Green the Ghetto expands into high densities as climate action

Obey Musiwa

Herald Reporter

GREEN the Ghetto movement, sponsored by Zimworx, has launched its Mabvuku Chapter at Tafara 5 Council Primary School.

Mabvuku becomes the third high-density suburb, after Kuwadzana and Harcliffe, to host a Green Hub.

Pupils at the school planted fruit trees as part of the “Fruit in Schools” programme, linking climate action with nutrition and community empowerment.

The initiative, which began as the Greening Kuwadzana Project in 2020, has grown into a nationwide campaign to establish Green Hubs in every high-density suburb by 2028.

The grassroots movement is positioning itself to a continental force for climate action by 2030, while aligning with global awareness efforts during the Global Action Month.

Speaking to Zimpapers, Green the Ghetto founder Mr Tafadzwa Gwini said the movement is a grassroots effort to green urban spaces, fight malnutrition, and build climate awareness among children.

“Mabvuku’s launch is part of a broader plan to expand across Zimbabwe and Africa,” Mr Gwini said.

“Our ‘Fruit in Schools’ programme not only increases tree coverage but also tackles malnutrition and hunger.”

He emphasised that by 2028, the movement aims to have Green Hubs in every high-density suburb.

“And by 2030, Green the Ghetto should be a continental movement.”

Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife Deputy director of communication and advocacy Ms Joyce Chapungu emphasised the role of children and communities in planting trees to fight climate change, saying it improves nutrition, and strengthens partnerships for sustainable development.

“If every person plants at least one tree each year, we will manage our environment better and enhance food security,” she said.

“Trees act as carbon sinks, trapping greenhouse gases and giving us clean air—this is why we encourage fruit tree planting in schools and communities.”

In his sentiment, Tafara 5 Council Primary School Headmaster Fananidzo Muchemwa said the initiative empowers children to see environmental stewardship as part of their daily lives.

“This extends lessons from school to their families, as fruit trees also bring long-term health and economic benefits,” he said.

“Fruit trees like mangoes and oranges are low-hanging fruits that can quickly bring both nutrition and income to the school.”