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The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Zimbabwe today launched its 2023 Annual Report, celebrating a year of significant achievements and outlining future plans to support Zimbabwe’s sustainable development goals (SDGs). The launch event took place at the Golden Conifer in Harare and brought together key stakeholders, partners, and media representatives.
Key Highlights of the Event:
The launch event commenced with welcoming remarks and goodwill messages from distinguished speakers, including Mr. Edward Kallon, UN Zimbabwe Resident Coordinator, and Dr. Ayodele Odusola, UNDP Zimbabwe Resident Representative. The event featured a detailed presentation on the results achieved in 2023, followed by a discussion on the 2023 Annual Report and the UNDP 2024 Integrated Work Plan.
Major Achievements in 2023:
Health Systems Strengthening: UNDP Zimbabwe supported over 1 million people with Anti-Retroviral Treatment and completed the construction of the Mutare NatPharm warehouse to ensure a robust medical supply chain.
Renewable Energy Initiatives: The installation of solar systems in health facilities and biogas digesters for households has significantly improved access to clean energy. Notably, the Masholomoshe Irrigation Scheme now benefits from a 66.6 kW solar microgrid, enhancing agricultural productivity while conserving water.
Climate Action: In collaboration with the Government of Zimbabwe, UNDP reached over 540,000 smallholder farmers with climate-smart agriculture practices, positively impacting over 2.3 million people. Additionally, over 270,000 trees were planted, and efforts to reduce poaching in the Zambezi Valley saw a notable decline in wildlife losses.
Economic Empowerment: The creation of Savings and Lending Groups fostered self-reliance among community members, with collective savings of over US$260,000 reinvested in agricultural inputs, tools, and small enterprises.
Justice and Governance: The virtual court system supported by UNDP helped reduce caseloads of remand hearings and improved timely access to justice. National voter education efforts reached 5.9 million people, ensuring informed participation in the electoral process.
Strategic Focus for 2024:
Looking ahead, UNDP Zimbabwe is committed to furthering its support for the country’s development goals. The 2024 Integrated Work Plan includes expanding initiatives aimed at fostering prosperity, addressing the impacts of the El Niño drought, and bolstering efforts towards debt clearance and re-engagement.
Dr. Ayodele Odusola, UNDP Zimbabwe Resident Representative, emphasized, “Our commitment to Zimbabwe remains steadfast. We are dedicated to aiding the nation in overcoming obstacles on its path towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. We invite our partners and stakeholders to join us in this journey.”
Press Briefing:
The event concluded with a press briefing, providing an opportunity for media representatives to engage with UNDP officials and stakeholders.