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TRALARD Project Endeavors to Preserve and Develop Lusenga Plains National Park

Lusenga Plains National Park is located in the Northern part of Zambia within the Luapula province and stands as a testament to Zambia's rich biodiversity and natural beauty.

It boasts a captivating landscape, from evergreen forests and swamps to the mighty Kalungwishi River that forms its eastern border and includes Zambia's second-highest waterfall: Lumangwe Falls. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 400 species recorded, including the elusive Blue Quail, the vibrant Banded Martin, and the stunning Violet-backed Sunbird. While game viewing opportunities are currently limited, the restocking program initiated in 2007 is steadily increasing animal populations. Soon, visitors may have the chance to spot buffaloes, blue and yellow-backed duikers, and even playful Gambian Sun Squirrels.

Now this relatively smaller national park, covering 880 square kilometers, is set to change with the support of the Transforming Landscapes for Resilience and Development Project (TRALARD).

Mr. Titus Walima, the Projects Luapula Provincial Operations Officer, sheds light on the initiatives and aspirations driving this collaborative effort.

"The TRALARD project development objective is to improve natural resource management in the northern region of Zambia to support sustainable livelihoods," Walima said.

He further emphasized that Lusenga Plains National Park is integral to this objective, being a unique and vital ecosystem in its own right.

Mr. Walima elaborates on the support from the project to the national park, stating that under component two, the project seeks to support the management of community forests and protected areas.

This includes the construction of staff houses, the provision of earth-moving equipment, and the establishment of communication facilities. As Mr. Walima puts it, these interventions are crucial for "bolstering the park's infrastructure, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring effective management."

Explaining the significance of these interventions, he notes, "adequate housing for staff improves on-site management capabilities, while earth-moving equipment facilitates infrastructure development and maintenance." He further emphasized that communication facilities enhance connectivity, streamlining coordination efforts and ensuring a rapid response to emerging challenges, thus contributing to both development and conservation goals.

According to Mr. Walima, "The preservation benefits that will be derived from the National Park include improved management of natural resources for sustainable ecosystems." This aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and biodiversity loss. Additionally, the enhanced management of the park creates a complete tourism itinerary, contributing to the economic growth of the tourism sector.

In terms of progress, he states, "the procurement process for infrastructure and equipment has commenced." He reassures that the project provides operational support through collaboration with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, indicating tangible steps towards achieving support objectives for the park.

Mr. Walima further emphasized that the TRALARD project uses a decentralized approach in implementing project activities. Highlighting the active involvement of local authorities like the Kawambwa Town Council as key stakeholders in the project's implementation.

To raise awareness, he noted that the project has a robust communication strategy that ensures public participation and awareness of project intervention. Adding that traditional leadership is engaged, and an information center will be constructed as part of an enhanced strategy for raising awareness.

In conclusion, the Provincial Operations Officer affirms the TRALARD Project's commitment to a holistic approach to conservation and sustainable development, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts for the preservation of Zambia's natural heritage.

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