EPD2026: Official Opening
Official Opening Speakers
Website: https://ccz.org.zm/
An ecumenical body that brings together major Protestant denominations in Zambia, including the United Church of Zambia, the Reformed Church in Zambia, and the Anglican Church. Established in 1944, it advocates for social justice, good governance, peace-building, and human rights while coordinating humanitarian and development programs for its member churches.
Website: https://cejzambia.org/
A Zambian non-governmental organization focused on promoting environmental rights, climate justice, and sustainable natural resource management. It advocates for communities affected by mining and pollution while pushing for stronger environmental laws and corporate accountability.
A vibrant Pentecostal church based in Lusaka, Zambia, known for its dynamic worship services and strong emphasis on faith, healing, and prosperity teaching. Led by Bishop Eddie Mulenga, the church runs community outreach programs, a school, and regular conferences that attract members from across the city.
Website: https://www.sarwatch.co.za/
An independent, nonprofit organization based in Johannesburg, South Africa, that monitors corporate and government conduct in the extraction of natural resources across Southern Africa, assessing their contributions to sustainable development and community upliftment. It actively engages in Zambia through research, advocacy, and partnerships with local civil society and mining-affected communities, particularly on issues like corporate social responsibility, environmental impacts, and equitable resource governance in the mining sector.
Website: https://cornerstone-intl.org/
A Christian missions organization, founded in 1972, devoted to mobilising, training and supporting cross-cultural workers around the world. It sends missionaries globally for church-planting, medical missions, community development, evangelism, biblical teaching and relief work — and places strong emphasis on the emotional, spiritual, financial and physical well-being of its mission workers. Cornerstone International also focuses on raising local leaders in the countries they serve, ensuring sustainable, locally-owned ministries rather than dependency on short-term foreign aid.
Website: https://www.mgee.gov.zm/
A Zambian government ministry responsible for formulating and implementing policies on climate change, environmental protection, forestry, and the transition to a green and circular economy. Established in 2021, it drives national strategies like the National Policy on Climate Change and the Eighth National Development Plan’s focus on sustainable development.
