By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Mr Edward Kallon has urged stakeholders to prioritise collaboration on climate change and development.
Speaking at the annual Zimbabwe Climate Change and Development Conference Mr Kallon said the conference marked a pivotal moment in Zimbabwe’s collective journey towards COP29 and beyond.
“We have gathered here today under the powerful theme of ‘Building Resilience, Securing the Future.;’ all of us united by the need to foster a dialogue that identifies innovative solutions to the pressing challenges posed by climate change.
“As we embark on the discussions today, I urge all stakeholders to prioritise collaboration,” Mr Kallon said.
He said outcome of the conference would be a Call-to-Action document—a roadmap for government, civil society, development partners and the private sector to champion national development in alignment with Vision 2030.
“This document should guide our shared commitment to sustainable development, ensuring that climate resilience is woven into the very fabric of Zimbabwe’s national policies and programmes that enhances resilience to climate change particularly for the most vulnerable such as women and children,” Mr Kallon said.
“Together, let us harness our collective expertise, share our resources, and commit to innovative solutions that build resilience and secure a sustainable future for all Zimbabweans.”
He applauded Zimbabwe for championing the children, youth and climate change agenda on various global platforms including the Expert dialogue on children and climate change during the June 2024 UN Climate meetings in Bonn.
The Global Stock Take at COP 28 recommended a thorough discussion of the disproportionate impacts of climate change on children.
This marked a pivotal moment in ensuring that the unique vulnerabilities of children are acknowledged and that appropriate policy solutions are brought to the forefront.
“We must also acknowledge the role of our children and youth in addressing climate change, not only as leaders of tomorrow but also as change makers.
“In the same vein, we must also acknowledge the role of Women, indigenous communities etc not only as victims but also as stakeholders in adaptation and mitigation to climate change,” he said.
The Secretary General also urged entire UN system to come together to collectively help governments to rise to the moment, seize the opportunity, and create new national climate plans aligned with the 1.5-degree limit.
In Zimbabwe, this means providing technical assistance to develop and strengthen the Climate Investment Framework and ensuring that our plans are not just aspirational but actionable.
It also means marshalling all the support required to enhance the countries Nationally Determined Contributions and also accelerate inclusive climate action across all sectors with the participation of all stakeholders including women and children.
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