GOVERNMENT says there’s a need to take a holistic approach to manage the country’s landscapes in a manner that will balance environmental protection, economic development and social wellbeing.

Lusaka Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Alex Mapushi notes that this will help address the increasing pressure from deforestation, land degradation and unsustainable agricultural practices that the country is currently grappling with.

Mr Mapushi said this when he officiated at the Integrated Landscape Management (ILM) workshop in Lusaka.

He noted that the ILM concept represents an approach that brings together various sectors that depend on and influence the landscape such as water, forests and wildlife management.

Mr Mapushi disclosed that the government is already taking significant steps towards adopting the ILM which also prioritises inclusive participation.

“The ILM approach recognises that effective landscape management requires the voices of all stakeholders, from government, private sector, NGO’s, local communities, traditional leaders and international partners and today is testament to the spirit of that collaboration,” he said.

Mr Mapushi stated that the participatory development of an ILM concept and implementation will enable the country to lay the foundation of a sustainable landscape management.

He called for increased collaboration and coordination among the delegates that will help achieve strong partnerships across all sectors and stakeholders.

He further stressed the need for capacity building to ensure all stakeholders are equipped with the knowledge and tools to effectively manage the landscapes.

“There’s need for training of government officials, support of local communities and investment in innovative technologies that will enhance our abilities to monitor and manage natural resources, so we must adapt or die,” he said.

Mr Mapushi also said fostering efforts that prioritise long term sustainability and resilience in the wake of climate change is important.

The ILM project involves comprehensive stakeholder consultations, development of a national ILM framework and building capacity of institutions and communities to implement ILM practices.

The project is being implemented in collaboration with Caritas Czech Republic, Center for Environment Justice and other international partners.