In this powerful episode, we unpack how young people can take an active role in shaping global climate policy through the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) processes. Featuring expert insights from Blutus Mbambi, a Climate Policy & Finance Specialist, the conversation explores practical pathways for youth participation from local climate action to international negotiations.

In this thought-provoking episode of the Climate Action Podcast, we dive into the crucial conversation around leakages and accountability gaps between the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and climate finance allocations at community level.

Our guest, Mr. Makalani, a passionate and active member of the Ward Development Committee, shares firsthand insights on how funds meant for development and climate action are sometimes mismanaged, misunderstood, or misallocated.

ON THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS CLIAMTE CHANGE AND ITS EFFECTS AND HOW THE YOUTH FROM MAZABUKA ARE USING RADIO AND SOCIAL MEDIA TO ADVOCATE.

Join us as young climate advocates from Kafue unpack the UNFCCC process—what it means, why it matters, and how local voices are influencing global climate action. It’s time for youth to shape the future, one policy at a time

From failing crops to disappearing streams, youth in Chikankata are speaking out on how climate change is reshaping their lives—and what they’re doing to fight back. Tune in as Innocent and Twaambo share real stories, real struggles, and real solutions.

Tonga Description:

Ino programme tulanda ku chisungu chakuti “Climate Change”, kutatula pa mutendele wa mu Chikankata District. Ba Innocent na ba Twaambo balanda pa masuwa a kusintha kwa cilengiwa – kufyona kwembe, kupya kwa ciluba, kusowa kwa menshi, ne masuwa ya kulima. Balangulula ifyo cilingwa ca kusintha ku fisa abantu pabula kabotu, noku lumbanya pa kubomba fimbi fimbi mu kulima ne kucita mitigate ne adapt ku climate change. Iyi nkhani yali pa cilonganino ca kutwishika abantu kuti batampile ukubomba pamulu pa kutetekela ifyo cilingwa cilefwaya.

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In this program titled “Climate Change,” we focus on its impact in Chikankata District. Innocent and Twaambo discuss the challenges caused by changes in climate—like droughts, extreme heat, water shortages, and farming difficulties. They highlight how these changes are affecting people’s livelihoods and emphasize the importance of taking action through climate-smart agriculture, mitigation, and adaptation. This discussion aims to raise awareness and encourage people to take climate issues seriously and act on them.

Meet Bertha Mvula from Kafue! She’s turning cassava and groundnut shells into eco-friendly charcoal, reducing deforestation and saving the planet, one briquette at a time!

Extent of Tree Cutting for Charcoal in Zambia

Deforestation Rate:

Zambia loses approximately 250,000 to 300,000 hectares of forest per year, largely due to charcoal production and agricultural expansion.

Source: FAO – Global Forest Resources Assessment (2020); Ministry of Green Economy and Environment Zambia (2022).

Charcoal as Main Energy Source:

Over 90% of urban households in Zambia rely on charcoal for cooking, particularly in Lusaka, Ndola, and Kitwe.

Source: Zambia Energy Regulatory Board (ERB), 2021.

Charcoal Demand:

Lusaka alone consumes around 200,000 tons of charcoal annually.

Source: Centre for International Forestry Research (CIFOR), 2021.

"Zambia is losing nearly 300,000 hectares of forest annually, with charcoal production being one of the biggest culprits. Over 90% of urban households depend on charcoal, leading to massive deforestation, biodiversity loss, and increased carbon emissions. If this trend continues, Zambia faces severe environmental consequences — from food insecurity to climate instability."

Voices for Just Climate Action

#vcayouth #AgentsOfChange #ZambiaClimateHeroes #SustainableEnergy #YouthForClimateAction

In this powerful episode, our youth reporters unpack the big question: What does climate finance really mean for communities on the ground?

Join us as we zoom in from global pledges to local realities, exploring how climate finance can (and should) reach grassroots communities, where the climate crisis is felt most.

What challenges do local leaders face in accessing climate funds?
How can climate finance be more inclusive, transparent, and effective?
What role do youth and community voices play in shaping financial solutions?

Featuring voices from local changemakers, activists, and climate finance advocates, this episode sheds light on the gaps, hopes, and opportunities in financing climate justice from the bottom up.

This episode is brought to you by Agents of Change Foundation Zambia, under the Voices for Just Climate Action initiative.

In this episode, our vibrant youth reporters take you into the heart of Kafue, where young climate champions are using Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) to protect their environment and build resilient communities.

From tree planting and wetland restoration to climate-smart agriculture and clean-up campaigns, the youth of Kafue are showing that sustainable change starts at the grassroots. 🌱🌍

Tune in to hear firsthand stories of action, passion, and local innovation — proof that young people are not just victims of climate change, but leaders of climate solutions.

📌 Why are Nature-Based Solutions important in the fight against climate change?
🌿 How are the youth in Kafue driving change with limited resources?
💡 What role can traditional knowledge and local action play in climate resilience?

This podcast is brought to you by Agents of Change Foundation Zambia, under the Voices for Just Climate Action program.

Catch Barbara miyanda kaumba from @GREEN NATURE as Foster Nyendwa and Bupe Phiri join her on Chongwe Radio 104.5fm as they Discuss to Topic Water Management Innovation.