malvernmugadzikwa
Online Reporter
THE country’s critical climate change blueprints such as the National Climate Policy, revised National Determined Contributions and its Implementation Plan and the draft National Adaptation Plan are part of efforts to achieve a child-friendly environment, an international organisation has noted.
The emblematic legislative policy instruments are top priorities and reflective of the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child.
In a communique on Wednesday, the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child said the country has ensured that the voices of children and young people are captured in the climate change debate and the country’s position towards the annual Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
“Further, the Government is supporting schools in the country to put in place disaster risk management plans while strengthening climate change learning, climate-resilient infrastructure, and basic services — such as renewable energy and water supply— and creating more practical learning spaces to foster environmental stewardship amongst Zimbabwe’s children, including through the Clean Green Initiative.
“At the Africa Climate Summit held in Nairobi in September 2023, Zimbabwe reiterated its commitment to intensify adaptation efforts such as early warnings and disaster risk reduction, climate-proofing infrastructure, sustainable water management and climate-smart agriculture for food and nutrition security,” reads part of the statement.
The initiatives have been commended for reducing the negative impact of climate change on children.
“For sustainability, this calls for enhanced action in schools and communities to be better prepared for the more frequent and intense weather events that come with climate change in Zimbabwe.
“In conclusion, the General Comment is an urgent call for countries, including Zimbabwe, to prioritise action in every aspect of childhood impacted by climate change, such as the rights of a child to protection from violence and harm, education, nutrition, safe water, and a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment,” said the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child.
Online Reporter