In an effort to tackle the escalating impacts of climate change, SNV Zimbabwe, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife, is rolling out a groundbreaking project titled “Empowering Youth, Women, and People with Disabilities in Implementing Zimbabwe’s
Climate Agenda.”
The project launch, held in Harare, Wednesday, signals a pivotal moment as the country grapples with the intensifying effects of climate change, evidenced by a surge in extreme weather events such as droughts, cyclones, floods, and heat waves.
Tatenda Mutasa, a Climate Change Scientist and Action for Climate Empowerment National Focal Point, underscored the gravity of the climate crisis, particularly for developing nations like Zimbabwe. “Addressing this climate challenge necessitates novel perspectives, innovative development approaches, and collaborative partnerships across nations, sectors, and societies.
Zimbabwe has taken steps to confront climate change by signing and ratifying the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement,” said Mutasa.
He outlined Zimbabwe’s revised Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), which includes ambitious emission reduction targets and comprehensive adaptation measures across key sectors.
Kudzai Ndidzano, Acting Director of the Climate Change Management Department, highlighted the alignment of Zimbabwe’s climate agenda with sustainable development goals and national strategies, stressing the need for inclusivity and collaboration to achieve resilience and prosperity.
“The project being unveiled today has the objective of empowering women, youth, and individuals with disabilities to effectively implement climate-related policies and strategies, including NDC and NAP.
Through initiatives such as awareness campaigns, capacity-building programs, and platforms for sharing knowledge, this project aims to enable active engagement of marginalized groups in climate action.
“It aspires to establish a comprehensive knowledge sharing platform, document impact stories, and foster inclusivity within Zimbabwe’s climate actions. By promoting meaningful participation
and involvement of these groups, the project strives to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all,” Ndidzano added.
Cloffas Nyagumbo, SNV Sector Leader speaking on behalf of SNV director Lucy Fulgence, reiterated the importance of collective engagement.
“The success of this project is anchored on full participation and contribution from various government departments; youth and women as well as representatives of people with disabilities; knowledge institutions; private sector players and other esteemed actors. Let us join hands in amplifying the role of youth, women, and PWDs in our global commitment to accelerate climate action,” Nyagumbo said.
