Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
THE Government is moving to strengthen environmental governance, climate resilience and wildlife protection through a raft of legislative reforms aimed at safeguarding Zimbabwe’s natural resources and promoting sustainable development.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife Mr Simon Masanga said this during a meeting with officials from the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Organisation (ZELO) on Thursday, where stakeholders discussed key legislative reforms, climate action initiatives and environmental protection measures.
The meeting reviewed progress on several pending policy and legal frameworks, including amendments to the Environmental Management Act, the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the proposed Biological Diversity Act.
Mr Masanga said strengthening environmental justice remained a priority, with discussions focusing on measures to combat environmental crimes such as illegal wildlife trafficking and mercury pollution of rivers linked to artisanal mining activities.
The meeting also explored the establishment of specialised environmental court mechanisms to improve the prosecution and handling of environmental offences, ensuring perpetrators are held accountable.
Climate resilience and carbon financing were also central to the discussions, with stakeholders deliberating on advancing Zimbabwe’s climate strategies, participation in regional carbon market initiatives and developing frameworks to address climate-induced loss and damage.
The parties further discussed ways of improving responses to human-wildlife conflict through stronger statutory instruments and sustainable funding mechanisms to support affected communities while promoting conservation.
The meeting also highlighted the need for responsible investment by incorporating social and climate impact assessments into environmental management processes to ensure development projects are sustainable and inclusive.
Mr Masanga reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to collaborating with civil society organisations such as ZELO in strengthening environmental governance and protecting Zimbabwe’s natural heritage.
He said partnerships between Government and stakeholders were critical in addressing emerging environmental challenges and achieving sustainable development goals for current and future generations.
