My work for Chipata Municipality
“The Eastern Province (with its seat in the Municipality of Chipata) is one of the nine provinces of Zambia. The province has lots of wild parks, including the famous South Luangwa National Park. Eastern Province has nearly 100.000 inhabitants. In 2010, World Bank named the economy of Zambia one of the most growing and changing economies in the world.”

“I work as Urban Planner at the Department of Physical Planning and Housing. I am responsible for making residential layout Maps and Development control using GIS software. Planning directly relates to sustainability and local development through preparation of layout plans.”

“I wanted to learn more about climate change and adaptation strategies in The Netherlands and to get practical experience in how climate change programme can be applied to my planning tasks through the use of Geographic Information System (GIS).”

Experiences in The Netherlands
“During the training course “Climate Change and Sustainable Local Development” and my internship I gained experience in how to integrate climate change adaptation and mitigation inland using planning and upgrading; how the local authorities in The Netherlands work together with universities, public companies, civil society. I got new ideas from the “Sun City” project in Heerhugowaard on how to reduce CO2 emissions and use the ground to keep houses warm.”

Back Home Action Plan
“I have already had a discussion with my superiors before my departure to The Netherlands on how to share the experiences of the programme in my organisation. After my return to Zambia, I will debrief them first and work out a plan on how I can share my experience during our weekly meeting. It is my responsibility to share my knowledge on climate change and urban agriculture with Urban Planners and GIS experts. Moreover, I would like to specialise in the Climate Change field and become an ambassador for Climate Change and Sustainable Local Development in my country.”

Gillie Cheelo