensure that communities comply with environmental regulations.
He stressed that the organization’s role is to work collectively with the government to address the needs of small-scale farmers and promote sustainable forestry practices.
“As Zambia faces ongoing environmental challenges, our mission is to complement government efforts in ensuring communities adhere to essential environmental standards. By doing so, we aim to showcase a greener environment, which is crucial for addressing the climate issues we currently encounter.”
Mumba said COMACO is committed to working together with the government to address the needs of small-scale farmers, emphasizing the importance of protecting local resources, especially forestry.
He said the two vehicles that have been handed over are valued at over $102, 000 adding that this donation strengthens COMACO’s collaboration with the government. “
COMACO has been working with small-scale farmers in collaboration with the Government to promote sustainable agriculture practices and reduce deforestation and this donation is just the latest example of COMACO’s commitment to environmental conservation in Zambia.
