Zambezi REDD Project

Located in the Lower Zambezi National Park, this project helps to provide a buffer between the park and local communities. Zambia is one of the most forested countries in Africa, yet it is a global hotspot for deforestation, losing 300,000 hectares of forest each year. Home to one of Africa's largest populations of Elephant, this Park also provides habitat to species including Lions, Leopards and Antelope.

The project works with 8,300 people to prevent deforestation by creating community development projects and new markets, including development of infrastructure, health and sanitation, education and farming, to promote forest conservation. One of the main drivers of the deforestation in the region, which was 11 times higher than the national average, is unsustainable charcoal production. The poverty rate in the area is 88%, so charcoal production is a major source of income. By working with the communities to foster conservation farming along with improving infrastructure and creating sustainable employment for the local people, including sustainable charcoal production and honey production, the project helps to mitigate deforestation and alleviate poverty.

Social and Sustainability Benefits

• Generation of employment opportunities
• Reduces deforestation
• Promotes sustainable practices 
• Protecting habitat and enhancing biodiversity
• Supporting critical social services such as education, health and sanitation and access to water
• Training farmers sustainable techniques to improve their yield and decrease the need for deforestation