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Peter Matika, [email protected]

GOVERNMENT is continuing its robust engagement with stakeholders and members of the public on the importance of the draft Climate Change Management Bill.

On Friday, officials from the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife held a meeting with stakeholders in Lupane, Matabeleland North.

Recognising the critical nature of climate change as a significant threat to the nation’s development agenda and Vision 2030, Government has taken pro-active steps to address this pressing issue.

The draft Climate Change Management Bill aims to establish a framework for compliance, mainstreaming and funding of climate change adaptation and mitigation measures across the country.

Director for Climate Change Management Department in the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Mr Washington Zhakata, representing the Minister, Dr Sithembiso Nyoni, highlighted the urgency of finding solutions to combat the effects of climate change.

She re-iterated the real and painful impact of climate change in Matabeleland North. “It is a painful reflection reminding you that Matabeleland North has not been spared from the devastating impact of climate change. We have witnessed first-hand the effects of prolonged droughts, which have severely impacted our agricultural productivity, livelihoods and overall well-being,” said Dr Nyoni.

Mr Washington Zhakata

“Our thriving Bulawayo Kraal in Binga, Bona in Bubi, Lukosi in Hwange, Redwood in Umguza and Tshongokwe in Lupane have been affected by limited water availability, leaving our food security and economic stability at very high risk.”

The stakeholder engagement session provided a platform for robust discussions and inputs from various sectors on addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

Dr Nyoni said the Government’s commitment to engaging with stakeholders and the public reflects its dedication to developing comprehensive strategies to effectively manage and mitigate the impacts of climate change in the region and beyond.

She said her ministry remains steadfast in its efforts to finalise the Climate Change Management Bill in collaboration with stakeholders and the public.

Dr Nyoni said the collective action and co-operation of all individuals, organisations and communities are crucial in ensuring a sustainable and resilient future in the face of climate change challenges.

She said the principles of the Bill were approved by Cabinet in 2023 with the stakeholder and public consultations on the substance and structure of the Bill are underway.

Dr Nyoni said the Bill aims to tackle critical areas such as greenhouse gas emission reduction and building community resilience to climate change impacts. Stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide valuable input on these issues, ensuring the Bill offers practical and effective solutions.

“These consultations are not mere gatherings as they present a unique and unparalleled opportunity to chart a sustainable path for both the current and future generations,” said Dr Nyoni.

She said the nationwide engagements will ignite a spark of knowledge and awareness that illuminates the intricacies of climate change issues that lie at the heart of collective responsibility.

“By coming together, we exemplify the power of collective action and demonstrate our unwavering dedication to securing a climate-resilient and sustainable future for our beloved nation,” said Dr Nyoni.

Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Richard Moyo who was represented by the acting director of Infrastructure Planning and Environmental Management, Mr Macmaster Mthethwa, said the Government under the Second Republic has ensured that several small dams are constructed including borehole drilling in response to the effects of climate change.