ZB engages communities in sustainability drive

Sikhulekelani Moyo, Zimpapers Business Hub

ZB Financial Holdings (ZBFH) is partnering with local authorities across the country on a range of sustainability initiatives aimed at strengthening environmental stewardship, improving infrastructure and supporting communities.

The financial institution was the first in Zimbabwe to attain Sustainability Standards Certification Initiative (SSCI) accreditation and has since been rolling out programmes aligned with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles.

As part of these efforts, ZBFH executive head of brand and corporate communications, Ms Emilliah Mabika, recently led a tree planting exercise in Plumtree, working alongside officials from Bulawayo and Plumtree in partnership with Plumtree Town Council and other stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, Ms Mabika said ZB was committed to collaborating with local authorities on environmental initiatives that deliver tangible benefits to communities while supporting national and global development goals. She said tree planting played a key role in environmental protection and aligned with Government priorities under the National Development Strategy, as well as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

“As ZB, we want to partner the council in various initiatives. There are ongoing discussions on how we can help capacitate the local clinic, which is doing commendable work. This is not the first time ZB is engaging here, and it will not be the last. We will continue working together,” she said.

Ms Mabika said the tree planting initiative would contribute to environmental resilience, public health and urban renewal. She noted that trees improve air quality, provide shade and play an important role in climate adaptation.

Various tree species were planted around Dingumuzi Clinic, with Ms Mabika explaining that greening the health facility created a more welcoming environment for patients and staff, while roadside trees enhanced the town’s aesthetic appeal and supported sustainable urban development.

Beyond environmental initiatives, ZBFH is also implementing community focused projects that include the installation of solar powered boreholes, support for small businesses and programmes designed to improve financial and digital inclusion.

Plumtree town secretary Mr Thembalami Nyoni said the local authority had enjoyed a long-standing partnership with ZB, which had contributed to a number of development projects in the town.
“There are several initiatives that have been undertaken in Plumtree through our partnership with ZB, including support for our schools such as Matiwaza Primary School. Today’s tree planting ceremony speaks to sustainability and our commitment to environmental consciousness,” he said.

Mr Nyoni described ZB as a reliable development partner, noting that the institution continued to provide financial services and other forms of support to the local authority on a daily basis.

“ZB has always been dependable in the development of our town. They are truly a friend in need and a friend indeed,” he said.

Meanwhile, ZBFH has also extended its support to youth development initiatives in the southern region. The institution recently sponsored the second edition of the Nkayi Youth Football Tournament, which featured several football clubs and academies, including five girls’ teams.

The tournament is aimed at promoting youth participation in sport, providing a platform for young people to showcase their talents and strengthening community cohesion.

In addition, ZB supported the planting of more than 500 export grade orange trees at the Nkayi Soccer Academy, with organisers saying the initiative combines environmental sustainability with economic empowerment.

“These initiatives demonstrate ZB’s commitment to strengthening community-based programmes, particularly in the southern region. They reflect a holistic approach to sustainability that integrates environmental care, social inclusion and economic empowerment.

“By embedding ESG principles into our everyday actions, ZB is not only marking 75 years of impact, but also positioning itself for relevance and sustainable growth in the decades ahead,” Ms Mabika said.

Nkayi Soccer Academy founder Mr Vulindlela Sibanda said the orange tree project had created employment opportunities while providing access to ready markets for produce.

“The nursery company supplying the trees is coordinating with farmers and has assured us that there will be a ready market once the fruits mature,” he said.

Mr Sibanda added that the project had already created work for about 10 women and four youths in the community.