The Zambian Catholic Bishops’ entity warns that climate change is a pressing reality impacting agriculture and water resources. Fr. Arthur Ntembula calls for environmental stewardship, behavioral changes, and greater media awareness on climate issues. He references Pope Francis’s teachings and urges collaboration among government, civil society, and faith-based organizations to combat climate change effectively.
The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) has highlighted the immediate effects of climate change that the Zambian populace is experiencing, as stated by Fr. Arthur Ntembula, the Communications Director. In a statement released on February 13, coinciding with World Radio Day, he emphasized the need for environmental stewardship. The adverse weather patterns are impacting agriculture, diminishing water resources, and affecting power supply, thereby placing economic pressure on households and industries.
Fr. Ntembula urges individuals to embrace behavioral changes to mitigate these challenges. He stresses the urgency of promoting sustainable practices and responsible stewardship of the environment. This call to action aligns with the celebrations of World Radio Day under the theme “Radio and Climate Change,” which aims to increase awareness about environmental issues through radio media.
Referencing Pope Francis’ 2015 Encyclical, “Laudato Si’,” he described climate change as a pressing moral issue requiring immediate collective action. Fr. Ntembula believes that Zambians must take decisive measures to protect the environment, including promoting reforestation and transitioning to renewable energy resources.
The priest encourages radio industry professionals to leverage the wide accessibility of radio for climate reporting and educating communities about climate change’s impacts. He advocates for radio to hold policymakers accountable and amplify the voices of vulnerable groups affected by climate change, notably farmers and rural communities.
In his message, Fr. Ntembula calls upon all Zambian media outlets to prioritize climate-focused reporting. He urges Catholic radio stations to incorporate the principles outlined in “Laudato Si'” into their programming, using their platform to inspire environmental action and resilience among communities.
Moreover, he emphasizes the importance of collaboration among the government, civil society, and faith-based organizations to effectively address the ramifications of climate change. He underscores that caring for the environment is a moral obligation for all people of faith.
The ZCCB’s message serves as a reminder of the urgent need for collective action against climate change in Zambia. Fr. Ntembula’s call for behavioral change, increased media involvement, and community education underscores the gravity of the situation. By prioritizing environmental stewardship, Zambians can take steps to safeguard their future and promote sustainable practices. The collaboration between various sectors is essential for meaningful progress in addressing climate issues.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
