Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
President Edgar Lungu has bemoaned the adverse effects of climate change on the country which include load shedding as a result of poor rainfall leading to reduced power generation.
In his speech during the official opening of the 4th Session of the 12th National Assembly, under the theme: ‘’Accelerating Sustainable Development for a Better Zambia Amidst the Impact of Climate Change”, President Lungu says Zambia is facing a serious problem of climate change which the country cannot run away from.
He says this is not the problem of government alone; noting the need for all stakeholders to join hands and see what can be done to mitigate the effects of climate change.
He states that effects of climate change have the potential to undermine the country’s aspirations if not addressed.
President Lungu says he has seen the effects of load shedding on small scale businesses which have been forced to shut down as they cannot cope with load shedding, and that driving around Lusaka at night, he has also seen houses plunged in darkness due to load shedding brought about by climate change.
He notes that this poses a serious security risk to the people.
President Lungu has since directed the Minister of Energy to ensure that power supply to health facilities is prioritized including water supply facilities during load shedding.
And President Lungu has directed the Ministers of Lands and Water Development to with immediate effect ensure that no houses or factories are built near water resource points in view of climate change.
Meanwhile President Lungu has hinted that the 2020 national budget will be seriously affected by the austerity measures the government has put in place.