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Stanbic Bank Zambia Collaborates with WWF Zambia, Government and Local Communities to Address Deforestation at Zambezi River Source
© WWF Zambia

Through our partnership with Stanbic Bank Zambia Limited on the protection of the Zambezi source, we are calling for intensified efforts to combat deforestation and address climate change. Through the Stanbic Music Festival in which American singer Neyo performed live in Lusaka, Stanbic bank raised 10,000 trees from ticket sales.

Over 10,000 indigenous  tree seedlings bought from the proceeds of the music festival were planted at the Zambezi River Source Area in Ikelenge District.  This activity was preceded by community engagement which allowed for members of the surrounding community to take ownership of the trees being planted. 

Stanbic Bank Chief Executive, Mr. Mwindwa Siakalima, emphasized the importance of restoring the ecosystem that has been degraded by deforestation.  Interested stakeholders are encouraged to join in securing the Zambezi River, which we believe is a vital resource driving the country's economy.
The Government of the Republic of Zambia through the Ministries of Tourism as well as  Green Economy and Environment are committed to ensure the protection of the Zambezi River source using a double protection status as a National Heritage site and  Forest Reserve respectively. 

The Government plans to involve local communities in the protection of the forest through the recognition of a Community Forest Management  Group (CFMG).   

Milestones and Community Empowerment


Since its launch in 2022, the Let's Secure Zambezi project has achieved significant milestones. In addition to establishing a nursery plant, the project has formed strong relationships with local communities who play a crucial role in conservation efforts. 

We are working on updating the general management plan for the Zambezi Source Heritage Site and our aim is to create tangible livelihood opportunities and leadership positions for youth and women affected by climate change. 

For us, education is a priority, and the establishment of the Zambezi Source Community School by locals showcases the community's commitment and resilience.   

We have also noted the rich cultural heritage in the community which is cardinal to passing down messages through edutainment.  Cultural entrepreneurs such as Mr Paul Kanema are able to command the crowd through his cultural recitals.  We believe youths need to learn these cultural performances to avoid erasing of indigenous knowledge.

We have since called on our partners on this project, Stanbic Bank and other corporates in Zambia to join-in and  provide long-term support that will  focus on sustainable management of natural resources, including climate-smart agriculture. 
We believe that together, we can build resilience and protect the Zambezi headwaters region.