The United Nations in Zambia has announced 24 Zambian individuals who will help to accelerate efforts towards the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the next two years.
The SDGs Supporters, who include two traditional leaders, sporting sensation Barbara Banda, performing and recording artists, a university professor, community members, a female engineer and Persons with Disabilities, were announced at an unveiling ceremony held in Lusaka.
Among those appointed are Chaka Nyathando popularly known as Pompi and his wife Ester Chungu, Brian Bwembya known as B Flow, Chief Madzimawe of Eastern Province and Chieftainess Kawaza.
Media personalities Samuel Machishi and Lina Zulu, both of the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation ZNBC were also among those announced.
Ministry of Finance and National Planning Permanent Secretary for Planning and Administration, Ms Prudence Kaoma, who was the Guest of Honor said that government attaches significant importance to the SDGs.
“The Government takes the SDGs as a very important discourse for Zambia considering that it is a Least Developed Country with a huge population of young people with hopes and dreams for development.”
Ms Kaoma called for action at all levels to ensure progress on the Global Goals.
She said raising awareness to elicit the necessary actions at all levels is important as the country this is begins to ramp up implementation to increase the participation of various players in the agenda.
She called on the SDGs supporters to help rally support for the SDGs.
“Your role as champions is very pivotal because it not only brings awareness to the citizens about principles for sustainable development but you are also champions for global peace and social economic transformation,” she said.
And Ms Beatrice Mutali, UN Resident Coordinator in Zambia said that SDGs supporters will help in promoting the SDGs among the pubic.
“This initiative aims to harness the power of influence, culture, and expertise to rally all the people in Zambia behind the SDGs,” Ms Mutali said adding, “Our SDG Supporters will amplify key messages, advocate for inclusive development and participation by all in ensuring progress towards the 17 Global Goals that end in 2030.”
She said achieving the SDGs agenda requires participation from various players, emphasizing that it was why the UN in Zambia embarked on this initiative to appoint SDGs Supporters who can use their influence to raise awareness, advocate for change, and mobilize support.
“Through media engagement, community involvement, and strategic partnerships, these Supporters will lead the narrative about the SDGs, make people care and inspire them to act,” she added.
The SDGs Supporters will promote various aspects of sustainable development — including, education, health, gender equality, climate action, decent work, and peace — aligned with Zambia’s national priorities and the Vision 2030.
They will engage in public campaigns, community outreach, and advocacy initiatives in partnership with the UN and its implementing partners that include the Government and Civil Society.
