Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
THE Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Evelyn Ndlovu, is today expected to officially launch the Urban and Peri-Urban Resilience through Investment for Sustainable Ecosystems (U-RISE) Project at a Bulawayo hotel.
The launch marks a major milestone in efforts to strengthen urban resilience and sustainable ecosystem management in Zimbabwe.
The project is being implemented under the Global Environment Facility (GEF-8) Sustainable Cities Programme and seeks to enhance resilience in Harare and Bulawayo through nature-based solutions, improved urban planning and sustainable ecosystem management.
Today’s launch comes at the end of a two-day programme that began on Wednesday and brought together delegates from the Ministries of Environment, Climate and Wildlife as well as Local Government and Public Works, the Environmental Management Agency, the Office of the President and Cabinet, representatives from the cities of Harare and Bulawayo, the Food and Agriculture Organization and other development agencies.
The past two days saw delegates focusing on building a shared understanding of the project, validating the work plan and governance arrangements, as well as clarifying the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders involved in the initiative.
Speaking during the first day of the workshop, FAO Zimbabwe focal person Ms Constance Sekete said the organisation will contribute US$19,4 million towards the implementation of the project.
She said the initiative is expected to play a critical role in improving urban resilience and addressing environmental challenges affecting the country’s two largest cities.
The U-RISE project is also expected to support sustainable urban development through ecosystem restoration, climate adaptation measures and improved management of urban and peri-urban natural resources.
Stakeholders said the project dovetails with Government’s broader vision of promoting climate resilience, environmental protection and sustainable livelihoods in urban areas.
