Zambian Catholic Bishops emphasize the urgent effects of climate change, urging environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. They highlight the role of radio in climate awareness and accountability for policymakers, calling for collaborative efforts to protect the environment and support affected communities.
In Zambia, climate change is described as a pressing reality rather than a distant issue, as highlighted by the Communications Director of the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB), Fr. Arthur Ntembula. He pointed out that the nation is facing the adverse effects, including erratic rainfall that threatens agriculture, water supply, and electricity generation, which have exacerbated economic difficulties for families and industries.
Fr. Ntembula emphasized the necessity for individuals to engage in environmental stewardship and adopt sustainable practices. With reference to World Radio Day, he articulated the importance of radio in raising awareness about climate change and mobilizing communities to address environmental concerns.
He referred to Pope Francis’ 2015 Encyclical “Laudato Si’”, which portrays climate change as a moral issue requiring immediate collective action. Fr. Ntembula urged Zambians to take firm measures to protect their environment, such as promoting reforestation and transitioning to renewable energy sources.
Furthermore, he called on radio producers to utilize their platform for climate reporting and education, stressing the medium’s outreach and accessibility. Radio stations should also play a crucial role in holding policymakers accountable and amplifying the voices of those disproportionately affected by climate change, particularly farmers and rural populations.
In his message, Fr. Ntembula advocated for enhanced climate-focused media coverage, urging Catholic radio stations to integrate the teachings of “Laudato Si’” into their programming. He reiterated that collaborative efforts among the government, civil society, and faith-based organizations are essential to combat climate change effectively.
He urged that caring for creation is not merely an option but a divine obligation. As stated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), World Radio Day acknowledges the significant role of radio in aiding communities during climate-related disasters.
In summary, Zambian Catholic leaders are increasingly vocal about the immediate realities of climate change. They call for proactive environmental stewardship and heightened awareness via media such as radio, emphasizing the moral obligation to address the pressing environmental challenges. Collaborative efforts among various sectors are imperative to safeguard the environment and support vulnerable communities affected by climate changes.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
