The Government of the Republic of Zambia has taken a significant step toward advancing its climate and sustainable development goals through the signing of a Host Country Agreement with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI). The agreement was signed by H.E. Andrew Banda, Ambassador of the Republic of Zambia to the Republic of Korea, alongside First Secretary Ms. Anastasia Muuka, and GGGI Executive Director Mr. Sanghyup Kim. The signing took place during the GGGI Spring Annual Meeting and signals a stronger institutional partnership between the two parties. It reinforces a shared commitment to accelerating climate action and inclusive green growth in Zambia. The agreement also highlights Zambia’s increasing focus on building resilient systems that support long-term environmental and economic sustainability.
The Host Country Agreement formally establishes GGGI’s legal status in Zambia and strengthens the framework for cooperation between the organization and the Zambian government. This development is expected to improve coordination and efficiency in the implementation of green growth programs across the country. It directly supports Zambia’s national climate priorities, including the implementation of its Nationally Determined Contributions under global climate commitments. By setting clear institutional structures, the agreement creates a stronger foundation for delivering measurable environmental outcomes. It also enhances the ability of both parties to align national strategies with international climate goals.
H.E. Andrew Banda emphasized the importance of turning the agreement into practical action that delivers real benefits for citizens. He stated that the success of the partnership will depend on strong collaboration and effective implementation across all stakeholders involved. His remarks reflect Zambia’s commitment to ensuring that climate initiatives go beyond policy and translate into tangible improvements in people’s lives. The ambassador also reaffirmed Zambia’s readiness to work closely with GGGI to achieve meaningful results. This approach places accountability and delivery at the center of the partnership.
Mr. Sanghyup Kim, Executive Director of GGGI, highlighted the importance of supporting Zambia’s transition toward a low-carbon and sustainable economy. He noted that advancing climate priorities is essential for building inclusive economic growth that benefits all sectors of society. According to him, the partnership presents an opportunity to accelerate green growth solutions that are locally driven and nationally owned. He also emphasized GGGI’s commitment to working alongside Zambia to implement practical and scalable climate initiatives. His remarks underline the organization’s focus on supporting countries in achieving long-term environmental resilience.
Since 2022, GGGI has been working closely with Zambia, with the country officially becoming a Member State in July 2023. Over this period, collaboration has expanded across multiple government ministries and agencies, strengthening national capacity in key climate-related areas. Joint initiatives have included the development of a National Green Growth Index and a National Green Growth Strategy designed to guide sustainable development planning. Additional work has focused on carbon market mechanisms under Article 6 and the operationalization of an integrated Monitoring, Reporting and Verification system. Capacity building and the establishment of a Climate Finance Unit have also been central to the partnership’s progress.
The new agreement is expected to significantly enhance joint planning and implementation of green growth initiatives in Zambia. It will also improve the country’s ability to mobilize both climate and green finance from international and domestic sources. This is particularly important as Zambia continues to align its development agenda with global sustainability standards. GGGI’s presence in the country, hosted by the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, provides a structured platform for coordination and execution. The strengthened partnership is designed to support long-term institutional growth and policy continuity.
The signing of the Host Country Agreement marks a pivotal moment in Zambia’s climate and green growth journey. It reflects a deeper commitment to building systems that support environmental protection, economic transformation, and inclusive development. With stronger collaboration between the Government of Zambia and GGGI, the country is positioned to accelerate progress on its climate targets and sustainable development goals. The agreement also signals growing international confidence in Zambia’s approach to green growth planning and implementation. As both parties move forward, the focus will remain on delivering practical results that contribute to a more resilient and sustainable future for the nation.