By Beatrice Chabaya
The Czech Republic and Zambia have embarked on a series of impactful initiatives aimed at advancing mutual development goals and strengthening bilateral relations.
Spearheaded by the Speaker of the Senate of the Czech Republic, H.E. Miloš Vystrčil, the Czech delegation’s official visit to Zambia has laid the foundation for a new era of cooperation between the two nations.
The newly announced Development Cooperation Programme, spanning from 2024 to 2030, represents a cornerstone of Czechia’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s development agenda.
Deliberations held at the State House underscored the shared interests in collaborating on key areas such as agriculture, rural development, and public administration.
Speaker Vystrčil emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration to address pressing challenges such as drought, which poses a significant threat to Zambia’s agricultural productivity and food security.
Vystrčil stated, “We debated about further perspectives of cooperation between the Czech Republic and Zambia, as well as our shared history. I saw a huge interest in cooperation in the field of rural development, agriculture, and combating drought.”
In response to Zambia’s declaration of drought as a national disaster and emergency, the Czech Republic swiftly responded with a donation of $200,000 towards drought mitigation efforts.
This gesture of solidarity reflects the Czech Government’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s development priorities, particularly in crucial sectors such as agriculture, health, and education.
Vystrčil also assured that Czechia stands ready to assist Zambia in disaster relief efforts, particularly in combating severe drought, like the current one.
Vystrčil emphasized the importance of the aid, stating that, “Although the donation is not large, it has two great advantages, we are providing it quickly and we are also an inspiration to others.”
The bilateral talks held during the delegation’s visit highlighted the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in advancing bilateral relations and addressing shared challenges.
Furthermore, the Czech Republic’s commitment to providing humanitarian aid amidst Zambia’s ongoing struggle with extreme drought was exemplified by a significant donation of 5 million Kwacha, aimed at providing immediate assistance to vulnerable communities.
In addition to the immediate aid, Czechia pledged an addition of 535,000 USD(k13.9 million) towards mitigating the effects of extreme drought I’m Zambia.
This humanitarian aid package, channeled through the Zambian Red Cross, demonstrates Czechia’s solidarity with Zambia in times of crisis and underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges such as climate change.
“This initial assistance, channeled through the Zambian Red Cross, will support 3000 families affected by the dire drought conditions in the Western Province.” Vystrčil added,
The signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the Czech Republic and Zambia signifies a deepening of cooperation in key areas such as development cooperation and healthcare partnership.
These agreements unlock resources for joint initiatives aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, social development, and healthcare infrastructure.
Haimbe, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, countersigned the MoU on Development Cooperation, emphasizing priority areas such as agriculture, social development, and public administration.
“The signing of these MoUs shows that both countries are poised to extend and enhance their collaborative efforts, aligning with Zambia’s National Development Plan and Vision 2030,” Vystrčil stated.
Cultural ties between the two nations were celebrated during the delegation’s visit to the Zambia Livingstone Museum, where homage was paid to renowned Czech explorer Dr. Emil Holub.
The signing of a MoU between the Livingstone Museum and the Czech National Museum underscores a commitment to fostering cultural exchange and collaboration through joint exhibitions and information sharing.
At the grassroots level, collaborative projects focusing on women’s empowerment highlight the transformative potential of partnership and innovation.
Spearheaded by Czech and Zambian stakeholders, the joint endeavor in Mukuni aims to empower local women through the production of mungongo oil, providing economic independence and self-reliance within their communities.
Finally, engagements with local traditional authority Chief Mukuni underscore the importance of bridging governmental and grassroots levels in bilateral relations.
By cultivating strong ties with traditional authorities, Czechia ensures that development efforts are aligned with community priorities and needs, paving the way for inclusive growth and shared prosperity.
Through these multifaceted initiatives, the Czech Republic and Zambia reaffirm their shared commitment to fostering enduring partnerships and promoting sustainable development for the mutual benefit of their peoples.