Second Climate Change and Development Conference Kicks Off in Zimbabwe, Focuses on Resilience and Future Sustainability

02 October 2024, Harare – The second Climate Change and Development Conference officially opened today at the Rainbow Hotel in Harare, led by the Honourable Vice President, Rtd General Dr. Constantino Guveya Dominic Nyikadzino Chiwenga.

Under the theme “Building Resilience, Securing the Future,” the event aims to cultivate collaborative dialogue and innovative solutions for Zimbabwe’s pressing climate challenges.

In his remarks at the conference, Mr. Edward Kallon, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, emphasized the urgency of mobilizing resources and strategic planning to align national efforts with global climate initiatives. "This year’s conference is pivotal as we approach COP29 and represents our commitment to deliver actionable climate responses and sustainable development in Zimbabwe," he stated.

The conference began with the launch of strategic documents, including the Zimbabwe National Climate Change Adaptation Plan, the Green Resilient Recovery Strategy and Investment Plan, and the Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy Investment Framework. These initiatives aim to guide comprehensive national strategies that respond effectively to the realities of climate change.

The anticipated outcomes of the conference include a Call-to-Action document that will serve as a roadmap for government, civil society, and the private sector to promote national development aligned with Vision 2030. The conference aims to enhance understanding of climate change impacts across Zimbabwe and address critical gaps in climate policy and governance, promoting effective implementation of both national and international climate commitments.

Mr. Kallon highlighted the significant role of children and youth in climate discourse, noting their unique vulnerabilities to climate change. "We must prioritize the voices of children and women as we develop climate policies. Their perspectives are crucial for creating effective solutions that will shape a sustainable future," he said.

Conference sessions will cover diverse themes, including the impacts of climate change on health, gender-responsive climate action, and the integration of climate technology and finance to drive sustainable development. Workshops and expert panels are designed to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration among various stakeholders, including academia, government, civil society, and the private sector.

The sessions aimed at fostering open dialogue about children and youth’s role in climate action will ensure that their needs and ideas are prioritized within national policies. "It is crucial to recognize that our children and youth are not just future stakeholders but active change-makers in the present," stressed Mr. Kallon.

Looking ahead to COP29, the conference seeks to consolidate Zimbabwe’s position to engage effectively in international climate discussions and negotiations. As the global community prepares for the critical Climate Conference, the outcomes of this event are expected to propel Zimbabwe’s commitment to climate resilience and sustainable development initiatives.

The second Climate Change and Development Conference in Zimbabwe, supported by the UNDP and UNICEF, aims to establish a solid framework for the country’s climate action strategy. This conference seeks to empower stakeholders at community and national level to create a resilient and sustainable future for Zimbabwe. By fostering proactive collaboration and a shared commitment, participants will be encouraged to address the serious effects of climate change while safeguarding the well-being of both present and future generations.

The conference runs until 03 October 2024 and aims to finalize its key results and recommendations for action in the fight against climate change before concluding.