Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata-Herald Correspondent
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Zimbabwe has solidified its commitment to bolstering development initiatives in the country focusing on collaborative efforts and alignment with Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
The pledge was made during a high-level programme board meeting held in Harare. The meeting drew participation from Government officials, development partners and the private sector.
lt served as a platform to review the progress made in past initiatives and outline strategic priorities for the coming year.
Dr Ayodele Odusola, UNDP Zimbabwe Resident Representative, said partnerships play a critical role in achieving national development goals.
“Achieving Zimbabwe’s development requires a united effort across Government, the private sector and international partners,” Dr Odusola said.
“UNDP remains committed to leveraging innovation, mobilising resources and strengthening partnerships to drive inclusive growth and sustainable livelihoods.”
Reviewing 2024, UNDP reported that its initiatives reached over 2,3 million people with significant strides in health, climate resilience, economic empowerment and governance.
Notably, 1 744 health facilities saw expanded service access, while climate resilience projects supported 572 hectares of irrigated land and benefited over 421 500 individuals.
Economic empowerment initiatives saw a significant boost with US$21 million in capital investments injected into Zimbabwe’s Renewable Energy Fund.
In the realm of governance, UNDP played a crucial role in advancing Zimbabwe’s electoral gender and disability inclusion policies and provided support for the country’s Voluntary National Review (VNR) to track Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) progress.
Looking forward to 2025, UNDP has outlined key priorities, including expanding partnerships for Domestic Resource Mobilisation (DRM) and innovative financing.
The organisation aims to scale up renewable energy projects such as the Green Village Model, and enhance climate adaptation strategies for vulnerable communities.
Digitalisation efforts are slated to expand, with a focus on improving agricultural extension services, while governance reforms will concentrate on transparency and accountability.
Economic empowerment remained a central pillar, with plans to increase access to green finance and impact investment opportunities, particularly through private sector collaborations, including with institutions like CBZ Holdings.
