MPs Challenged to help fight Human-animal conflict

By Blessings Chibuye
Speaker of the National Assembly NELLY MUTTI has called on parliamentarians to play a critical role in addressing the challenge of human-animal conflict.

Ms MUTTI says MPs must raise awareness and mobilize community action.

She said this during the Induction Seminar for Members of Parliament, who are gazetted as Honorary Wildlife Police Officers.

Ms MUTTI says parliamentarians should continue to undertake measures aimed at mainstreaming and promoting environmental sustainability in the country.

Meanwhile, Tourism Minister RODNEY SIKUMBA says parliamentarians are welcome to work with the ministry to make further contributions to the conservation of wildlife.

Mr. SIKUMBA says with the current 20 National Parks and 36 Game Management areas, there is still a need for an increased number of wildlife officers.

And Zambia Parliamentary Caucus on Environment and Climate Change Chairperson GEORGE KANDAFULA has pledged commitment to help resolve the issue of human animal conflict.

And Game Rangers International Chief Executive Officer, SPORT BEATIE says parliamentarians should influence legal reforms in addressing the challenge of human-wildlife conflict in the country.