Story by Memory Chamisa
THE United Nations Climate Change Conference kicked off in Dubai this Thursday with Zimbabwe joining over 200 countries in taking stock of climate change issues.
Running from this Thursday until the 12th of December, the conference is an opportunity for the international community including scientists and environmentalists to come up with practical solutions for addressing the impact of climate change.
Outlining Zimbabwe’s position and expectations, Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister, Honourable Mangaliso Ndhlovu called for immediate global climate action.
“Top of the agenda is the Loss and Damage Fund where international funding to help countries like Zimbabwe adapt to climate change will be hotly debated as developing countries have been demanding more contributions from the industrialised nations. We want to see timelines where the fund will be in place and how best Zimbabwe can access it. We have had our fair share of the adverse effects of climate change from droughts, elninos, and cyclones and this has taken a huge toll on our communities, especially women and children. Just transition on renewable energy is another topic that we will also have an interest in. Several line ministries are also present at this prestigious event as they will also present on how they have faired in implementing mitigatory measures in areas like agriculture, health, and energy to mention but a few,” said the Minister.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa is also expected to deliver a keynote address on Zimbabwe’s success stories on adaptation and mitigation of climate change.
“His Excellency, President Mnangagwa is expected to join other heads of state from tomorrow and he will present Zimbabwe’s success story on food sustainability and show them how the country is committed to mitigating the climate crises,” said Honourable Ndlovu.
This comes after the Cabinet approved the Principles of the Climate Change Management Bill which seeks to create legislation that enables Zimbabwe to effectively respond to the impacts of climate change.
It is also expected to build climate resilience, promote low-carbon development, establish a climate change fund, and comply with international obligations on climate change management and ozone layer protection.
