Staff Writer
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – Against the thunderous backdrop of one of the world’s natural wonders, NetOne Pvt Ltd, Zimbabwe’s leading digital solutions provider, delivered a powerful call to action at the COP15 Youth Welcome Dinner.
Hosted in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), and the Ramsar National Youth Steering Committee, the event marked a pivotal moment for climate dialogue, youth inclusion, and digital innovation.
In his closing remarks, Engineer Raphael Mushanawani, Group Chief Executive Officer of NetOne, emphasized the gathering’s historic importance.
“This is COP15. This is Zimbabwe rising. This is the youth stepping forward.
This is our wetlands calling — and we are answering.”
Addressing an audience of government dignitaries, diplomats, youth leaders, media, and environmental stakeholders, Mushanawani reflected on the evening’s theme: “Connecting, Conserving, and Progressing Together.” He celebrated the alignment of Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) with the global climate agenda.
He also praised the leadership of President Cde Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, noting his commitment to environmental justice, youth empowerment, and climate resilience.
“We gather not just to break bread, but to build bridges,” the GCEO said, underscoring the critical role of youth and innovation in shaping a sustainable future.
Technology with Purpose
Mushanawani unveiled NetOne’s IoT-enabled wetland sensors, designed to convert natural signals into early warning systems—bringing data to the frontlines of conservation.
“If nature sends signals, we must learn to listen.”
He also introduced OneConnect Infrastructure, NetOne’s cross-border digital backbone supporting environmental monitoring, scientific collaboration, and regional policy integration.
As a practical gesture, each delegate received a NetOne e-SIM card, symbolizing what Mushanawani called a “digital pledge” to:
“Connect better, conserve deeper, and innovate smarter.”
His message was clear: Technology must serve the Earth.
“This is not just innovation — it’s innovation with integrity.”
A Night of Purpose and Progress
The dinner was more than a ceremonial occasion—it served as a symbolic bridge between generations, borders, and ecosystems. It set the stage for the upcoming Victoria Falls Declaration on Sustainable Wetland Conservation, reinforcing that:
Wetlands are not wastelands—they are wombs of life. Youth are not the leaders of tomorrow—they are the urgency of now.
Mushanawani offered a unifying call:
“From the banks of the mighty Zambezi to every wetland in the world: Let’s protect. Let’s connect. Let’s progress. Together.”
As COP15 continues, Zimbabwe is reaffirming its role as a regional leader in climate innovation—driven not just by policy, but by purposeful partnerships and people-powered progress.
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