Zambia Emerges as African Climate Champion with Historic $5.5 Billion Forest Protection Deal

Zambia has cemented its position as a continental leader in environmental stewardship, securing a landmark $5.5 billion commitment at COP30 to safeguard its forests and accelerate sustainable development.

The historic funding, channeled through the Tropical Forests Forever Facility, will strengthen forest conservation efforts, protect biodiversity, and build climate resilience for vulnerable communities across the nation.

Minister of Green Economy and Environment Mike Mposha announced the breakthrough alongside other significant achievements from the Brazil summit, including a global commitment to triple adaptation finance from $26 billion to $120 billion by 2035.

"Zambia stands tall on climate action," Mposha declared at a media briefing in Lusaka. "These outcomes will help safeguard our forests, strengthen climate resilience and ensure our communities benefit from global climate finance and partnerships."

The government's climate diplomacy has yielded multiple wins. Zambia signed a groundbreaking bilateral carbon credit cooperation agreement with Switzerland, positioning the country at the forefront of Africa's carbon market, with similar negotiations advancing with Singapore and Norway.

In recognition of Zambia's growing influence, the nation will host the Loss and Damage Fund Board meeting in April 2026—the first African country to receive this honor.

UNDP Resident Representative James Wakiaga praised the administration's forward-thinking approach, citing the Green Economy and Climate Change Act 2025 and comprehensive national policies as evidence of "whole-of-society engagement."

"Zambia's climate journey makes the country a beacon of climate leadership in the region," Wakiaga noted, highlighting the nation's commitment to renewable energy expansion and technology transfer.

The achievements underscore President Hichilema's administration's dedication to positioning Zambia as both an environmental guardian and economic innovator on the global stage.