Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
THE Sustainable Cities and Green Economy initiatives are not merely environmental projects but strategic investments aimed at improving livelihoods, restoring ecosystems and strengthening Zimbabwe’s climate resilience, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has said.
Speaking at the launch of the Urban and Peri-Urban Resilience through Investment for Sustainable Ecosystems (U-RISE) Project in Bulawayo on Friday, EMA director general Mr Aaron Chigona said the projects are aligned with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy.
He said the initiatives place emphasis on protecting wetlands, forests, grasslands and other critical ecosystems while at the same time creating green jobs and supporting livelihoods for women and youths.
“Millions of dollars have been mobilised towards the programme, with part of the funding expected to support local authorities and communities in building sustainable urban systems and improving environmental management,” said Mr Chigona.
He stressed the importance of institutional cooperation among Government ministries, local authorities, the private sector and communities in ensuring the success of the projects.
Mr Chigona said EMA will provide technical oversight through a Project Management Unit to ensure smooth implementation of the programme.
“The project should not end as a once-off intervention, but must be institutionalised and replicated across all local authorities in Zimbabwe to ensure long-term sustainability,” he said.
Mr Chigona added that the initiative presents an opportunity for Zimbabwe to strengthen its capacity to directly manage climate financing and environmental programmes for the benefit of communities.
The programme is expected to restore degraded ecosystems, promote sustainable economic practices and improve climate resilience in urban and peri-urban areas in Bulawayo and Harare.
