BRIEF
The Namfumu Conservation Trust (2015) is a community-based organization that is dedicated to the conservation of natural resources in Zambia, with a particular focus on the promotion of sustainable forestry practices. The organization has made significant contributions towards the promotion of women as custodians of indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) towards the conservation of forest biodiversity and resources in several ways mentioned herein.
At Namfumu Conservation Trust, we believe that non-wood forest products (NWFPs) and natural herbal supplements play a crucial role in promoting health and wellbeing, particularly in a world where natural foods are being replaced with chemically induced alternatives. We recognize the value of these natural resources and promote their sustainable use and conservation. Here are some reasons why NWFPs and natural herbal supplements are essential:
Nutritional Value: NWFPs provide a rich source of essential nutrients. They include edible fruits, nuts, seeds, mushrooms, and leafy vegetables that contribute to a balanced diet. Natural herbal supplements also contains various bioactive compounds that can help improve health.
Traditional Supplements: Many indigenous communities have relied on natural herbal supplements for centuries to treat various ailments. These traditional remedies are often passed down through generations and offer a holistic approach to health, focusing on the underlying causes rather than just the symptoms.
Sustainable Resource Use: NWFPs can be sustainably harvested from forests without causing ecological damage. By promoting responsible collection practices, Namfumu Conservation Trust helps protect biodiversity and ensures the long-term availability of these resources.
Cultural Preservation: The use of NWFPs and natural herbal supplements is deeply rooted in cultural practices and beliefs. Preserving these practices not only provides access to natural foods and supplementss but also helps maintain cultural heritage and traditional knowledge systems.
Reduced Environmental Impact: Chemical-based agriculture and modern supplements often have negative impacts on the environment, ranging from soil degradation to pollution. In contrast, NWFPs and natural herbal supplements can be harvested and processed with minimal negative environmental consequences, promoting sustainable land and resource management.
Health Benefits: Chemical-induced foods may provide convenience, but they often lack nutritional value and can have long-term health consequences. Natural foods and herbal supplements, on the other hand, offer numerous health benefits, such as boosting the immune system, preventing diseases, and promoting overall wellbeing.
Availability and Accessibility: NWFPs are often abundant and easily accessible to local communities, particularly those living in rural areas with limited access to modern healthcare facilities. By promoting the use of these resources, Namfumu Conservation Trust helps provide communities with market linkages for affordable and readily available natural foods and supplements.
Cell: +260-967-820417 Farm 919 Lusaka South,
+260-977-820-417 Lilayi
E-mail- Lusaka, Zambia musonda@namfumu.org.zm
Namfumu Conservation Trust by recognizing the value of non-wood forest products and natural herbal supplements, contributes to building the health and wellbeing in a world where chemical-induced foods are becoming increasingly prevalent. By promoting the sustainable use of these resources, the organization fosters ecological conservation, cultural preservation, and the availability of natural foods and supplementss that contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of communities.
KEY STRATEGIC FOCUS OF WORK:
- Environmental Education (Traditional Leaders, Schools, Communities)
- Community Based Natural Resource Management
- Forest Resource Management: Re-forestation of Indigenous Trees through Enrichment Planting.
- Use of Alternative Energy
- Environmental Consultancy and Community based Perma-cultural Innovations
- Promotion of Indigenous Knowledge Systems through experiential learning Forest Communities
- Value addition of indigenous forest foods, fruits, cosmetics and herbal supplement into daily health use within urban households and markets.
ACHIEVEMENTS:
Namfumu has established strategic partnerships with international and Regional organizations
- International Alliance on Natural Resources in Africa –IANRA
- Ministry of Green Economy and Environment (Department of Forestry & Department of Environment)
- Zambia Environmental Management Agency – Environmental Impact Assessment with ZEMA for clients. Client references available on demand
- Forest Landscape Restoration Civil Society Platform – WWF/CBNRM
- National Advisory Panel – Farm Radio International/MISA Zambia
- Kalonda Agro in Chief Siachitema, Kalomo
AFFILIATIONS:
- Zambia Institute for Environmental Network for Environmental Educators & Practitioners – ZANEEP
- ZEMA – Environmental Consultant
- Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) Zambia
- PELUM Zambia
- Publish What You Pay – Zambia
- Traditional Healer and Practitioners Association of Zambia (THPAZ)
- Zambia Alliance for Agroecology and Biodiversity (ZAAB)
GEOGRAPHICAL AREAS OF OPERATION
- Eastern Province
- Southern Province
- Lusaka Province
- Central Province
Cell: +260-967-820417 Farm 919 Lusaka South,
+260-977-820-417 Lilayi
E-mail- Lusaka, Zambia musonda@namfumu.org.zm
