REGIONAL CONSULTATIVE CONFERENCE SUMMIT IN JOHANNESBURG SOUTH AFRICA
THE ZCBNRM ASSOCIATION PARTICIPATES IN THE COMMUNITY LEADERS NETWORK AGM AND ALLIANCE FOR INDIGENOUS PEOPLE AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES FOR CONSERVATION IN AFRICA (AICA) REGIONAL CONSULTATIVE CONFERENCE SUMMIT IN JOHANNESBURG SOUTH AFRICA.
The Annual General Meeting for Community Leaders network of Southern Africa takes a call on 14 member countries includes are South Africa the hosting Nation,Malawi,Eswatini,Lesotho,Mauritius,Zambia,Namibia,
Zimbabwe,Madgascar,Mozambique,Tanzania and Botswana marks a pivotal moment to reflect on our collective progress, confront the challenges that threaten our natural and cultural legacy, and chart a path forward that centers equity, sustainability, and local leadership. A total of 70 participants have convened and this event was graced by her Honor Pinky Kekana Deputy Minister for the Public Service and Administration.
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) and the Alliance for Indigenous People and Local Communities for Conservation in Africa (AICA) regional consultative conference. Both events will take place at the Southern Sun, OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg, South Africa, from September 3rd to September 6th, 2025.
This gathering marks an unprecedented moment for CLN, providing a unique opportunity for members
to:
- Review our progress and financial reports.
- Share country and regional updates on CBNRM.
- Engage in thematic discussions guided by our Strategic Plan.
- Strategize and align efforts across the network.
- Strengthen partnerships and set priorities for the coming year.
Following the AGM, the AICA conference has convened community leaders and partners such as JAMMA international ,OAK Foundation ,Resources Africa among others .By sharing best practices and building a unified stance, we can advocate for policies that genuinely recognize and protect the rights of the local communities as rightsholders and traditional knowledge of indigenous peoples and local communities additionally the participation is crucial to shaping this unified SADC position on support to regional works .The CLN and AICA Summit acknowledge the urgent need to elevate community-based conservation in national and international policy arenas, ensuring that those who live closest to nature are heard loudest in its defense as we promote social justice and inclusion.
The minister remarked with a warm welcome to South Africa the land of giants whose courage, sacrifice, and unity carved a path to freedom, and it is this legacy that continues to inspire us. Recognizing custodians of traditional knowledge, of indigenous wisdom, and of cultural practices that have sustained our people across centuries.The different countries participation assures that : that our past, our present, and our future are one continuum, woven together in dignity and resilience. As Africa gathers here on South African soil, it is fitting that we invoke the words of our anthem: Nkosi sikelel’ iAfrika, maluphakanyisw’ uphondo lwayo… which means: “God bless Africa, raise high Her glory…” Today, more than ever, we are reminded that communities are at the heart of this promise.
In key note is the summary of the Chairperson of CLN, Dr. Rodgers Lubilo, who echoed on unity and continued works in conservation, social inclusion and recognition of traditional leadership calling on consolidated community networks and partnership calls for guidance and solidarity on the African continent. Together, we must ensure that Africa’s wealth of natural resources is shared equitably and guarded .
The Zambia Community Resources Board Association and the Zambia Community Based Natural Resources Management Forum is proud to be part of this great milestone. Sharing our works in the different landscapes and challenges and also learning from other countries. We extend a special recognition to Her Royal Highness Cheftainess Mwanya , we share our gratitude and happiness in sharing our time with her in South Africa. Among the delegation was the Chairperson for CLN Dr Rodgers Lubilo,
Mr Isaac Banda National Coordinator ,Mr Shanungu- Forum Board Member ,Mrs Bupe Banda Mhango Coorinator for AICA and Ms Cecilia Banda Programs Manager Forum.