By Sandra Machima
THE impacts of climate change extend beyond the environment, significantly affecting public health, food security, and overall well-being, Ministry of Green Economy and Environment Acting Permanent Secretary Ranford Simumbwe has observed.
Mr. Simumbwe made these remarks during the opening of the Association of Schools of Public Health in Africa conference hosted by Lusaka Apex Medical University, under the theme “Climate Change and One Health” where he emphasized the urgent need to address the interconnected challenges posed by climate change and public health.
He stated that Zambia is committed to overcoming these challenges through the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and the Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) adding that by tackling climate change, the health of both communities and ecosystems could be safeguarded.
And Vice-Chancellor of Lusaka Apex Medical University Professor Evarist Njelesani, noted that the effects of climate change such as extreme weather, rising temperatures, and shifting ecosystems, have significant consequences for public health, food security, and biodiversity.
He warned that climate change is also leading to the emergence of new diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans, contributing to the rise of zoonotic diseases.
“As animals migrate due to changing temperatures or encroach on new habitats. They bring with them diseases that can cross over into human populations,” he explained.
Professor Njelesani noted that load shedding has exacerbated food insecurity, as disruptions in power supply hinder food storage and refrigeration, leading to spoilage of perishable goods and hampering agricultural production.
He said that inadequate food storage and refrigeration have increased incidents of foodborne illnesses, such as typhoid fever and salmonella.
In response to these challenges, Professor Njelesani explained that Zambia is dedicated to finding sustainable solutions to protect the environment and improve public health.
“As a university, we are committed to advancing research and education in the areas of One Health and Climate Change, with programmes designed to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the complex health challenges posed by climate change, including its impacts on food, water, and disease control,” he said.
Professor Margaret Kaseje, president of the Association of Schools of Public Health in Africa, stressed that the issues of climate change and health should be regarded as urgent matters requiring immediate attention.
The conference drew stakeholders from various countries, including Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, Ghana, and the hosts, Zambia.
In Zambia, one of the most significant impacts of climate change has been on energy supply, primarily due to erratic rainfall patterns that have lowered water levels in hydroelectric dams. This has resulted in ongoing load shedding.
It was a wonderful meeting