Fr. Arthur Ntembula of the ZCCB highlights the immediate impact of climate change in Zambia, calling for urgent action and behavior change. His statement on World Radio Day emphasizes the role of radio in raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices. He references Pope Francis’ encyclical on environmental responsibility and encourages collaboration among all sectors to address climate challenges.
In Zambia, the impacts of climate change are increasingly apparent, as highlighted by Fr. Arthur Ntembula, the Communications Director at the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB). In a statement coinciding with World Radio Day on February 13, he emphasized that Zambians are experiencing firsthand the adverse effects, including erratic rainfall patterns that jeopardize agriculture, water supplies, and energy generation, leading to prolonged power outages and economic difficulties for families and businesses.
Fr. Ntembula urges a change in human behavior, stressing the importance of embracing environmental stewardship and sustainable practices in light of these challenges. He acknowledges the role of radio as a vital tool for awareness and education regarding climate issues, reflecting on this year’s World Radio Day theme, “Radio and Climate Change,” which underscores the importance of mobilizing communities to tackle pressing environmental concerns.
Referencing Pope Francis’ 2015 Encyclical, “Laudato Si’”, Fr. Ntembula describes climate change as a moral dilemma necessitating urgent action from all sectors of society. He calls for bold initiatives in Zambia aimed at environmental protection, reforestation, and the transition to renewable energy sources to combat climate challenges effectively.
The Zambian priest advocates for radio as a powerful medium for climate education, urging radio producers to harness its accessibility for climate reporting and raising awareness about climate change impacts, especially on vulnerable groups like farmers. Fr. Ntembula emphasizes the responsibility of media to hold decision-makers accountable for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.
Fr. Ntembula further calls upon ZCCB and media organizations to prioritize climate journalism, integrating themes from “Laudato Si’” into their programming. He urges collaboration among the government, civil society, and faith organizations to combat climate challenges, reiterating that caring for creation is not merely an option but a divine duty.
Fr. Arthur Ntembula’s statement underscores the urgent reality of climate change in Zambia, urging both individual and collective responsibility for environmental stewardship. The Catholic Church calls for action through effective communication channels, especially radio, to promote awareness and accountability. Collaborative efforts involving various sectors will be essential to address climate change effectively while emphasizing the moral obligation to protect our planet for future generations.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
