The government in partnership with UNICEF and the Korea International Cooperation Agency have launched the “Climate Action for the Last Mile: Reaching the Most Vulnerable Children in Zimbabwe” to address the growing threat of climate change.
The initiative aims to strengthen climate resilience among children and other at-risk groups across the country.
Speaking at the launch ceremony at Kuwadzana 3 High School in Harare, Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife Sithembiso Nyoni said climate change was no longer a distant threat.
“It is a harsh reality impacting Zimbabwe’s most marginalised populations. This project will help build long-term resilience for the most vulnerable, particularly our children, women and persons with disabilities,” she said.
Korean ambassador to Zimbabwe Park Jae Kyung said the initiative will help mitigate the immediate impacts of climate change while ensuring a sustainable future for Zimbabwe’s children.
He added that Korea has donated US$5 million to aid Zimbabwe in its battle against climate change focusing on vulnerable children who are disproportionately impacted by environmental disasters.
UNICEF Zimbabwe representative Etona Ekole applauded the government for prioritising children in its climate action strategy.
“Every child in Zimbabwe is exposed to at least one climate hazard each year, whether it is flooding, drought, or heat stress. These hazards disrupt their education, health and access to clean water and nutrition. This project will give them the tools to not only survive but thrive in the face of climate
change,” she said.
