Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
YOUNG people have a critical role to play in driving environmental sustainability, climate action and wildlife conservation, acting Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Tino Machakaire, has said.
Speaking during the 2026 World Environment Day commemorations held at Mukuvisi Nature Reserve and Environment Centre in Harare on Friday, Minister Machakaire challenged young people to become environmental ambassadors and champions of green innovation, saying the future of Zimbabwe’s natural heritage depends on actions taken today.
The Minister emphasised the need for greater youth participation in environmental protection efforts and the adoption of sustainable practices, further calling upon citizens, to take a leading role in combating environmental degradation through practical initiatives such as reducing plastic pollution, promoting recycling and embracing sustainable consumption patterns.
He said collective action is critical in addressing environmental challenges and supporting the country’s transition towards a circular economy.
“The future of our environment and natural heritage rests in the hands of today’s generation. Young people must become champions of environmental stewardship and green innovation as we work towards a sustainable future,” he said.
Minister Machakaire said environmental protection remains a central pillar of Zimbabwe’s development agenda as outlined in the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
“A clean, healthy and climate-resilient environment is essential for economic growth, improved public health, food security and the achievement of Vision 2030,” said Minister Machakaire.
The World Environment Day commemorations brought together Government officials, environmental stakeholders, development partners, students and community representatives to raise awareness on environmental conservation and sustainable development.
The commemorations were held under the global theme _“Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” and the national theme, “A Plastic Free Environment is Possible – Play Your Part.”
Zimbabwe marked the day with a strong message: plastic is a climate problem. From production to disposal, it fuels greenhouse gas emissions and weakens ecosystems that store carbon. By cutting plastic use, recycling, and choosing eco-friendly alternatives, we lower emissions and protect our forests, wetlands, and rivers..
