The Zambia Institute of Environmental Health (ZIEH), led by Secretary General Jezreel Mwiinde, paid a courtesy call on the Permanent Secretary (Administration) at the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Dr. Gabriel Pollen, to formalize engagement and strengthen professional collaboration. The meeting provided an opportunity for ZIEH to introduce its newly elected executive committee and present the Institute’s mandate, highlighting its ongoing efforts to uphold high standards in Environmental Health practice across Zambia. Secretary General Mwiinde emphasized the role of professional environmental health services in protecting public health, promoting hygiene, and ensuring safe and sustainable living environments. He also noted that collaboration with government institutions is essential for shaping policies and raising public awareness on critical environmental health matters. The meeting underscored the importance of linking professional standards with practical outcomes that benefit communities nationwide.
During the engagement, Mr. Mwiinde stressed that strengthened collaboration between ZIEH and the Ministry would enhance the influence of professional bodies on national policy. He highlighted that competent and ethical environmental health practice builds public trust, improves service delivery, and contributes to effective enforcement of health and safety regulations. By coordinating efforts with the Ministry, ZIEH aims to ensure that policies reflect evidence-based approaches while addressing emerging challenges such as waste management, water quality, and disease prevention. The delegation emphasized that ongoing training, monitoring, and advocacy are vital for sustaining professional excellence and protecting public health. This approach aligns professional development with national priorities to achieve measurable improvements in environmental health outcomes.
In response, Dr. Gabriel Pollen welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working with professional organizations whose objectives align with national development goals. He emphasized that continuous improvement, stakeholder engagement, and evidence-driven decision-making are central to advancing public health and ensuring safe, sustainable communities. Dr. Pollen acknowledged the critical role that ZIEH plays in setting standards, training professionals, and providing guidance on environmental health practices at local government levels. The Permanent Secretary also highlighted the Ministry’s interest in leveraging professional expertise to address public health challenges in both urban and rural areas. He noted that partnerships with institutions like ZIEH are essential for enhancing service delivery and fostering accountability in public health programs.
The courtesy call concluded with a mutual commitment to sustained dialogue, joint initiatives, and continuous collaboration aimed at strengthening professional standards and advancing environmental health practice nationwide. Both parties recognized that coordinated efforts would support sustainable local development while improving public confidence in environmental health services. The meeting also laid the groundwork for future engagements, capacity-building programs, and policy consultations to ensure that ZIEH’s work contributes meaningfully to national development. By fostering close collaboration between professional bodies and government institutions, Zambia is positioned to enhance public health outcomes, promote safe communities, and achieve long-term sustainability in environmental management.