The 12th Conference on Climate Change and Development in Africa convened in Abidjan, bringing together a diverse group of leaders, experts, and policymakers to discuss solutions for the continent’s pressing climate challenges. Held alongside the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment special meeting ahead of COP 29 in Baku, the conference aims to unite leaders,…
Staff Writer The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) says as of June 30, 2024, 14 banks and one microfinance institution were actively participating in the Sustainability Standards and Certification Initiative (SSCI) programme. The apex bank said some financial institutions have made good progress toward fulfilment of the certification requirements for the collaborative effort that aims…
Staff Writer Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has called for increased investment in climate change research to bolster the country’s agricultural sector and ensure food security. Speaking at the Inaugural Research for Agricultural Excellence Indaba, Chiwenga emphasised the critical role of scientific research in addressing the challenges posed by climate change and improving agricultural productivity. “I…
The Zimbabwean government has announced plans to launch a nationwide solarisation project aimed at powering rural communities and promoting sustainable development. The project, as outlined by Information Minister Jenfan Muswere in a post-cabinet briefing, is a key component of the government’s Rural Development 8.0 Strategy. The Presidential solarisation project will involve the installation of solar…
Staff Writer The government has raised concerns over the country’s food security situation, warning that a significant portion of the rural population will require food assistance in the coming months. In a post-Cabinet update, authorities revealed that approximately 6.2 million rural people will need support to meet their food needs until March 2025. Unpredictable rainfall…
Staff Writer The Southern African Regional Climate Outlook Forum (SARCOF) has issued a warning of both increased rainfall and potential drought conditions in various parts of the region. The forum, which met in Harare, from 26 to 28 August 2024, released its latest seasonal climate outlook for the October to March 2024/25 period. The SARCOF…
Staff Writer The country’s power utility, Zesa Holdings, says it plans to significantly boost its renewable energy capacity and battery storage infrastructure to address Zimbabwe’s chronic power shortages. Zesa executive chairman Sydney Gata said the utility has identified several sites for solar power deployment and is currently conducting feasibility studies to ensure their bankability. “Zesa…
Staff Writer Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Sithembiso Nyoni, has called for the urgent need for improved climate forecasts within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. Addressing the 29th Southern Africa Regional Climate Outlook Forum (SARCOF 29), Nyoni highlighted the devastating impacts of climate variability and change on the region’s ecosystems, food security,…
Save the Children has raised alarm over the surge in child rights violations during emergencies, particularly the ongoing El Niño-induced drought affecting communities in Zimbabwe. The humanitarian organisation emphasised the urgent need to strengthen reporting mechanisms to safeguard the well-being of children. To enhance accessibility for children, Save the Children, with support from USAID’s Bureau…
ActionAid has called for urgent action to protect young women in Southern Africa, warning that the region’s ongoing El Niño-induced drought is disproportionately affecting them. The organisation launched a policy brief ahead of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Ordinary Summit, urging leaders to prioritise gender equality and women’s empowerment in their drought response efforts….
