Vice President Khembo Mohadi has sounded a clarion call for climate justice, highlighting the disproportionate impact of global warming on developing countries like Zimbabwe, despite contributing minimally to global carbon emissions, these nations bear the brunt of extreme weather patterns.
Speaking at the inaugural afforestation and reforestation conference in the Republic of Congo VP Mohadi emphasized the need for developed countries to honor their commitments and provide financial support to developing nations in their climate change mitigation efforts.
He stressed that it is a matter of global justice, as the developed world has historically been the primary contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. “It is tragic that, although countries such as Zimbabwe account for a negligible percentage of global warming, they are most impacted by this change in weather patterns.
“We, therefore, call upon the developed world to live up to their commitments to give financial support to developing countries to meet their climate change obligations,” he said.
In a proactive effort, the Zimbabwean government imposed a re-afforestation charge on tobacco growers, recognizing the negative environmental effects of tobacco production and curing. The levy is completely dedicated to tree planting and forestry efforts, indicating the country’s dedication to sustainable practices.
“My Government has instituted a reforestation levy on Tobacco growers in cognizance of the negative effects arising from growing and curing this crop. The levy is solely dedicated to tree planting and reforestation,” he added.
In addition, the government has designated the first Saturday of each December as a tree planting day, during which the national mentality is mobilized to plant more trees, particularly indigenous ones.
VP Mohadi’s plea to action mirrors the feelings of many vulnerable countries, urging the global community to recognize the disproportionate impact of climate change and take common responsibility for a sustainable future. As the world grapples with the issues of climate change, Zimbabwe’s efforts offer a ray of hope for ecologically aware administration.
