Harare — Chiefs have been challenged to take a leading role in protecting natural resources through enforcing existing traditional and legal channels.

Speaking at Environment Africa's annual general meeting held in Harare yesterday, Chief Shana of Jambezi in Hwange agitated for stiffer penalties to protect natural resources. "As custodians and directors of communities' beliefs, values, conduct and behaviour, chiefs should be equipped with the knowledge and the ability to interpret the Environmental Management Act. This would help us to access current environmental and developmental trends," Chief Shana said.

He said chiefs should also be empowered to exercise their rights on the preservation of natural resources especially now when science and technology did not respect beliefs.

Chief Shana commended Environment Africa for its community-based approach that has gone an extra mile in building the chiefs' capacity in taking a leading role in protecting the environment.

"Environment Africa is really a transformation agent that has made a difference and continues to uplift the livelihoods of people and conservation of natural resources in the country.

"I must mention that I was touched by the small livestock pass-on scheme that has raised profiles of the disadvantaged in my district," Chief Shana said.

Under the pass-on scheme an individual receives two heifers which they then hand over to the next person after calving.

He urged his colleagues to accept and uphold the objective of protecting natural resources so that the younger generations become familiar with how to utilise, conserve and restore the resources sustainably.

Environment Africa's board chairman, Mr Albert Katsande, challenged the nation to take action that transforms natural and human environment for the better.

"As an organisation, we are calling upon everyone to take upon themselves the initiative in environmental care, conservation and sustainable development," Mr Katsande said.