The United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) aligns with Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) aimed at achieving economic growth and stability, food and nutrition security, structural transformation, and value chains among many common priorities.
These were the sentiments of Mr. Spencer Dube, the Acting Chief Director of Political Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the belated 79th Anniversary of the UN celebration held at the Rainbow Towers Hotel in Harare today.
The commemoration was held under the theme: “Sustainability in Action: Reflecting on Development in Zimbabwe” which underlines the urgency of sustained investment in development initiatives.
“The government and people of Zimbabwe remain grateful for this support and for the commitment by the UN in Zimbabwe to continue to support Zimbabwe within the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. Let me take this opportunity to note with great satisfaction that the cooperation framework between the government and the UN in Zimbabwe aligns with our own National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1.
“There is synergy between the priorities of the UN and Zimbabwe in the context of both NDS1 and UNSDCF, which both set out strategies aimed at achieving economic growth and stability, food and nutrition security, structural transformation, and value chains among many common priorities. In practice, this has meant that our efforts have been harmonious as we all work together towards common goals,” Mr. Dube said.
Addressing the same gathering, His Excellency Mr. Edward Kallon, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Zimbabwe said from peacekeeping missions to addressing hunger, poverty, health crises, and education disparities, the UN has demonstrated a formidable resolve, advancing agendas like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and climate initiatives such as the Paris Agreement.
“Contemporary challenges resonate with a sense of urgency. Global inequality and climate crises persist, with only 15% of the SDGs expected to be achieved by 2030, urging us to reassess and redefine our strategies,” he said.
In Zimbabwe, HE Kallon said the UN commitment is evident through the Zimbabwe United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2022-2026, partnering with the government, Member States, NGOs, civil society, youth and women movements, and the private sector. This cooperation aims to tackle national challenges as outlined by Secretary-General Guterres, including revamping food systems, ensuring energy access, enhancing digital connectivity, promoting education and jobs, advancing social protection, and spearheading climate action.
Key initiatives in Zimbabwe include collaborations among various stakeholders delivering over US$ 500 million annually in development programmes under the Zimbabwe-UN Cooperation Framework. UN contributions, exceeding USD 1.2 billion in the past 2.5 years, underscore commitment to Zimbabwe’s development.
“The USD 90 million Health Resilience Fund highlights the impact of the joint programme. The installation of a 200-kW solar mini-grid in Hakwata village demonstrates renewable energy solutions. Partnerships with entities like Old Mutual, contributing $100 million, and the Ministry of Energy and Power Development, showcase efforts to democratize access to renewable energy,” HE Kallon said.
Highlighting the importance of the private sector in spearheading sustainable development, Dilesh Nguwaya, CEO and Executive Chairman of Geo Pomona Waste Management, said his company has implemented effective waste management solutions, to minimize harmful emissions and promote a cleaner environment.
Mr. Delish Nguwaya
“One of our key initiatives is to plant trees across 1,500 square meters. These trees will not only absorb carbon dioxide but also enhance our local ecosystem. We take pride in aligning our efforts with the United Nations, starting with the development of SDGs. Under SDG 6 on access to clean water and sanitization, we openly say that we have a waste management plan that ensures clean water management in protecting our water resources.
“Looking at SDG 7 on ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy for all, our upcoming waste management plan ensures access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy for all by producing between 16 to 22 megawatts of electricity. This initiative exemplifies our commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Regarding SDG 8 on decent work and economic growth, our workforce is expanding significantly from 61 to 181,” Nguwaya said.
Through its innovative practice, Geo Pomona is addressing the challenges of sustainable cities, demonstrating that its model not only serves local communities but also has the potential to inspire smart city vision across the nation. On SDG 12 on promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns, the company is committed to responsible consumption and production.
Concerning SDG 13, it will harness methane from waste to produce energy, thereby reducing emissions and contributing to more sustainable energy landscapes. Regarding SDG 17 on Partnership for the Goals, it will recognize that achieving these goals requires strong partnership.
Lydia Zigomo, the UNFPA Regional Director at the Regional Office for East and Southern Africa, said the United Nations in Zimbabwe supports the government’s national development priorities to advance sustainable development goals.
“Delivering as one United Nations, we are very keen to support these projects. This maximizes resources and aligns programs to address Zimbabwe’s most pressing developmental challenges, including poverty reduction, education, and maternal health. As you can imagine, our collective work as the UN cannot happen without support from our partners. The strong partnerships with the UN have enabled us to continue to deliver for the people of Zimbabwe.
“As UN EPA, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring universal access to sexual reproductive health and rights and ending gender-based violence across Zimbabwe, with special attention to women and young people,” Zigomo said.
She said through partnerships, stakeholders can end issues like maternal mortality from preventable causes.
“We can end teenage pregnancy. We can ensure that every child goes to school and we can ensure the empowerment of both men and women to support the development of Zimbabwe. We must invest in our young people. They are not just our future but the present,” Zigomo added.
