Climate action a responsibility for all: Prof Prosper B. Matondi

Climate change is a threat that affects every person in Zimbabwe, Prof, Prosper B. Matondi, the Secretary for Environment, Climate, and Wildlife has said.

He made the remarks in the Bonn Negotiating Rooms for the Climate Change Conference running from 3 to 13 June 2024 where parties are discussing lessons learned from the first Global Stocktake, progress on developing reporting tools under the Paris Agreement’s enhanced transparency framework, and support for developing countries to prepare their biennial transparency reports.

Prof Matondi said addressing its impacts and building a sustainable future for the country will require a whole-of-society approach, with every sector, community, and individual playing their part.

At the heart of this effort lies the critical need for climate empowerment – equipping our citizens with the knowledge, tools, and opportunities to engage in climate action. This is not just a global imperative but an absolute necessity if we are to overcome the challenges posed by a changing climate.

Government agencies, for instance, must ensure climate change is integrated across policy frameworks and public service delivery. Businesses need to adopt sustainable practices and empower their workforce. And civil society organizations must continue mobilizing grassroots climate action and advocacy.

Crucially, Zimbabwe’s young people must be at the forefront of this movement. By equipping the next generation with climate education and platforms for participation, we can unlock their boundless potential as agents of change.

“Our children and youth are the true leaders in the fight against climate change,” said the Secretary for Environment, Climate and Wildlife. “They are ready and willing to take action, but they need the support and resources to do so effectively.

“As Zimbabwe prepares its updated Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement, the country has a pivotal opportunity to elevate the role of climate empowerment. By embedding these principles across all climate and development initiatives, Zimbabwe can demonstrate global leadership and deliver a sustainable, resilient future for all.

“Indeed, the impacts of climate change are already being felt across the country, from prolonged droughts to devastating floods. Addressing these challenges will require a concerted effort from every corner of society.

“Climate change is a threat that affects every person in our country. Empowering our citizens with the knowledge, tools, and opportunities to engage in climate action is not just a nice-to-have, but an absolute necessity if we are to build a sustainable future for Zimbabwe,” Prof Matondi said.

He added that this is not just the government’s responsibility – it’s up to all stakeholders.

“Together, we can unlock the power of an informed, engaged citizenry to tackle the climate crisis head-on and create a better tomorrow for generations to come.”