Zim rolls out sustainable cities programme to drive green growth

GOVERNMENT has described the Sustainable Cities Integrated Programme (SCIP) under the Global Environment Facility (GEF-8) as a significant step towards building resilient communities, restoring degraded ecosystems and improving livelihoods in urban centres.

Delivering a keynote address while launching the Urban and Peri-Urban Resilience through Investment for Sustainable Ecosystems (U-RISE) Project at a Bulawayo hotel on Friday, Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister Dr Evelyn Ndlovu commended development partners and local authorities for supporting Zimbabwe’s sustainable urban development agenda.

“I commend the invaluable support of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, fellow United Nations agencies, the Global Environment Facility and the World Bank, which manages the GEF-8 funded Sustainable Cities Integrated Programme,” she said.

Minister Ndlovu said the programme supports Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 by promoting inclusive and sustainable urban development while improving the quality of life in cities.

The initiative seeks to address challenges associated with rapid urbanisation, ecosystem degradation and food system vulnerabilities in Harare and Bulawayo, which threaten livelihoods, biodiversity and food security.

Dr Ndlovu said the project focuses on three key pillars, including strengthening urban planning systems, supporting climate resilience and local economic development, as well as restoring ecosystems and promoting sustainable food systems.

“Ultimately, the project aims to build resilient communities and ecosystems, ensuring that urban centres become sustainable, inclusive and prosperous for the future,” said the minister.

She noted that the programme would also contribute towards cleaner cities, rehabilitation of rivers and sewer systems, and the creation of safer and more habitable urban environments.

Minister Ndlovu said the project complements ongoing national programmes such as the National Clean-Up Day initiative launched by President Mnangagwa in 2022, the Presidential Green Legacy Programme and the development of recreational parks.

Minister Ndlovu said the initiative demonstrates Zimbabwe’s commitment to safeguarding green and blue ecosystems through nature-based solutions such as wetland rehabilitation, reforestation and agroforestry development.

“At its core, the project is anchored on three transformative pillars — climate resilience and planning, innovative investments, and knowledge sharing and collaboration,” she said.

Dr Ndlovu added that the project seeks to strengthen governance frameworks for wetlands, waterways and forests while promoting inclusive climate action plans and mobilising investments for resilient infrastructure and green economic opportunities.

Before her address, Environmental Management Agency director-general Mr Aaron Chigona told delegates attending the launch that the Sustainable Cities and Green Economy initiatives are not merely environmental projects, but strategic investments aimed at improving livelihoods, restoring ecosystems and strengthening Zimbabwe’s climate resilience.

Mr Chigona said the projects are aligned with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy.

He said the initiatives place emphasis on protecting wetlands, forests, grasslands and other critical ecosystems, while at the same time creating green jobs and supporting livelihoods for women and youths.

“Millions of dollars have been mobilised towards the programme, with part of the funding expected to support local authorities and communities in building sustainable urban systems and improving environmental management,” said Mr Chigona.

He stressed the importance of institutional cooperation among Government ministries, local authorities, the private sector and communities in ensuring the success of the projects.

Mr Chigona said EMA will provide technical oversight through a Project Management Unit to ensure smooth implementation of the programme.

“The project should not end as a once-off intervention, but must be institutionalised and replicated across all local authorities in Zimbabwe to ensure long-term sustainability,” he said.

The initiative presents an opportunity for Zimbabwe to strengthen its capacity to directly manage climate financing and environmental programmes for the benefit of communities.

It is expected to restore degraded ecosystems, promote sustainable economic practices and improve climate resilience in urban and peri-urban areas in Bulawayo and Harare.