Story by Tichaona Kurewa

THE United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Consultative Group of Experts (UNFCCC) is holding a three-day regional conference in Victoria Falls.

The conference is meant to raise awareness and build capacity on the reporting provisions of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement’s Enhanced Transparency Framework.

The Consultative Group of Experts is a constituted body under the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement, mandated to provide technical advice and support to developing countries in fulfilling their reporting requirements.

The regional workshop, which has brought together participants from 37 African countries, saw Zimbabwe acknowledging the significance of tracking progress in the implementation of various climate mitigation interventions in the wake of increased adverse weather conditions.

The Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife Honourable Sithembiso Nyoni said, “Zimbabwe recognises that transparency arrangements under the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement are meant to ensure that all Parties are contributing towards addressing causes of climate change, enhancing adaptation capacities and directing financial flows towards climate resilience and low carbon development. In light of this, the work of the Consultative Group of Experts (CGE) in assisting developing countries in improving their level of expertise in reporting in accordance with set guidelines becomes very important.”

UNFCCC Consultative Group of Expert Member representing Africa, Mr Nesbert Samu outlined the objective of the workshop and its benefits to member states.

“The ultimate objective of the CGE is to enhance the capacity of parties to fulfil their reporting obligations under the Convention and its Paris Agreement through the National Communications and Biennial Transparency Reports every four and two years respectively. It also helps parties to track progress in the implementation of various climate change mitigation programs.”

Zimbabwe is in the process of developing its fifth National Communication and First Biennial Transparency Report due for submission to the UNFCCC by December this year.