Protecting the environment and natural resources is critical to improving the economic prosperity of the people of Zambia.

KELLY NJOMBO
Lusaka

GOVERNMENT needs about K35 million annually to curb poaching and illegal wildlife trade in the country.
Minister of Tourism and Arts Charles Banda said poaching and illegal wildlife trade could have devastating effect on the environment and the economy if left unchecked.
Mr Banda said there is need to inject more resources into the procurement of vehicles and necessary equipment to address the problem of poaching and illegal wildlife trade.
He was speaking at the wildlife conservation and protection elephant charge awards ceremony at the Germany Ambassador to Zambia’ residence recently.
“To control wildlife crime in Zambia, there is need for huge amounts of financial and material resources like 96 vehicles for conservation operations and information and communications technology service equipment.
“We also need about 1,300 firearms and K35 million on annual basis for field patrol operations by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife,” he said.
He said poaching, illegal wildlife tracking, possession and trading in wildlife or its products, remains a major threat to the growth of wildlife population in Zambia.
Mr Banda said it has been a challenge to deal with the problem because of the high demand for game meat and other wildlife products locally and internationally.
Earlier, Germany Ambassador to Zambia Achim Burkart said there is need to safeguard the country’s wildlife and beautiful natural heritage.
Mr Burkart said a number of threats to Zambia’s wildlife have been identified through the Elephant Charge partners, and could be addressed with adequate resources.
He said it is also imperative for Zambians to preserve natural heritage to grow the tourism sector.