To the President of the Republic of Zambia, the Government of Zambia, and the relevant environmental and land authorities.

SAVE FOREST 27: Stop the Destruction of Lusaka's Forest and critical underground water recharge zone.

Forest 27 is disappearing before our eyes. We cannot afford to lose any more of it.

Residents and conservation supporters in Lusaka are reporting fresh tree cutting, new roads being carved through the woodland, and land being prepared for development.

This is happening to one of Zambia's most environmentally important remaining indigenous forests and the last forest in Lusaka City.

Forest 27 is not vacant land waiting to be developed. It is a vital groundwater recharge area, protecting the headwaters of the Chalimbana River and supporting the natural environment on which surrounding communities depend.

Over decades, successive decisions have reduced the forest's legally protected area. Land has been allocated, development has encroached, and conservationists have repeatedly raised the alarm.

Now, with reports of fresh destruction, urgent action is needed.

We call on the Government of Zambia to immediately:

Stop further destruction: Suspend new land allocations, tree clearance, road construction and development in the remaining protected reserve, and investigate activity in historically protected areas.

Investigate land allocations: Publish the relevant land titles, planning permissions, environmental approvals and forest boundary changes.

Protect the water catchment: Commission an independent assessment of the impacts on groundwater recharge, the Chalimbana River and the surrounding ecosystem.

Restore legal protection: Review previous de-gazettements and restore protection to environmentally critical areas wherever legally possible.

Hold those responsible accountable: Investigate unauthorised clearing and development, enforce environmental laws and require appropriate restoration.

This is not a party-political campaign. It is a call to protect Zambia's natural heritage, water resources and the rights of future generations.

Once this indigenous forest is gone, we cannot simply bring it back.

We urge the President of Zambia, the responsible ministries, ZEMA, WARMA and relevant local authorities to intervene before more irreversible damage is done.

Save Forest 27. Protect the Chalimbana River. Protect Zambia's future. 

Sign this petition and share it with everyone who believes Zambia's forests, wildlife and water resources deserve protection.