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His Excellency, Mr. Edward Kallon, the United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator for Zimbabwe has rallied African First Ladies to spearhead environmental stewardship for the greater good of society.
Addressing delegates at the First Ladies Advocacy Event on Climate Change and the Environment on the sidelines of the 44th Southern African Development Community (SADC) IN Harare, HE Kallon said the initiative represented a significant collective effort to address pressing environmental challenges in the region, which affect communities, ecosystems, and the future.
“As we gather today, we stand at a pivotal moment for our planet—one that calls for urgent action, unwavering resolve, and a unified vision for sustainability. Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen. The challenge of environmental degradation, climate change, and biodiversity loss knows no borders. It is a global crisis with local effects, particularly felt in our beloved Southern Africa, where millions are grappling with the consequences of climate shocks such as the El Nino induced severe drought putting immense pressure on our societies.
“To combat this, we successfully commemorated the Southern Africa Regional World Environment Day 2024 in June in Harare where our First Lady graciously presided over as Guest of Honour. The event was a pivotal moment, where over 2,000 participants came together to discuss “Land Restoration, Desertification and Drought Resilience,” he said.
Environmental champion, First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe, has exemplified transformative leadership in this daunting landscape. With her commendable initiatives, Mr. Kallon said she has mobilized not just her country but fostered collaboration and created a unified front.
“Together, we can tackle the pressing environmental and societal challenges we face. In this regard, I would like, on behalf of the UN Development System in Zimbabwe, to express my utmost gratitude to the Government of Zimbabwe, the First Lady, Her Excellency Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, along with our partners — the Ministry of Environment, the Geo-Pomona Waste Management, our lead UN Agency on Environment – the United Nations Environmental Programme, and the Sunshine Environmental Sustainability Youth Network.
“Our First Lady, thank you for your consistent leadership and commitment to environmental sustainability which has been instrumental in our collective effort to get to this moment. Ladies and Gentlemen. This High-Level Advocacy Event on the Environment is not just a ceremonial occasion; it is a call to action. It will empower the First Ladies of Southern Africa to be champions of change, advocating for initiatives that address the intertwined crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
“As the First Ladies assume this vital role, they bring with them a unique influence that can galvanize communities and mobilize political will across our nations. The Event is a catalyst for promoting gender-responsive policies, enhancing women’s access to resources, and driving environmental awareness.”
The agenda was clear – the aim was to implement impactful solutions that would transform the approach to governance and environmental stewardship. The High-Level Advocacy Event of First Ladies embodied a strategic partnership with young environmental leaders through the Southern Africa Regional Youth Environment Network, harnessing their passion and innovative ideas.
HE Kallon said the role of the United Nations and its various entities is crucial in the fight. UN agencies such as the UN Environmental Programme, World Food Programme (WFP), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UN Women, UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO and 17 other UN Agencies are on the ground in Zimbabwe and the region, making incredible strides to support communities affected by climate change and biodiversity loss.
Together, stakeholders will foster a new wave of action—one that transcends borders and addresses not only the environmental degradation but also the socio-economic challenges that hinder women’s progress in our societies.
HE Kallon said First Ladies embody the spirit of nurturing and caring for not only their families but also their respective nations.
“As we have witnessed here in Zimbabwe by the sterling actions of our First Lady, you have the unique ability to mobilize communities, engage youth, and uplift women and girls to drive transformation. Your role as mothers goes beyond the confines of homes and your functional titles; it extends to creating inclusive, green, and sustainable economies. Imagine the impact you could have if you collectively championed initiatives that encourage tree planting, sustainable agricultural practices, and preservation of natural habitats as our First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa has been doing here in Zimbabwe.
Where there are engaged mothers, there is peace, equality, fairness, and progress. Your involvement can inspire a whole-society approach to transitions that do not just protect our environment but also create sustainable pathways for economic and sustainable development. Finally, allow me to emphasize that our success will be measured not only in policy changes but also in the lives we touch and the sustainable livelihoods we foster across our communities. A commitment to empowering women, driving environmental responsibility, and advocating for sustainability is the legacy we aspire to leave for future generations. The United Nations and its entities are at your disposal in this just cause and initiative that requires our collective action,” he added.
