Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
CLIMATE resilience in schools is being strengthened, with UNICEF Zimbabwe and tourism company Wild Horizons signing a memorandum of understanding to provide clean water, renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure to schools in Victoria Falls.
The partnership will see the two organisations implementing solar-powered water systems at Mkhosana Adventist, Ndlovu and Sizinda schools, improving access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene for learners and communities.
UNICEF Zimbabwe Representative Mrs Etona Ekole said the collaboration highlights how development agencies and the private sector can combine strengths to build lasting climate resilience.
“This partnership is a powerful example of how business and development can come together to create sustainable solutions for children and their communities,” she said.
“By combining UNICEF’s child-focused programming with Wild Horizons’ commitment to protecting the environment and empowering communities, we are building models of climate resilience that can be scaled across Zimbabwe.”
The project targets schools facing chronic water shortages and deteriorating infrastructure due to climate change.
Through renewable energy and integrated water systems, it aims to improve education, health and food security outcomes.
Access to clean water is expected to reduce absenteeism among learners, particularly girls and improve menstrual health management.
Nearby health facilities, including the Ndlovu maternity ward, will also benefit from better water access enhancing maternal and child health services.
The programme includes plans for school gardens irrigated through solar-powered systems to boost nutrition and promote climate-smart agriculture, while Wild Horizons will train youth in solar and water technologies to enhance employment opportunities.
Wild Horizons chief executive officer Mr Gary Archer said the initiative builds on the company’s community-focused operations.
“Wild Horizons is built on the foundation of community. This partnership with UNICEF allows us to expand that commitment, ensuring healthier schools, stronger families, and a greener future. Together we can create a model of resilience that inspires far beyond Victoria Falls.”
The partnership supports the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s Clean Green Zimbabwe Initiative and contributes to the national climate adaptation agenda.
