Zimbabwe ready to integrate biodiversity: Minister Sithembiso Nyoni

AS world leaders, environmental activists, and researchers converge at Cali, Colombia for the 16th Conference of the Parties (CoP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife Dr Sithembiso Nyoni, has highlighted the urgency of biodiversity financing and mainstreaming.

CoP 16, held under the theme “Peace with Nature” began last week on Monday and will conclude this Friday. It is considered crucial for addressing the alarming decline in global wildlife populations.

In a High-level segment Ministerial Dialogue on Tuesday, Dr Nyoni emphasised the significance of integrating biodiversity into the nation’s development goals, pioneering a comprehensive approach to conservation, recognising the intricate link between economic growth, human well-being, and environmental sustainability.

“Biodiversity must be mainstreamed across all sectors and policies. This includes integrating biodiversity into national development plans, economic policies and corporate strategies,” she said.

She also highlighted the importance of aligning national strategies with the recently adopted Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, urging delegates to consider a vision that transcends borders and generations.

Reflecting on Zimbabwe’s rich biodiversity, Dr Nyoni proclaimed, “Our forests, wildlife, and ecosystems are not merely resources; they are the very essence of our being.”

She poignantly described the deep connection these natural treasures have with communities, providing essential health, livelihood, and hope.

The country’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), currently under review, outlines a strategic framework for biodiversity conservation, aligning conservation efforts with economic and social goals.

The Zimbabwe Biodiversity Economy initiative, launched in collaboration with the African Wildlife Foundation, aims to integrate biodiversity into the national economy, providing a framework for natural capital accounting and identifying investment opportunities.

With biodiversity declining at an alarming rate, Dr Nyoni said Zimbabwe recognises the need for immediate and substantial financial investments to halt and reverse this trend.

“The government has enacted various policies and legislative frameworks to support biodiversity conservation.

“Zimbabwe receives funding from international organisations such as the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to support diversity projects. These funds are used for initiatives that address biodiversity loss, climate change, and land degradation,” she outlined.

The global biodiversity financing gap stands at approximately US$700 billion annually, emphasising the urgency for innovative solutions. Dr Nyoni also highlighted that Zimbabwe is exploring innovative financing mechanisms, including: Green bonds, Biodiversity offsets, Payment for ecosystem services, and environmental fiscal reforms.

Dr Nyoni said these initiatives aim to generate additional funding for biodiversity conservation, promote sustainable land management practices, and encourage conservation efforts.

The Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) provides capacity building and technical assistance to help Zimbabwe develop and implement effective biodiversity conservation strategies.

Dr Nyoni urged the private sector to lend a financial hand stating, “Mobilising private sector finance is critical. Financial institutions and businesses should integrate biodiversity considerations into their investment decisions and operations.”

The Minister also highlighted the importance of involving the community.

“Engaging local communities in biodiversity conservation efforts ensures that financing benefits those most affected by biodiversity loss and supports sustainable livelihoods,” she said.

Zimbabwe’s comprehensive approach to mainstreaming biodiversity serves as a model for sustainable development, demonstrating the country’s commitment to environmental conservation and economic growth.

The Global Biodiversity Framework Financial Mechanism being developed at the United Nations Biodiversity Conference (CoP16) in Colombia will play a crucial role in supporting countries like Zimbabwe in their efforts to implement the framework’s targets and goals. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu