Vivo Energy Zambia, the company that distributes and markets Engen fuels and Shell lubricants in Zambia, is proud to announce its collaboration with the Office of the Vice President of Zambia in launching the Tree Restoration Project in Kanakantapa Resettlement Scheme, Chongwe District. This initiative marks a significant step towards environmental sustainability and the restoration of Zambia’s precious natural resources.

The project focuses on restoring the sensitive Kanakantapa ecological corridor, which is the source of the Chongwe hydrological system. Recognising that deforestation, driven by the local community’s reliance on the forests for livelihoods has degraded this vital ecosystem, we have adopted the concept of productive landscapes in our restoration efforts. This approach not only aims to restore forests and natural systems but also provides a sustainable source of food, creating opportunities for agri-business within the community.

Key aspects of Project Restoration:

Tree planting campaign 

Starting on 10th February 2025, Vivo Energy and the Office of the Vice President will work together to ensure that the scheme is not only a step ahead towards enhancing biodiversity but also a means to addressing pressing environmental challenges in Zambia. The project is expected to have lasting benefits for both the local environment and the communities surrounding Kanakantapa.

Community engagement

Training and extension services will be provided to settlers selected for the project. Our target is to establish a combined population of One Thousand (1,000) fruit trees, specifically Macadamia, a high-value crop that is well-suited to the arid conditions of the ecological zones where Kanakantapa is located.

Sustainable practices

Vivo Energy Zambia’s sustainability framework is designed with a beneficiary profile that strategically supports the longevity of our operations in the communities where we operate. The framework follows a threefold approach:

• Raising environmental awareness among the community, focusing on the principles of ecosystem services.
• Empowering the community to build resilience, particularly against climate change shocks, while offering economic opportunities through alternative livelihoods. This aims to reduce reliance on activities that exploit natural resources and contribute to forest cover loss.
• Empowering women and fostering nutrition by reserving the citrus trees exclusively for women and reserving 30% of the macadamia plants to women farmers under this project.

Monitoring and reporting

A Project Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) mechanism will be put in place to ensure the timely availability of relevant information that ensures accountability, effective coordination, monitoring progress towards project implementation and decision-making on key project activities. Monthly and quarterly monitoring of the implementation of activities will be conducted at the household and scheme level, and findings shared with all stakeholders involved in the project, including schools and traditional authorities around Kanakantapa. Some of the project indicators will look at improvements in knowledge, attitudes and practices towards environmental protection.

Partnerships and collaboration 

This partnership with the Office of the Vice President is well aligned with Pillar III of Zambia’s Eight National Development plan. It underscores Vivo Energy’s continued dedication to environmental stewardship and supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The company encourages other organisations to join in the fight against climate change and contribute to the global effort of environmental restoration.