Update from Zambia

The Zambian delegation just had their last preparatory meeting last weekend that was aimed at updating and finalising the country’s position for the negotiations. For the first time the number of delegates is going to be more than the usual number that has been attending the previous Conference of parties. In the past, the delegation has had an average of 15 delegates but this time around, at least 40 delegates are expected to travel and this number is likely to increase as the negotiations have attracted the interest of the parliamentarians as well as the traditional leaders, the delegation also has some representation from the youths, thanks to the initiatives of organisations such as the Project survival NL, COMESA and the 350.org

The message from some of the Zambian youths who will not be able to make it to Copenhagen is that they want a ‘GREEN’ deal to be sealed in Copenhagen which addresses the issues of emission reduction based on numbers, as well as a deal that will ensure that the future of their children is not compromised. The question is, will there be a deal in Copenhagen? Or is there going to be a political declaration? This is what makes Copenhagen exciting and a big deal, let’s wait and see!

By

Matildah Kaliba